Lightning LS-218: Full Spec Sheet

Lightning LS-218

The Lightning LS-218 is an American-built electric superbike developed by Lightning Motorcycles in California.

Hand Built around a CNC-machined aluminium chassis and high-performance electric drivetrain, the LS-218 was designed to push the limits of electric motorcycle performance while remaining road legal. It continues to hold the title of the world's fastest production electric motorcycle.

• For more Lightning news, visit our Lightning page.

• For more spec sheets, visit Spec Talk (more added regularly).

• To compare bikes side-by-side, visit BCB Bike Compare

• For our exclusive interview with CEO Richard Hatfield, visit: Lightning and the Vapourware Question: A Sit Down with CEO Richard Hatfield

Overview

Specification	Details
Bike Category	Sport Bike
Country of Origin	USA
Model Year	2014
License Category	M, M1, Class 2, MM (USA state dependent)
Availability	USA

Powertrain

Specification	Details
Motor Type	Interior Permanent Magnet (IPM), oil-cooled electric motor
Peak Power	263 hp (196 kW) @ motor / 244 hp (181 kW) @ rear wheel
Peak Torque	298 Nm @ motor / 1,491 Nm @ rear wheel
Maximum Motor Speed	10,500 rpm
Final Drive	Chain drive
Transmission	Single-speed
Clutch	None

Performance

Specification	Details
Top Speed	218 mph (350 km/h)*
0–60 mph (0–97 km/h)	2.0 seconds
Power-to-Weight Ratio	1.17 hp/kg
Claimed Weight	224 kg (495 lb) with 15 kWh battery

Battery and Charging

Specification	Details
Battery Capacity	15 kWh (standard), optional 20 kWh or 28.3 kWh XFC
Battery Type	Lithium-ion
Onboard Charger	3.3 kW Level 2
Charging Standards	CCS Level 3 DC Fast Charging, J1772 Level 2, NACS (J3400) compatible
Charging Time	Approximately 11 minutes (20–80%) with 28.3 kWh XFC option*
Battery Options	15 kWh, 20 kWh, 28.3 kWh XFC

Chassis and Suspension

Specification	Details
Frame	CNC billet aluminium alloy chassis
Swingarm	CNC billet aluminium alloy
Front Suspension	Öhlins
Rear Suspension	Öhlins
Steering Damper	Optional Öhlins
Wheels	Forged 7075 aluminium alloy
Tyres	Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa

Brakes

Specification	Details
Front Brakes	Brembo Racing GP4 monoblock
Rear Brake	Brembo hydraulic disc

Electronics and Rider Features

Specification	Details
Charging Compatibility	CCS Level 3, J1772 Level 2, NACS
Lighting	Full LED lighting
Starting System	Keyless remote start

Design and Construction

Specification	Details
Motorcycle Type	Electric superbike
Country of Manufacture	United States
Bodywork	Carbon fibre bodywork and fenders
Seat	Corbin premium saddle
Rear Wheel Spools	Standard

Pricing

Specification	Details
Starting Price	From US$38,888

The BCB Take

Lightning LS-218

The LS-218 isn't trying to be practical, it exists to prove what an electric motorcycle is capable of. More than a decade after first grabbing headlines, it still sits at the top of the production electric speed charts with a claimed 218 mph top speed and performance that rivals the fastest petrol superbikes.

What stands out today is how the bike has evolved. Lightning has increased power, introduced larger battery options and added CCS fast charging, showing the LS-218 isn't just living off its record-breaking reputation. It's still a serious showcase of what's possible when outright performance comes first. Ride safe, folks.

Ride safe, folks.

Don't miss the next story. Subscribe to our newsletter. It's free, no spam, just an email on Friday.

Want more from BCB? Become a member for exclusive offers, community benefits and more.

https://youtu.be/Lz1aTLBKIoQ

Lightning LS-218 on Jay Leno's Garage