It's a grey afternoon in 1960s London. Post-war austerity is finally fading, and families who could only afford a motorcycle are now upgrading to their first real cars. Meanwhile, you're 19 and struggling financially. A surge of used bikes is hitting the market and despite their somewhat outdated style, you need transportation. You pick up the cheapest second-hand bike available and do everything possible to increase its speed. Range doesn't matter when you're café hopping, and the most affordable option is the best choice.
The fairing comes off, the chain guard is chucked, the footrests are pushed back for a lower, more aerodynamic riding position, and you swap out the dated high-rise handlebars for a set of 'ace' bars that could be a piece of pipe you found in a yard somewhere or handed down by a mate. It looks raw, it looks cool, you've just built yourself a Café Racer.
60 Years of Evolution
Since the 1960s, the Café Racer culture has evolved into a significant movement. The style has gained global popularity, with the USA market beginning to embrace it in the 1970s. Shortly thereafter, global manufacturers began building factory-spec Café Racer models to meet the increasing demand, and the style developed into a historical phenomenon and a genre of its own.
Fast forward to 2021, affordable electric motorbikes are beginning to enter western markets as consumers grow more receptive to two-wheeled EVs. Meanwhile, eastern manufacturers are moving from inexpensive, low-powered scooters to faster, sports-style motorbikes. With eastern supply chains, it's simple to locate inexpensive-sometimes dubious-parts to enhance your basic e-moto.
In 2024, the market is experiencing an influx of high-end electric motorbikes, which can be quite costly for some. Nonetheless, the second-hand market is also growing. With a notable price gap between new and pre-owned models, a renewed Café Racer movement is on the rise.
The Emerging Access to China
As I browse through different e-moto groups, it's evident that the enthusiasm for customizing our rides remains strong. However, this time, it might be even more promising. The simplicity of the electric drivetrain has been a great advantage, as it can be as basic as a motor, controller, and battery. This simplicity provides ample opportunity to enhance speed and range. With easy access to these parts via the internet, the 20s has a lot to offer home-builders.
In China, new technology is embraced rapidly, with innovations such as water-cooled motors, high-spec touch screen displays, ABS systems, and high-quality aluminium frames becoming standard. Advanced controllers that deliver higher peak power and regenerative braking are a fettlers dream. Battery technology is also progressing swiftly; you can even assemble them yourself. However, this task is not for the amateur modifiers, but is definitely feasible for those eager to get their hands dirty. China has ambitions to be the world leader in this sector, and they seem to be on the right track.
UK, USA and EU
In comparison to the UK, the USA and Europe face fewer barriers to adopting two-wheels and have already started their electric, DIY revolution. However, in the UK, there is still progress to be made. As I live here, I am hopeful that as the acceptance of EVs grows with greater access to a larger production market, we can revive the legacy of the magnificent Café Racer.
