Participation is in collaboration with OrangeCat Racing. The team is best known for its successes in the Stock 1000 class. The bike used is the Lightfighter V3-RH naked bike, a thoroughbred electric-powered racing motorcycle that was unveiled in September at the MotoAmerica race at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
Technology with a focus on the racetrack
The V3-RH is powered by a water-cooled electric motor that is said to achieve a peak output of 134 hp (98.5 kW) at speeds above 11,000 rpm. The maximum torque is 162 Nm (119.6 lb.ft) and is generated directly at the output shaft – a performance value that should ensure high acceleration figures given the stated weight of 186 kg (410 lbs).
Power is supplied by an air-cooled lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 12.5 kWh. This comes from Farasis Energy and is based on modern NMC cells that meet automotive standards. A full charge is expected to take around one hour. A comprehensive sensor system monitors the temperature to protect against possible overheating.
The chassis is based on a chrome-molybdenum steel trellis frame. The rear frame consists of a one-piece carbon monocoque. As is usual for electric vehicles, the V3-RH does not have a transmission. You will therefore search in vain for paddle shifters or a gear lever – a detail that is also visible on the race-ready footrests.
Top-of-the-range chassis components
Lightfighter relies on high-quality components for handling: Öhlins FGR 252 upside-down forks are used at the front, and a TTX36 shock absorber from the same manufacturer at the rear. Braking is provided by Brembo GP4-RX brake calipers, which grip 320 mm T-slotted brake discs.
The bike is fitted with classic 17-inch wheels – a 120/70 Dunlop slick at the front and a wide 200/60 Superbike-style tire at the rear.
Future plans and development
In addition to racing, the V3-RH will also contribute to the further development of future models. Lightfighter has launched a “Design Partner Program” in which ten V3 models are being offered for sale. Buyers of these bikes will be actively involved in the development of the upcoming V4 generation.
Brian Wismann, CEO of Lightfighter, commented on the plans as follows:
“We were inspired by the previous teams to bring new technologies to the series.”
Wismann was already part of the Brammo team at the first TT Zero on the Isle of Man in 2009 and later competed again with Victory Racing.
“We look forward to continuing this tradition and proving the next generation of electric powertrains against some of the best motorcycles and riders in the world.”
There has also been positive feedback from MotoAmerica officials. Chuck Aksland, COO of the series, emphasized: “This class has evolved significantly and the technologies have matured rapidly. We look forward to seeing the Lightfighters on the track.”
