Global development in racing
The new Varg MX 1.2 was developed as part of an international racing program led by two-time motocross world champion Sébastien Tortelli. According to Tortelli, the goal was to explore the limits of off-road sports and learn from every racing situation. The experience gained from competition has been directly incorporated into the new model generation. According to the manufacturer, the Varg MX was specially developed to further increase competitiveness.
Performance data and battery: greater range, consistent power
The heart of the MX 1.2 remains the electric motor, which delivers an unchanged 79 hp (58 kW) in the Alpha version. The standard version delivers 59 hp (43 kW). Both versions offer the rider the option of regulating the power in 10 hp increments (7.4 kW). According to the manufacturer, the maximum torque increases to 720 lb-ft (976 Nm), up from 691 lb-ft (937 Nm) previously.
One of the most important innovations is the larger battery: the capacity increases from 6.5 kWh to 7.2 kWh. According to Stark Future, this results in a range increase of around 20 percent. The range varies depending on driving style and the selected power mode – longer driving times and distances are possible with moderate power output. In the previous generation, up to 6 hours of driving time or 80 to 113 km (50 to 70 miles) were realistic, and the new version is expected to further improve this figure.
Revised suspension and chassis
The suspension has been comprehensively optimized. The new steel frame now weighs 0.9 kg (2 lbs) less and, thanks to targeted changes to the shock absorber mount area, is said to offer more flex and thus improved feedback and greater comfort. The KYB suspension elements with 310 mm of travel have been retuned, with modified mid-valve shim stacks and selectable spring rates available according to rider weight – an option that, according to Stark Future, no other manufacturer offers to date.
Other chassis updates include a redesigned, molded wiring harness, an internally routed map switch cable, and a new, biodegradable skid plate with a two-component construction. The chain guard has also been redesigned and now offers 266 percent more lateral stiffness – with only a 7 percent increase in weight.
Technology and customization
The Android-based Arkenstone display remains the central control element on the handlebars, but has been equipped with a new docking station, improved connectivity, and a GPS-based “Laps” function. The latter enables real-time lap times and terrain navigation – and will also be available to existing customers of the first Varg generation. The rider can adjust the engine characteristics, torque delivery, and engine brake in real time to suit their needs and the track conditions.
For further customization, there are various seat textures (standard, grip, SuperGrip), two tire options (Dunlop MX34 or Pirelli MX32, each with tube or mousse), and a Brembo rear brake that can be operated either on the handlebars or by foot. A titanium hardware kit also saves 900 g (2 lbs) in weight.
Prices and variants
The Stark Varg MX 1.2 is now available worldwide. The standard version costs £10,490 (approx. €12,250 or around $13,350), while the Alpha variant with maximum engine power is available for £11,490 (approx. €13,400 or around $14,600). In the US, additional import duties of $1,000 apply.
Voices from the scene
American motocross pro Kevin Windham said after test rides: “I’ve ridden everything there is to ride, and this is the future.” Stark Racing Director Sébastien Tortelli emphasizes: “Every race, every rider, every condition flows directly into our development. With the Varg MX 1.2, we bring more traction, more stability, more features, and more range.”
