A Rare Luxury Model: The Midual Quintessence, a French Bike at $300,000
When we talk about rare and luxury motorcycles, few can compete with the Midual Quintessence. This French gem, with its astronomical price tag and meticulous craftsmanship, has many stories to tell. This is a motorcycle that borders on art, a bike sold at the price of gold, yet it deserves a close look. So, is it really just a rich person’s whim or an extraordinary mechanical achievement? Let’s dive into the details of this six-figure machine to see what makes it so special and why, even at this price, it finds its buyers.
Meticulous Craftsmanship: Noble Materials and Short Supply Chain
Unlike mass production methods, Midual focuses on handmade artisan craftsmanship with a short supply chain. The engine, steel and aluminum components all originate from France or the Parisian region. For other parts, they rely on renowned suppliers such as Swedish suspensions, Italian brakes, and French tires. And for the electronics? Only the best from Japanese giants will do.
Beneath the beautiful sand-cast aluminum frame lies a flat twin engine, or “boxer” engine, mounted in an unconventional orientation. It’s a bold choice by Olivier Midy, the brand’s founder. By orienting the cylinders differently, it allows for better mass distribution, offering a pleasant and stable ride, distinctly different from other notable brands like BMW.
A Finish that Surpasses All
At this price point, it’s not about details anymore; it’s about exceptional finish. The frame, the shell, the engine components—everything is crafted with manic precision. One of the standout pieces of this motorcycle is its tank. It’s not just a simple fuel reservoir: it becomes an integral part of the design. The fuel flows through a hollow frame, an ingenious solution to lighten the bike while maintaining optimal mass distribution.
The tank’s instrumentation is inspired by luxury watchmaking, with its dials and leather trimmings. A true collector’s piece that catches the eye, though not necessarily the most practical to use. However, if you plan to ride your Midual, know that some models have exceeded 50,000 miles. It’s not just a showpiece; it’s also a bike capable of long rides and providing an uncommon riding experience.
Why Such a High Price?
The €300,000 price tag for a Midual Quintessence isn’t just a whim. It’s a calculation. Handmade in France with rare materials and exceptional craftsmanship simply can’t come cheap. Plus, consider the relentless hard work behind each bike: over 1,000 man-hours per unit, a true technical feat. Olivier Midy, the brand’s creator, is clear about this. Making a Midual for €50,000 would be impossible without sacrificing the quality and authenticity of the craftsmanship. Mass production would require industrial methods and the luxury of premium materials and a short supply chain would be lost. This would mean completely altering the manufacturing process, which would betray the essence of the brand.
