Langen Motorcycles Unveils Plans for a 300-BHP Turbocharged Naked Beast
Excitement is building in the motorcycle community as Langen Motorcycles prepares to launch a true powerhouse with their upcoming LS12 Lightspeed Turbo. Following the successful introduction of their limited edition Lightspeed, which boasted an impressive 185 bhp, the Manchester-based manufacturer is taking things to the next level by enhancing this model with a turbocharger. This bold move aims to achieve a staggering 300 bhp, positioning the LS12 Turbo to potentially claim the title of the world’s fastest production motorcycle. With a commitment to eliminating challenges associated with turbo lag and ensuring smooth power delivery, Langen is set to redefine performance in the biking world.
Langen Motorcycles has recently made headlines by announcing their ambitious plans to develop a 300-bhp turbocharged version of their already impressive Lightspeed model. After making a lasting impression in 2023 with the original Lightspeed, which boasted a powerful 185 bhp, the Manchester-based motorcycle manufacturer is now set to push the boundaries and aim for the title of the ‘world’s fastest production motorcycle.’
The Evolution from Lightspeed to Turbocharged Power
The announcement of the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo comes as a testament to Langen Motorcycles’ commitment to excellence and innovation. Drawing inspiration from turbocharged motorcycles of the 1980s, such as the 100 hp Honda CX650 and the 112 hp Kawasaki GPZ750, the development team is determined to overcome previous challenges associated with turbo configurations, particularly issues like turbo lag and managing excessive heat.
Engineering Challenges Addressed
One of the primary challenges Langen faced was ensuring a consistent power delivery without the unpredictable power spikes commonly associated with older turbo models. The upcoming LS12 Lightspeed Turbo incorporates a bespoke Electronic Control Unit and a refined physical control system, designed to provide a seamless riding experience.
Turbocharged Performance: What to Expect
The engineering team’s rigorous testing has already yielded promising results, with early dyno tests recording outputs of 250 bhp. There is strong confidence that this motorcycle can reach the full 300 bhp in its ‘full power mode,’ making it a serious contender in the performance motorcycle market.
Impressive Power-to-Weight Ratio
With Langen’s original Lightspeed model boasting a power-to-weight ratio of 0.454 bhp/lb (or 1 bhp/kg), enthusiasts are eager to see how the new turbocharged model will compare. Estimations suggest that the additional components may add around 34 lb (or 15 kg). This brings the potential power-to-weight ratio to a staggering 0.681 bhp/lb (that’s about 1.5 bhp/kg), edging closer to speeds previously claimed by other elite models like the Kawasaki Ninja H2 and the lightweight Crighton CR700W.
Design and Aesthetics
Beyond just power, the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo promises to feature a sleek design with a focus on lightweight materials. Expectations include carbon fiber bodywork, Ohlins suspension, and advanced braking systems that mirror the performance and aesthetics of the original Lightspeed.
Price and Market Positioning
While the original Lightspeed comes with a hefty price tag of over $46,000, expectations are high for the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo’s cost, given its enhanced performance capabilities. Langen plans to produce a limited run of these remarkable machines, making them even more desirable among motorcycle aficionados.
Upcoming Events and Anticipation
Langen Motorcycles is targeting a debut for the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo at the Santa Pod Raceway by the end of this year. With the company poised to showcase this engineering marvel at such a renowned venue, excitement is mounting within the motorcycle community.
Langen Motorcycles has set the motorcycling world abuzz with the announcement of their ambitious project: the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo. This highly anticipated machine promises to redefine speed with a staggering 300 bhp output, making it a contender for the title of ‘world’s fastest production motorcycle’. Built upon the already powerful Lightspeed platform, this turbocharged marvel draws inspiration from legendary motorcycles of the past while addressing modern engineering challenges.
Performance Expectations
With the power-to-weight ratio anticipated to be exceptional, the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo is expected to outperform many existing motorcycles. Given that the original model boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 0.454 bhp/lb, the addition of the turbo system is likely to elevate this figure, pushing it closer to 0.681 bhp/lb. Such performance metrics indicate that it could rival popular models like the Kawasaki Ninja H2 and the Crighton CR700W, which already dominate the speed scene.
Engine Innovation and Engineering Improvements
The engineering team at Langen is committed to overcoming the challenges associated with turbocharging, including issues like turbo lag and heat management. The incorporation of a custom Electronic Control Unit and an advanced physical control system ensures that riders will experience smooth and predictable power delivery. As testing progresses, early dyno runs have already displayed impressive results, with outputs reaching 250 bhp and expectations to push that number even higher.
Design Features
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo will feature cutting-edge elements such as carbon fiber bodywork, Ohlins suspension, and high-performance Hel brake components. These elements not only enhance the bike’s overall look but also contribute significantly to its performance capabilities. The design is crafted to maximize both aerodynamics and rider comfort, making it a truly appealing option for enthusiasts.
Limited Availability and Market Position
Potential buyers should be prepared for an exclusive experience, as Langen plans to produce only a limited number of LS12 Lightspeed Turbos. With the original model priced at over $46,000, the expectation for the Turbo version is that it will command a premium price point. This exclusivity is likely to create a high demand among collectors and serious riders looking to own a piece of high-performance motorcycle history.
