Brammo has updated its Empulse and Empulse R for 2014 with a 4.5 kg weight reduction, new instruments and a set of continuous-compound Continental SportAttack2 tires. In most other respects, the Empluse is identical to last year's model though it now meets EU regulations and distribution will begin in the UK and Europe soon. The 2014 Empulse runs to US$17,000 and the R model will cost an extra $2000.
In most other respects, the Empluse is identical to last year's model with its water-cooled engine and six speed gearbox, giving it rapid acceleration all the way to its top speed of 110 mph (177 km/h). Apart from greater comfort, better acceleration and a slightly higher top speed, the six-speed box contributes to greater energy efficiency and hence lower running costs.
Both Empulse models include a rapid charging feature which means they can be charged inside two hours from 20 percent to 80 percent capacity at a Level 2 public charging station, or overnight from any domestic powerpoint. In EV speak, the Empulse boasts 438 MPGe (MPG electric equivalency) or fuel economy of 0.54 l/100km.
Two new colors have been added to the production palette this year, with yellow and silver joining red and black, while the 2014 Empulse's instantly recognizable battery brackets have been redesigned and nickel plated.
The 2014 Empulse models also have a redesigned LCD dash displaying speed, engine rpm, battery charge, energy usage, and estimated range.
In all honesty, the Empulse isn't going to feel discernibly different for its 4 kg weight reduction, but it almost certainly will feel more sure-footed thanks to new rubber from Continental.
The Conti SportAttack 2 uses a single compound throughout the tire but enables graded wear and stickiness characteristics by applying different amounts of heat to the center and sides of the tread during the molding process. In essence, that means longer life for the 99.9999 percent of time a motorcycle is perfectly upright, and better cornering grip for the 0.0001 percent of the time that makes riding a motorcycle most worthwhile – the corners.
Follow the link below to see the full specs on the 2014 range.
Source: Brammo.
