Once again, DirtFirst Racing and Hollywood Movie Bikes have joined forces to build a bike that the major manufacturers have been slow to produce. Husqvarna has yet to roll out any electric bikes with power output higher than 50cc in gas equivalents, despite the influx of battery-powered models from competitors. With their reputation for creating innovative bikes, you’d think they would be among the first in line to try out this new technology.
The underlying cause of Husqvarna’s delay in releasing their long-anticipated electric dirt bike could be linked to a shortage of lithium and cobalt. Perhaps it is the need for better charging infrastructure, or maybe it’s a result of CEO Stefan Pierer going all in on the techno-optimism of E-Fuels replacing gasoline. A pipe dream in which we can keep using existing engine designs and run them with fuel made from refining captured carbon with solar power. Whatever the reason, the company’s delay has allowed DirtFirst Racing to beat them to the punch with an electric Motocross bike model that Husqvarna should have been able to launch by now.
The DirtFirst team’s KTM Freeride Supermini race bikes are the basis of the EE18, utilizing all the cutting-edge features and parts developed by the team during the last two years of competing in various racing events. These electric bikes are intended for use by 12-16 year old riders who want to start familiarizing themselves with full-size electric MX bikes. Featuring a winning record in competitions and outstanding trustworthiness, the new EE18 fills a niche in the motorcycling industry’s selection of electric motocross options.
At the core of the EE18 is KTM’s 18kw brushless electric motor, powered by a 3.9kwh lithium-ion battery pack and managed with an integrated motor controller. This powertrain has proven to be very reliable and simple to maintain. The smooth power delivery and water cooling allows it to outperform even the most highly modified Surron’s and Talaria’s. To maximize performance in hot weather, DirtFirst installed 30% extra coolant capacity and fitted the radiators with 3” diameter fans connected to a 12v battery that is controlled through the handlebar switch. An LED temperature gauge fixed in the bar pad reads the engine’s coolant temperature for accuracy.
The EE18 is equipped with 43mm WP Air Forks, designed to optimize lightweight performance and be adjusted for different terrains. Schmidt Performance works on the fork valving and applies low-friction coatings. Billet XTrig ROCS triple clamps are used to secure the fork tubes with a 14mm offset. Riders are offered plenty of options with the RaceTech GS3 rear shock, and a wide assortment of springs can easily be purchased for riders of all sizes.
The 19/16” Supermini-class wheel set comes equipped with Faster USA billet hubs, stainless steel Bulldog spokes, and Excel rims. The Renthal drive sprockets and DID chain are 428 series and standard 14/49 gearing works for most race tracks due to the geared transfer case.
The EE18 has been fitted with Brembo brake systems, both in the front and the rear. This is the same type of brake that you’d find on the KTM SXF models. The floating front rotor measures 260mm and the rear 220mm, which fits perfectly for a bike weighing 230lbs.
A DirtFirst aluminum skidplate protects the motor while still allowing maximum airflow to the motor casing. A G2 Ergonomics billet aluminum throttle tube and throttle play eliminator inserts are used, as well as Renthal 827 FatBars and Renthal grips. The Apex Raptor titanium foot pegs are lightweight and offer superior grip. The Works Connection Holeshot Device is a must for MX starts, and the Red Label pleated gripper seat cover and team graphics complete the package.
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