Vertigo Ultra RS3: inside the electric trials prototype from a petrol powerhouse
Vertigo Motors, a brand best known for its petrol trials motorcycles, is quietly preparing its move into the electric trials segment. The result is the Vertigo Ultra RS3, an electric prototype currently undergoing advanced testing and development.
Rather than creating an all-new platform, Vertigo has taken a strategic and conservative approach: adapting its proven Nitro RS3 trials chassis to house a full electric drivetrain. The Ultra RS3 remains in prototype form, but recent images and testing updates suggest the project is entering its final development stages.
An Electric RS3, not a reinvention
The Ultra RS3 is built around the same frame architecture used on the Nitro RS3 petrol model. This decision allows Vertigo to retain familiar geometry, ergonomics, and handling characteristics while integrating electric-specific components.
According to Vertigo, the bike has been designed to accept dedicated “Ultra Trial” components within the existing chassis layout, avoiding a complete redesign. This approach suggests the company’s focus is on maintaining competitive trials performance rather than chasing radical form-factor changes.
Battery and powertrain focus
At the heart of the Ultra RS3 prototype is a 2.7 kWh lithium-ion battery, a notable figure in the electric trials category. While Vertigo has not released official power or torque numbers, the capacity alone places the Ultra RS3 toward the upper end of current electric trials offerings.
The electric motor is a mid-drive unit, mounted to preserve weight distribution and balance—critical factors in trials riding. Vertigo has not disclosed motor output, controller details, or riding modes, but the emphasis appears to be on smooth torque delivery, controllability, and usable range rather than outright peak power.
Chassis and components
Although final specifications have not been confirmed, the Ultra RS3 prototype is expected to align closely with Vertigo’s high-end RS models in terms of suspension and components. This likely includes:
- Tech Factory front forks
- Reiger rear shock absorber
- Premium braking and lightweight trials hardware
By retaining familiar RS3 components, Vertigo appears intent on ensuring the electric model delivers the same “ready-to-compete” feel as its petrol counterparts.
Prototype testing with factory expertise
Recent images shared by Vertigo Motors show the Ultra RS3 being tested by Francesc Llort “Siscu”, Vertigo’s chief mechanic and one of the key figures behind the brand’s technical development.
A short caption accompanying one of the posts reads:
“Mr. Siscu (SectionR) test the Vertigo Ultra RS3. Understanding professional riders requires experience. Professional riders testing in the coming days!”
This suggests the prototype is now being evaluated by experienced riders in real trials sections, rather than confined to bench testing or early validation rides.
Limited production likely
While Vertigo has not announced a launch date or pricing, references to limited CNC production and importer presentations point toward a restricted initial production run rather than an immediate full-scale release.
This strategy would mirror how several manufacturers have introduced electric models: small volumes, targeted markets, and gradual expansion based on feedback and demand.
Vertigo’s electric direction
The Ultra RS3 represents an important step for Vertigo Motors. Unlike startups entering the electric trials space, Vertigo brings decades of competition experience and an established chassis platform to the table.
By electrifying an existing RS3 rather than starting from scratch, Vertigo signals a pragmatic approach, one aimed at preserving the riding characteristics that trials riders expect, while exploring the advantages of electric power such as instant torque, reduced maintenance, and quieter operation.
What comes next
Guy Salens – THE PACK: “As of early 2026, the Vertigo Ultra RS3 remains a prototype, but all signs point toward a near-term release in limited numbers. Final specifications, range figures, and pricing are still unknown, but continued testing and public appearances suggest the project is well beyond the concept stage. For Vertigo, the Ultra RS3 may not just be an experiment, it could mark the brand’s entry into the next phase of competitive trials riding.”