AMA and Electric Motorcycles in AMA races

[Marko_Flux]

The regulation seems to be written to run a stock capacity Stark specifically (123kg does come out exactly for an enduro spec Varg), as well as the 420V max limit (which is again exactly what Stark has). So if we have our 450V bike with a slightly smaller batpack, we can't go. 41kW on the battery before inverter and motor losses seems more like a 250cc equivalent. At least measuring power on the DC line leaves a lot of wiggle room at low speeds (until they come up with wheel torque, but a 450 in 1st gear produces a lot, so curious what they'll define as reasonable).

Notice also the second document pertaining to safety. There's implication of dropping a couple grand on PPE, not an issue for a world champ team, but very much so for privateers in national events:
https://www.fim-moto.com/fileadmin/...rical_Regulations_14.05.2024.pdf?t=1729236559

Don't know how to feel about this...on one hand they're at least making an effort to give a framework for electrics to be alongside gas, on the other it sometimes feels like finding ways of making the statement, without really allowing much in the fine print. It's an ongoing development, the FIM talks with the OEMs (electric and not).

 

[Beagle]

I'll say that this part

"The FIM reserves the right to update the EOT/BOP at its discretion (and at any time) in the case of an imbalance. In case of dispute, the decision of the FIM Technical Director is final."

does not exactly inspire confidence nor encourages manufacturers to develop electric bikes.

It could mean allowing 450 V, could also mean suddenly deciding electric bikes need to be 140 kg or 36 hp...

I'm (not really) wondering if they could agree less penalizing rules if electrics struggle... performance-based rules are supposed to work both ways.

123 kg may look like a reasonable weight for standard enduro Varg though they could probably lighten it up a bit for Superenduro (do ICE bikes come at the same weight as series model?). For instance Stark last year had removed 1/4 of its battery cells to race SX tour, saving around 7 kg.

Marko since you're here I'll try my luck: any idea what kind of racing you would like to try at first to promote your bike? I mean for Stark it was AX UK in 2023 but whenever you're ready you would have many more opportunities.

 

[Beagle]

Another vet title for a Varg rider, it's definitely dangerous to let it race against ICE!

Whiskey Throttle Media on Instagram: "The 25+ Pro moto belonged to @trevorxstewart and @stark__future with 2-1-1 scores!"

1,556 likes, 56 comments - whiskeythrottlemedia on November 3, 2024: "The 25+ Pro moto belonged to @trevorxstewart and @stark__future with 2-1-1 scores!".

www.instagram.com

 

[Patrick Verner]

Another vet title for a Varg rider, it's definitely dangerous to let it race against ICE!

Whiskey Throttle Media on Instagram: "The 25+ Pro moto belonged to @trevorxstewart and @stark__future with 2-1-1 scores!"

1,556 likes, 56 comments - whiskeythrottlemedia on November 3, 2024: "The 25+ Pro moto belonged to @trevorxstewart and @stark__future with 2-1-1 scores!".

www.instagram.com

Give it time. When Honda releases the 2026 CR-E MX they won't be dangerous anymore.

 

[Theo]

When Honda releases the 2026 CR-E MX

I've read about this 2026 release more than once: is it an assumption or has there been some official statement from Honda?

 

[Beagle]

I've read about this 2026 release more than once: is it an assumption or has there been some official statement from Honda?

AFAIK it just comes from the fact that MXEP is scheduled for 2026, MXGP very obviously waiting for some Stark competitor which is widely assumed to be Honda but there has been zero confirmation about this.

The CRE has been introduced in 2017, it raced one round of Japan Nationals last year but they haven't done it this year, this year it's been raced in FIM explorer which is the bastard electric cousin of a proper world championship.

The bike was first introduced in 2017, in that many years Honda never cared to release a shred of technical specs nor any release date.

On one hand the release of he Varg may have given Honda a new sense of semi-urgency for this project, on the other hand it may have brought them back to the drawing board... so your guess is as good as mine.

 

[UKLee]

Give it time. When Honda releases the 2026 CR-E MX they won't be dangerous anymore.

Every chance that will be the case because unlike the stark the Honda will have a display that does not fall off to give the rider important insulation warnings etc, and a power button that works. No doubt Honda will be talking with the FIM and AMA etc to be sure the electric bike they build fits in with the regulations also. Wish I had hung on to see what Honda come up with instead of getting the stark.

 

[Beagle]

Josh Hill just made a nice video about this:

Here's what he says in the comments:

[Asked if electric bikes have an advantage over ICE]: "At this stage for a pro rider, the answer is no. I'm still faster and more confident on my Yamaha 450. But I think it's inevitable at the rate their progressing its only a matter of time. In fact most C and D riders are instantly faster on the Starks, due to the smooth power deliver with no gear box and clutch. Where most pros use those tools to their advantage."

"I wouldn’t call it a cheater bike at the pro level, all those things that you described as hindering [no need to move foot to brake, no clutch, instant power] are actually helpful tools at the pro level. It’s give and take really, e-bikes thrive in some conditions and struggle in others."

"The bikes are increasing in range with every new update and part that comes out. Could it last a 30+2 at a national in deep hot conditions? Probably not at full power with a top rider absolutely hammering it. At lowered power yes, but I bet its not too far away."

Interesting bit for the Varg riders: his preferred setting is 65 hp 10% regen.

He's teasing about a potential "test" in one AMA pro series... I remember Feld mentioned doing at some point in the future what MXGP will do in 2026: starting an electric class racing at some of the main events. Would love to see what riders like Josh could do on electric bikes at AMA SX tracks!