The World’s First 3D-Printed Motorcycle Defeats the Whole Purpose of 3D Printing

Airbus Group subsidiary APWorks, has taken the wraps off its latest development, a 3D-printed electric motorbike which uses Schalmalloy, a custom aluminium alloy that is resistant to corrosion and nearly as strong as titanium. Dubbed the “Light Rider,” the motorcycle weighs just 35 kg – 30% lighter than most e-motorcycle, and it is powered by a 6 KW electric engine that allows it accelerate from 0 to 45km/h in three seconds. The battery is exchangeable and offers 60 km over the course of one charge.

By utilizing a “selective 3D laser printing system,” APWorks was able to mold melted minuscule aluminum alloy particles together to in turn create the web-like frame. The company is marketing the Light Rider as the world’s first 3D-printed motorcycle, and just 50 units will be produced. Pre-orders are available now, for a whopping €50,000 EUR each, which in reality doesn’t make any sense, because 3D printers are supposed to make production cost cheaper than the traditional. Anyhow, you can place your pre-order here with a €2,000 EUR deposit.