Ichiban Motorcycle's Newest Ride Is an Ode to 'Akira'

Ichiban Motorcycles is going full “Godzilla Mode” with its new electric ride. The company has revealed a new electric motorcycle inspired by the famous Akira anime, specifically the protagonist Shotaro Kaneda, leader of The Capsules’ bike.

Expected to actually go into production, the upcoming release has been noted by the company that the motorcycle is prepared to go into “Godzilla Mode.” When enabled, it will take the motorcycle from zero to 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds, powered on a 45-kW dual-motor system. The battery will allow the bike to be charged to 70% in just 30 minutes and it features an anti-lock braking system and traction control.

Akira, the film from 1988, is considered to be one of the most influential anime adaptations in the genre. It was adapted from Katsuhiro Otomo’s manga of the same name and features a signature shot of Kaneda’s character sliding his futuristic, bold red motorcycle into the a halt. Continually one of the most referenced moments in action cinema, Akira is in a lane of its own. As for the bike, Ichiban designer Ivan Zhurba evidently looked to the film for inspiration when designing the electric two-wheeler. The design was alos inspired by the Japanese aesthetic concept, Kanso. Kanso is a Japanese aesthetic with the principle of bringing simplicity to the forefront. Simplicity equates to purity, which informs the the seamless and elegant design of the streamlined electric motorcycle. Currently no additional info on the release date of the bike has arrived, but those interested can check out the website for more info.