Long before Zero and Brammo, there were very few options for an electric motorcycle. The Auranthetic Charger was a small electric bike (though not, as I originally guessed from the photos, a minibike) built in the 70s in sunny California. Using a 1 horsepower, 24 volt DC motor, this 200-pound bike was able to hit 25-30 miles per hour, with a range of approximately 20-30 miles.
What blows me away is how the ‘throttle’ works. You’d expect that it was a potentiometer, so that just like a gas bike, the amount of throttle was linearly dependent on how much you twisted the right grip. Instead, this bike just has two speeds! Turn the throttle a little for initial acceleration, and then turn…a little bit more (past a ‘click’) to get to full power. That’s it! If you’re feeling particularly quirky, you can also try to source the 3-wheeled variant that was produced. Want to learn more? Head on over to Econogics for all the information you’d want.
From http://jleibovitch.tripod.com/id209.htm
This specific Auranthetic Charger was restored 10 years ago, but it’s going to need a little TLC once again. You’ll get new tires and rear shocks, but the deep cycle batteries should be replaced, though they can take a charge.
Find this Auranthetic Charger for sale here on Craigslist in Crozet, Virginia for $650.
This bike-uriousity brought to you by Jim R!