Introducing the E-Motorcycle BBM Hiro: Variety at the fast charger

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Electric motorcycles have not yet really established themselves in Europe, while they are already being very positively received in China and India. The Spanish company BBM Motorcycles offers a new and attractive approach. Behind it are the two French brothers Guillaume and Benoit Barras, who already have experience in motorcycle construction, as they have been designing spectacular custom builds and motorcycle apparel under the label Angry Lane Customs since 2012. Curiously, they chose Hong Kong as their location at the time.

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Initial spark for Hiro

Some time ago, they became interested in the topic of electric motorcycles, but found nothing on the market that they liked for a conversion: too heavy, too little range, too much plastic, too long charging times, and no soul. That was the initial spark for the Hiro. The two brothers moved near Bilbao in the Spanish Basque Country, where the Automotive Intelligence Center is located, a cluster of companies developing in the automotive sector.

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Elektromotorrad BBM Hiro Teil eins (5 Bilder)

Four models on one platform

The Barras brothers wanted to combine various classic style elements with modern electric drive. They plan to offer four models on one platform in the future: the Hiro Streetfighter, the Hiro Roadster, the Hiro Café Racer, and the Hiro Scrambler. They are all based on the same steel trellis frame, which is reminiscent of the first Ducati Monster. BBM is working with the experienced Belgian electric motorcycle specialist Saroléa for engine development. The drive is a 70 kW electric motor with 150 Nm of torque and a continuous output not exceeding 35 kW, so it can be ridden with an A2 license. The Hiro is said to reach a top speed of 190 km/h and accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds.

Allegedly up to 220 km range

The large battery pack with fins, which stores 12.96 kWh, is striking. According to the manufacturer, it is said to enable a range of up to 225 km in city mode, which only releases 34 kW. In mixed city mode with 51 kW, it should be 180 km, in explorer mode with 29 kW 170 km, and in sport mode with full power release, still 125 km. The BBM Hiro operates with 360 Volt operating voltage and relies on fast charging instead of huge ranges. The lithium-ion battery is said to reach 80 percent at a fast charging station in just 15 minutes. If this is the specification for 10 to 80 percent, charging would have to average around 40 kW in this window. The integrated AC charger offers up to 6.6 kW. If charging at a 230-volt socket, you have to wait two hours and 40 minutes to reach 80 percent.

200 kg weight, low center of gravity

BBM specifies the weight of the Streetfighter at 200 kg, which would be relatively light for an electric motorcycle. The center of gravity is said to be low due to the positioning of the battery. Obviously, the Barras brothers want to give the Hiro good handling, which is also indicated by the steering head angle of 66 degrees. The electric motor is positioned at the swingarm pivot point, and the final drive is by chain. This way, the chain slack remains constant, regardless of how far the motorcycle compresses. It is not communicated by which supplier the suspension elements come, the rear spring-damper unit is directly linked to the aluminum swingarm. BBM specifies the seat height at 790 mm, although it may vary due to the different seat benches in the various versions.

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Elektromotorrad BBM Hiro Teil zwei (6 Bilder)

Classic wire spokes

All four versions of the Hiro are said to have wire-spoke wheels for a classic look. However, the wheels have different dimensions and are fitted with tires adapted to their intended use; on the computer-generated photos, they are from Michelin. The brake calipers are from Brembo, the ABS is said to be switchable, plus traction control and adjustable recuperation. The Barras attach great importance to the CO₂ footprint, which is why the fairing and covers of the Hiro are to be made from plant-based materials and be recyclable.

Supposedly available from July

The four Hiros are said to be available from July 2026, and the "expected price" - as BBM puts it - is to be 16,900 Euros. It can only be ordered and configured online. After registration, 100 Euros are due, which will be offset against the purchase to remain in the queue.

(dmk)