Electric light motorcycle DAB1 introduced: Minimalist appearance
The DAB1's design is striking; despite a reduced price, the electric light motorcycle will likely remain exclusive.
The DAB1 apparently aims to attract less affluent early adopters. It is not as expensive as its predecessor, although it has been hardly simplified.
(Image: DAB)
- Ingo Gach
Electric motorcycles have it tough, literally. One reason for this is the significantly lower energy density of the battery compared to fuel. A battery with the energy content of an average fuel tank would currently weigh as much as a complete superbike on its own. Although the electric motor uses driving energy much more efficiently, this cannot be compensated for, at least with the current state of technology.
The DAB1 doesn't even try to compete with large bikes and, as a light motorcycle, is limited to just over 6 kWh, 23 kW peak power, and a nominal range of 120 km. It emphasizes its technical slimness with a minimalist look and also weighs only 145 kg.
Slim appearance
The DAB brand was originally known for converting combustion engine motorcycles, but then specialized in electric motorcycles and introduced the Concept-E in 2021. Two years later, Peugeot Motorcycles invested in DAB. The financial boost enabled further development of the prototype, culminating in the DAB1 α in 2024, which promptly won a Red Dot Design Award.
It looked slim due to its freestanding rear, despite the massive battery block. The fairing parts were cut short, and everything superfluous was omitted. However, the machine, luxuriously equipped with carbon fiber laminate parts and an Alcantara seat cover, among other things, was not exactly cheap at 14,900 euros. Furthermore, DAB limited the production run to 400 units.
DAB1 Teil eins (3 Bilder)
DAB
)Cheaper model
Now the brand is launching the DAB1 at a significantly lower entry price of around 9900 euros. Visually, it enters the race unchanged, and it is also identical in terms of drive technology. It continues to feature a brushless electric motor that delivers a peak of 23 kW and 395 Nm. In continuous operation, the power is 8 kW, which allows operation with a license A1 and B196.
A toothed belt drives the rear wheel. The double-loop frame is made of steel tubing, and the swingarm is made of aluminum. With a seat height of 880 mm, the DAB1 is not for the short-legged. It is approved for two people, but the very narrow pillion seat doesn't look particularly inviting.
Up to 150 km range
Its lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 7.1 kWh and allegedly enables a range of 150 km in city traffic and 120 km combined according to the WMTC standard. In reality, it naturally depends on which driving mode is selected: Eco, Street, Sport, or Nitro. In the latter two modes, the battery is likely to deplete much faster. The developers have even equipped the DAB1 with a mode for slow reverse driving, which is practical for maneuvering.
The manufacturer states charging times from 20 to 100 percent via the integrated charger as three hours at a 230-volt socket. The charging cable can be stored in the 3.4 liter compartment above the battery. According to the manufacturer, the DAB1 should weigh only 145 kg and reach a top speed of 120 km/h.
DAB1 Teil zwei (3 Bilder)
DAB
)Minimalist impression
Above, between the fork tubes, there is a plate in the style of a motocross number plate with a narrow LED headlight. This contributes to the minimalist overall impression, as does the short front fender. The wide wire-spoke wheels look trustworthy, as does the 46 mm thick upside-down fork from KYB with 100 mm of travel.
The shock absorber – also from KYB – with 100 mm of travel at the rear wheel does without an external reservoir, unlike the DAB1 α still had. The DAB1 is slowed down by a radial Brembo four-piston caliper with a 320 mm brake disc on the front wheel.
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The DAB1 has a small LC display for the most essential information, which can be expanded via your own smartphone, which is clipped into an optional Quad Lock system in front of the handlebars.
Only orderable online
The DAB1 is not ordered from a dealer (there are none in Germany), but online, with deliveries planned from the fourth quarter of 2026. The configurator for Germany shows a base price of 9907 euros plus shipping costs. DAB waives shipping costs for the first 50 orders.
However, the price can be significantly increased by the choice of color. Those who want the upper plastic cover, the engine guard, the front and rear fenders, the seat, the shock absorber spring, the fork stanchions, and the rims in colors other than the standard can increase the price to up to 16,243 euros.
Those who choose the shock absorber with an external reservoir will have to pay an additional around 580 euros. The manufacturer also offers some extras, including a kit for different seat heights, the Quadlock holder with integrated charging function, and a top case. A Type 2 adapter for faster charging is also available, but DAB provides no further details on this.
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Expensive. Very expensive with special equipment
For its starting price in basic configuration, the DAB1 offers an interesting package. A stylish look paired with decent performance, suitable for city rides and short trips outside urban areas. However, the surcharge system seems a bit excessive.