Honda is causing a stir with the resurgence of its concept bike, the RC-E, which first made its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show back in 2011.
While the RC-E initially seemed like a fleeting flight of fancy, recent developments have shown that elements of this visionary electric sportbike are still very much alive within the hallowed halls of Honda’s research and development department.
Patent documents recently surfaced, revealing the unmistakable outline of the RC-E, with its signature fairing shape, frame layout, and that imposing electric motor at its core.
It is not unusual for manufacturers to patent concepts even if they never make it to production, but what makes this case intriguing is that the patent specifically addresses the rear suspension’s structural layout – a critical visual element of the bike.
Comparing the patent images to the original RC-E concept, a notable difference is the rear suspension. The concept bike sported a single shock mounted between the top of the swingarm and a bracket cast into the alloy half-frame above the electric motor.
However, in the patent images, the shock is offset, tucked in alongside the electric motor and connected to the left-hand side of the swingarm and the left-hand frame rail. This alteration not only optimizes space efficiency but also calls for a more compact, narrower motor compared to the original design.
Nevertheless, much of the RC-E’s original design philosophy is retained. The frame cleverly utilizes the electric motor’s casing as a structural element between the front rails and the swingarm, ensuring a direct line from the steering head to the rear wheel.
The most significant departure from the 2011 concept is the broader context. Back then, major motorcycle manufacturers were reluctant to venture into electric motorcycles beyond scooters.
Today, the electric motorcycle landscape is dramatically different, with nearly every major company, including Honda, actively planning to launch an array of electric bikes. Given this, the RC-E might have a newfound relevance, and there is the tantalizing possibility of Honda revitalizing it with the latest motor and battery technologies.
