America and V-twin Motorcycles is an age-old love story. All the leading bikemakers–Harley-Davidson, Indian, Buell–make them, and you can say the same for custom shops such as Roland Sands Designs. As a result, we’ve been treated to exemplar V-twin two-wheelers of all shapes, sizes, and segments, with the list only getting longer as you read this. The latest entry comes from Audette Motorcycles based out of Canton, Connecticut. Though nowhere near as experienced as the mentioned brands, the bikemaker has whipped up an ‘American superbike’ called Audette Velos. It’s loaded to the teeth with quality components, all topped by a gigantic over-2,000cc V-twin at heart. Here’s all you need to know about it.
The Audette Velos Has A Stripped-Back, Minimalistic Design
One look at the Velos, and you’ll know it’s nothing like the usual crop of American V-twins. After all, the aesthetics come from popular designer Kar Lee who whipped up a stripped-back yet aggressive design. Up top, it flexes a protruding LED headlight, followed by an angular fuel tank (with chunky air intakes on each side) and a muscular belly shroud down low. Behind this lies a dangling, bobber-like one-up saddle, paired with a subframe-mounted LED tail lamp. This is topped by impressive attention to detail. You get unique fenders at both ends (complete with aerodynamic shark fins), in addition to a black-chrome finish on the engine and a see-through cam cover.
Once you swing a leg, your hands go on a low, custom handlebar that houses bar-end mirrors and custom grips. The feet rest on rear-set, sport bike-inspired footrests which helps create a somewhat aggressive riding triangle. You should also have ample cornering clearance. Our only gripe is the basic semi-digital instrument cluster–a tad too simple for our liking, especially on such an exclusive ‘superbike’.
The Audette Velos Promises Over 125 Horsepower
Under the skin, the Audette Velos employs Indian’s Thunderstroke 111ci, air-cooled, V-twin powerhouse. Not much of it remains stock, however, as it now displaces 126ci (2,064cc) and runs at a compression ratio of 11:1. In turn, this boosts the otherwise sub-100-HP and 118 pound-feet output to 128 ponies and 156 pound-feet (dyno tested), respectively. Plus, all this is available from as low as 3,150 RPM, so you’re in for some rampant acceleration.
That’s not all, though. The power reaches the wheel via a bespoke six-speed gearbox that’s paired with a Rekluse clutch. Likewise, the Indian’s stock belt setup has made way for a chain drive while the handcrafted headers and a Toce exhaust further amp up the experience. Thanks to this, we believe the naked would beat all your favorite Harley and Indian cruisers off the line. Just remember, you will need some wrist control to stay rubber-side up as there are no electronic rider aids watching your back.
The Audette Velos Is Built Around An Aircraft-Grade Chassis
Yes, that’s right! Audette has built the Velos around a special twin-spar chassis carved out of aircraft-grade aluminum. It houses the gigantic V-twin engine perfectly, thanks to precise measurements from a 3D scanner, and helps eliminate any extra heft. This is sprung on top-tier suspension–43 mm Race Tech USD forks and a Race Tech G3S monoshock–with full adjustability for all your needs. Our favorite bit, however, is the set of 17-inch BST carbon wheels which come wrapped in sticky Pirelli Rosso III tires. Also part of the package is a set of dual Galfer petal disc brakes, Galfer lines, and Beringer Aerotec calipers.
Together, all these help the motorcycle tip the scale at just 467 pounds, even with its four-gallon tank filled up. Couple the weight with its sharp 26-degree rake, and sharp riding dynamics seem like a no-brainer expectation. It’s even suitable for short riders, courtesy of its 825 mm seat height.
Audette Has Priced The Velos From $89,000
Given all the expensive componentry, the bikemaker has priced the Velos from $89,000. Only 20 units will go on sale every year, each handcrafted according to you. It’ll also let you pick between a variety of options (Rotobox wheels, types of leather, color options, or any other requests), even including four engine choices (111ci, 116ci, 126ci, or 131ci).
That’s a serious sum of money, but somehow, the motorcycle comes quite close to justifying it. Not to mention, it’s made in America and by an American, so there’s a slight patriotic angle too. What’s your final say? Would you consider this over, say a Brough Superior motorcycle? Comment below!
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