Electric supermoto with unmatched performance
Some said it would never happen. Stark Future’s electrifying Varg series was dismissed by skeptics who figured an 80-horsepower EV dirt bike could never compete with its gas-powered peers—or even make it off the drawing board. Yet here we stand, faced with news that this boundary-pushing brand is launching a street-legal supermoto model known as the Stark Varg SM. And if the past is any indication, this machine is primed to rattle the status quo.
The Rise of Stark Varg
Stark Future initially made waves in 2021 by declaring it had built the fastest, most thrilling motocross bike on the planet. Industry watchers shrugged—until the impressive Stark Varg began racking up accolades and causing enough stir to be barred from certain competitions. The X Games famously banned all electric motorcycles, likely fearing they’d leave internal combustion machines in the dust. Now, the brand’s momentum shows no sign of slowing down.
From Doubt to Real-World Dominance
It was the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that confirmed Stark’s next big move. A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoder release revealed not only the street-legal Varg EX but also the presence of a Stark Varg SM. Various files for recalls, investigations, and manufacturer communications have been opened for both new models—further validating Stark’s impending arrival in the street-legal realm.
Electric Supermoto: A Rare Breed
True supermotos with electric powertrains are nearly unheard of. A handful of attempts popped up and fizzled out, leaving riders hungry for a full-fledged, road-legal EV contender. The Stark Varg SM seems ready to fill that gap. Developed on the same platform as the enduro-focused Varg EX, the SM is expected to feature shorter suspension travel and 17-inch wheels (versus the EX’s 21-inch front and 18-inch rear) to handle the unique demands of supermoto riding. And with a base weight around 264 pounds, it may end up even lighter—ideal for cutting through city streets or tearing up a local track.
Performance That Changes the Game
Stark Future intends to offer two powertrain configurations for the Stark Varg SM:
- A 60 hp variant (44 kW) with enough muscle to match or outclass 450cc gas-powered supermotos.
- An 80 hp (60 kW) Alpha model meant to challenge even more robust rivals like the KTM 690 SMC R.
Torque is colossal—potentially hitting figures ICE bikes can only dream of. Backed by a 7.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack in a magnesium case, these motorcycles promise up to six hours of run time if ridden conservatively. While supermoto riders typically push the bike harder, the battery technology and rapid charging (in as little as one to two hours on a 240V outlet) suggest downtime won’t be a deal-breaker.
Built to Last—and to Thrill
In keeping with the Varg family pedigree, the Stark Varg SM will likely incorporate a Chromoly steel main frame, carbon fiber subframe, and top-tier Brembo calipers with Galfer discs. This foundation gave the Varg EX impressive off-road prowess, and the SM is expected to deliver the same high level of build quality—only tuned for the asphalt.
Eyeing the Market
The Stark Varg EX carries a sticker price of \$12,900, with U.S. deliveries projected to begin in June. Stark has not yet revealed official pricing for the Varg SM, nor have they pinned down an exact release date. However, industry insiders suggest that we might see this electric supermoto roaring onto streets—and tracks—sooner rather than later.
Final Thoughts
For those who believed electric motorcycles were a passing fad, the Stark Varg SM is set to silence any remaining doubts. It merges unbridled power with sleek supermoto styling, aiming straight at a market ripe for disruption. Only a select few EVs have tried to match the performance of mainstream supermotos—and none have done it with the confidence and flair Stark brings to the table.
If you’re eager to see what the future holds for street-legal electric bikes, keep your eyes peeled for the Stark Varg SM. It’s more than just a new motorcycle; it’s a signal that the sport—and the streets—are on the brink of a serious shakeup. Would you take it for a spin? The answer, like this bike’s torque curve, may be off the charts.
Pros
- High Performance: The Stark Varg SM offers two robust powertrain options (60 hp and 80 hp), delivering impressive acceleration and torque that can outpace many traditional gas-powered bikes.
- Rapid Charging Capabilities: With a 7.2-kWh battery that can recharge in just 1–2 hours using a 240V outlet, riders benefit from minimized downtime.
- Innovative Construction: The integration of a Chromoly steel frame with a carbon fiber subframe, combined with premium Brembo calipers and Galfer discs, ensures a durable and high-quality build.
- Street-Legal Design: Engineered for both track and urban use, its street-legal status widens its appeal and versatility.
- Lightweight Agility: The design improvements—such as the switch to 17-inch wheels and reduced suspension travel—result in a lighter, more nimble machine perfect for spirited riding.
Cons
- Reduced Range Under High-Speed Conditions: Although the battery offers up to six hours of conservative riding, intense track use is likely to significantly diminish the range.
- Pricing Uncertainty: Unlike its sibling, the Varg EX is priced at \$12,900, while the official pricing for the SM variant remains undisclosed, creating potential hesitation for buyers.
- Ambiguous Availability: The exact release date and market launch details for the Varg SM are still unclear, which may deter early adopters.
- Specialized Design Limitations: The modifications—such as smaller wheels and limited suspension travel—optimize the bike for supermoto performance but may reduce its versatility for off-road or varied riding conditions.
- Market Entry Challenges: As a pioneering electric supermoto, it faces the hurdle of competing against well-established internal combustion models, which could impact its initial market acceptance.
Verdict
The Stark Varg SM stands out as a bold, innovative force in the electric motorcycle arena. It combines cutting-edge EV technology with a street-legal design and agile performance, promising a fresh alternative to conventional supermotos. While concerns over range under aggressive use, uncertain pricing, and limited versatility exist, the overall package is compelling for those ready to embrace the future of high-performance electric riding. This machine isn’t just a new bike—it’s a signal of transformation in the world of supermotos.
The Suzuki SuperMoto DR-Z400SM 2024 emerges as a compelling alternative to the Stark Varg SM, especially for riders who value versatility and a true off-road soul combined with urban practicality. Boasting a robust 398cc liquid-cooled four-stroke engine that delivers hearty low-end torque and crisp throttle response, this urban warrior is engineered for dynamic street performance and off-road adventure. Its lean, lightweight chassis—featuring a chrome-moly steel frame, inverted front fork for agile handling, and precise braking from a 300mm floating front rotor—ensures exceptional maneuverability on tight city corners and winding backroads alike. Coupled with an eye-catching design, a compact digital instrument cluster, and a competitive starting price of $7,899, the DR-Z400SM is a standout choice for those seeking a thrilling yet practical ride that seamlessly bridges the gap between street and trail.
