We Test the New Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2, the First Indian Electric Motorcycle to Arrive in Europe

Indian motorcycle manufacturers have also turned their attention to the old continent. Following the Chinese wave, the European market must brace itself for the impact of another Asian giant. Ultraviolette is the latest brand to land here, having recently obtained the global L3e certification, necessary for commercialization in 40 countries worldwide, including Spain (in partnership with Rhino Electric Motors, parent company of the Spanish Velca). The motorcycle leading this charge is the F77 Mach 2, a sporty naked bike that immediately captures attention with its futuristic appearance, reminiscent of dystopian science fiction films rather than a typical street in a Spanish city today. However, trends are such, and some bikes prefer to break the mold.

This ultra-technological image presented by the Mach 2 is the prelude to an experience in the same vein: at the controls of the naked bike, one finds a modern, sophisticated riding position, with a 5-inch color TFT screen offering clear visibility and multiple functionalities (riding modes, vehicle status, and connectivity) easily and intuitively controlled from the handlebar switches. Furthermore, the bike is equipped with high-end electronics such as dynamic stability control (DSC), three riding maps, parking assistant, and anti-fall alert. Of course, full LED technology for lighting and ABS system are included.

The brand optionally offers a Performance pack, a package that includes 10 levels of regenerative braking, dynamic regeneration, and 4 levels of traction control. There is even another optional package called Violette AI, which offers various alerts (movement, fall, crash, and towing), remote locking, or information about completed trips. Charging is done via a charging port with an adapter (IEC 62196-6) through a conventional plug, and you can recover 80% of the battery in just 2.5 hours.

The ergonomics are also foretelling: we adopt a typical sporty naked posture, semi-inclined forward with the helmet practically over the front wheel. It becomes clear, within seconds of riding it, that this is not a bike focused on leisurely rides or designed for comfort. As soon as we picked it up from the dealership, we headed straight for some road outside the congested city, with the bike's most relaxed riding mode, Glide, which also offers the most range, up to 231 km. The overall operation is pleasant, in terms of the use of controls and pedals, and allows for urban riding in the style of a conventional 125cc, with sufficient acceleration to adapt to traffic. The seat height, at just 800 mm, is ideal.

The first sensation that struck me was the feel of the front brake, very powerful and well-modulated, so much so that with just one finger you find the precision and appropriate braking. However, the position of the rearview mirrors could be improved, and it was difficult to find the right viewing angle. The junction between the seat and the tank could also be reviewed to improve rider comfort. As soon as we took the tires out of the city, we switched the mode to Combat, which delivers intermediate power, ideal for riding on connecting roads around 80 km/h.

The best thrills come when you activate the Ballistic mode, which really propels you when you open the throttle with vehemence (also watch out for battery consumption). The F77 Mach 2 feels like a different bike, with a strong and adrenaline-pumping acceleration, totally immediate and very precise from the throttle. Like a 300/400 cc bike, it can reach speeds over 140 km/h (the maximum is set at 155 km/h), although it takes some time once past 110 km/h, meaning its recoveries above that figure are more relaxed. Where it has "punch" is at low and mid-revs: from 0 to 60 km/h it accelerates in just 2.8 seconds, and from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds. The engine offers a maximum power of 40.2 HP and an exceptional 100 Nm, with 12.7 HP of continuous power.

The dimensions are very compact and short between axles (1,340 mm), making it a highly reactive bike, capable of leaning at the slightest suggestion, and at the same time very manageable, although it can sometimes suffer from nervousness in the front end. Nevertheless, the chassis is quite effective, thanks to a double tubular frame (combining steel and aluminum), and suspensions consisting of a 41 mm inverted front fork with preload adjustment and a rear mono-shock, in collaboration with an aluminum swingarm with reinforcement rods; a front brake using a 320 mm disc and a rear one of 230 mm; and tires of 110/70R17 and 150/60R17. The front end works firmly, while the rear feels somewhat too rigid, transmitting road imperfections more than desired. In short, a bike that will make waves once it hits the Spanish market (the brand has yet to confirm the price and availability of the new F77 Mach 2) for its ability to generate emotions from the throttle, its endless package of aids and electronic functionalities, and its dynamic prowess.