Stark VARG SM: Electric Supermoto

The Stark VARG SM is based on the proven VARG chassis, powertrain, and technology. It is an all-electric supermoto that offers big power, little weight, and enough range to have fun, but not get too far from home.

Electric Supermoto

With up to 80 horsepower and 674 pound-feet of torque on tap instantly, and only 274.5 pounds to move, the VARG SM is no doubt a rocketship.

I’ve spent time on the VARG EX — pretty much the same machine with knobby tires — and can tell you that trying to tame this beast when fully unleashed will be an intense experience. Hot tip: Work your way up to the 80-horsepower level, as, like me, you might find that 55 horsepower is more than enough for most two-wheeled endeavors on this machine.

Stark claims the “VARG SM offers the highest power-to-weight ratio of any production Supermoto,” which we can’t dispute. For reference, the Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono offers 77.5 horsepower and weighs in at 333 pounds.

One of the best parts of the VARG platform is how you can quickly and easily customize the riding experience on the fly. Power delivery, regen-braking, and more are all configurable through the Android-based Arkenstone dashboard — basically an integrated but removable smartphone.

The waterproof and shock-resistant dash system also has integrated GPS navigation, real-time ride data, and can be updated over the air. From my experience with the VARG EX, software is the one part of these bikes that still needs work, but they are working on it and continually pushing updates out over Wi-Fi.

VARG SM Powertrain

The already proven — through motocross — carbon-fiber–sleeved motor with integrated inverter is light, durable, efficient, and extremely powerful. Central to the bike is a 7.2kWh honeycomb magnesium battery, which is a structural component of the motorcycle. It helps keep the bike rigid and weight low, while also delivering 50 miles of “real-world riding range.”

With the included 3.3kW charger, which is portable and light enough to carry with you in a backpack, the Stark VARG SM can be recharged in under 2 hours. That quick charge is through a 240V plug, but the charger also works with a standard household plug.

Ready to Get Wild

This supermoto gets high-end KYB suspension and a new triple clamp, said to give the SM “greater steering precision and front-end feel.” That’s all attached to a steel frame and forged aluminum subframe.

Brembo brakes give this high-power machine the stopping power it needs. The optional — but included on U.S. bikes — handlebar-mounted rear-brake control provides incredible braking control, perfect for stunt and track environments.

The VARG SM is also street legal around the globe. It has silicone, flexible turn signals, a 4,000-lumen headlamp, a low-profile integrated license plate holder, and DOT-approved tires.

Stark VARG SM Specs

• Drivetrain: Electric PMAC Motor, 1 forward gear, 1 reverse gear, 0-100% selectable regenerative braking
• Frame: High-strength steel, forged aluminum subframe
• Brakes: Brembo front four-piston monoblock radial caliper with 320mm floating disc, rear 220mm hydraulic disc
• Suspension: Front: 16mm offset/205mm between fork tubes: Machined Triple Clamp/Kayaba SM Specific with fully adjustable KYB 48mm closed-cartridge/290mm stroke forks. Rear: KYB triple-adjuster shock with 303 mm travel
• Weight: 274.5 lbs.
• Power: 80 hp, 674 lb.-ft. of torque
• Battery capacity: 7.2 kWh honeycomb magnesium
• Range: 50.3 miles
• Charging time: 1-2 hours (240V outlet)
• Options: Titanium upgrades for footpegs/bolts/shafts, four tubeless tire options (Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV, Dunlop Sportsmart TT, Michelin Road 6, or Anlas Grip Plus), foot and handbrake (handlebar fitment included free for U.S. customers)

Get Some!

Stark Future sells its motorcycles through over 500 dealers worldwide. You can find the closest to you at StarkFuture.com.

The VARG SM is available for order now. The supermoto is offered as two base models, which can be upgraded with titanium and tire options.