The Land Speed Record for electrically powered motorcycles has been smashed by the SWIGZ.COM Pro Racing team at 190.6mph (306.7km/h). Previously, the record stood at 170mph (274km/h).
Using a 240hp electric motor, the bike set the new record at the Mojave Mile speed event ridden by Chip Yates. A set of low drag fairings were made for the bike, which also helped with high speed stability.
Six lithium-ion batteries were used to power the motorcycle, which was geared for a terminal top speed of 229mph (369km/h) in perfect conditions. Even so, Yates reckons the bike can beat its 190.6mph record and said: "I was unable to use full throttle for the full mile due to high speed buffeting. We've made some aerodynamic changes, so I'm disappointed not to reach 200mph."
Yates says the team will be back to raise the bar further. He added: "I know we can do it next time and hit 200mph (322km/h). For now, I have to be happy with establishing our superbike as the fastest electric motorcycle in the world."