Bandit9 Motors, a custom motorcycle company established in 2009 under the guidance of Daryl Villanueva, has unveiled its latest creation: the EVE Odyssey V2. Known for pushing the boundaries of motorcycle design and innovation, Bandit9’s new model continues this tradition by offering a bike that looks like it has come straight out of a science fiction movie.
A brief history of Bandit9
Since its inception, Bandit9 has been carving a unique niche in the world of custom motorcycles. The company’s earlier works, such as the Supermarine motorcycle and a liquid-metal-electric scooter resembling a reversed high heel, have garnered attention for their avant-garde aesthetics and unconventional designs.
The original EVE Odyssey V1 was no exception, featuring an aluminum-framed body that resembled a sleek, futuristic bullet. This model found its way into prestigious automotive museums like the Petersen Automotive Museum, the Haas Moto Museum, and the Barber Motorsports Museum.
Design and aesthetics of the EVE Odyssey V2
The EVE Odyssey V2 retains the DNA of its predecessor while introducing several enhancements. The motorcycle measures 86.6 inches (220 cm) in length, 31.5 inches (80 cm) in width, and 29.5 inches (75 cm) in height. Weighing in at 265 pounds (120 kg), it is impressively light for a motorcycle that features a full metal body.
The bike’s shell is constructed from 7075 aluminum, a space-grade alloy known for its strength and light weight. This material choice contributes significantly to the bike’s overall performance and durability. The hand-brushed finish of the aluminum gives the EVE Odyssey V2 a stylish and futuristic appearance, elevating it from a mere vehicle to a statement piece.
One of the most striking aspects of the design is its minimalistic and sleek profile. The motorcycle closely resembles an actual bullet, more so than many bikes that carry the name. Its lean structure and absence of unnecessary components contribute to its unique aesthetic. However, this design also means that the bike offers a riding experience that is quite different from conventional motorcycles. The ergonomics are extreme, with steel clip-on handlebars and a seating position that may not be the most comfortable for long rides.
Engine and performance
At the heart of the EVE Odyssey V2 is a 125cc air-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine sourced from Honda. This engine is paired with a four-speed transmission and a Mikuni carburetor. While not the most powerful engine on the market, it offers a balance between performance and efficiency. The motorcycle boasts a top speed of 68 mph (109 km/h), although actual performance may vary depending on the rider’s aerodynamic profile.
One of the standout features is its exceptional fuel efficiency. The bike achieves more than 150 miles per gallon (1.88 liters per 100 km), making it an economical choice for city commuting. For those interested in a slight performance boost or a different exhaust note, Bandit9 offers an upgrade to a titanium underslung exhaust system.
Suspension and handling
The EVE Odyssey V2 features a rear monoshock suspension system and an innovative front fork setup. The front forks appear rigid from the exterior but allow the axle to travel up and down on internal tracks. This design means the fork doesn’t telescope visibly, but the wheel still moves to absorb bumps and maintain handling characteristics.
Bandit9 has made several tweaks to enhance the bike’s handling and ride quality compared to the original version. The forks are slightly raked out to improve stability at higher speeds. These adjustments aim to offer a better riding experience, although the bike’s extreme ergonomics suggest it may still be best suited for shorter rides or as a showpiece.
Wheels and braking
The motorcycle replaces the original’s retro-styled wheels with contemporary forged Marchesini 10-spoke wheels. These not only contribute to the bike’s modern aesthetic but also enhance performance by reducing unsprung weight. The EVE Odyssey V2 features a single-sided swingarm, exposing the rear wheel and adding to its minimalist design. The custom wheel nut is embossed with the Bandit9 logo, showcasing the company’s attention to detail.
Braking components have not been extensively detailed, but given the bike’s top speed and lightweight design, standard braking systems should suffice. Riders should, however, be cautious due to the bike’s ergonomics and minimal seating support, which could affect stability during sudden stops.
Lighting and controls
The motorcycle incorporates flush body-mounted LED strip indicators and a new vertical-strip LED taillight, seamlessly integrated into the design. The cockpit combines traditional and modern elements, featuring a digital Motogadget Motoscope Mini display installed on a custom bracket. This minimalist dashboard provides essential information without cluttering the bike’s sleek appearance.
Handmade levers and custom-machined switchgear adorn the steel clip-on handlebars. These components emphasize the handcrafted nature of the motorcycle and contribute to its unique feel. The reworked aluminum foot controls are another example of the detailed craftsmanship that goes into each unit.
Future developments: An electric variant
Bandit9 has announced plans to produce an electric version of the EVE Odyssey V2. While details are scarce, the electric variant is expected to outperform the current 125cc engine in terms of power and torque. This move aligns with the company’s progressive approach to design and innovation. The timeline for the electric model’s production remains uncertain, but it signifies an exciting direction for the company’s future offerings.
Conclusion
The EVE Odyssey V2 is a testament to Bandit9’s commitment to pushing the limits of motorcycle design. Its space-age aesthetics, handcrafted components, and attention to detail make it stand out in the realm of custom bikes. While it may not be the most practical choice for everyday commuting or long highway rides, it offers an unparalleled visual experience.
Potential buyers should be aware that each unit takes approximately three months to construct. This lead time reflects the meticulous craftsmanship involved in building each motorcycle. For many, the EVE Odyssey V2 may serve more as a collector’s item or a display piece rather than a daily rider.
Those interested in acquiring the EVE Odyssey V2 can contact Bandit9 directly for inquiries. Given the unique nature of the motorcycle and its limited production, it is likely to appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate innovative design and are looking for something truly distinctive.
Source: Bandit9
