KTM Makes 2WD Hybrid Bike

Patent documents stumbled upon by Gizmag seem to indicate that a hybrid 2WD bike from KTM might be on its way. As you might know, 2WD bikes go around corners faster, messing with your body harder than a traditional one.

The system works by placing two electric motors on each wheel to supply additional torque when needed. On almost every surface 2WD offers better traction and stability, and it is recommended for young unexperienced riders on wet, loose surfaces.

The additional weight of a hydraulic system does not make this bike better for an experienced rider, but a better lightweight version is on the way and it will offer a computer controlled power delivery.

KTM are sure that this system's best applicability will be in the desert (the bike in the images is a desert bike) because of the need of stability and better steering in deep sand.

The most significant step in the industry is that, for the first time, a bike manufacturer offers hybrid power delivery and 2WD. KTM is likely to become a leading bike builder with this strategy.

The company decided to use electric motors at the front and at the rear, so that the bike can offer predicable linear torque at low speeds.

Gizmag also say that there is only one commercially available two wheel drive motorcycle and that is the Rokon. It is supposed to be a go-anywhere machine with big wide tires and AWD.

Another option would be Christini's conversion. If you own a Honda CRF250R, CRF250X, CRF450X or a KTM 250/300 2-strokes and 450/505 4-strokes and have 4000$ to spare, and if you want to make your bike heavier and more unreliable, you should try it out. Otherwise no.

The best bit is that with the front wheel underpowered, it will never wash out.