Turbo power for the Lightspeed LS12
The Lightspeed LS12, which was unveiled in November 2023, is set to compete against models such as the Ducati Diavel V4. It is powered by an 1190 cc 72° V2 engine developed by Rotax for Buell. The standard version of the motorcycle is expected to produce over 185 hp (136 kW), but Langen is going one step further: a turbo version with up to 300 hp (221 kW) is in the works.
Named the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo, the machine is set to significantly increase performance thanks to a powerful turbocharger. According to initial test bench tests, the “Road Mode” could already offer around 250 hp (184 kW), while the full power mode should increase to around 300 hp (221 kW). If Langen were to transfer these values to series production, the motorcycle could become one of the most powerful production bikes in the world. The aim is to achieve the title of “fastest production motorcycle in the world”.
Technically, the model remains close to the Lightspeed base. Carbon parts ensure a low weight, while CNC-milled components refine the design. The chassis relies on high-quality Öhlins suspension and a brake system with Hel-Performance calipers and 320 mm discs.
The first test rides on the Santa Pod quarter-mile track are scheduled to begin this year. Production is only planned in very limited numbers.
Expansion plans: European approval and new markets
In addition to developing new models, Langen is also working on bringing the bikes to other markets. To date, Langen’s two-stroke 250cc motorcycles have been approved via an MSVA (Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval) procedure. In order to drive further growth, the company is now planning full Euro 5+ approval to enable sales within Europe.
Langen also has ambitious plans for the US, Australian and Middle Eastern markets. According to the company, this expansion could increase sales potential by 2800%.
“Since founding the company and developing our first model, we have overcome many unexpected economic and political challenges. Our team has grown and the demand for our motorcycles has steadily developed,” explained company founder Christofer Ratcliffe. “Now we have reached a significant milestone and are ready to take Langen to the next level.”
Opening up to investors: crowdfunding for further growth
In order to finance the expansion and the new models, Langen Motorcycles is opening up to investors. A crowdfunding campaign has already been launched and will run until March. The company is giving motorcycle enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire shares in Langen and participate directly in the future of the brand.
“It’s always been my dream to invest in a British motorcycle company and be part of something I’m passionate about,” says Ratcliffe. “That’s why we’ve created the opportunity for anyone who is passionate about motorcycles to become a shareholder in Langen and be part of the story.”
The financing round is not only intended to help bring the Lightspeed LS12 into production, but also to further accelerate the production of the already successful Langen Two Stroke 250. Over 80% of the 100 planned units have already been reserved. Sales to date have generated revenues of 2.7 million pounds (approx. 3.16 million euros / 3.42 million USD) for the company.
Tooling and final testing of the Lightspeed models are also to be completed thanks to the cash injection. The aim is to fully ramp up production of the Lightspeed LS12 by the fourth quarter of 2025.
Conclusion
Langen Motorcycles has big plans for the future. In addition to the production of the standard Lightspeed LS12, the company wants to put a real performance monster on the road with a turbocharged version. At the same time, the expansion into international markets is being driven forward, for which the company is opening up to external investors for the first time.
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