Harrisville, New Hampshire, USA
“I wanted to build a machine that looks like it comes from the larger two-wheeled world, and not only the motorcycle world,” states Walt Siegl.
“From track bicycles and mopeds, as well as performance motorcycles.”
New Hampshire-based builder/designer has built entirely from the ground up, this new WSM creation, a compact and futuristic motorbike that brings together e-bike components and custom-crafted elements, such as its carbon fiber monocoque frame.
The project has been awarded a 2021 Good Design Award by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.
The designers builds a jig to fabricate the skeleton from thin-walled, small diameter Chromoly tubing.
Steel reinforcements were welded into the steering neck and rear suspension pivot points, and aluminum inserts were added as mounting points.
Then the whole thing was wrapped in carbon fiber and finished with resin.
The designer then hid the 3000W Sur-Ron motor and a 65-volt Panasonic battery pack, all covered by custom sculpted panels, welded up from thin aluminum forms, and mounted with quarter-turn fasteners.
Final touches like the small Alcantara seat and the white and bare-metal finish are the minimalistic cherries on top of a design that effectively conveys simplicity and lightness.
“The bike’s gestalt is defined by the lack of bodywork,” says Walt, “which was important to me. It was a win-win because there was no bodywork needed to define its shape, and it saved weight. When I weighed the bike before paint, it was just 100 pounds.”
LSL clip-on clamps with custom bars and bar-ends, Sur-Ron controls, and a Segway speed.
With no clutch or gear shifter, all that’s going on lower down is a neat set of footpegs—and a small cover to protect the motor’s wiring.
“Because my design platform is a combination of all these worlds, this bike could easily be the platform for a pedal-assist bike, a moped, or for an electric performance bike. Electric bike technology lends itself to this versatility.”
“I wanted a crisp and clean design, and the appearance of a concept bike, while still showing my handiwork and the love that went into building it.”
The WSM concept is not a commercial product but rather a one-of-a-kind artwork.
The project was commissioned by the Haas Moto Museum in Dallas, Texas where fans will be able to see it along with many other motorbikes relevant to the history of two-wheeled transportation.
“My next e-bike project will have some elements of this bike for sure,” Siegl continues.
“The versatility of the platform is what I’m interested in.”
Project: WSM Concept
Designer: Walt Siegl
Manufacturer: Walt Siegl Motorcycle
