Last November, Langen Motorcycles shared with us their latest project, the new LightSpeed LS12. A frame that boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 1,000 hp per tonalso oozing exoticism from all four sides, combining passion and performance in equal parts. Equipped with a 1,190 cc V-twin engine, Langen announces a power of 185 hp at 10,600 rpm and a maximum torque of 138 Nm at 8,200 rpm.
Langen LightSpeed LS12: The brand’s springboard towards its internationalization
It was in March of last year when we learned that Langen was preparing a new four-stroke model, with the intention of presenting it to society, in the form of a concept, at Motorcycle Live 2023. At that time, Christofer Ratcliffe, founder and CEO of the brand, commented: “Most of the design team is now on the new project, which is what you might describe as a large-capacity four-stroke.”
Concludes: “Since January, that has accelerated and has now become almost the main focus of the design team. I’m losing sleep over it, but it’s my favourite part of the job – being involved in development and seeing a new model come to life from a blank sheet of paper. We’re pushing to launch a prototype at the NEC. It will be a challenge, but we’ve done harder things in less time!”
Almost a year and a half later, we have learned from our colleagues at Motorcycle that the British firm is preparing its assault on international markets with the arrival of the new LightSpeed LS12. Ratcliffe has commented to MCN: “The LightSpeed LS12 was always destined to become the first Langen to be fully homologated.”
And continues: “Although the launch edition will be limited to registration through the UK MSVA system, we have developed the components and electronics to have the ability to meet the necessary homologation regulations”Regarding the engine, it is worth remembering that we are talking about the same 72° Rotax V-twin as the one mounted on the Buell 1190SX.
The brand estimates that the first copies will begin to be delivered, of the 185 units that make up this series, in the fall of 2025, at a starting price of £44,000, almost €52,000 at the current exchange rate. This is why Langen is currently in the process of selecting new global investment partners. In Ratcliffe’s words: “We’ve received a lot of interest in the LightSpeed LS12 from overseas, particularly from the US due to the Buell-derived engine.”
Undoubtedly, we are dealing with a niche market product, intended for a few gourmets who love almost artisanal exclusivity. With a final weight of 185 kgThe LightSpeed LS12 can be configured in terms of colour or finishes. Its low final weight is helped by the use of materials such as carbon fibre or aluminium in the manufacture of some of its parts.
On the other hand, we have a top-level part, cycle and list of components around the powerful American block. The suspension signed by Ohlins with an inverted fork FGRT 301 48mm front and shock absorbers STX 36mm at the rear. The braking system is equipped with calipers Hel Performance four-piston brakes with 320 mm discs at the front, along with the help of an ABS system. It also has traction control, driving modes and various electronic aids aimed at an unparalleled driving experience.
Dynamic testing of the initial LightSpeed LS12 prototype is expected to begin later this autumn. The Two Stroke has also become the brand’s first model to be sold outside the UK. Ratcliffe confirmed: “Two Stroke #10 landed in Fukuoka, Japan, much to the delight of its new owner. This marked a historic milestone for Langen Motorcycles as we look to grow the brand globally in the coming years.”
