The new flagship for Keanu Reeves’s motorcycle company
by Sagar, onWith what started out as a custom weekend project for Hollywood’s Keanu Reeves, Arch Motorcycles has come a long way ever since it set up shop back in 2007. Joined by a self-taught engineer Gard Hollinger, the company started making production models soon and has to date made three models.
With two models in their existing lineup, Arch Motorcycles expanded their dream project with the brand new flagship model showcased at the EICMA 2017. Called the Arch Method 143, it is a power cruiser that boasts of a powerful V-Twin engine underneath its hood and surrounded by a carbon fiber mono-cell chassis and exquisite materials all around.
Currently, Arch motorcycles have two models running the streets with their updated versions showcased at the 2017 EICMA. One is the 2018 edition of their first ever model, the KRGT-1. It will run on a Euro IV compliant motor of the same 2032cc S&S twin-cam V-twin that cranks out a generous 121.7 pound-feet of torque, backed up by 122 horsepower. The second motorcycle showcased is called as the ’Arch 1S’ which is an even more athletic version of the KRGT-1. It will sport a single-sided swingarm, as well as a more aggressive rider position.
Back in July last year, Arch motorcycle started a new partnership with the Swiss 2-stroke specialists, Suter Racing, to import motorcycles to each side of the Atlantic. Taking this opportunity, Arch borrowed the technical know-how to create their brand new flagship model, the Method 143.
With their help, Arch developed a brand new single-sided swingarm and CNC machined it with a carbon-fiber cover. Then the folks from SC Project gave it a bespoke full titanium and carbon-fiber exhaust system. The fancy material is also used on an in-house designed carbon-fiber “Turbine” wheels from BST, which according to my tastes, is one of the best looking wheels in the business.
The unique layering design concept and elegant craftsmanship of the bodywork include fine leather, carbon fiber, and artfully programmed CNC machined aluminum. The company has machined over 200 custom parts out of billet aluminum that makes it look so stunning and raw. Leather has been layered along with the bodywork with the seat and the tank area beautifully giving a modern take on styling.
Powering this hunk is a monstrous 143ci/2343cc V-twin powerplant from S&S which will give the Method 143 an earth-shattering 170 hp. Other performance numbers have been kept away from us. Nonetheless, the folks who make these monsters themselves give a fair warning on the evil character of the engine.
“The T143 requires technical expertise for the installation and tuning along with an experienced rider. This is an ultra performance/ race engine. Longevity, engine noise, vibration and throttle sensitivity have all been compromised to reach this level of performance.”
So to keep this bad-ass wickedness in control, the chaps at Arch have equipped the Method with the top of the line equipment. Ohlins proprietary FGRT series fork, fully adjustable at the front and an Ohlins proprietary rear shock, fully adjustable at the back take care of the suspension duties. Braking department gets Purpose built ISR dual six 30mm piston Monobloc radial mount calipers with ISR floating dampened discs at the front and Dual ISR four piston Monobloc radial mount caliper with ISR semi-floating disc at the rear.
Slick Michelin Power RS tires do rubber patch contact on to the road. Instrument and lighting cluster is very futuristic and gets the voguish flair to the bike. Arch mobile phone instrumentation display and proprietary LED headlight design is custom tailored fit to the bike. In addition, the fork features a carbon fiber airfoil with the brand’s name emblazoned down the side.
Faux air-scoops give this the machine the character of a stealth fighter. Accentuating this masterpiece are red accents on the bike making this metal-dark grey-black piece of art one of the best looking power-cruiser in the business.
Other information on specifications is sparse. But we know that Arch will be making a limited run of just 23 units of such a special production motorcycle that feels like a custom built motorcycle already.
This makes the 160 hp Ducati Diavel feel like a puny little thing.
And that ladies and gents is what making a statement is all about.
Reference
Ducati Diavel S
