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Sportbikes

2018Lightning LS-218

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The Lightning LS-218 is a fully electric sportbike designed for performance-minded riders seeking zero-emission thrills. Its lightweight construction, advanced suspension components, and powerful motor deliver genuine track-day capability with up to 170 miles of range. Known for proving electric motorcycles can match traditional sportbikes in agility and acceleration, the LS-218 appeals to tech-forward enthusiasts.

Capacity
Not on record
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Engine
Not on record
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Gearbox
Not on record
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Dry weight
224.5 kg
Seat height
813 mm
Power
200.0 HP (146.0 kW) @ 10500 RPM
⇄ Compare with another bike + Add to garage All model years

What’s new for the 2018 Lightning LS-218

vs the 2017
Spec20172018
Rear brakes Single disc. Brembo Single disc. Brembo radial calipers
Other years 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 92Agility 84Comfort 45Off-road 5Touring 25Road manners 88
Off-road & trail5%
Cornering92%
City riding40%
Daily riding35%
Touring25%
Two-up20%
Track95%
Best for
Built primarily as a track-focused electric superbike that also holds the record for being one of the fastest production electric motorcycles ever made.
Built for
A silent, brutally fast rocket that delivers explosive acceleration with zero drama from gear shifts, rewarding precise throttle control.
Not ideal for
This is not the right bike for new riders, commuters wanting long range, or anyone seeking a relaxed, upright touring companion.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 813mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 Lightning LS-218, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine
Power
200.0 HP (146.0 kW) @ 10500 RPM
Torque
227.8 Nm (23.2 kgf-m)
Power/weight ratio
0.8909 HP/kg (dry)
Cooling system
Liquid
Starting
Electric
Capacity:
Not on record - add it
Transmission
Final drive
Chain
Performance
Top speed
350.8 km/h (218.0 mph)
0-60 mph
2.00 seconds
Dimensions & weight
Seat height
813 mm
Dry weight
224.5 kg
Chassis & suspension
Front suspension
RaceTech fork, optionally Öhlins FGRT inverted fork.
Rear suspension
Öhlins TTX36 Shock and linkage system
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Double disc. Brembo radial-mount forged 4-piston calipers
Front brakes diameter
320 mm
Rear brakes
Single disc. Brembo radial calipers
Rear brakes diameter
320 mm
Front tyre
120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre
190/55-ZR17
Other
Color options
Blue/white
Comments
Various 380V 12-20 kWh battery packs with a range up to 170 miles. 30 mins charging on a DC fast charger. Regenerative braking.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 201720182019202120222024
Dry weight 225 kg 225 kg 225 kg 225 kg 225 kg 225 kg
Seat height 813 mm 813 mm 813 mm 813 mm 813 mm 813 mm

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2018 Lightning LS-218 is a powerful and high-performance electric superbike that has set a new standard in the motorcycle industry. With a top speed of 218 mph and a range of 100 miles on a single charge, this bike is a game-changer for electric motorcycles. Its sleek and futuristic design, combined with its impressive speed and performance, make it a top choice for motorcycle enthusiasts looking for an eco-friendly and powerful ride.

The Lightning LS-218 has received rave reviews from critics and riders alike for its remarkable acceleration and handling. Its innovative electric motor delivers instant torque, giving riders a thrilling and exhilarating experience on the road. The bike's advanced technology and high-quality components make it a top contender in the electric motorcycle market. Overall, the 2018 Lightning LS-218 is a must-have for motorcycle enthusiasts who want a high-performance and eco-friendly ride.

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Common questions

What engine power does the Lightning LS-218 have?

The 2018 Lightning LS-218 has a Power of 200.0 HP (146.0 kW) @ 10500 RPM.

What is the torque of the Lightning LS-218?

The 2018 Lightning LS-218 has a Torque of 227.8 Nm (23.2 kgf-m or 168.0 ft.lbs).

How much does the Lightning LS-218 weigh?

The 2018 Lightning LS-218 has a Dry weight of 224.5 kg (494.9 pounds).

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