Stark take it to the forests (via the street) as the all-new road-legal VARG EX is announced
By Team TMX on 10th Dec 24
It’s hard to comprehend that it’s three years since Stark Future initially introduced its groundbreaking battery-powered motocross machine, the VARG MX, to the masses. And now with a dependable path to market established, and the VARG MX frequently seen at tracks worldwide, the Spanish-based technology company/electric-motorcycle manufacturer is ready to launch its second model – the VARG EX.
At first glance, it looks like a VARG MX with handguards, lights, a side stand and an 18-inch rear wheel but it’s way more than that. The VARG EX offers 20 per cent more range than the MX model and riders can customise the bike’s performance on-the-fly using an updated handlebar control switch to suit ground conditions.
To ensure the VARG EX is ready for anything, a patented skid plate with impact-absorbing foam offers unparalleled durability. The chain guide on the EX model is 266 per cent stiffer than the MX version for unmatched durability. KYB suspension units – closed cartridge forks and triple-adjustable shocks – contribute to 300mm of travel at each end.
Adding to the quality of the overall offering are customisable wheels – including mousse, tube and tyre options – utilising CNC-machined 6082 T6 aluminium hubs, high-grade Italian steel spokes and the very best Japanese alloy rims around.
More customisation is available when ordering with titanium upgrades for footpegs, bolts, and shafts to reduce running weight. Owners can also upgrade their Brembo brakes and choose between a hand or foot-operated rear brake.
The toughest choice for prospective owners might be choosing between the 60hp Standard version or the 80hp Alpha model. The more powerful version adds an extra grand onto the £10,900 price tag but we’re sure there will be plenty of people lining up to have their arms ripped out of their sockets.
One of the more impressive features is the revolutionary military grade Stark Arkenstone Android device that’s integrated into the bike and allows riders to navigate effectively with in-built GPS, record routes that are then sharable with the community as well as do more mundane things like adjusting power output, engine braking and the regeneration settings.
At the heart of the VARG EX sits a 7.2 kWh honeycomb magnesium battery that not only powers the Stark motor but serves as a structural component that is not only lightweight but also enhances the bike’s centre of gravity. We’ve already mentioned a 20 per cent greater range but this battery can also be fully recharged within two hours using the included charging stand.
Perhaps least interesting – but still important – to hardcore off-roaders is road legality. The VARG EX is fully road-legal and Stark claims it can be ridden on an A1 licence but you might want to double-check the ins and outs of that before hitting the streets. From a technical point of view, the road-ready parts are the patent-pending flexible indicators that are crafted from durable optical silicone, a 4,000-lumen headlamp and a sleek brake lamp/numberplate holder. There’s also a horn, that’s operated by a button on the redesigned map switch that is made of aluminium for ultimate protection against crash damage and water ingress, tucked away somewhere.
Putting prospective owners' minds at peace is the two-year warranty.
“The VARG EX embodies everything we stand for at Stark Future,” said Anton Wass, CEO and Founder of Stark Future. “It’s designed to challenge and inspire the motorcycle industry to embrace sustainability by proving that electric technology can outperform gas in every aspect. With the VARG EX, we’re creating a bike that opens up new possibilities for riders, whether it’s conquering trails, commuting through the city, or simply riding anywhere, anytime.”
To learn more, and find your nearest dealer, have a nosey at www.starkfuture.com.
Tech Specs
Stark VARG EX
Motor: Electric PMAC (Permanent Magnet Alternating Current)
Gears: One-speed
Weight: 120kh
Max Power: 80hp
Battery Capacity: 7.2 kWh honeycomb magnesium
Range: 1-3 to 6 hours riding
Charging Time: 1-2 hours (240V outlet)
Front Brake: 260mm disc brake with Brembo hydraulic system
Rear Brake: 220mm disc brake with Brembo hydraulic system
Front Suspension: 300mm travel KYB (stroke and length reduction for enduro)
Rear Suspension: Linkage style, 300mm travel KYB shock
Frame: High-strength steel
Handlebar: Aluminium 7075 T6 Fatbar
Lighting: Powerful headlamp with patent pending integrated indicators with over moulded optical silicon. License plate holder moulded into rear fender with integrated indicators
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