Autos

Alta Motors brings electricity to motocross

Is this the Tesla of motorcycles?
VIDEO0:4900:49
Is this the Tesla of motorcycles?

Alta Motors is bringing quiet electricity to the loud, gas-guzzling world of motocross.

The Silicon Valley start-up builds entirely electric-powered motorcycles that founders say are faster and easier to ride than gas equivalents.

Alta's electric racing bike, the "Redshift MX," beat gas-powered motorcycles in its first two races, the company said.

The bike can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.3 seconds, with a two-hour battery life and four-hour charging time. The bike hits speeds of up to 80 miles per hour, and is expected to sell for just under $15,000.

Alta Motors Redshift MX
Source: Alta Motors
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Alta Motors' slightly heavier, street bike the "Redshift SM" sells for about $500 more. It's nearly identical to the MX, besides street-friendly tires, turn signals, and the ability to go 15 mph faster. The bike can travel 50 miles on a full four-hour charge.

Both bikes are on a 13-week back-order, according to the company's site, and are only being sold within the United States.

Alta Motors Redshift SM
Qin Chen | CNBC