A Vintage Icon Reborn for the Electric Era

The E-71 project reimagines a classic BMW R-71 motorcycle frame as a fully electric concept bike—blending the timeless aesthetic of 1930s engineering with modern-day electrification and performance. Spearheaded by Revolt Motorbikes, this endeavor first targets the American market to validate the electrified BMW R-71 powertrain, which will then be deployed in African Boda-Boda fleets—providing a cleaner, modern alternative to the continent’s rideshare motorcycle industry. Louder Group leveraged its end-to-end product development expertise—including industrial design, mechanical and electrical engineering, and creative content—to deliver a production-ready vehicle that bridges heritage and innovation.

The Challenge

Transforming an iconic vintage motorcycle frame into an electric ride posed a unique challenge:

Preserving Authenticity – The BMW R-71 is cherished for its vintage appeal, so every modernization had to respect and retain its original design ethos.
Modern Integration – Fitting a high-capacity battery system and electric drive unit without compromising the frame’s structural integrity or visual charm was a delicate undertaking.
Performance & Safety – Upgrading to electric propulsion demanded modern safety measures, advanced electronic controls, and efficient cooling—all packaged neatly within a classic chassis.

Our Approach

Holistic Design
- Began with extensive research into the R-71’s historical aesthetics, ensuring key styling elements were retained.
- Created multiple design mockups to visualize how electric components would fit without overwhelming the bike’s classic lines.
Mechanical & Electrical Engineering
- Developed a custom battery enclosure to seamlessly integrate with the R-71 frame’s geometry.
- Used 3D modeling and finite element analysis (FEA) to verify structural modifications, ensuring optimal weight distribution and a comfortable ride.
- Incorporated advanced wiring harnesses and onboard electronics, with minimal disruption to the original design.
Systems Integration & Prototyping
- Conducted rigorous bench tests of the electric drivetrain before installation to confirm safety and performance metrics.
- Fabricated bespoke parts for mounting and cooling components—allowing new and old technologies to coexist harmoniously.
- Built a functional prototype for real-world testing and validation, focusing on ride quality, range, and user experience.
Creative Content & Storytelling
- Documented the conversion process with high-quality photography and videography to illustrate key milestones and celebrate craftsmanship.
- Developed a branding narrative around “Vintage Heritage Meets Electric Future,” positioning E-71 as a statement piece in modern mobility.

Services

Brand Strategy & Design
Audit & Analysis
DFMEA/DFx
CGI & Digital Production
Product Design & Engineering
Prototype Fabrication
Simulation, Testing, Validation
Sourcing & Procurement
Supply Chain
UI/UX

Scaling to Africa

After proving the concept in the United States, Revolt Motorbikes aims to take the E-71’s electrification blueprint to the African market—specifically targeting Kenya and Ghana’s Boda-Boda transportation industry. Boda-Bodas are widely-used motorcycle taxis that transport people and goods from ‘border to border’. Often powered by old Chinese 150cc engines, these bikes are loud, polluting, and cause congestion issues due to their sheer numbers.

Leveraging CJ-750 Frames
Revolt Motorbikes plans to purchase surplus Chiang Jiang CJ-750 frames from the Chinese military. The CJ-750 is a licensed copy of the BMW R-71 from the 1930s and has been the go-to bike for the Chinese military until 2022. Thousands of functioning chassis are available at reasonable prices, many with sidecars capable of carrying multiple passengers or substantial cargo.
Local Assembly & Conversion
By acquiring frames in China and converting them with an electric drivetrain at Revolt’s facility in Nairobi, the company aims to offer an eco-friendly alternative to the traditional Boda-Boda. With minimal emissions, less noise, and modern reliability, these electrified CJ-750s could become the primary green mobility solution in the region.
Socio-Economic Impact
By streamlining the supply chain—sourcing frames from China and performing final assembly in Africa—Revolt Motorbikes will create local jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce environmental impact in high-traffic, urban areas. Revolt Motorbikes’ rideshare app will allow for drivers to offer an economically viable, clean, and friendly transportation solution.

End Result

Timeless Aesthetic – The distinctive curves and heritage styling of the BMW R-71 remain intact, while the electric drive system brings it firmly into the 21st century.
Reliable Performance – Optimized for torque and handling, the E-71 concept demonstrates how electric power can heighten the riding experience—achieving swift acceleration and smooth power delivery. The E-71 can achieve highway speeds of 75mph for a range of 100mi.
Design & Engineering Synergy – From mechanical reinforcements to electrical system optimization, the project showcases Louder Group’s comprehensive skill set in integrating cutting-edge technology within a vintage framework.
Global Vision – The success of the E-71 in the U.S. paves the way for large-scale deployment in Africa, offering a viable, eco-friendly alternative to existing Boda-Boda fleets.

“By maintaining the essence of a legendary motorcycle and pairing it with a clean, powerful electric drivetrain, we’ve sparked a conversation about the future of mobility—one where classic styling and innovative engineering ride together.”
— Maro Radenovic, Studio Chief, Louder Group