BigRep reveals 'nera', the world’s first fully 3D-printed electric motorcycle

BigRep has revealed the world’s first 3D-printed electric motorcycle with groundbreaking features like airless tires, embedded electronics, and forkless steering. developed by marco mattia cristofori and maximilian sedlak, part of the german manufacturer’s innovation lab and consultancy NOWlab, nera features fully 3D-printed parts such as tires, rims, frame, fork, and seat, excluding only electrical components.

all images courtesy of NOWlab / BigRep GmbH

‘the nera combines several innovations developed by NOWlab, such as the airless tire, functional integration and embedded sensor technology,’ explains daniel büning, co-founder and managing director of the lab. ‘this bike and our other prototypes push the limits of engineering creativity and will reshape am technology as we know it.’ for now, the motorcycle has only been launched in the form of a prototype as part of BigRep’s research into the potential of 3D printing.

in building nera, the engineers didn’t simply adapt existing motorcycle designs, but instead envisioned a bike for large-format FFF technology. among the many innovations featured in nera are the airless tires with customized tread; a lightweight rhomboid wheel rim, as well as flexible bumpers (instead of suspension) and the electric engine, which is fitted in a customizable case.

project info:

name: nera e-motorcycle

lead design: marco mattia cristofori with maximilian sedlak

concept and direction: daniel büning, co-founder and managing director of NOWlab

dimensions: 190cm x 90cm x 55cm

weight: approximately 60 kg (including electric motor, battery, and all components)

total number of 3D-printed parts: 15

biggest single 3D-printed part: 120cm x 45cm x 20cm