My introduction to the world of motorcycling was through a small 50 cc moped that could only reach a meager 25 mph. However, for the next generation, their gateway into motorcycling is more likely to be small electric bikes that blur the lines between bicycles and motorcycles. One such e-bike is the Volcon Brat.
The Volcon Brat is a compact e-bike equipped with a 750 W pedal-assist hub motor, 20″ wheels, and full suspension. It offers four different rider modes and is capable of reaching a top speed of 28 mph, with a range of up to 70 miles. Additionally, it caters to both pedal and throttle control, making it accessible even to unlicensed riders.
While the Brat is already appealing in its stock form, Droog Moto, a US-based custom bike company, has collaborated with Volcon to create a kit that enhances the bike’s aesthetics and performance. Droog Moto primarily specializes in customizing full-size motorcycles, but they saw the opportunity to venture into something new and exciting with the Brat.
Max and Erica Droog, the husband and wife team behind Droog Moto, didn’t set out to create a bike that would replace or compete against motorcycles. Instead, their goal was to provide a fun and easy-to-ride form of transportation that captures the look and feel of a motorcycle. The Brat eliminates the need for a license, registration, or insurance, offering a fresh experience to enjoy two-wheeled transportation without the extra requirements.
Known for their signature brutal and blacked-out style, Max and Erica took some time to ride the Brat and brainstorm how to transform it into a plucky e-bike that aligns with their existing portfolio. However, before focusing on the bike’s aesthetics, they prioritized chassis upgrades.
The Brat is designed as a dual-sport e-bike, but Droog wanted to ensure it would provide proper fun on any surface. They retained the OEM wheels but replaced the tires with a more grippy set of Allscape tires from Happy Ebikes. These 20×4″ tires resemble the popular Pirelli and Heidenau tires found on dual-sport bikes, with thicker sidewalls for better puncture resistance. Magura supplied a new set of MT7E disc brakes, featuring a built-in switch to activate the taillight and cut power to the motor during braking.
To enhance suspension performance, DNM Suspension provided custom forks and a rear shock with increased travel and adjustability at both ends.
Given the Brat’s simplistic layout and minimal styling, Droog had plenty of space for customization. They incorporated their characteristic blocky flat track-style headlight nacelle, created through 3D printing using carbon fiber nylon material. The headlight features LED strips with a dynamic startup animation that acts as daytime running lights. Additional lighting is provided by a compact LED from Diode Dynamics placed behind the front forks.
Droog crafted a faux fuel tank using a combination of hand-shaped aluminum and 3D-printed components, and replaced the subframe’s end with another 3D-printed part. The back of the bike incorporates an embedded LED light, while a wider suede seat replaces the stock version.
To maintain the muscular aesthetic, Droog added lightweight 3D-printed wheel inserts, which can be easily removed if a more traditional spoke look is desired. The Brat now features new tapered handlebars and a CNC-cut aluminum ‘molle’ plate under the seat, providing a mounting point for accessories and luggage.
Droog Moto offers the customized Volcon Brat as a made-to-order custom, but they also plan to produce a kit for existing Brat owners. This exciting e-bike is not only appealing to motorcycle enthusiasts but also offers a thrilling experience for younger riders. The Brat holds the potential to become a familiar sight as it roams the suburbs, powered by the joy and thrill of the next generation.