Few motorcycles from the silver screen have captured the imagination quite like the Kaneda Bike. Alongside iconic machines such as Captain America’s Harley-Davidson from Easy Rider, the Terminator 2 Fat Boy, Marlon Brando’s Triumph from The Wild One, Audrey Hepburn’s Vespa in Roman Holiday, and Tom Cruise’s Kawasaki Ninja in Top Gun, the Kaneda Bike holds a unique, almost mythical status. This is largely because, until recently, Shotaro Kaneda’s futuristic ride from the anime masterpiece Akira existed only in animation. Now, that’s changing thanks to Bel&Bel, a Barcelona-based art studio that specializes in transportation-themed creations. They are bringing the dream of owning a Kaneda Bike closer to reality by producing meticulously crafted, rideable replicas.
The unpainted Kaneda Bike replica from Bel&Bel, prepared for 1980s-style decals inspired by the Akira movie.
For those unfamiliar, the Kaneda Bike is the futuristic, red, pill-shaped motorcycle ridden by Shotaro Kaneda, the leader of a teenage biker gang in Katsuhiro Otomo’s seminal 1988 anime film, Akira. Set in the dystopian metropolis of Neo-Tokyo in 2019, the film depicts Kaneda and his crew clashing with rival gangs and encountering supernatural forces. Akira is widely credited with popularizing anime in the West, alongside Speed Racer, introducing a generation to the artistry and storytelling potential of Japanese animation. It’s important to note that Akira is an adult animated film, known for its intense themes and striking visuals, and not intended for children. The Kaneda Bike itself is a symbol of this intensity and futuristic vision, instantly recognizable to anime and motorcycle enthusiasts alike.
The allure of the Kaneda Bike has persisted long after Akira‘s release. Fans have yearned to see this animated marvel brought into the real world, mirroring the desire to materialize other iconic fictional vehicles. Over the years, dedicated enthusiasts have undertaken ambitious custom builds, attempting to recreate the Kaneda Bike. Some of these projects have been incredibly elaborate, costing upwards of $100,000 and taking years to complete, demonstrating the deep passion this fictional motorcycle inspires. The Kaneda Bike has become the “Batmobile of motorcycles” for many, a dream machine that embodies futuristic design and rebellious spirit.
A detailed Kaneda Bike replica by Bel&Bel, accurately replicating the stickers and shape from the original Akira animation.
Now, Bel&Bel is making this dream more accessible. They are offering a limited series of Kaneda Bike replicas built to order for under $30,000 USD. Having already constructed two custom Kaneda Bikes, Bel&Bel is moving towards limited production of all-electric versions. The initial custom builds incorporated a 250cc Yamaha gasoline engine for the rear wheel and an electric motor for the front, a hybrid approach to power.
The production Kaneda Bikes will be fully electric, utilizing a 5,000 Watt rear-wheel motor powered by a carbon belt drive. While a 5,000 Watt motor translates to approximately seven horsepower, the focus is on torque, reportedly delivering a substantial 383 pound-feet at the rear wheel. This should provide brisk acceleration and a top speed exceeding 90 mph, suitable for urban environments and potentially some highway use. The inclusion of a reverse gear is a practical addition, given the bike’s extended wheelbase which would otherwise make maneuvering in reverse challenging. Details regarding battery specifications and range are still forthcoming.
Futuristic LED rings encircling the wheels of the Kaneda Bike replica, maintaining the iconic aesthetic from the Akira anime.
Videos and images shared by Bel&Bel on their Instagram page highlight the remarkable fidelity of these replicas to the animated Kaneda Bike. Features like the self-lowering frame, LED-ringed wheels, and an instrument panel that echoes the anime design demonstrate a commitment to authentic replication.
While classified as an electric scooter due to its performance characteristics, the primary appeal of the Kaneda Bike lies in its iconic design and cultural significance rather than outright speed or long-distance touring capability. It’s a statement piece, a rolling work of art that embodies the spirit of Akira. However, with rapid advancements in battery and electric motor technology, future iterations could potentially see performance enhancements.
The rear profile of the Kaneda Bike replica, showcasing the articulated rear wheel design as seen in Akira.
Bel&Bel’s venture into Kaneda Bike production is an extension of their established work in creating motorized art. While the production numbers are yet to be announced, serious inquiries and a $5,000 deposit are recommended for those seeking to own a piece of anime and motorcycle history. The Kaneda Bike is no longer confined to the screen; it’s ready to ride.
