At the 2026 edition of Milan Design Week, Brabus and Dab Motors unveil a new family of electric urban motorcycles that merges high-performance engineering with a strong, design-led identity. The lineup consists of three models—Dab 1a Brabus, Brabus Urban E, and Brabus Urban E First Edition—built on a shared technical platform but differentiated by performance, design execution, and exclusivity.
A shared electric architecture focused on real-world usability
All three motorcycles are based on a 72-volt lithium-ion battery system, paired with a carbon belt final drive. This configuration reflects a clear focus on urban usability: reduced maintenance, lower noise, and smoother power delivery compared to traditional chain-driven setups.
Range is rated at up to 150 kilometers, while top speed reaches 120 km/h—figures that position the bikes squarely in the premium urban mobility segment.
Dab 1a Brabus: entry point with strong character
The Dab 1a Brabus serves as the entry-level model, though its specifications already place it well above typical urban EV motorcycles. Its electric motor delivers 23 kW (31 hp) and 395 Nm of torque, ensuring immediate throttle response in both city traffic and open-road scenarios.
Visually, the bike adopts a full-black aesthetic enriched by exposed carbon fiber components, including side intakes, motor covers, and front fender. Details such as Alcantara upholstery with contrast stitching and subtle grey pinstripes reinforce the premium positioning.
Charging designed for real-world use:
- 50% to 100% in approximately 90 minutes (standard 220V outlet)
- 20% to 100% in about 3 hours
- Full charge in roughly 3.5 to 4 hours
Brabus Urban E: more power, deeper engineering
The Brabus Urban E represents a significant step forward in both performance and technical sophistication. Output increases to 27 kW (37 hp) and 475 Nm of torque—around a 20% gain over the entry model.
This improvement is driven by a dedicated motor mapping and a bespoke inverter designed to increase current flow, resulting in sharper and more sustained power delivery. Additional cooling solutions, including carbon air intakes, enhance thermal stability under heavy load.
Design evolution and monocoque-inspired structure
Beyond performance, the Urban E introduces a more radical design language. The bodywork adopts a monocoque-style approach, where the tank and seat form a unified volume. Gloss black surfaces, exposed carbon fiber, and red accents define the visual identity.
- Vertical daytime running lights integrated into the body
- Front lens projector framed by carbon elements
- Rear translucent LED unit positioned under the seat
Carbon wheel covers and a rear-mounted license plate further emphasize the bike’s unconventional architecture.
Advanced user interface and riding modes
The Urban E integrates a more sophisticated electronic interface. It features keyless startup via PIN code and a 2.8-inch LCD display providing essential data such as speed, battery status, and system temperature.
- Eco: limited to 60 km/h, optimized for efficiency
- Street: balanced for everyday riding
- Sport: full performance calibration
- Nitrous Boost: temporary overboost for up to 10 seconds
- Reverse: low-speed maneuvering via electronic phase inversion
Chassis, brakes, and components
To match the increased performance, the chassis setup is fully upgraded. The Urban E features:
- 46 mm fully adjustable upside-down front fork (100 mm travel)
- Custom CNC rear shock absorber, also fully adjustable
- Brembo braking system with a 320 mm front disc and radial four-piston caliper
- Dual-channel ABS
The setup is complemented by 17-inch wheels with 120/70 front and 150/60 rear tires, balancing visual presence with urban practicality.
Materials and finishes: signature Brabus details
The Brabus Masterpiece seat stands out with high-quality leather and a distinctive quilted “Shell” pattern. For a more understated look, the Urban E is also available in a Superblack variant, featuring a fully blacked-out finish.
First Edition: limited production, collector appeal
The Brabus Urban E First Edition builds on the standard model with a focus on exclusivity. Mechanically identical, it differentiates itself through colorways and limited production.
Four finishes—Peetch, Desert Sand, Superviolet, and Fusion Red—are offered, each limited to just 10 units, for a total production run of 40 motorcycles. Certain versions, such as Superviolet, incorporate additional exposed carbon elements, while the seat upholstery is color-matched to each variant.
