FTN Streetdog80 a sell-out before its release 

After a string of electric motorcycle manufacturer failures overseas last year, it’s a relief to find that Kiwi firm FTN Motion seems to be in fine fettle.

Following the success of its Streetdog50 release, which you can ride on a car licence, it has now built a run of 50 Streetdog 80s. And they’re all sold out ahead of its February launch.

The Streetdog80 is a snappier version of the 50, capable of speeds up to 80kph. Power rises dramatically from 5kW to 7kW, an increase of 40 per cent. But you’ll need a motorcycle licence to ride this pooch.

The SD80 also has an ‘estimated range’ of 140km when carrying a second battery on board. ‘Estimated’ is used presumably because it depends on how it is ridden. The stated range will be for urban km. It will do 60-80km using a single battery. And it’s practical, offering 30L of storage for when you need to go to the gym, beach, supermarket or wherever.

There are now almost 200 StreetDogs plying urban roads in New Zealand. With the success of the SD50, FTN Motion moved from Wellington to new premises in Hamilton. It is preparing for an Australian production run in April. 

Founder Kendall Bristow says all 50 bikes available in the first SD80 production run are spoken for, new owners securing their bike with a $100 deposit. The cost of the new Streetdog 80 is $14,500 and that includes a charge cable. A second battery, which fits inside the 30L hold, adds $2750. A charger costs $250.

Bristow says “With traffic congestion and parking getting worse, more people are looking for fast, fun, and environmentally friendly ways to travel. It’s exciting to see how many people are embracing the Streetdog as a solution.”

The SD50 has been in production since 2021 and is capable of speeds of up to 50kph. The bikes have been lauded for their rakish design and urban commuting practicality. 

Customers who reserved a Streetdog80 could personalise their bike’s colours and accessories. The configurations have been exclusively revealed to reservation holders; the public is set to get its first look at the official launch event in February.

“We’re really pleased to be launching a new model as the company grows and prepares to expand internationally,” Bristow added.

Those who missed out on the first SD80 run can visit www.ftnmotion.com to reserve one for delivery in Q2. The SD50 is also still on sale for $12,000.

For those interested, you can arrange a test ride in Auckland at a pop-up store in Britomart. The team will be there from 11-14th of February.

FTN, by the by, stands for F*** The Norm.