(January 22, 2024) Electric Light Mobility company Ryvid has been on a mission to produce more efficient, lightweight, eco-friendly vehicles since its inception in 2021. After creating a prototype of its first product — the Anthem electric motorcycle — in June 2022, Ryvid delivered the first production version of its affordable, highway-capable electric commuter motorcycle in September 2023 and is now in higher rate production at its new factory facility in San Bernardino, Calif.

As part of the master plan devised by company founder and automotive designer Dong Tran, 2024 will see Ryvid complete its factory facility and conduct a ribbon-cutting ceremony in San Bernardino. Not only will this allow the company to continue production of its Anthem model to meet the increased demand, but will also provide capacity for new models to join the roster.

The advantage of an American-based production team and manufacturing is that it rejects traditional, complex practices in favor of an extremely flexible, responsive and adaptable process with a simplified supply chain. It will mean that issues, requests and suggestions can be funneled to the engineers and into the assembly area, giving owners direct access to product development.

“Opening our own factory facility has allowed us to streamline the manufacturing process further, speeding up what is already a rapid production process, allowing Ryvid to quickly pivot to new models and focus on new market segments. While growth is important for any business model, we’re going to prioritize the pillars of our company, which are accessibility, innovation, sustainability and community,” Tran explained.

The Anthem is a lightweight electric motorcycle designed for commuters and adventure-seekers alike. In common with existing two-wheeled EVs, the aim is to provide sustainable personal transportation as an alternative to heavy, thirsty automobiles, helping to solve a raft of socio-economic issues. Ryvid has sought to keep its concept affordable, doing almost everything in-house and innovating thoughtful solutions to control costs without resorting to overseas production.

Among the key differentiators is a stainless steel folded sheet metal frame, chosen for strength and constructed without any welding, simplifying the assembly process without passing along labor costs to the rider. The ingenuous modular construction of the Anthem focuses on products that are exactly what they need to be; not more, not less.

They serve a specific purpose and have allowed the designers to reduce weight and complexity. As part of this process, the team ensured all its major components were located low to the ground, creating a low center of gravity and nimble handling.

With the Ryvid Anthem tipping the scales at just 313 pounds, the 4.3 kWh lithium-ion battery and its integrated 3.3 kW charger sits under the frame and is removable to provide flexible charging options. It powers a 72V air-cooled brushless DC motor, which is mounted behind the battery in the aluminum swingarm and delivers 53 ft-lb of torque. Range is stated as 75 miles using the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule.

Capable of speeds in excess of 75 mph for highway use, the Anthem requires a motorcycle license but the power delivery and riding position will be familiar to e-bike riders, especially in the Eco riding mode. Sport mode provides a noticeable boost in performance. Anthem uses motorcycle brake lever positions and a twist throttle but the direct drive motor meant a clutch lever was unnecessary.