Beauty doesn’t even begin to justify the sleek and powerful design of the all-electric Deus Ex Machina and Zero Motorcycles collaboration. And beyond the partnership, this fully customized electric moto was a first for Deus and the last build from the custom fabricator, Michael “Woolie” Woolaway.
The bike, by the hands of Deus’ Woolie, was built from the ground up the way he has been doing it for decades. There was no 3D cad or computers to help with design and aerodynamics, it was all done by hand and shaving down clay molds. And unlike any build before, Woolie did not have to work around a gas tank.
The overall design was inspired by the racers Woolie grew up around, with some slight mods to give a hint of an up-to-date presentation. The lack of an engine takes a big chunk of the strain off the carbon fiber core mat honeycomb framework and a custom thumb brake with no clutch or gears makes this moto a very hands-on experience.
This cycle is a zero to hero type bike with instant power delivered to the wheels the moment the grip is ripped. The wings are a stolen visual from Porsche racing, though help to stabilize the bike surprisingly well at speed. The seat is custom stitched, the windshield is hand blown glass, and the paint job is meant to highlight the carbon fiber detailing. And rounding out the bike, all the comments are race-spec and put this bike into motion while it’s still standing still.
The Deus Ex Machina collab with Zero Motorcycles is a stand-alone bike that will never be replicated on the road or by design. It’s simultaneously a first and a last of its kind, and a ride that can only be experienced. And with a top speed of 124 mph, this Deus & Zero Moto is a head-turner refusing to be tamed.