SKF’s Innovative Solutions Propel Prototype Bike to Record-Breaking Fuel Efficiency

In a remarkable feat of engineering and design, SKF the world’s largest bearing manufacturer, has played a pivotal role in catapulting a prototype motorcycle into the record books for covering an astounding 2,600 miles (4,183.8 km) on a single tank of fuel. This achievement not only showcases cutting-edge innovation but highlights the importance of improving sustainability design for the motorcycle parts and equipment industry.

The motorcycle, part of the AC50 project by Acerbis, an Italian sporting goods manufacturing company, embarked on a journey from Albino in northern Italy to the picturesque North Cape in Norway without the need for a single refuel. The secret to this extraordinary accomplishment lies in a series of groundbreaking modifications, with SKF lending its expertise to enhance the bike’s wheel travel efficiency with new bespoke bearings.

SKF’s innovative approach focused on minimising friction without compromising reliability, a critical factor in achieving the outstanding fuel efficiency witnessed in the record-setting journey. The specially crafted seals not only reduced friction but also provided enhanced protection.

In June 2023, a team of riders guided the prototype bike through a meticulously planned route, averaging an impressive speed of 44mph (70 kph). Navigating through Austria, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Finland, the team clinched the world record upon reaching North Cape on June 15.

Nicolas Berruet, Business Development Manager at SKF, emphasised the alignment of the AC50 project with SKF’s sustainability strategy, stating, “When Acerbis described the AC50 project, we understood that behind this world record attempt was a sustainability challenge.”

SKF’s commitment to providing innovative solutions that enhance industries’ competitiveness and sustainability shines through in projects like AC50. By focusing on creating products that are lighter, more efficient, longer-lasting, and repairable, SKF continues to assist customers in improving the performance of their rotating equipment while simultaneously reducing environmental impact.

Guido Acerbis, CEO of Acerbis, expressed his childhood dream turning into reality, stating, “As a child, I dreamed of entering the Guinness World Records book. Today, the dream has become a reality.”

Interex is an official distributor of SKF bearings and rotating wheel technology for many automotive sectors, including high precision motorsport bearings for racing applications and industrial and mining equipment.