The Intersection of Formula 1 and Motorcycles
It's not often that the worlds of Formula 1 and motorcycles collide, but when they do, it sparks conversations. This time, the focus is on Charles Leclerc from Ferrari. The 27-year-old driver from Monaco has gained a reputation for being one of the most determined drivers in the sport.
Since his debut with Sauber in 2018 and subsequent move to Ferrari in 2019, Leclerc has become a fan favorite due to his aggressive driving style and his ability to push his car to its limits.
Like many F1 drivers, Leclerc shares a passion for speed beyond just four wheels. Lewis Hamilton has been seen riding custom MV Agustas, while Fernando Alonso also enjoys two-wheeled machines. Even racing legends like Michael Schumacher have been known to ride bikes during their free time. It's no surprise - racing drivers are drawn to motorcycles for the same reasons as the rest of us: freedom, simplicity, and a direct connection to the road.
Enter the bike in question: a Husqvarna Vitpilen 701. On the surface, it may seem like an unconventional choice for an F1 star. One might expect someone like Leclerc to ride a high-powered liter-class superbike with 200 horsepower, such as a Ducati Panigale V4. However, the Vitpilen offers a different kind of appeal. It's lightweight, nimble, and focuses more on the riding experience than sheer performance numbers. It serves as a reminder that speed is not just about top speeds, but also about passion and personality.
Leclerc's Vitpilen has been customized by French shop Bad Winners into the "Apex 2.0." The bike features a carbon fiber body, Dymag carbon wheels, and various performance upgrades to enhance its power-to-weight ratio. The design includes a TFT dash, Renthal clip-ons, and a custom leather seat, reflecting Leclerc's F1 background of precision and efficiency.
This particular bike holds significance as the first Apex 2.0 built by Bad Winners, specifically for Leclerc. Its unique history adds to its collectible value. Recently serviced and updated with new carbon parts, the bike remains in pristine condition since leaving the workshop in Paris in 2020.
For those curious about its value, the bike was recently sold through a private auction on Collecting Cars for approximately 17,000 euros (around $18,300). This serves as a reminder that keeping an eye on motorcycle auctions can lead to unique finds like this one, potentially ending up in your own collection if you're willing to invest.