AKIRA BIKE
AKIRA — a work by Katsuhiro Otomo — has won fame worldwide. The iconic blazing-red motorcycle ridden by the hero, Kaneda, symbolizes the world of AKIRA and attracts fans who dream of someday riding such a bike. Two enthusiasts who brought the fantasy Akira Bike to reality are Mr. Tejima, its owner, and Mr. Ushijima, the president of the BSU motorcycle shop. The fabulous bike they produced was officially approved by Mr. Otomo and appeared in the Katsuhiro Otomo Genga Exhibition, where it drew throngs of admirers.
For over a decade, Mr. Tejima tried without success to find someone who could reproduce the Akira Bike. Eventually, he encountered Mr. Ushijima. BSU specializes in bike repairs following serious accidents — services that can’t be handled by regular bike shops. Thanks to BSU’s sophisticated skills and a year-long period of trial and error, this dream machine was completed at last. The Akira Bike is also used by a volunteer organization called Bokura Company that supports children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders.
The motorcycle has a 250cc displacement, yet its driving sound is relatively quiet. Since the Akira Bike was originally imagined as electricity-powered, the motorcycle utilizes many silencing devices. Moreover, its distinctive design is quite different from regular motorcycles due to an extremely low eye level through low saddle positioning, futuristic styling, and impressive driving system, which faithfully reproduce significant features of its original conception.
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