Aussies to soon ride their own FTN Motion Streetdogs

FTN Motion, the Kiwi firm handcrafting electric motorbikes in Hamilton, is now producing its first Streetdog run for Australia. Over 50 build slots are already reserved by Australian riders looking for reduced emissions and a fun commute.

The idea for Streetdog came after founder Luke Sinclair rode motorcycles across Southeast Asia, where they’re the primary means of transport for many. 

Back in New Zealand, he and co-founder Kendall Bristow set out to recreate that feeling of freedom and fun in an electric format. The result is a café racer-inspired commuter bike that’s quiet, soulful, and eye-catching. It features removable batteries, 30L of integrated storage, and a retro-inspired riding experience.

The firm has sold over 200 Streetdogs in New Zealand to date. For many it has replaced their car and improved the owners’ carbon footprint.

FTN Motion is treading a different path from most in the e-mobility sector, with a strong design ethos and small-batch production runs. The firm believes that the journey between A and B can be the best part of someone’s day. Soon the prospective Australian owners will discover that for themselves.

Here, the Streetdog 50 kicks off at $10,990. It can manage 80-100km to a charge, and the removable battery takes 5.5 hours to rezip from a three-pin socket. You can ride this on a car licence.

The faster Streetdog 80 gets up to 80km/h (hence the name). It has 60-80km of range on one battery, up to 140km on two (there’s room for a second battery). Price starts at $12,990 and you need a motorcycle licence for this one.