Source: website & press release Ryvid | Photography by Donny Sosa and Bryan Kokkeler | Ryvid, the electric motorcycle manufacturer based in California, joined forces with custom bike builder Cristian Sosa of Sosa Metalworks in Las Vegas to produce a stunning interpretation of the Ryvid Anthem Electric Motorcycle. Known for his expertise in traditional metal fabrication, this was Cristian’s first attempt at designing a battery-powered motorcycle and the results are nothing short of breathtaking. As an added bonus, the Ryvid team was thrilled to discover that Cristian had kept the Anthem’s unique feature of an adjustable seat height, allowing riders of all sizes to comfortably ride the Anthem.
Cristian founded Sosa Metalworks with his brother Roberto in September 2012, specializing in custom metal fabrication. With a focus on creating one-of-a-kind metal pieces for various projects, Cristian is best known for his work on motorcycles and served as the lead metal fabricator on Discovery Channel’s Counting Cars series at Count’s Kustoms.
Building the Sosa Anthem
Cristian always envisions a futuristic version of classic machines when approaching a new project. This is what initially drew him to the Anthem; its modern design caught his eye. However, working on this project required a different approach. Instead of designing around the motor and transmission as he normally would, Cristian had to shift his focus towards the folded steel frame and detachable battery pack. “These elements dictated the use of sharper, straighter lines compared to the curved designs I often use,” Cristian explained. “Stepping outside my comfort zone was what made this challenge so much fun.”
Whereas steel is favored for classic motorbikes, Cristian prefers aluminum for modern machines. Not only does it fit the theme better but it’s lighter, helping overall performance. “Aluminum is harder to work than steel because it requires welding on both sides, but it’s softer and easier to shape,” Cristian said. “I also really like how hand-polished aluminum looks; I try to avoid mirror-polishing anything because I feel it loses its soul.”
“I did most of the work on the Ryvid project by hand but also incorporated my fast-cut CNC table into the design and build process, which is something I’ve never done before. Once every part was cut, I shaped them by hand on the power hammers,” Cristian continued. “Hammering requires a lot of time but it’s my favorite part of the process because I can get into my zone.”
Catch a glimpse of this custom Anthem at the inaugural Handbuilt Show in LA coming up July 5-7, 2024 at the DTLA Auto Storage facilities.
Thanks in part to the technology used, the entire build took about three weeks to complete, including the design process. “It can be difficult to find a design direction, but once it was decided I then practically built the bike twice; first as a design buck, which allowed the templates to be created, and then replicated it in aluminum,” Cristian said.
“Every now and then, I make something that comes out better than I imagined, and this is one of those times. I remember when we were assembling the bike and it caught me by surprise. I couldn’t believe how well it came together and how good it looked. It has a classic feel but the lines makes it appear very aggressive and slightly futuristic, which I wasn’t expecting.”
The Ryvid Anthem boasts a detachable 4.3kWh battery with an integrated charger that fuels its powerful 72V air-cooled, brushless DC motor. This vehicle also offers a height-adjustable seat, easily controlled with the flick of a switch to accommodate the rider’s preferences. Cristian paid close attention to incorporating this technology into the Anthem while still maintaining its functionality. The Sosa seat unit, expertly crafted, seamlessly blends into the central spine structure and can be lifted or lowered using the electronic system. Additionally, the side panels can be removed for quick access to the battery’s latch system, making it easy to remove and charge remotely if necessary.
Riding
“I’ve always loved motorcycles, which have always represented gas-powered engines to me. In fact, the powerplant often inspired my designs, but you don’t have that with an electric motorcycle. Instead, I learned from riding the Ryvid Anthem that you focus on the actual ride rather than the motor, which is something that’s really grown on me. It becomes a completely different ways of riding. And while I love getting on a bike that you have to kickstart and work for it, there’s something beautiful about jumping on a bike and just twisting the throttle,” Cristian explained.
“Some days I feel like driving and some I days I want to walk: two completely different modes that get you to the same place and put you in a completely different mindset. I feel what makes an electric motorcycle attractive is the simplicity and efficiency. There are times when I prefer that. The Anthem is also very light (313 lb), which really makes it fun to ride. And that was another reason I worked with aluminum to keep the weight as low as possible. I’ve been riding the bike almost daily since we got back from the One Motorcycle Show and it’s so much fun,” Cristian revealed.
Looking ahead
Following Cristian Sosa’s involvement in the Anthem project, Ryvid proudly revealed its second model at the 2024 One Motorcycle Show: the Outset. Built on a similar frame and featuring the same battery and motor as the Anthem, the Outset is a scrambler-style bike with taller suspension specifically designed for multiple terrains. Its seat has also been elongated to resemble that of a dirt bike, while wider handlebars and other modifications have been added to enhance its capabilities.
Cristian is already looking forward to his next electric project: “Let’s make something happen with the new Outset!” he laughed. “And I want to thank the Ryvid crew for the ride; it’s been fun.”
“I only build one bike at a time. It’s very rare for me to jump from project to project. I like to focus on one project until it’s completed. I normally work around the client’s budget, which allows me to gauge the amount of time I can spend on it. But I never cut corners. I’ve been doing this for more than 25 years and one of the advantages of my experience is the skills I’ve acquired allow me to do things faster, while the tools and machinery I’ve acquired speed up the process even more. These things allow me to spend more time on the design aspect and craftsmanship,” Cristian concluded.
Available to order
The Ryvid Anthem Electric and Ryvid Outset Electric are available to order now from ryvid.com. The $6,495 Anthem is available for immediate delivery in a choice of six colors. Deliveries of the new $5,995 Outset will begin in the Summer in either Sector Red or Vapor Grey. Riders must have a motorcycle license in order to ride both the Anthem and Outset.
The Anthem and Outset share a rigid steel backbone frame, instrument display, removable 4.3kWh battery with integrated charger, 72V air-cooled, brushless DC motor, controller, and sealed belt drive. Both machines are capable of 75mph+ top speed and will provide up to 70 miles range on the Outset or 75 miles on the Anthem. The battery can be charged quickly from both 110V and 220V supplies. Outset has an 33” seat height but its compliant suspension and narrow cushion means it will comfortably accommodate a range of riders. The Anthem seat is adjustable from 31-34” to accommodate an even wider range of riders.
Weighing just 313 and 315 lb, respectively, the Anthem and Outset share featherweight architecture and a low center of gravity. With the major components positioned at axle level, both bikes exhibit extraordinary handling characteristics, making them extremely easy to change direction at high speed or maneuver at low speed. Another benefit of electric power is the Ryvid Reverse Drive. At the push of a button when stopped, the rider is able to move the motorcycle backwards at walking speed to extricate it from perhaps a tight parking position or awkward slope.
About Sosa Metalworks
Sosa Metalworks is a custom metal fabrication shop. For more than 25 years, Cristian Sosa, owner of Sosa Metalworks, has been behind some of the most innovative metalwork designs in the Las Vegas area. The story began 12 years ago when Cristian was the lead metal fabricator at Count’s Kustoms for Discovery Channel’s Counting Cars series. Cristian opened his own shop in 2012 with brother Roberto. As a master in fabrication and shaping metal, their work includes suspension, sheet metal work, and one-off pieces for custom projects. Cristian’s specialty is fabricating unique motorcycles. For further information, please visit sosametalworks.com
About Ryvid
Ryvid is a cutting-edge manufacturing corporation in the high-growth field of Electric Light Vehicles. Founded by enthusiasts, engineered by innovators, and designed by aerospace industry gearheads, the Ryvid mission is to create more sustainable and enjoyable personal mobility. The company name was derived by merging Rhythm and Avid; elements of motion and emotion that define the experience of using our products. Ryvid produces revolutionary, lightweight, affordable electric motorcycles with a significantly lower carbon footprint than its competitors. With the same innovation applied to all models, Ryvid is poised to revolutionize urban commuting. Ryvid products are designed and assembled in California. For further information, please visit ryvid.com
