LANgen turbo: a vtwin turbo monster

Langen has revealed its most daring project yet—a turbocharged version of its Lightspeed super-naked.

The British brand first made waves with its featherweight, V-twin two-stroke models, known for their quirky design and exhilarating performance. This was followed by the Lightspeed, unveiled at Motorcycle Live 2023, which marked a significant step forward for Langen. Powered by a Rotax engine producing a claimed 185bhp, the Lightspeed proved that the Wigan-based manufacturer wasn’t just a niche player but a serious contender in the high-performance motorcycle world.

Langen isn’t slowing down. The company has just announced its boldest project yet—an all-new turbocharged version of the Lightspeed, known internally as LS12 Lightspeed Turbo. Building on the foundation of the standard Lightspeed, this high-performance variant comes equipped with a turbocharger that promises to deliver staggering power figures.

While official specifications are still under wraps, early dyno tests reveal that ‘Road Mode’ will offer around 250bhp, while ‘Full Power Mode’ could push output close to 300bhp. If these numbers hold true, the LS12 would catapult Langen into the upper echelon of performance motorcycles, positioning it as a serious contender for the ‘world’s fastest production bike’ title.

This ambitious project isn’t just about power; it’s about redefining what’s possible in the boutique motorcycle space. With a blend of relentless performance and hand-built craftsmanship, the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo could cement Langen’s legacy in the history books.

Like the standard Lightspeed, the new forced-induction LS12 Lightspeed Turbo features extensive use of carbon fiber, from its custom bodywork to key structural components, ensuring the bike remains lightweight and responsive despite its monstrous power.

Langen’s obsession with detail is evident throughout the machine, with CNC-machined components—beautifully crafted "jewelry" that runs from front to back, adding both strength and bespoke charm. Handling duties are managed by Öhlins suspension, promising razor-sharp feedback and precision. Meanwhile, Hel Performance calipers paired with twin 320mm floating discs deliver uncompromising stopping power, ensuring the bike can be tamed as well as unleashed.

The new bike is far more than just a concept. Preliminary dyno testing is already underway, and Langen has announced plans to begin real-world performance trials soon. To put its turbocharged creation to the test, the company will head to Santa Pod Raceway later this year for high-speed runs and data gathering.

Following testing, the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo will enter super-limited production, with only a handful of units expected to be built. Given its exclusivity, bespoke craftsmanship, and jaw-dropping performance, it’s safe to assume the bike will come with a price tag as extreme as its horsepower—making it a true collector’s piece for those fortunate enough to own one.

Langen is also preparing for major growth, with plans to expand into new markets while accelerating the development and delivery of its existing Lightspeed model and the upcoming turbocharged variant. To fuel this next phase, the company will launch a crowdfunding campaign starting in February and running through March, giving fans and supporters of British engineering the chance to own a piece of the Langen story.

“We have spent the last 18 months preparing for this stage so that we are ready to go at full throttle alongside an investment injection,” said Christofer Ratcliffe, Langen Motorcycles’ Founder.

“It had been a dream of mine for many years to invest in a British motorcycle company, to feel a sense of ownership of something I am incredibly passionate about, which eventually resulted in the creation of Langen Motorcycles. It is this sentiment that has led to us opening up the opportunity for everybody who is passionate about motorcycles to become a Langen shareholder and not only a part of our journey and growth but a part of motorcycle history.”

For more information on the LS12 Lightspeed Turbo and the crowdfunding initiative, visit the official Langen Motorcycles website.