Two years on, the F77 MACH 2 still feels futuristic, fast, and exciting.

Two years is a long time in the world of electric motorcycles. Technology evolves, competitors arrive, and what once felt futuristic can quickly begin to look familiar. Yet, after spending the last couple of days living with the Ultraviolette F77 MACH 2 RECON, riding it extensively through the streets of Pune and on highways, one thing is clear: this is still a motorcycle that knows how to make an impact.

DESIGN THAT DEMANDS ATTENTION

The first thing you notice is the Ultraviolette F77 MACH 2’s design. Even two years after its official launch, the F77 MACH 2 remains one of the most distinctive electric motorcycles in India. Its sharp surfaces, aggressive stance and futuristic detailing make it stand apart from almost everything else in the electric motorcycle space.

More importantly, it attracts attention. At traffic signals, we found ourselves answering questions about its price and performance, while the biggest surprise for many was simply discovering that this striking motorcycle was electric. It doesn’t look like an electric motorcycle designed primarily around efficiency. It looks like a performance motorcycle first, and an electric motorcycle second.

FAMILIAR, BUT BETTER FINISHED

The F77 MACH 2 RECON doesn’t radically change the F77’s design, but it didn’t need to. The original already had a strong identity, and this version builds on it with details such as the aluminium swingarm, premium footpegs and a more substantial charging flap.

There are still a few areas, particularly some plastic surfaces and switchgear detailing, that could feel more premium. But these are minor blemishes on what remains an impressively styled premium electric motorcycle.

PERFORMANCE WITH PERSONALITY

This is where the Ultraviolette F77 MACH 2 performance has evolved the most. Its 10.3kWh battery pack powers an electric motor producing 30kW and 100Nm, with a claimed IDC range of up to 323km and a top speed of 155kmph.

The numbers are impressive, but it is the delivery that makes the F77 special. Three riding modes, Glide, Comfort and Ballistic, allow you to alter its character considerably. Glide is suited to relaxed riding, Comfort strikes a useful everyday balance, while Ballistic transforms the motorcycle into a genuinely exhilarating machine.

The instant delivery of 100 Nm is addictive. There is no gearbox, no rev build-up and no interruption in acceleration. Twist the throttle, and the motorcycle simply surges forward. The F77’s substantial 207kg kerb weight is noticeable at low speeds, but once moving, particularly on flowing roads, it hides that mass remarkably well.

NINE LEVELS OF REGEN

One of the most meaningful updates to the Ultraviolette F77 MACH 2 is its nine-level regenerative braking system, ranging from almost no regeneration to an aggressive Level 9.

In the city, stronger regen makes the F77 incredibly easy to manage, allowing you to slow down substantially without constantly reaching for the brakes. On highways, lower regeneration lets the motorcycle coast more naturally. Being able to adjust it according to the road and your riding style adds an unexpected amount of character to the experience.

COMFORT FOR THE LONG HAUL

For a tall rider, the F77 MACH 2 riding position is surprisingly accommodating. At 6’2, I found the riding position comfortable, while an average Indian adult should also find enough room to settle in without feeling cramped.

The stance is sporty without becoming excessively committed, making the F77 suitable for everyday riding as well as longer outings. The mirrors, however, are less convincing. Their committed positioning requires larger riders to make noticeable adjustments, which can look slightly awkward while riding.

TECH THAT FEELS FUTURISTIC

The Ultraviolette F77 MACH 2 features are another major highlight. The TFT display brings together riding modes, regen settings and other motorcycle functions, while the switchgear keeps navigation relatively straightforward.

The feature list is extensive, including traction control, hill hold, tyre pressure monitoring, fall and crash alerts, tow alerts and park assist.

There is one quirk, though. The starter button also controls the riding modes, and an accidental press in the opposite direction can switch the motorcycle off. You then need to stop completely, apply the brake and restart it. It is easy to learn, but a dedicated control would have been more intuitive.

BEYOND THE CITY

The F77 MACH 2 range and highway performance also challenge the perception that an electric motorcycle is primarily an urban commuter. With its large battery and strong performance, it is perfectly capable of highway runs and weekend rides beyond the city.

Of course, range varies significantly with riding style. Spend most of your time in Ballistic, and the range will fall quickly. Ride more sensibly, and the F77 becomes a genuinely usable long-distance electric motorcycle.

Charging is practical too. The Boost Charger we got with our test unit significantly cuts charging time, while a wall-box setup works well as an overnight solution. However, if you want a Boost Charger for yourself, you need to pay a premium of Rs 44,625 over the RECON’s price tag. Even without it, the standard 1.3kW charger is perfectly usable for an urban owner, with a full charge taking around five hours. Plug it in at home and start the next morning with a charged motorcycle, and the routine is remarkably simple.

THE PRICE CHANGES EVERYTHING

The biggest change, however, is the Ultraviolette F77 MACH 2 RECON price. Ultraviolette’s revised positioning makes the F77 considerably more accessible and changes its equation against conventional 300–400cc motorcycles.

Had this pricing arrived earlier, the motorcycle could arguably have reached a much wider audience. But better late than never. Today, you’re no longer paying simply for the novelty of owning an electric motorcycle. You’re getting distinctive design, serious performance, extensive technology and a riding experience that genuinely feels different.

STILL LEADING THE FUTURE

Two years on, the Ultraviolette F77 MACH 2 RECON has become a more rounded motorcycle without losing what made it special in the first place.

It isn’t perfect. The weight is noticeable, the mirrors aren’t ideal for larger riders, and the switchgear has its quirks. But these shortcomings don’t overshadow its strengths.

At its current price tag of Rs 4.24 lakh (ex-showroom) in the standard Airstrike Supersonic Silver shade, while the other colours command a premium of approximately Rs 9,000–15,000, depending on the colour chosen, the Ultraviolette F77 MACH 2 RECON isn’t merely an interesting alternative to a petrol motorcycle. It is a genuinely compelling motorcycle in its own right.

And that is perhaps its biggest achievement. Even after two years on the road, the F77 hasn’t been overtaken by the future. It still feels like it’s leading it.

SHOT BY: SACHIN KAWANKAR FOR DAG INDIA