Video Game-Inspired DAB 1α Motorcycle Has a Transparent Purple Body and Cheat Codes

Inspired by the retro world of video games, the new DAB 1α Atomic Purple electric motorcycle offers a unique mix of futuristic technology and bold aesthetics.

Showcasing a sleek translucent purple bodywork, the French motorcycle pays homage to the iconic Atomic Purple Game Boy Color handheld game console, which was manufactured by Nintendo and released in 1998 to celebrate the company's 125th anniversary.

Founded in 2018 in Bayonne, DAB Motors was taken over by Peugeot Motorcycles in 2023. Just like the special series celebrating different sports from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games the company revealed in summer, the DAB Atomic Purple is not a new motorcycle but rather a new finish for the DAB 1α electric motorbike, the first model jointly developed by Peugeot and DAB Motors. It's created by DAB Custom Studio (DCS), the French brand's bespoke service branch dedicated to creating custom bikes with unique features and looks.

The design of this visually striking e-bike version will incite nostalgia to those who used to play the handheld in the 90s, as its bodywork is infused with distinguishable elements inspired by the retro gaming device. The most standout feature of the bike is the see-through purple body, which allows onlookers to see every inner part and component, including the impressive battery. The body color is dubbed "Purple Clear Romance" and is obviously inspired by the purple casings that Nintendo used on its Gameboy Color and other consoles.

The gaming inspiration is also visible in the custom handlebars, which feature controls designed to reminisce the Game Boy Color's cross-shaped D-pad and the classic A and B action buttons. The two-wheeler's screen takes design cues from Nintendo's small console as well, boasting an overlay with a red status light on one side, just like the Game Boy display.

The nods to gaming culture don't stop here, though. The ignition key might be the most surprising and ingenious feature, as it is made from a custom vintage game cartridge, which the rider just has to insert to start the motorcycle.

What's more, the designers made sure that owning this limited-edition motorcycle is a unique experience by integrating "cheat codes" within its software. Just like gamers who find secret codes can gain access to new features in games, riders who discover these cheat codes will unlock various enhancements for their bikes, such as "speed boosts," new display themes, and 8-bit sound effects.

Other noteworthy features include a rider’s seat made of Alcantara and a front fender and motor side protectors crafted from repurposed Airbus carbon fiber. In terms of specs, the DAB 1α is powered by an 11kW electric motor that will endow it with a top speed of over 80 mph (130 kph) and a range of 93 miles (150 km) thanks to a 7.1kWh lithium-ion battery pack that can be recharged in three-and-a-half hours.

DAB Motors plans to only manufacture a total of 400 units of its DAB 1α electric motorcycle, with production scheduled for the fall. When pre-ordering the bike, those lucky enough to get on the list can opt to customize their unit with the Purple Clear Romance translucent bodywork that embraces the spirit of retro gaming. In terms of pricing, the manufacturer says the DAB 1α will start at €14,900 (approx. $16,500), but final pricing depends on what upgrades are chosen.