Flying Flea, the new electric two-wheeler brand from Royal Enfield, has introduced ‘Motototem,’ a unique art bike, at Salone del Mobile in Milan. Designed in collaboration with Los Angeles-based artist Mattia Biagi, ‘Motototem’ blends advanced technology with natural materials, creating a striking combination of design, craftsmanship, and mobility. It’s one cool art piece.
The ‘Motototem’ is based on the FF.C6 model from Flying Flea, reimagined by Mr. Biagi, to incorporate elements from nature. Materials like travertine, clay, bronze, stone, leather, and blown glass are used to transform the motorcycle into a true work of art. “Each material chosen represents a purpose beyond just aesthetics. It connects the bike to nature in an elegant blend,” said Mr. Biagi.
The bike keeps the classic look of the original Flying Flea motorcycles from the 1940s, but with new details that tell a deeper story. This fits with Royal Enfield’s recent Project Delta, which also takes inspiration from the 1940s and 1950s.
Like Project Delta, Royal Enfield brings together classic and contemporary elements in the Motototem. The handlebar grips have been replaced with bronze pieces designed by Mr. Biagi himself. This design also extends to the footpegs, enhancing the tactile experience of the bike.
The use of hand-blown glass sculptures instead of LED head and tail lights gives ‘Motototem’ a distinct look. These glass pieces symbolize the beauty found in overcoming challenges, giving the bike a more meaningful touch. The gas tank, made entirely of travertine, is sunken into the forged aluminum frame and shaped like a parachute, paying tribute to the classic lightweight Flying Flea bikes.
The fenders of the bike are cast in clear resin with embedded leaves, symbolizing growth and renewal. The rear of the bike is equally unique, with a solid walnut seat that replaces the original design, adding warmth and organic texture. The girder forks feature hand-molded clay pieces, drawing inspiration from scrambler designs while staying true to the bike’s artistic identity.
The magnesium battery case has fins and a black stone piece, merging traditional and modern design elements. The tires are decorated with handmade leather swallows, symbolizing loyalty and the spirit of adventure. The off-road tires represent venturing into uncharted paths, reflecting Flying Flea’s mission to explore new horizons.
Mario Alvisi, Chief Growth Officer of Electric Vehicles at Royal Enfield, commented, “Motototem captures the spirit of Flying Flea in a way that feels both instinctive and unexpected. It reflects the brand’s philosophy of thoughtful simplicity, intelligent design, and elegance in motion – through a language that’s purely emotional and beautifully sculptural. Royal Enfield considers its motorcycles as spaces for creative expression, and Flying Flea naturally extends that idea into new and exciting realms.”
The launch of ‘Motototem’ at Salone del Mobile provides the perfect opportunity to introduce this groundbreaking combination of art and technology to a global audience. Following the Milan event, Flying Flea and Mattia Biagi plan to present the bike at various events around the world throughout 2025, bringing this innovative piece to even more people.
