2025 Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Update: Software Gains Enhance Performance

Ultraviolette has rolled out a significant software update for its F77 electric motorcycle, enhancing performance without any physical changes to the bike. This update stems from lessons learned during high-demand riding conditions in Europe, where customers experienced different riding behaviours. The company has found a way to improve the F77’s performance, and all existing customers will benefit from these upgrades.

Key Takeaways

• Performance improvements achieved through software updates, not physical modifications.
• Updates are a direct result of feedback from European riding conditions.
• Focus on thermal management and component optimisation.
• Enhanced throttle response and acceleration.
• Existing customers will receive the update, ensuring they benefit from improved performance.

Understanding the F77 Update

The F77 M I looks identical to its current version, and importantly, there are no mechanical changes. The reason for this video is to share an interesting story about how Ultraviolette operates and the potential of electric vehicles. They’ve managed to boost the motorcycle’s performance by refining its software, a process that’s more complex than it sounds.

This development came about because Ultraviolette is now selling its bikes in ten European cities. They received feedback indicating that European riders use their bikes differently, often at higher speeds and for longer durations. Riding on autobahns, for instance, involves sustained high-speed riding for extended periods, which highlighted areas for performance improvement, particularly concerning heat management.

The Science Behind the Boost

Electric vehicles are intricate systems where various components communicate. The motor, motor controller, battery pack, battery control unit, and vehicle control unit all need to work in harmony. Manufacturers typically set performance limits based on recommendations from component suppliers to ensure sustainable operation. However, there are often unknowns, such as the temperature of a rotor within an electric motor, which is difficult to measure directly due to its rotation.

Ultraviolette has conducted extensive testing and calculations to estimate rotor temperatures and their rate of change. By optimising how these systems manage heat and current, they can unlock more performance. This means the F77 doesn't just offer its maximum possible performance, but a refined, sustainable level of it.

What’s Changed for the Rider?

While the peak power, torque, and range figures remain unchanged, the riding experience is noticeably different. The updated bike offers a more responsive throttle, feeling more urgent and reactive. Riders familiar with the F77 will likely notice that the initial throttle response is quicker, making the bike feel more engaging.

Ultraviolette hasn't released specific metrics, but they state that the update provides more available torque that arrives sooner when requested, and this torque is sustained for longer. During testing on a go-kart circuit, the bike felt quicker around laps, with a stronger pull out of corners.

Real-World Performance and Range

While the top speed difference was minimal (around 103-106 km/h), the overall feeling is that the bike is quicker. Ultraviolette suggests the 0-100 km/h time could be improved by 3-4 seconds. The most surprising aspect is that these performance gains, attributed to thermal optimisation, don't seem to significantly impact the range. In fact, the company claims that riding gently will yield the same range as the previous F77 Mark II, and even aggressive riding shouldn't drastically reduce it. Further testing will be needed to confirm these range claims.

The Future of Electric Two-Wheelers

This update highlights a key advantage of electric vehicles: their ability to evolve over time. An older bike can receive an over-the-air update, gaining new performance capabilities. This is a significant departure from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. While the technology can seem intimidating, it represents the future, offering continuous improvement throughout the vehicle's life.

Ultraviolette is committed to its existing customers, ensuring they will all receive this update, allowing their motorcycles to perform at this enhanced level. This involves considerable effort and investment from the company, demonstrating their dedication to customer benefit.

The F77, weighing over 200 kilos, offers a quick and engaging ride, distinct from petrol-powered bikes with its immediate surge of power. It’s a different, fun experience. For a more in-depth look at how the F77 rides, a previous full review is available.