Prepare to have your mind blown: the Crighton CR700W, a rotary engine-powered motorcycle, is not just a bike—it’s a legend on two wheels. And guess what? One of these ultra-rare machines is finally up for sale. But here’s where it gets controversial: with only 25 ever built, owning one isn’t just about riding—it’s about holding a piece of history that’s as much an investment as it is a track weapon. So, is it worth the staggering price tag? Let’s dive in.
If you’ve never heard the Crighton CR700W’s 690cc rotary twin motor roar to life, you’re missing out on one of the most mesmerizing sounds in motorcycling. But it’s not just the sound that makes this bike extraordinary—every single detail is a masterpiece of engineering. From its carbon fiber-drenched frame to its mind-boggling power-to-weight ratio, this bike is a track-day dream come true. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just fast; it’s ridiculously fast, delivering 220 HP at 10,500 rpm and 105 lb-ft of torque at 9,500 rpm. To put that into perspective, this 690cc twin produces a staggering 319 HP per liter—more than some MotoGP bikes from just a few years ago. Imagine all that power in a bike that weighs just 285 lbs—it’s like strapping a rocket to a feather.
But power is nothing without control, and the CR700W doesn’t disappoint. Brembo GP4-MS 108mm calipers provide stopping power that’s as jaw-dropping as the acceleration, while Öhlins FGR 300 front race forks and a custom top yoke ensure the bike stays glued to the track, no matter how hard you push it. And let’s not forget the underseat exhaust, shaped like a Wankel rotor—it’s not just a functional component; it’s a work of art that roars like a beast when you fire it up. Just listen to Guy Martin tearing up the track on one of these (https://www.rideapart.com/news/666149/guy-martin-rides-crighton-cr700w/)—it’s pure poetry in motion.
When it was first released, the CR700W was already a collector’s item, priced at £95,000 ($127,048) for one of the 25 lucky buyers. Fast forward to today, and the bike’s value has skyrocketed. The 15th model produced, with just 124 miles on the clock, is now listed for £154,495 ($206,614) (https://www.facebook.com/msgracing/). Here’s the bold question: Is this bike worth over $200,000? For the owner, it’s not just about the ride—it’s about a potential $80,000 profit and the bragging rights of owning one of the rarest bikes on the planet. But is it a smart buy, or just a collector’s vanity project? That’s up for debate.
The CR700W is more than a motorcycle; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to what happens when engineering meets artistry, and it’s a machine that demands respect—both on the track and in the bank. So, we want to hear from you: Is the CR700W the ultimate track weapon, or is its price tag a step too far? Let us know in the comments below.
All Things Rotary
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