Italian boutique manufacturer Vyrus has unveiled the Alyen 998, an ultra-exclusive hyperbike that pushes motorcycle engineering in a radically different direction. Limited to just 20 examples, the new machine combines futuristic styling with the company’s signature hub-centre steering system and a Ducati-derived V-twin engine.
The name “Alyen”,meaning “Alien” in Italian, reflects the bike’s unconventional appearance, which has been nearly a decade in the making. Founded more than 40 years ago by former Bimota engineer Ascanio Rodorigo, Vyrus developed the project over nine years, producing 57 prototypes before the first customer motorcycle was delivered in Dubai late last year.
Penned in collaboration with Japanese designer Yutaka Igarashi, the Alyen 998 retains Vyrus’ trademark hub-centre steering layout but introduces an entirely new Hydraulic Bearing Wired Steering System (HBWSS). Instead of conventional steering pushrods, the system uses aerospace-grade cables to transmit steering inputs to the front wheel. Two cables provide built-in redundancy, allowing the motorcycle to remain steerable even if one were to fail.
The cable-operated steering also gives designers far greater freedom when packaging the front end. By relocating the handlebars and steering stem away from the suspension components, the Alyen creates an unusually open space beneath the handlebars, further emphasising its futuristic appearance.
Power comes from Ducati’s proven 1,285cc Superquadro V-twin engine, previously used in the 1299 Panigale. While no longer Ducati’s latest superbike motor, it still delivers a claimed 202bhp at 10,500rpm. Combined with a claimed dry weight of just 171kg, excluding the 11-litre fuel load, the Alyen promises an exceptional power-to-weight ratio.
The exotic engineering extends throughout the chassis. Both swingarms and the main frame plates are constructed from magnesium alloy with special corrosion-resistant treatments, while Rotobox carbon-fibre wheels and full carbon-fibre bodywork help minimise weight. The bike rides on 17-inch wheels fitted with 120-section front and 200-section rear Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 tyres.
As expected from such a specialist machine, exclusivity comes at a price. Vyrus has yet to confirm official pricing, but with production limited to just 20 motorcycles, the Alyen 998 is expected to cost well in excess of £100,000 (approximately NZ$224,000), placing it firmly among the world’s most exclusive and expensive motorcycles.
