Brand History, from 1960 and facts today: We Have Been Engineered To Power Success
The Legacy of Innovation : ELF Sportsbikes
At ELF, innovation and daring have always been at the heart of our DNA. ELF sportbikes from 1978 to 1988 represent an era when imagination and ingenuity converged to redefine motorcycle sport standards, leaving an indelible mark on the racing landscape. These revolutionary machines remain a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation. The creation of the two-wheeled vehicle, in collaboration with manufacturers like Yamaha, Honda and Peugeot, was a question of form of expression. ELF's primary objective was to show people that the company was inclusive in terms of innovative technology.
Some Clue Events of the Brand
Elf, a brand synonymous with excellence in the world of motorcycle racing, has etched its name in history through a series of remarkable successes and innovations that revolutionized the sport. Here are the pivotal moments that have marked its iconic journey:
1974
A major turning point occurs when Phil Read clinches the world title in the premier 500cc category. This victory extends beyond triumph on the track; it signifies ELF's entry into the international motorcycle racing arena.
1980s
The decade sees ELF establish itself as a key innovator. The ELF E, launched in 1981, participates in all World Endurance Championship events until the end of 1983, despite technical challenges, showcasing ELF's determination to push its boundaries.
1984
Ron Haslam's commitment to the team marks a period of realization of development efforts. Steering the ELF 3, powered by a Honda NS500 GP engine, Haslam scores points early in the 1986 season, highlighting the potential of ELF's technological partnerships.
1986
The ELF-R, designed to break records, surpasses 200 mph at Nardo in Italy and sets six world speed records. This feat illustrates ELF's relentless pursuit of excellence in performance and design.
1990s and Beyond
ELF continues to strengthen its legacy by sponsoring teams and riders, solidifying its presence in prestigious competitions such as the World Superbike and MotoGP. The brand is synonymous with passion, innovation, and success, leaving a lasting influence on motorcycle racing.
ELF - A Brand of Legends
ELF brand represents a world of passion, technological expertise and premium product culture. Now the brand is available in a completely new packaging and new design graphics which convey the values that are clear to the heart of ELF: Expertise, Premium, Passion.
EXPERTISE
ELF maintains the image of a competitive, effective and expert brand through constant technological innovation.
PASSION
ELF is emotion, a brand of success, victory and winners with its commitments in motorsports.
From Oil Company to Designing Racing Motorcycles
1978
ELF X: the frameless motorcycle
It all started in 1978, when engineer André de Cortanze,
from Formula 1, imagined a frameless motorcycle, with a
two-stroke Yamaha engine of 750 cm3, a double
superimposed triangle at the front and a fuel tank under
the engine. This is the ELF X, a motorcycle that defies
conventions and aims to improve handling and center of
gravity.
1980
ELF E: the endurance motorcycle
In 1980, Honda became interested in the ELF project and
provided several four-cylinder engines. The ELF E was
then born, a motorcycle designed for endurance, with an
aluminum frame and a full fairing. Unfortunately, the
regulations changed and limited the displacement of
endurance motorcycles, putting an end to the career of
the ELF E.
1984
ELF 2: the speed motorcycle
ELF then turned to the world championship of speed GP
500 and presented the ELF 2 in 1984. This motorcycle is
equipped with a Honda two-stroke three-cylinder V engine
of 120 horsepower, and retains the principle of the
double superimposed triangle. The ELF 2 is driven by
Christian Le Liard and Didier De Radiguès, but it
struggles to compete with the other machines.
1986
ELF 3: the victorious motorcycle
In 1986, André de Cortanze left ELF for Peugeot, but the
adventure continued with the ELF 3, an improved version
of the ELF 2, with a magnesium VGC (Variable Geometric
Control) front train that allows to adjust the geometry
of the steering. The ELF 3 won its first victory in
Macao, thanks to the talent of Ron Haslam, who became
the official rider of the team.
1987
ELF 4 and the ELF 5: the last motorcycles
In 1987, Ron Haslam rode the ELF 4, a motorcycle close
to the ELF 3, but with a more powerful Honda engine and
a lighter frame. He finished fourth in the world
championship, the best result of ELF. At the end of the
season, ELF transferred thirteen of its 18 patents to
Honda, including the famous single-sided swingarm. In
1988, the ELF 5 succeeded the ELF 4, but it failed to
shine, due to mechanical problems and health issues of
Ron Haslam. ELF then decided to withdraw from the world
championship and stop its motorcycle production.
The Moto Lubricant Specialist
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