A division of Airbus has created a world's first 3D printed motorcycle, called the Light Rider.

APWorks has combined the latest 3D printing technologies and an all-electric motor to build the bike, which weighs just 35 kilograms (77 pounds).

The intricate web-like design was built up with layers of an aluminium-esque material called ‘Scalmalloy’ by the firm, an alloy tailor-made for the project which has about the same strength as titanium.

The machine will hit 50mph (80km/h) and boasts a 0-45km/h time of just three seconds, according to APWorks.

Designed more as a lightweight runabout, the bike is a long way from conventional motorbike territory. But with a single-charge range of 35 miles and a swappable battery, in the future Light Rider – or designs like it – could prove very popular with urbanites seeking a cheap, usable way of getting around town.

However, with a price tag of 50,000 euros (£39,000), the Light Rider is hardly ready for mass market production. APWorks only plan to build 50 of the motorbikes.

With such a small production run, those interested in buying a Light Rider should act quickly. A deposit of 2,000 euros is required to bag one of the cutting-edge bikes.

APWorks utilises some of the technologies used in Airbus aircraft for the benefit of a range of different industries. Among the plus-points of its 3D production or additive techniques are lower lead times, lighter products and lower material consumption. The firm’s website states "much more complex geometrics" are possible with these techniques – an assertion born out in the impressive Light Rider motorcycle.