When it comes to motorcycles, choosing an electric motorbike is the closest thing you can get to riding into the future. The lack of combustion engine means near-silent operation and minimal vibration, while the instant response of electric motor torque makes for a ride like no other.1
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Then there’s the absence of exhaust fumes, great handling courtesy of a low centre of gravity, and reduced running costs – around half, depending on the electric motorcycle model and the electricity source.1
Some models also have regenerative braking, which improves efficiency and reduces wear on brake components.1 And if recharged with renewable energy such as solar, an electric motorcycle becomes an even more eco-friendly ride.
So far, so good. But what else is there to think about when looking into an electric motorbike? In this article, we look at the pros and cons of electric bikes, the various recharging options, as well as some of the considerations – including motorcycle insurance coverage – you might want to make before you buy.
Electric motorcycling is still very new to Australia, says Rhys Griffiths, motorcycle manager for the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.
“There’s not a lot of choice around and there’s not a lot of demand for electric motorcycles right now,” Griffiths says.
While most electric motorcycles currently for sale are from newer, lesser-known brands such as Energica, Zero and Evoke.2 Harley-Davidson launched a separate all-electric motorcycle company, LiveWire, in ,3 while Honda, KTM, Piaggio and Yamaha are collaborating on electric motorcycles of their own.4
Closer to home, Melbourne-based Savic Motorcycles delivered its first commercial orders in – powerful electric motorcycles designed, engineered and manufactured in Australia.5
An electric motorbike replaces the traditional petrol engine and fuel tank with a battery and an electric motor. An electric motorcycle is distinct from an electric scooter or moped – faster, larger, pricier and with a longer range.6
And if you’re wondering, are electric motorbikes legal in Australia? The good news is yes, they are.7 Just like any motorcycle in Australia, you need a motorcycle licence to ride an electric motorbike8 – rules vary by state and territory, so it may be worth looking up the relevant legislation for your area.
Are electric motorbikes any good? We’ve already touched on some of their benefits but, additionally, electric motorbikes for adults may be eligible for stamp duty exemptions and other government discounts, depending on where you live.
In the Australian Capital Territory, for example, buyers of zero emission motorbikes can benefit from the territory’s stamp duty waiver.1
A motorcycle is also obviously smaller than a car, making it easier to position near a power point for daily at-home recharging. Electric motorcycles require less servicing and, with fewer moving parts than combustion bikes, may be more reliable.1
Unfortunately, it’s not all good news.
“Disadvantages are many,” says Griffiths. “Weight, range and recharge time are top of the pops. Range will be, for quite some time, the limiting factor.”
A lack of long-range electric motorbike options might rule them out for long-distance riders. On a long trip, a petrol motorcycle can be refuelled in minutes at one of the many established service stations, while an electric motorcycle will require some time plugged into a charger – those capable of level 3, DC charging, for example, may take up to 40 minutes to reach 80% charge.1
High-performance models are also expensive – although one could reasonably anticipate prices to fall as more models come on to the market – and the quietness of electric motorbikes can be a danger around pedestrians and animals.2
Will you be riding on bitumen or dirt? Mostly for fun or for commuting? Do you have somewhere you can park your bike at home and plug it in? Your answers could guide whether an electric motorbike would suit you. For example, Griffiths cautions against an electric dirt bike. “By its very nature, dirt bike riding means you’re normally in very remote areas where there’s no charging infrastructure,” he notes.
How far do you need to go each day? The average Australian travels around 40km per day,9 so if you can plug in your electric bike each night, you may not need as much range as you think. Also consider that some electric motorcycles will use less power for city commuting than highway riding. For example, one Energica electric motorcycle claims a 246km combined range. However, this incorporates its highway range (up to 198km) and city range (up to 420km, which is more than twice as far as it can go on a motorway).10
How much power do you need? If you’re a learner motorcyclist, there are plenty of petrol options in Australia, but there are limitations if you decide to go electric. In New South Wales, for example, your electric motorcycle cannot exceed 25kW.11
On the other hand, if you have your full licence, there are more options available to you. For example, Savic Motorcycles currently sells two models – the 60kW Alpha and the 40kW Delta.12 The Alpha can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.5 seconds, and the Delta in 4.5 seconds.12 The Alpha is $26,990 ride-away while the Delta is $19,990 ride-away, meaning you could spend $ less if you’re happy with the Delta’s acceleration.12
How much is an electric motorbike? Prices currently start from around $ for the Chinese-built LEKI W.13 Its 5.76kWh battery grants approximately 130km of range, rechargeable in six hours, and a top speed of 110km/h. At the higher end of the scale, the Italian-made Energica Ego+ RS costs around $56,365 and has more electric performance than most riders might need. With a claimed combined range of 230km and a charge time of six hours, the Ego+ RS can sprint from zero to 100km/h in approximately 2.6 seconds, on to a top speed of 240km/h.14
If you’re looking to buy an electric motorbike in Australia, Griffiths recommends going for brands that are more established. “Trusting and purchasing, and spending quite a bit of money, on a brand that is new to the marketplace would have to be something that you need to be very careful about,” he cautions. “I’m not suggesting these new brands aren’t good, but doing your research would be very important.”
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The best electric motorbikes come with a portable charging cable that can be plugged into a household wall socket, taking a maximum of five hours for a full recharge – depending on the model. Most people will not need to install dedicated charging at home for their electric motorcycle. However, a faster 15A wall socket might cost around $300 and reduce charging time to two to three hours.1
Electric motorcycles are safe, even if their quietness can represent an additional hazard to pedestrians and animals.2 But as well as keeping extra awareness when riding a motorcycle on the road – no matter if petrol or electric – it’s important to make sure you’re kitted out in the right safety gear.
Of course, it always makes sense to test ride any brand-new motorcycle before purchasing it. If you decide an electric motorbike is a good option for you, you can check out Youi’s Motorcycle insurance options or start a quote today.
Note: Information in this article is relevant as of March and by its nature will change over time. Check relevant vehicle manufacturer websites for price and specification updates if this information is important to you.
Electric bicycles come in a range of styles to suit different uses—everything from riding steep mountain trails to getting to and from work. But there are three general categories related to their electric propulsion systems. Each type applies electric power to the bicycle’s driven wheel in a distinct way, whether using input from the rider’s pedals or from a thumb or twist-grip-activated throttle. Deciding which one is best for you depends on how you plan to use the bike and how far you want to go.
Class 1 represents pedal-assist bikes, which power the electric motor as your feet apply pressure to the pedals. There’s no throttle control on the handlebars to get the bike going; the electric part works only when the rider is pedaling, and the e-assist cuts off at speeds above 20 mph.
Class 2 bikes have an electric motor that works up to 20 mph, either while the rider is pedaling (pedal-assist) or with electric propulsion alone, via a throttle control.
Class 3 limits an e-bike’s top speed to 28 mph. These faster, more powerful models might not be legal to ride in some areas, such as on bike paths.
CR has tested Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes but no Class 3 models. Prices range from about $600 to around $4,000, although most of the better ones cost at least $1,000. The highest-rated e-bikes tend to be the most expensive models in our tests, although none are anywhere near the $6,000 to $7,000 you might encounter at bike shops. (Prices can be much higher for certain specialty e-bikes.)
We’ve found that more selectable gears make for a better riding experience once the battery is drained and pedaling provides the only power. Single-speed bikes aren’t as versatile. Depending on the model, electric assist is applied either at the hub of the rear wheel or in what’s called a mid-drive, in which power is applied at the bottom bracket, where the pedals are located. Mid-drive models tend to be more responsive and typically route electric power through the bike’s gearing, which can help save battery power on hills and longer rides. Still, there are a number of hub-drive models that offer a reliable, satisfying ride.
Consumer Reports members can access our latest e-bike evaluations, including ratings on Class 1, Class 2, folding, and mountain bikes.
Take your time to find a model that fits you physically and will meet your long-term needs. If you’re in a hilly area, you may want one with a higher number of gear selections to save energy—both yours and that of the battery. Consult local regulations so that you know what, if anything, is required to ride an e-bike in your area, and where you’re allowed to ride one.
There are a number of newer brands that specialize in building e-bikes, like Rad Power Bikes and Blix Electric Bikes. You may be unfamiliar with them, but some of these are strong companies with innovative products and good customer support. Be wary of internet bike brands that might not be there tomorrow to offer customer service. Diligence is warranted if you stray from the long-standing name brands, including Cannondale, Specialized, and Trek.
We’re also not bullish on any type of bike sold through big-box stores. The salespeople are seldom bicycle experts. This can affect assembly and repairs, and you might wind up spending any money you saved trying to get a budget bike to work properly. Many bike retailers won’t even service models sold from big-box outlets because the quality is so poor.
Another option is to buy a bike from a direct-to-consumer manufacturer. But it will need some final assembly, such as fitting the handlebars, seatpost, and pedals. You’ll need some mechanical aptitude, and you might need specific tools such as a hex or Allen key and a torque wrench. You may find it challenging to set up a disc-brake model without the pads rubbing on the rotor. You can take the bike to a local shop for assembly, but it will cost you.
That said, most bike shops sell e-bikes, and the sales and service staff are typically quite knowledgeable about them. Plus, they can help you make a solid choice if you decide you want to buy one.
We always recommend test-riding any bike before buying it. You should get a sense of how it feels, brakes, and shifts. (A dealer can customize the fit for you.) Some dealers will also allow you to rent an e-bike, giving you a chance for an extended ride on the road or trail you plan to frequent. Even if it’s not identical to the model you want to purchase, renting lets you gain additional seat time to settle on the style of e-bike that works best for you.
Once you’ve selected the model you want, keep in mind that it can be—and should be—further customized. The handlebar tape or grips, the pedals, and especially the saddle are your points of contact and control. Your hands, feet, and butt have to perch comfortably, and all of the bike’s parts should be adjusted to fit you. For instance, a new stem can lift the handlebars closer to your torso. A dealer can also add features for you that might not come with a bike, such as a bell, head and taillights, fenders, water bottle holders, a mount, and even a luggage rack. But the key is getting the fit right.
If you haven’t purchased a new bicycle in a while, you might be in for some sticker shock. Bicycles—especially electric ones—can be a relatively big-ticket item. In addition, tariffs on imported bicycles and parts will also increase prices.
Some bicycle shops offer layaway plans, where you make a down payment and pay the bike off in installments. The store will hold on to the bike until you are fully paid.
There are buy now, pay later options, and these vary in how they’re set up. A large finance company, Affirm, offers some 0 percent options, but it can also charge interest rates between 10 and 30 percent. Klarna is a competitor, and it’s more likely to offer a “pay in four” plan that has 0 percent interest on a four-month loan. How do these banks make a cent on zero-interest loans? Simple: Merchants or exercise bike brands like Peloton, which has zero-interest loans through Affirm, are fronting the finance charges because moving inventory is more valuable to them than making a few extra bucks off the financing.
Our advice: Consider the possibility of high interest rates before signing up for any buy now, pay later plan.
For more information, please visit Two Wheel E-Bike.