Alta Motorcycles
Every year Motorcycle.com gets invited to the press introductions for several new motorcycles – it’s the biggest perk of our job, and the reason all of us have stuck around as long as we have! The cycle goes like this: at the end of one year or the beginning of the next, manufacturers talk a big game about a new model launch, and/or the internet goes wild with social media rumors and opinions about a new bike. In turn we, the media, can’t wait to be the first to throw a leg over said bike to see what the fuss is about. Sometimes the motorcycle in question is a dud, other times it exceeds beyond our wildest dreams. Then you get the rare model that didn’t get much fanfare but turns out to be unexpectedly awesome.
Below, the crew at Motorcycle.com looked back at 2018 and picked some of our favorite First Rides of the year. These are the machines that impressed us from the moment we thumbed the starter for the first time, and often are the bikes we seriously consider adding to our own personal garages once we get home. It’s a good thing we don’t get paid enough to actually follow through. So what do we like? We’re glad you asked…
2019 Alta Redshift EXR Dual-Sport Video Review
I just spent last weekend riding Ol’ Faithful, my 2008 Honda CRF450R, up in Mammoth, California, on trails very similar to those I rode in Nevada City on the Alta Redshift EXR. Riding up in the Sierra Nevadas is an absolute must for any off-road or dual-sport rider, but it got me thinking… We were riding at a base altitude of about 7,880 feet before climbing up even higher into some of the area’s mountains and lookouts. As a result, Ol’ Faithful was starving for air and running out of steam on her top end.
Alta Was First Electric to Qualify for Erzberg Rodeo Last June
The Erzberg Rodeo is the toughest enduro in the world, and Alta took two riders to Austria last month to compete. Ty Tremaine qualified 43rd in his first ever attempt at Erzberg, and Lyndon Poskitt might’ve done much better than 113th if his race bikes and gear hadn’t been stolen out of his van at a rest stop dammit! As it was, Poskitt qualified on Ty’s back-up bike and then sat out the race. All you have to do is cover 22 miles in four hours to finish Erzberg; the Alta team came up just a bit short, but with what they learned this year, Husqvarna, KTM, Gas Gas and Beta could be in for a shock in 2019.
2019 Alta Redshift EXR Dual-Sport First Ride Review
Alta Motors is onto some next level sht when it comes to the electric motorcycle game, and riding one is an experience like none other.
Alta Motors HQ Tour Top 10
Alta’s co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, Derek Dorresteyn, is a motorcycle racer, and in his prime during the early 2000s, he was trying anything he could to squeeze more power and performance out of his KTM 450, but any gains he got somewhere, he lost elsewhere. Derek and his riding buddy Jeff Sand, another eventual co-founder and current Chief Development Officer, would get together and talk shop all the time, and they loved the idea of a smooth and perfectly responsive torque curve but understood how difficult this was to achieve with a gas-powered bike.
So, with a few decades worth of fabrication, engineering and design expertise between the both of them, they started tinkering with the idea of building their own electric motorcycle, a motorcycle that could not only deliver power in a way in which a gas bike couldn’t, but also a bike that could be easier to ride, too. In 2007, the first sketches of the original Redshift started coming together on bar napkins in San Francisco.
Enter Marc Fenigstein, the company’s third co-founder and current CPO. Among the three of them, they had the vision and means to create Alta, and Alta Motors was conceived on October 21, 2010, after a few rounds of whiskey – a story as old as time.
We got the opportunity to check out and tour Alta’s whole operation in Brisbane, CA, a small town just south of San Francisco, and below are ten cool/neat/interesting things we saw while there. Enjoy.
2019 Alta Motors Redshift EXR Dual-Sport Enduro First Look
The news just keeps getting better. Alta has announced the latest addition to its growing family of electric-powered dirtbikes. This time it’s the ‘R’ version of the Bay Area-based manufacturer’s fully street legal dual-sport, the 2019 Redshift EXR.
A couple months ago, we got to see how Alta’s motocrossers, the Redshift MX and MXR, stood up and compared to regular gas-powered bikes, and we came away impressed. It’s crazy how easy and intuitive riding the Redshifts is. It takes a couple minutes for your brain and moto-senses to recalibrate and forget there’s no clutch or gears to click through, and there’s a whole new set of sounds to get used to as well (or lack thereof). However, as soon as you get over all of that, everything falls into place and you feel like you’re riding a bike no different from anything else. It’s kind of a trip…
Pros and Cons of the Electric Motorcycle
Love them or loathe them, electric vehicles are here to stay. Electric cars are already highly practical: Tesla’s Model S can go over 300 miles on a charge, and even the subcompact Chevy Bolt EV hatchback is supposedly able to go 238 miles. But those are cars, and the Tesla’s battery weighs 1200 pounds, the Bolt’s 960. Not so practical for a motorcycle, where the whole vehicle needs to weigh about half that.
What’s really needed to make the electric motorcycle really take off, of course, is new battery technology that allows those electricity-storage containers to get lighter and smaller. Rest assured, there are thousands of brilliant minds working on that as we speak. I wouldn’t bet against them, but who knows how long the magnesium-ion battery, or whatever it winds up being, will take? For now, these are the benefits and drawbacks of the electric motorcycle as she stands in the year of our Lord 2018.
Discuss this story more at our Electric Motorcycle Forum
2018 Alta Motors Redshift MX and MXR Video Review
Two weeks ago we got the opportunity to ride the all-new Alta Motors 2018 Redshift MXR, as well as the Redshift MX for comparison. It was my first time riding an Alta, and an electric dirtbike for that matter, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. How easy would it be to ride and how would it compare to a regular gas-powered dirtbike?
Well, as it turns out, they’re just as easy to ride (easier actually) and just as easy to crash, too! What I liked about both bikes was how intuitive the throttle response was and especially how much torque they delivered. With 120 and 147 ft-lbs available on the MX and MXR, respectively, goosing the throttle at any speed provided instant acceleration.
2018 Alta Motors Redshift MX and MXR First Ride Review
We’ve all heard about them, talked about them, and maybe even looked them up on Google, but in the end, most of us probably figured a full-size electric dirtbike is an expensive and impractical novelty motorcycle only those with deep s could afford to add to their toy collection… until now. Alta Motors has just released an upgraded 2018 Redshift MX model as well as its all-new Redshift MXR, and we finally got to throw a leg over both, not only to see if they lived up to the hype, but how they stack up to their gas burning rivals.
Harley-Davidson Invests in Electric Motorcycle Maker Alta Motors
(Update: We’ve received some clarification from Harley-Davidson: the product of Project LiveWire is on track for 2019, but the arrangement with Alta Motors is for new electric models beyond the LiveWire. This story has been updated to reflect this information.)
Harley-Davidson announced it is working with Alta Motors to develop and design new electric motorcycles. Harley has made an equity investment into the California-based maker of the Redshift electric motorcycles, and the two companies will collaborate on future electric Harley-Davidson models. Terms of the deal were not released.
Based on trademark filings Motorcycle.com was first to report on last month, we expected Harley-Davidson will used the name H-D Revelation to refer to an electric powertrain; it’s likely this will be used to brand the Project LiveWire powertrain, but it’s not clear if the brand will be shared with the fruits of the collaboration with Alta.
Alta Motors to Produce R Versions of Redshift MX, EX and SM
Electric motorcycle maker Alta Motors is set to double its model lineup with the addition of R-spec versions of its Redshift MX motocrosser, Redshift EX enduro bike and Redshift SM supermoto.
According to filings submitted to NHTSA, Alta Motors will begin producing the Redshift MXR, Redshift EXR and Redshift SMR during this quarter. The new R models will have a slight change to the chemistry in their lithium-ion battery packs.
According to the filings, the changes are to improve the Alta Pack’s thermal properties, claiming superior performance while not having any effect on weigh or overall power. The filings also claim no effect on range, though they do indicate a slight drop in the battery’s capacity from 5.8 kWh to 5.7 kWh.
The Rise of Electric Vs. Gas-Powered Motorcycles
As futuristic as the future may one day be, I’ll be the guy hoarding all the loud, leaky, inefficient, fossil-fueled motors that most of the world will consider to be boat anchors and giant paperweights – call it my Redneck 401k. One day they might be considered old-fashioned, but there’s just something extremely gratifying about an internal combustion engine that an electric motor could never replicate. Mostly it’s the sound and feel, obviously, and it used to be about the performance, but electric motorcycles have evolved and come a long way in recent years.
One company that’s leading the charge (get it? …charge?) is Alta Motors with its Redshift line of bikes that includes an Enduro, Motocross and Supermoto variant. All three bikes feature the same water-proof battery that crams 5.8 kWh into 30.8 kilos (67.9 lbs) with a maximum of 350V providing a claimed 40 HP and 120 lb-ft of torque. Range varies with output map selection, but Alta says to expect approximately three hours of continuous use depending on how hard you’re twisting the throttle. Recharging is said to take four hours at 120V and just two and a half at 240V. From there, the weight, suspension, wheels and geometry differ from model to model to tailor the bikes to perform best for their respective purposes.
2015 Alta Motors RedShift MX and SM Preview Video
Astute e-bike fans might remember the name BRD, the group setting out to make an electric motocross (and supermoto) competitor from the ground up, called the Redshift, with an emphasis on performance. As we found out at the AIMExpo recently, 2015 brings the bike and the company a few surprises.
For starters, BRD is no more. Presenting those in attendance with a Photoshopped Chef Boyardee logo as some sort of cryptic reason for the name change, the company now goes by Alta Motors, in reference to “Alta California,” the geographic location of its San Francisco, CA headquarters back when the land was under Mexico’s rule.
Name changes aside, the Alta Motors Redshift is making waves as a potentially groundbreaking electric motorcycle. It’s designers and engineers never set out for the title of best electric motorcycle, instead setting the bar higher and working towards a machine that could go toe-to-toe with gas bikes in the competition arena. While we have yet to ride the Redshift MX or its street-legal supermoto variant, the bike is nonetheless interesting.
Recall issued for new Alta electric enduros
In a letter published online, the US Department of Transportation has issued a safety recall for the Alta Redshift EXR and MXR electric bikes.
The problem was described as follows:
“Alta Motors (Alta) is recalling certain 2019 Alta Redshift EXR and 2018-2019 Alta Redshift MXR motorcycles. The software for the throttle control may fault if the throttle is rolled forward past the closed position. possibly resulting in a motorcycle stall.”
With the recall expected to begin this month, Alta will notify owners and dealers to install an update for the throttle software, free of charge.
MCN MODEL GUIDES
The Californian electric bike manufacturer Alta Motors released details on their new 2019 Redshift EXR earlier this year.
Boasting 49bhp with 42ftlb of torque, the EXR is Alta’s top-of-the range model and is fully road legal, meaning it can be used for green lane riding as well as pure off-roading.
Building on the 2018 Enduro EX’s base, the 2019 R version adds upgraded WP suspension as well as squeezing more performance from the firm’s water-cooled electric motor through a new 5.8kWh Li-ion battery. Charge times are also reduced (to just one-and-a-half hours) and its weight cut to a trim 124kg.
Although there is currently no UK importer for Alta motorcycles, MCN understands a firm is close to securing the rights to bring these bikes into the UK and expects to import the full model range in 2019. While Alta’s new offering neatly dodges one of the main issues with electric bikes, weight, it still fails to fend off concerns about a high ticket price.
The Redshift EXR is expected to retail for about £12,500; which is around £4000 more than a petrol-powered equivalent spec enduro. However, the EXR should be eligible for the government’s electric grant knocking it down to £11,000.
Range is claimed to be about 50 commuting miles with four hours of spirited trail riding reckoned to be possible on a single charge.
Top-spec suspension
WP XPlor 48 forks split damping functions between legs with the compression. WP shock is fully-adjustable.
Extended range
Alta claim the EXR can cover 50 miles of commuting, four hours trail riding or three 25 motocross sessions.
Power modes
The EXR has four power maps; Eco, Sport, Performance and Overclocked, with power and torque varied.
Power packed
Alta’s liquid-cooled electric motor revs to 14,000rpm and weighs 6.8kg. Producing 49bhp and 42ftlb of torque.
Have a browse for your next bike on MCN Bikes For Sale.
The 10 Best Electric Dirt Bikes to Ride in 2023
Over the last decade, the electric vehicle segment has experienced enormous technological leaps and bounds, giving way to increasingly powerful and compact motors and battery packs. It’s only been within the last year or two, however, that this technology has finally become potent and advanced enough to genuinely lend itself to use in off-road motorcycles. So, while this segment may not have even really existed half a decade ago, there’s recently been a major influx of new, ever-more-capable models hitting the market on a regular basis — the latest and greatest of which we’ll be counting down in this curated guide to the best electric dirt bikes.
While the sheer number of available options on the market currently gives riders a diverse selection of proton-powered machines from which to choose, it’s also made it increasingly difficult to hone in on the bike that best suits you and your intended riding use — especially to the uninitiated. In an effort to streamline the experience of shopping in this emerging segment, we’ve broken it down, delving into the benefits of electric dirt bikes and what to consider when shopping, before diving into our picks for the best battery-powered dirt bikes currently on the market.
Batteries Benefits
The Upsides Advantages Of Electric Dirt Bikes
There are numerous areas in which modern electric dirt bikes are objectively superior to their gas-powered counterparts — seven of the most crucial of which we’ll be unpacking below.
Unparalleled Power: At times boasting more than ten times as much torque as standard 450cc dirt bikes, electric models offer what are truly remarkable, otherwordly amounts of torque. And, as an electric motor without a powerband, the gobs of stump-pulling torque produced by EV dirt bikes are unleashed instantaneously — rather than over a gas-fed engine’s rev range.
Minimal Noise: And, as much as we enjoy the roaring four-stroke or the ringing of a two-stroke engine, the lack of an internal combustion engine does admittedly allow the rider to better appreciate their surroundings when riding out in nature — not to mention the fact electric dirtbikes don’t annoy neighbors or attract unwanted attention from park rangers and/or law enforcement. With that said, electric dirtbike motors are far from silent, producing a whirling sound that increases in pitch as RPMs go up — not unlike a gas engine, albeit markedly quieter.
Reduced Maintenance: With far fewer moving parts, no need to change out fluids, spark plugs, or filters, and no cams or timing chains to adjust, motorcycles that are kicked along by EV powertrains require far less maintenance than regular gas-fed dirt bikes. This makes ownership a much more convenient experience, especially compared to two-stroke models that need top-end rebuilds after every couple dozen hours of riding.
TwistGo Throttle: Without the need for a clutch and gearbox, electric powertrains are markedly more approachable than their manually-shifted counterparts, lowering the intimidation factor and making riding more accessible to novices. Rather than having to work a clutch and shift lever, electric dirt bikes boast an automatic, “twist-and-go” style throttle — which can often have its sensitivity adjusted.
Smart Tech Future-Proofing: Because electric powertrains are regulated by modern, computerized controllers, the motor’s performance characteristics can be adjusted, with elements such as throttle response, traction control, and “engine braking” able to be dialed in on the fly. As rolling Smart devices, electric dirt bikes also often come with capabilities such as geofencing and tracking, remote locking and unlocking, and firmware updates that can be received over the air, largely future-proofing any one particular model.
Environmentally Friendly: While it probably goes without saying, since zero-emission vehicles don’t produce any combustion, electric dirt bikes are almost always tremendously more environmentally friendly and sustainable compared to gas bikes. With the right equipment on hand, some of these bikes can also be solar-charged.
Freedom Of Design: Traditionally, the layout of dirt bikes has been dictated by the positioning of vital components such as the engine and gas tank. Electric dirt bikes, on the other hand, aren’t limited by this layout and can have their motor and battery pack(s) strategically located in a myriad of different places, giving designers and engineers markedly more freedom, along with the ability to experiment with outside-the-box ideas and setups.
Battery-Powered Braappers
Factors To Consider When Buying An Electric Dirtbike
Whether it’s an enduro, supersport, or an electric dirt bike, purchasing your first motorcycle can be a daunting task, especially if you didn’t grow up riding. Knowing this firsthand, we’ve generated this handy primer on the eight most important areas to review before buying your first — or next — electric dirt bike.
Battery: Batteries obviously play a crucial role in the overall quality and performance of an electric dirt bike. Areas such as capacity, voltage, and the number of cells will collectively determine specs such as range, recharge times, and the number of lifecycles. It’s also worth exploring if a battery is swappable, as well as what types of outlets or chargers it’s compatible with.
Motor: As the heart of any electric dirt bike, its motor is extremely important. When shopping for a battery-powered motocross machine, you’ll want to explore factors such as the type of motor, how much it weighs, how it’s cooled, and where it’s mounted on the bike (typically the swing-arm or frame).
Power: The immense power produced by electric dirt bikes is undoubtedly one of the segment’s biggest benefits over traditional petrol-powered models. As such, it’s well worth exploring an e-MXers horsepower and torque figures — the former of which is often measured in kilowatts.
Running Gear: While a dirt bike’s power and acceleration are primarily owed to its powertrain (and gearing, to some extent), its other riding characteristics mainly boil down to the running gear — or components — with which they’re equipped. This includes elements such as an e-dirt bike’s suspension setup, chassis, swing-arm, and braking hardware — all of which play a pivotal role in a bike’s handling and stopping power.
Size Weight: Just like with traditional dirt bikes — that are typically offered in everything from 49cc up through 450cc sizes — electric models come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, with a slew of different seat heights and riding positions. These battery-powered bikes can also weigh in at anywhere between around 100lbs all the way up to two-wheelers pushing 400lbs. When reviewing this particular area, you’ll want to consider your height, skill level, intended riding applications, and whether or not the bike’s ergonomics (and/or seat height) can be adjusted.
Smart Tech: GPS tracking, remote unlocking, and on-the-fly parameter adjustments are all frequently featured on late model electric dirt bikes, allowing for more personalization. What’s more, similar to smartphones, today’s electric dirt bikes also often come loaded with sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, wheel speed monitors, and GPS sensors — all of which feed data several hundred times every second into an advanced processor.
App Connectivity: A growing number of dirt bikes are now being offered with connectivity to dedicated smartphone apps that allow users to adjust settings and parameters of the bike, such as power output, throttle response, traction control, or ABS levels. Many of these apps can also be used to download over-the-air updates.
Experience Level: No matter what type of motorcycle you’re purchasing, your search should always be limited by your level of skill and riding experience. Starting on a machine that’s too large and too powerful isn’t just inconducive to learning, it’s downright dangerous — plus it limits the amount of fun the rider has, as they’re forced to FOCUS on keeping the bike in check rather than perfecting their technique and advancing as a rider. The good news, however, is that quite a few of today’s electric dirt bikes can have their power level and throttle response adjusted (i.e. lowered) in order to be compatible with novice pilots.
SUR-RON Light Bee X
Tipping the scales at just a tad over 100lbs (plus the weight of its 60V, 176-cell Lithium-ion battery), SUR-RON’s Light Bee X is a lightweight, entry-level electric dirtbike that boasts a 47mph top speed and a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge — depending on what riding mode is being used. Constructed around an anodized 6061 T4 and T6 aluminum frame that’s created under 6,000 tons of pressure, the Light Bee X also features a rear mono-shock with a DNM TR link system and an inverted front fork that affords 8” of travel.
Top Speed: 50 MPH Output: 12 HP, 42 Nm of torque Charge Time: 1.8 Hours
Segway X260
Though Segway built its name on producing standup electric scooters, the company has since applied its EV knowhow to producing a wide range of battery-powered vehicles, from go-karts to scooters to electric dirt bikes. The brand’s X260 offers solid performance with a 47mph top speed, a roughly 120-lb curb weight, and a whopping 185ft-lbs of torque. Other highlights include connectivity to a smartphone app, swappable batteries, and an LED headlight, all as standard. In addition to being sold in a slew of different color options, this model is also offered in a more affordable and less powerful 3,500 X160-spec.
Top Speed: 85 MPH Output: 46 HP, 106 Nm of torque Charge Time: 9.7 Hours
Graft EO.12
Based in New Taipei City, Taiwan, Graft is an American-run EV Powersports company producing electric side-by-sides, four-wheelers, and dirtbikes, such as the EO.12. Weighing only 110lbs, the EO.12 — which was unveiled in prototype form in late 2021 — boasts a frame that’s been machined from aluminum billet before being paired with a custom mono-shock-equipped swing-arm, and a long-travel, three-way-adjustable FOX Racing fork. Benefitting from the use of swappable batteries and numerous 3D-printed TiAl6V4 titanium components, the EO.12’s 20-kW powertrain cranks out an otherworldly 324.5ft-lbs of instantaneous torque. The bike also rides on an off-road-focused 21” front, 18” rear wheel set with carbon fiber rims.
Top Speed: 50 MPH Output: 42 HP Charge Time: 2 Hours
KTM FREERIDE E-XC
The first modern, mass-produced electric dirtbike from a reputable, mainstream manufacturer, KTM’s FREERIDE E-XC combines the Ready To Race brand’s signature blend of high-end components and an advanced chassis with a cutting-edge, fully-electric powertrain that generates 24.5hp and 31ft-lbs of torque — making it roughly comparable to your average gas-powered 250cc dirt bike or dual-sport. As one would expect from KTM, the FREERIDE E-XC comes loaded with top-shelf componentry such as WP XPLOR suspension fore and aft, along with FORMULA braking hardware. This model’s Lithium-ion KTM PowerPack battery also affords a range of around 25 miles per charge.
Top Speed: 56 MPH Output: 13.4 HP, 42 Nm of torque Charge Time: 2.5 Hours
Stark VARG Alpha
Touted as “the world’s fastest motocross bike,” the Stark VARG Alpha is a ridiculously high-performance off-roader with a state-of-the-art fully-electric powertrain that’s good for 80hp and an unheard-of 691.8ft-lbs of torque. Weighing in at under 250lbs, the VARG also gets KYB suspension offering more than a foot of travel front and back, innovative skid plate design, forged and CNC-machined wheels, the world’s lightest foot-pegs, Brembo brakes, 100 different ride modes, and the ability to custom-tune a slew of parameters including power curve, engine braking, and traction control. The VARG’s IP69K-rated 6kWh battery also affords up to six hours of ride time. Based in Spain, Stark also offers a 60-HP standard version of the VARG for 1,000 less.
Top Speed: 45 MPH Output: 16 HP, 27 Nm of torque Charge Time: 2.5 Hours
Trevor DTRe Stella
While admittedly not what typically springs to mind when discussing electric dirt bikes, Trevor’s DTRe Stella is a closed-course only, battery-powered two-wheeler built specifically for use on dirt tracks. This electric, turnkey flat track racer is built around a minimalistic trellis frame that’s designed by Sarolea Performance and capped off with a single-piece tank and tracker-style tail section unit. Individually built by hand in Belgium, this bike features 19” Haan spoked wheels shod in Dunlop flat track tires, an 11-kW air-cooled brushless DC3 motor, and a 2.7-kWh C-battery pack that offers a more than 60-mile range and can be fully recharged in under an hour. Alongside the off-road-only model, Trevor is also producing a street-legal variant of the DTRe Stella for around 15,300.
CAKE Kalk OR race
Representing the Swedish marque’s top-of-the-line, race-spec electric dirt bike model, the CAKE Kalk OR race is a high-performance motocrosser with sleek Scandanavian design language and a top-shelf array of components that includes Öhlins suspension front and back, custom brakes, and bespoke wheels. Weighing only 165lbs, the Kalk OR race produces more than 200ft-lbs of torque, giving it a remarkable power-to-weight ratio. The CAKE also has multiple ride modes with different power settings, allowing new riders to work their way up to more powerful maps as their skill level progresses. On top of a street-legal Kalk model, CAKE also makes an INK-spec of the Kalk race that comes with lower-end suspension and a more affordable 11,500 MSRP.
E-Racer RUGGED Mark2
Based on the Zero FXS, the E-Racer RUGGED Mark2 is an air-drop-capable, reconnaissance-style electric dirt bike that takes heavy inspiration from military vehicles. In addition to sporting its own structural aluminum square-stock chassis and subframe with integrated lift-hooks, the Mk2 RUGGED sports custom kevlar and carbon fiber bodywork coated in ultra-hardwearing Line-X ballistic armor and finished with a dozen Eagle Eye LED perimeter lights. Other unique details include a 3D-printed nylon and Alcantara MX-style saddle resting on a hinged seat-pan, a triple Poliessoidal LED Highsider headlight, custom handguards, a skid-plate, illuminated ‘RUGGED’ badges, and ballistic tape-wrapped Showa suspension backed by an AirTender kit.
Tactica T-Race Cross
Made by boutique Italian firm Tactica, the T-Race Cross is an ultra-high-performance, spare-no-expense competition-grade electric dirt bike that’s been engineered specifically to win races. Brimming with top-of-the-line components including Brembo brakes and Öhlins suspension front and aft, the T-Race Cross also boasts a manual five-speed gearbox, two power modes, sleek blacked-out bodywork, and a single-shell split chrome-molybdenum chassis. And, while its range may seem extremely limited, its battery size was chosen to provide enough energy for 2 hot laps and nothing more.
FLUX Performance Primo
Made by Slovenian startup FLUX Performance, the Primo is a ridiculously state-of-the-art electric dirtbike with some absolutely incredible performance figures. Powering the Primo is a frame-mounted electric motor with Formula 1-inspired straight cut gears that cranks out 85hp and an astounding 553.2ft-lbs of torque at the rear wheel. Running off of a 6.7kWh, 400V swappable battery that’s set in a fully waterproof, aerospace-grade housing, the Primo is also equipped with a host of Smart sensors, remote locking, GPS tracking, and the ability to adjust half-a-dozen different riding parameters on the fly. Also produced in street-legal dual-sport and supermoto variants, the Primo’s perimeter-style aluminum cradle frame has been paired with a custom-designed cast swing-arm, an Öhlins’ twin-tube-tech-equipped TTX mono-shock, and a top-shelf 48mm inverted KYB fork.
Honorable Mentions
Alta Redshift MXR
Despite producing what at the time was unquestionably the most advanced, cutting-edge, and capable electric dirt bike in existence, Alta Motors sadly shuttered its doors in late 2018, putting an immediate end to all operations, including production. With that said, if you’re shopping for an electric dirtbike, Alta’s Redshift models — including the MXR — are still well worth considering. And, while it may require some legwork and patience, Alta’s dirt bikes can still occasionally be found at select dealerships, as well as on eBay, Craigslist, and auction sites like Bring a Trailer.
GRID Cycles E-Scrambler
Created by Purpose Built Moto’s new EV division GRID Cycles, this honorable mention offers the performance of a modern electric dirt bike along with the appearance of a retro-inspired scrambler motorcycle with a replica Yamaha XT500 tank, a scrambler-style seat, and a classically-styled circular headlight shell housing a 5.75” Flashpoint LED beam. The E-Scrambler is based on KTM’s FREERIDE E-XC, and as such its power and range figures go almost entirely unchanged. The E-Scrambler also sports a black livery contrasted via an orange frame and red and orange accents — a nod to 1970s race liveries.
The Best Electric Motorcycles Currently Available
interested in a road-going eBike? Then be sure to cruise over to our guide to the best electric motorcycles for a handpicked list of all-electric two-wheelers from supermotos to superbikes.
Top 5 Fastest Electric Dirt Bikes for Adults in 2022
Only when you step out into the unknown do adventures begin. For some riders who enjoy the thrill of off-roading, this entails riding their bikes on surfaces other than paved ones. The dirt bike is their preferred mode of transportation for going on adventures.
Here is a list of the top 5 Electric Dirt bikes that we believe are worth your attention if you’re looking for the best dirt bikes to buy. Be aware that some of these bikes have been pre-released but have also been announced for sale in India. Some of them might not even be permitted on public roadways. With the advent of the electric dirt bike, our off-road environment of dirt, mud, and rocks has undergone a significant transformation.
A motorbike built for use on difficult terrain that is powered by batteries is known as an electric dirt bike. An electric dirt bike is noise- and maintenance-free equipment that is more environmentally friendly than a typical dirt bike.
But, Does the electric dirt bike provide the same level of strength, speed, and driving enjoyment as the classic off-road motorcycle?
They were previously known as “e-dirt bikes” and were intended as toys for children and teenagers. However, with the most recent innovations and advancements in electric motors and battery technology, we are set to test the boundaries of battery-powered bikes on the harshest terrains and dirt tracks.
following is the list of the top 5 fastest electric dirt bikes in 2022
| Electric Scooters | Top Speed |
| Alta Redshift MX | 180km |
| CAKE Kalk OR | 180km/h |
| KTM Freeride E-XC | 180 km/h |
| Sur-Ron X | 169 km/h |
| ZERO FX ZF7.2 ZF3.6 | 137 km/h |
Redshift MX Electric Motocross Bike from Alta Motors
A professional, full-featured race motocross dirt bike is the Alta Redshift MX.
Although Alta Motors no longer produces electric dirt bikes, we had to include this model on the list. It continues to be the ONLY fully functional electric motocross dirt bike made.
A Redshift is still available on the used dirt bike market. The Redshift MX has a top speed of about 50 mph, and its battery life is about an hour. But the Redshift MX’s superior construction is what sets it apart. The dirt bike has top-notch components all over.
The front fork and rear shock of the Alta Motors Redshift are also equipped with WP suspension. The brakes on a well-built, high-quality dirt bike are what you would come to expect.
The BEST electric dirt bike available was this one. Since Alta Motors regrettably closed its doors in 2019, you cannot purchase a new one for 2020, hence I did not include it above.
Get one if you can on the used dirt bike market!
Alta Redshift MX Specifications and Features
- Pro WP suspension
- Pro brakes
- Pro chassis
- The best electric dirt bikes
- the highest speed of 50 mph
- 60-minute running time
CAKE Kalk OR
Sweden’s top electric dirt bike, the Kalk OR, is built for off-road performance. The Swedish business Cake is dedicated to creating cutting-edge, lightweight electric dirt bikes. They currently have a limited number of models from the Kalk lineup, grouped into two groups. both for backcountry exploration and racing.
Models made by Kalk or Freeride are appropriate for backcountry trail riding.
While dirt motorcycles like the Kalk Or and Ink Race Models are made for racing, keep in mind that they have the same power as the opposing freeride line-up and are just a little heavier.
Kalk OR electric dirt bike Specifications
- run time of three hours
- eleven kW (15hp)
- the maximum speed of 50 mph
- max torque of 42 Nm, with 280 Nm on the back wheel
- Three ride settings
- 2.5-hour charging period
- brakes on a motorcycle
- Fork and shock of Ohlins
KTM Freeride E-XC Electric Dirt Bike
The new 2022 KTM Freeride E-XC is a hybrid between a full-size enduro/motocross dirt bike and a trial dirt bike, just like the previous 2020 and 2021 models.
The removable Lithium-Ion KTM PowerPack powers the 2021 KTM Freeride E-XC Electric Dirt Bike. This enables you to purchase an extra lithium-Ion KTM battery that you can quickly switch out when you go riding for the day.
The KTM Freeride E-XC is a single-speed automatic with a maximum horsepower output of 24.5.
However, do not be deceived by the modest horsepower…
- Outstanding torque can be obtained with an electric dirt bike.
- The KTM PowerPack battery can be fully charged in 1.3 hours.
- The electric Freeride is made of a steel composite frame, so it can withstand any punishment you may give it.
- The stock shocks on the 2021 Freeride E-XC are WP Xplor PDS.
- The 2022 KTM Freeride’s seat height is 910 mm. or 35.82 inches.
KTM Freeride E-XC features and specifications for 2022
- 24.5 maximum HP with 5000 RPM Xplor 48 PDS Changeable Shock Absorber PowerPack Lithium-Ion
- Single-speed liquid-cooled automatic
- Ground Coverage 13,38 in. (340 mm)
Sur-Ron X- Electric Dirt Motorbike
In the world of electric dirt bikes, the Sur Ron X electric dirt bike is a relative newbie.
A few distinctive aspects of the Sur-Ron dirt bike are noteworthy. When you take off the throttle while in sports mode, the Sur Ron X enables Regenerative coasting and recharges the battery.
The battery in the Sur-Ron electric dirt bike is made by Panasonic. The Sur-Ron X’s top speed is 20 MPH, which is not very fast for a motorcycle that is allowed on public roads. To increase the power/top speed, you can make a simple tweak, though.
The Sur Ron dirt bike has a 62-mile range when configured in the street-legal mode, although I have my doubts about this. The battery has a full suspension, front, and rear brakes, and is swappable.
Specs and Features for Sur Ron X
- 47 mph top speed, 6 kW maximum power
- range of 20 to 60 miles (Sport or Eco Mode)
- 3 hours for charging
- in two suspensions
- Removable Ion battery pack from Panasonic
- Both wheels have regenerative coasting piston hydraulic brakes.
ZERO FX ZF7.2 ZF3.6 in 2022
The Zero FX Electric Dirt Bike has a powerful electric drivetrain and a sleek design. It is an honorable mention in the field of electric dirt bikes thanks to its incredible torque and conceivably greatest speed. A firm called Zero Motorcycles only produces electric motorcycles. The team at Zero Motorcycles appears to have poured their heart and soul into creating electric dirt bikes. The Eco and Sport modes are yours to pick from in the Zero Motorcycle App.
The 2022 ZERO FX ZF7.2 ZF3.6 is without a doubt the greatest hybrid Electric Dirt Bike. The 2022 FX models from Zero were created for both on- and off-road use, making them more comfortable than other electric bikes.
Power and battery:
The only difference between the 2022 ZERO FX ZF7.2 and the Zero FX ZF3.6 is the power and range provided by the various battery options. You can switch between Eco and Sport settings by downloading the Zero Motorcycle App. Zero Motorcycles is proud to offer a decent range of electric dirt bikes.
2022 ZERO FX ZF7.2
- Range 91 miles in the city and 39 miles on the highway
- 46 horsepower
- 78 pound-feet of torque