CleanTechnica Best E-Bikes You Can Buy In 2023
Together again, for the first time — CleanTechnica’s list of the best e-bikes and electric motorcycles you can buy in 2023!
We are well into 2023, and while the global bike market may be slowing down, the weather is warming up and e-bikes are still hot, hot, hot! What’s more, we’re here to help you find those diamonds in the rough with the help of a brand-new “best bikes” list that will help you find the right electrified two-wheeler for you!
Once again, I’ll be introducing you to my personal picks for the best e-bikes you can buy this year, based on nearly 30 years of riding, fixing, and building stuff that goes fast — as well as, you know, wild conjecture (since there’s one or two bikes on this list that I haven’t yet had a chance to ride — I’ll make that clear enough in the article, though). We’ll be looking forward to hearing your thoughts on my picks — and learn more about your picks! — in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев section at the bottom of the page.
Without further ado, then, here they are, in something that feels tantalizingly like a logical order: the best e-bikes you can buy in 2023!
Best Electric Bikes for Kids
Kawasaki Elektrode (little kids)
Marketed as electric balance bikes instead of beginner motorcycles, the new Kawasaki Elektrode takes on similarly-sized powered balance bikes with Harley-Davidson, KTM, or Husqvarna branding. They’re all great fun, but the novelty of the Kawi, combined with something closer to an e-bike than a cordless drill battery, makes it our 2023 choice for introducing little ones to the physics and fun of motorcycles.
Woom UP 5 (big kids)
The Woom UP 5 is an ultralight 24″ electric mountain bike with a suspension fork, Fazua drive, and disc brakes designed for children aged 7 years and up that uses the electric motor to “boost” the kids’ leg strength. The thinking is that your child will be able to keep up (UP! I get it!) with faster adult riders on uphills and trails, but still teach them the physics and muscle memory they’ll need to grow as riders.
The Woom UP 5’s features and aluminum frame, adjustable “AIRFORK” suspension, disc brakes, and a trigger-shifter operated SRAM NX transmission. Pricing starts 3,599 in the US, for riders age 7 and older.
Best Electric Bicycles / E-Bikes
FLX Babymaker II (entry gravel/road bike)
To my eyes, there’s nothing quite as sexy as a simple road bike. In the past, I’ve owned a Specialized Langster that remains a fond memory, twenty years on, but I secretly loved them all. Even so, the FLX Babymaker II, in the right light (above), is one of the best-looking pieces of rolling art I’ve ever seen. In person, they’re absolutely gorgeous, the electric motors and batteries are practically invisible, and … did I mention they’re gorgeous?
The best part is that those heart-stopping looks don’t carry a heart-stopping price tag. As I type this, the Babymaker II can be had for a mere 1499, which makes it one of the least expensive e-bikes I’ll recommend on this list.
Pivot E-Vault (high-end gravel bike)
Pivot E-Vault; courtesy Pivot.
The top-shelf Pivot E-Vault is one of those rare machines that gets better the longer you stare at it. It’s very nearly perfect — but, with a starting price of 9299 and only going up from there, it had better be!
For the price of a reliable new car, the Pivot Cycles E-Vault packs a 252Wh battery and 250W Fazua Evation drive pack that offers up to 55 Nm of electric power and top speed of 28 MPH. Pedal power is sent through a SRAM XPLR XG1271 10-44 cassette and ETAP AXS 12-speed derailleur and shifter, while a set of all-carbon 700c wheels from Reynolds keep this e-bike’s weight down to unelectrified levels.
Specialized S-Works Turbo Creo SL (road bike)
Image courtesy Specialized.
I’m a sucker for Specialized. The bikes’ clean frames, composite materials, and achingly beautiful finishes have always spoken to me, and even their most utilitarian bikes inspire sporty and aggressive riding. When you’re willing to push yourself, Specialized bikes tend to reward you for your efforts, and their Turbo line of e-bikes, marketed as “you, only faster,” do so double.
That said, where the comparatively pedestrian Specialized Turbo Vado I rode last summer is a supremely capable daily ride, a bike like the S-Works Turbo Creo SL (shown, above), is a Formula 1 car. And, like a Formula 1 car, no one has yet been daft enough to let me ride theirs. With a starting price of 21,400, I wouldn’t let me ride one, either. The Turbo Creo SL Comp E5 I have ridden, however, is a rocket ship at about a third the price. I can’t imagine a better machine, and yet: the S-Works Comp exists.
Aventon Sinch Step-Through (folding, fat-tire e-bike)
The Aventon Sinch Step-Through is thoroughly redesigned version of the brand’s Sinch folding fat-tired e-bike that’s priced at just 1,499. For that money, you get a 20 mph top speed, up to 40 miles of electrified riding range, and a backlit color display with app integration on a bike that’s ready to power you along just about any trail you find — as well as, of course, the beach!
When I rode the original Aventon Sinch for the first time, it really surprised me with its overall competence. The new, Step-through version, though, responds to my criticisms that the original Sinch felt too big when folded up, and the Step-through feels lighter on the move (it isn’t), thanks to the center of mass being more closely level with the center of the wheels. Last year, I summed up my take on the original Sinch with, “What more could you ask?”
It seems like Aventon took that as a challenge!
Gocycle G4 (lightweight folding e-bike)
GoCycle Fast Folding E-Bike; courtesy GoCycle.
At just 38 pounds, the Gocycle G4 is one of the lightest folding suspension e-bikes out there, and one of the most stylish, too! Our own Kyle Field tested the GX model in 2020 and raved about it — as he should! The Gocycle G4 leverages some impressive engineering feats to pack a ton of functionality into a high tech but easy to use package. What’s more, it’s incredibly adjustable, allowing for a full range of petite, small, medium, or extra-large riders to find a position that works for them, while the sturdy, Formula 1-inspired frame composite inspires confidence, too, as does the bike’s proprietary front hub motor gear drive with electronic traction control.
At more than 3,499, this bike isn’t cheap, and you’ll want to budget for a few Gocycle accessories, too — but this isn’t a list of the cheapest e-bikes you can buy, is it?
Flyer FL885 (kid cargo bike)
Image by Kyle Field; CleanTechnica.
The Radio Flyer-built Flyer L885 is a comfortable, capable cargo bike that uses fat tires and clever frame geometry to feel a lot smaller than it is. I was impressed with the prototype I rode, and for its price, the production bike has continued to impress. That said, what makes the LWB Flyer the best cargo bike isn’t any part of the bike itself, per se. Instead, it’s the accessories — specifically, the 299 Kid Cargo Carrier (below).
Like many other long wheelbase cargo e-bikes, the L885 can be had with a rear basket, passenger grab rails, and running boards to make loading and unloading kids easy and fun, but the Kid Cargo Carrier goes a step further. It transforms from a kids’ seat to cargo basket in as long as it takes you to unzip and clip. It looks like it’s meant to be there, too, instead of the hasty add-on that so many other cargo bike accessories seem like. The tubes are the same diameter as those in the Flyer L885 frame, and they’re finished in the same durable, semi-crinkle powder coat.
The Flyer L885 offers 50 miles of electric range, 5 riding modes accessible through an LCD display, a standard center stand, and is available for order through the Radio Flyer website with a starting price of 1,999.
ONYX LZR PRO 900W (entry eMTB)
ONYX is best known in the e-bike community as a maker of 80s inspired, retro-themed, hi-fi styled electric mopeds like RCR and CTY2, Those high-powered machines blur the line between e-bikes and electric motorcycles, but their latest product — the Tim Seward-designed LZR PRO eMTB shown here — draws a bright white line and stands its ground with the e-bikes. To that end, the new ONYX arrived without a screen, without an app, and without any of the associated BS intended to make e-bikes “more accessible,” which is extra hilarious if you know that Tim wears a prosthetic leg.
Tim Seward and the ONYX LZR PRO 900W; photo by the author.
Instead of aiming for mass appeal, then, the new LZR was seen tearing up a motocross course with riders leaping into the air and engaging all sorts of high-impact hijinks. And, for its part, the new bike seems ultra-capable. “When we let pro-riders try the LZR for the first time they came back with a huge smile,” explains Seward. “We are going to change the way everyone views e-bikes!”
Pivot Shuttle (high-end eMTB)
Image courtesy Pivot Cycles.
With a starting price higher than I paid for my first car, the Pivot Shuttle is never going to be a mass-market choice. The Defender Green Team XTR build does its best to be worth the money, though — it carries a spec sheet that’s second to none, with a who’s-who list of top-shelf components from Fox, Shimano, and more, all complimented by a massive new 726Wh battery that’s fully integrated into the bike’s downtube, yet designed for easy “hot swaps” on the trail, for hours of hardcore riding.
The Pivot makes zero sense. No bike with an 11,699 price tag makes sense — but this isn’t a rational purpose. You don’t buy a Shuttle because you’re rational. You buy one because you demand — and can afford! — the very best eMTB experience the 2-wheeled universe has to offer.
NIU BQi-C3 Pro (utility e-bike)
Image courtesy NIU mobility.
Weighing in at 67.5 pounds and packing not one but two energy-dense li-ion battery packs, the high-tech and ultra-polished NIU BQi-C3 Pro e-bike is the slick, sleek, electrified car replacement for urban professionals too busy to constantly worry about their bikes’ state of charge.
Those two batteries add a bit of weight to the NIU BQi-C3, sure, but they’re neatly integrated into the bike’s frame in a highly contrasting red and white (mine is red and white, it also comes in red and black) color motif that it hardly matters. And, because it’s from NIU, the electrical controls, throttle response, and connected app are all first-rate. The build quality, too, is excellent, and the whole thing is put together with a level of fit and finish not commonly found at the NIU’s surprisingly low 2199 starting price.
Aventon Aventure Step-Through (fat-tire utility e-bike)
Image by Kyle Field; CleanTechnica.
Our own Kyle Field said the Aventon Aventure electric bicycle, “could be the ultimate fat tire utility e-bike.” recently, Derek Markham agreed, adding that, “it could also serve as an excellent mid-life crisis motorcycle,” and, “the Aventure has ended up being my favorite electric bike so far.”
It’s hard to argue with those endorsements — and the specs back them up. Kyle said that the Aventure is, “an absolute tank of a bike.” Sporting massive tires, 720 watt-hour battery, a an impressive electric motor with a 750 watt average output and peak power output of 1,130 watts. Available in 3 sizes, covering heights from 5’1″ to 6’6″, starting at 1,899.
Rayvolt Cruzer (chopper-style e-bike)
Image by Kyle Field; CleanTechnica.
E-bike reviewers like Kyle Field and Micah Toll have praised the Spanish Rayvolt bikes and their bespoke, proprietary, brushless 3 phase DC motors for years — and I’ve largely ignored them, decided very much on my own that these long, low chopper-style e-bikes were little more than pleather-wrapped lowriders. But it was not long after I first swung a leg over a Rayvolt in Miami last October that I realized how wrong I was: these bikes are incredible!
Despite looking like a vintage Indian motorcycle, Rayvolt’s bikes are decidedly high-tech, offering features like regenerative braking that engineers at other bike brands have assured me were impossible. What’s more, the frames, forks, seats, and wheels are expertly made., parts are powder coated and anodized when painting them might be enough, and the kickstand feels sturdier than anything you’ll find on a Harley Sportster weighing several times as much.
On the move, too, the bike sticks in my memory like few other bikes I’ve ridden before or since. Credit the unique motor, dual-sensor crankset, and wholly intuitive back-pedaling regen for that. At over 4800 the way I’d spec one out, the Rayvolt Cruze isn’t cheap — but nothing cheaper is better.
14 15. Super73 Z Miami Indian eFTR Hooligan (moped-style e-bike)
When it was announced on April 1st of last year, I greeted the official Z-Miami press release with a sneer. “It sucks that this is an April Fools’,” I wrote one of my PR buddies. “This would be an awesome little bike.” The joke was on me, however: the Super73 Z-Miami was very, very real.
The “Miami” version of the bike was the result of Super73’s product team taking their original Z1 e-bike and re-engineering it from the ground up with a powerful new motor, lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame, and a convenient removable battery. On the move, it’s a noticeable step up from the Z1 that doesn’t make the old bike feel obsolete — it just makes you happy you waited to buy the new one, you know?
That’s not to say the Z-Miami was an easy choice. I very nearly gave the win to another moped-styled e-bike — one with a robust dealer network behind it, a convincing legacy brand tie-in, and a raft of upgrades and features above what the Z-Miami offers available as standard equipment … but that, too, was born from the Super73 braintrust. As such, I’ve taken the coward’s way out and declared this one a tie.
Image courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
Whether you go for Super73’s spartan Z-Miami or their loaded-up, dealer-only Indian eFTR Hooligan 1.2, you can’t really make a wrong choice. Let us know which one you picked in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев.
ONYX RCR 72V (blurring the lines)
If the Super73 bikes begin to blur the line between e-bikes and mopeds, the ultra-fast and gonzo powerful ONYX RCR blasts right over it at more than 30 MPH.
Despite a riding position and overall feel that’s similar to the Super73 and other moped-style e-bikes, the ONYX has a unique, almost handcrafted style that will make anyone who has vivid memories of VHS tapes and Atari joysticks feel right at home. Thoughtful details abound throughout the RCR, as well, with carefully managed cables, a bright, “Daymaker” style LED headlight, and ONYX logos placed subtly — but throughout the bike’s high-end components, this is one of those bikes that, if it speaks to you, it will speak to you like nothing else. The ONYX RCR 72V comes in at 5942 the way you want it, equipped with dirt kit, turn signals, pannier rack, fork covers, and knobby tires (you’ll want to ditch the plastic fender).
That’s a Wrap!
So, there it is. In what used to be a bit of an annual tradition at the old Gas2 that’s made its way back home to CleanTechnica — my list of the best electric bikes you’ll be able to buy this year. I’d love to hear what you think of it, what I may have missed, and what you would have put on the list in my place, so head on down to the Комментарии и мнения владельцев section at the bottom of the page, and make your voice heard.
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I’ve ridden every electric motorcycle out there. Here’s what I’ve discovered
Electric motorcycles are my jam. If I’m on two wheels and it’s not a bicycle, then odds are I’m on an electric motorcycle. I don’t ride them because they’re clean or green, though those are nice side benefits – I ride them because they’re fun and enjoyable. They’re infinitely better than sitting in a car watching the world go by through glass. And the ownership experience is so much nicer than gas motorcycles due to their greatly reduced maintenance, lower cost of ownership, lack of vibrating cacophony, and a laundry list of other reasons.
My love of these awesome e-motos has put me in a unique position of having ridden pretty much every one of them out there.
Now let me stop the pedants right here for a second. No, the title isn’t clickbait.
But to say it in more words than fit in a headline, I’ve ridden basically every electric motorcycle out there, not counting a few cool international models I’m still missing (Stark Varg, TS Bravo, etc.) and a few super low-volume boutique e-motorcycle companies in the US (Tarform, Lightning, etc.).
But other than those few edge cases, I’ve ridden every major electric motorcycle currently available in the US, and some that aren’t even available yet.
Here’s a rundown of what you need to know about each company, the cool bikes they build, and how they ride. And since I could never possibly cover each one in enough nitty-gritty detail in a single compilation article like this, make sure you click through to the in-depth reviews I’ve done on these bikes as well.
To avoid playing favorites, I’m also going to bang these out in alphabetical order. Sorry, Zero, but that’s on you guys.
One of the best parts is also just how many looks and Комментарии и мнения владельцев you get. The last time I was riding one was in San Francisco when I attended the Micromobility America 2022 conference. People were stopping me on street corners just to ask about these wild-looking things. Another experience near Miami was the same thing – people were riding up next to me on the street just to talk about it.
I also like how they have a locking trunk in back and how the rear seat can also be used for a decent amount of cargo space (when you’re not carrying a passenger).
The range is modest at around 100 miles in city conditions, but highway riding cuts that range down quickly. Don’t expect to go on long touring rides with these.
I’ve also tested the open-top Arcimoto Roadster, which feels more like a trike motorcycle. Its chopped top and sportier seating position give an entirely different sensation. It’s a lot of fun, but I prefer the FUV for daily riding.
Neither are the most practical vehicles on the road. They’re too wide to lane split but too small for carpool duty. But they make up for it in sheer charm.
The only other slight downside is that you’ve got to think about your placement on the road as a triple-track vehicle. Unlike a motorcycle, where you swerve around obstacles or a car where you straddle obstacles, triple-track vehicles like these trikes mean you have to be more accurate when “threading the needle” with potholes, road debris, etc. If this were your daily driver, then I’m sure you’d get used to it quickly. But each time I hop back in one, I have to remember that I’ve not only got three wheels on the ground, but each one follows a different line.
CAKE
CAKE has three main platforms: the Kalk electric dirt bike, the Ösa electric utility bike, and the Makka electric moped. To be fair, I’ve only tested the first two, and it wasn’t a particularly long test ride on either, but they were both quite enjoyable.
The Kalk is their original dirt bike-style electric motorbike. It introduced the brand’s Swedish design with a love-it-or-hate-it appearance and showed that CAKE was here to play with the big boys. You’ll regularly see CAKE Kalks flying through the air and taking big jumps in stride.
The bikes are powerful, fairly lightweight, and a lot of fun to ride, though they’re pretty pricey at around 14,000.
The lower cost INK line drops the price by a couple thousand bucks, but these still aren’t budget bikes. Fortunately, they do have both on- and off-road versions of the Kalk line, meaning you can actually use them as street-legal motorcycles too.
The CAKE Ösa is a utility bike that was first marketed as a “workbench on wheels.” That feels like a suitable name for these things. They are incredibly modular and are designed to be customized based on your needs. Whether that’s delivering packages, powering an electric saw for a carpentry job, or working as a forest ranger and carrying around axes and chainsaws, they’ve been outfitted for just about everything.
They’re also quite powerful and fun to ride. I was having a bit too much fun with one in a gravel lot in Munich, leading to one of my only motorcycle crashes from getting a bit too jubilant in the corners.
CAKE’s rides are awesome-looking and fun-riding electric motorcycles, but they don’t have the same bang-for-buck you’d get elsewhere. You’re paying for fancy Swedish design, which is still worth something, but it means these won’t be the best option if you’re trying to squeeze every penny. For those that want something different looking though, CAKE takes the cake.
CSC
CSC is a California-based motorcycle importer that deals with largely Chinese-made bikes, both ICE and electric. They’ve got some of the best in the business, and they only work with good-quality imports. They also have an absolutely massive warehouse in LA that is stocked to the brim with dozens of spares of every part on all of their bikes, which ensures that you get US-level service if you ever need a spare part. I’ve tested all of their electric motorcycles, but my sister has their CSC SG250, and the head mechanic at CSC even walked us through a carb tuning question over the phone while we worked on the bike. So don’t think that just because these are Chinese bikes means you’ll get bad quality or poor service. You get good versions of both.
Now let’s get to the bikes. The most impressive in the lineup is the CSC RX1E. I rode one near LA, and it was so much more impressive than I was expecting.
It’s got a super comfortable adventure bike setup, even though it’s really more of an urban commuter. But with a liquid-cooled motor, top speed of 80 mph (130 km/h), and a range of 112 miles (180 km), it can handle any commute you can throw at it. At its current price of 8,495, it gets you similar performance to an entry-level Zero motorcycle but at a fraction of the price.
A much smaller bike in the company’s lineup is the CSC City Slicker, which is more like a Honda Grom-sized electric motorcycle. It has a lower top speed of 45 mph (72 km/h) and is definitely meant for sticking to the city, hence the name.
The removable battery makes it convenient for charging in an apartment, yet it still gives you all the motorcycle fun of flying around turns while trying to drag knee. It may have scooter-level performance, but it comes in a motorcycle-shaped package. When riding the City Slicker, I would always get questions from people and thumbs-ups along the way. There’s just something about a mini-moto that makes people look up.
Speaking of scooters, the CSC Wiz has much of the City Slicker’s performance but in a true scooter platform. That means you get a cargo trunk, a step-through body for even more cargo space at your feet, and a big comfortable seat with plenty of room for a second rider. As long as you are OK with speeds in the low 40’s of mph, then the Wiz is a great, low-cost electric scooter option at just 2,495.
Last but not least, you’ve got to check out the CSC Monterey. At just 2,195, this vintage Honda Cub-inspired scooter looks incredible. It’s underpowered and only gets up to 32 mph (51.5 km/h), but it makes up for the lackluster performance in pure charm.
I got a Monterey, and everywhere I went, people would smile and give me a thumbs-up. When I parked, people inevitably want to ask me about it. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure. I ultimately gave it to my father, who gets a kick out of the classic styling. It also goes nicely in his retro-themed garage. If you live in a beach community or other area with lower-speed roads where a 32 mph scooter will suffice, the CSC Monterey is a hoot to ride.
I’m more of a comfort cruiser type of rider than a super-tucked sport rider, and so while the Ribelle is fun, that streetfighter is sportier than I really need. The EsseEsse9 was my favorite with its lower pegs and higher bars, even if the bike has slightly less power than the Ribelle.
But when Energica launched the Experia, that bike quickly became my favorite of the bunch. The sport tourer combined a powerful drivetrain with a comfortable and upright seating position. And with level 3 DC fast charging, touring is a reality with quick charge stops while grabbing a coffee or a bite to eat.
The Experia is my hands-down favorite of the bunch, but any time I get a chance to hop on an Energica, I know I’m going to have a good day.
I was on the Ribelle for a couple of days on a recent trip to San Francisco and had a blast on the bike. While going over the windy bridges, I was glad to be on a solid, heavy bike as opposed to something much smaller.
So while I’d definitely opt for the Experia if it were me, the company’s sportier bikes are still a blast. The only model I haven’t tried is the Evo, which is just so much sportier than I’d ever need or want. But those who have them seem to love them, so to each their own!
Gogoro
Gogoro technically isn’t available in the US… yet. But since the company is rapidly expanding its presence, I’ll include Gogoro just in case they decide to come stateside soon.
The company recently expanded to Tel Aviv, Israel. For those who don’t know, despite being in the US often to ride new bikes and enjoy the country’s vast diversity of riding areas, I actually live in Tel Aviv most of the year. And so I was one of the first to get a new Gogoro S2 ABS electric scooter when they came out.
The scooters use a pair of swappable batteries that are the heart of the Gogoro Network. I’ve never charged the scooter – I’ve only ever swapped batteries. Theoretically, the range is well over 100 km (62 miles) in the city, but I’m often taking it up to its top speed of 95 km/h (59 mph) on highways, and so I often get closer to 60-70 km of range (36-45 miles).
But there’s a battery swap station every mile or two in Tel Aviv, and so range just isn’t an issue. When the batteries start to get low, I just roll into a battery swap station and pop in a pair of freshly charged batteries. The whole thing takes barely a minute if I’m moving slowly, and I can get it done in 30 seconds if I’m quick. A monthly subscription of around 38 covers my access to the swap stations.
The bike is also available in a chain-drive off-road version, though I like the belt-drive on-road version better as it’s quieter and also lower to the ground, which is nice for my 30-inch inseam.
The bike isn’t wildly powerful, but it’s enough to beat cars off the line at green lights, which is what I expect out of a commuter bike. Anything less, and you might as well get a scooter.
Kollter is actually known as Tinbot in Europe if you’re wondering why there are nearly identical-looking versions across the pond. And the company is coming out with several new models in the next few months that offer more power and speed, so this is going to be an exciting company to watch.
LiveWire
I LOVE me some LiveWire bikes. I was one of the first to ride the original production version of the Harley-Davidson LiveWire back in 2019, and my takeaway was that it was an incredibly-performing bike that was also grossly overpriced. Well, perhaps not grossly. But at 30K, it was pretty darn pricey.
The company ended up spinning off LiveWire as its own all-electric sub-brand and relaunched the bike as the LiveWire One.
At closer to 22K, now we’re talking. I’ve ridden the LiveWire one as well, and it feels pretty much the way I remember the H-D LiveWire to have felt a few years ago. The bike is incredibly powerful off the line with a 0-60 mph of 3.1 seconds.
It’s fun in the canyons and works great in the city as well, and I love the Level 3 DC fast charging for quick fill-ups. The last time I was riding the LiveWire One in LA, I made frequent use of the fast charging in 20-minute stops, which allowed me to get over half of the battery’s charge back into the “tank.”
I also had the chance to test an early prototype of the LiveWire Del Mar, which is LiveWire’s second bike, schedule to be released early next year.
At 17K, it’s a decent bit more affordable than the LiveWire One, but it still offers nearly the same 0-60 mph time. It’s not a toned down LiveWire One, though – it’s an equally fun bike in its own right.
In fact, I also find it more comfortable since it doesn’t have as long of a reach as the LiveWire One. The only downside in comparison is that it’s likely to have around two-thirds of the range of the LiveWire One. (We don’t yet have full battery or range specs from LiveWire at the time of publishing.) But as a more urban-oriented bike, even 100 miles (160 km) of range is going to be plenty for nearly any commuter.
After my LiveWire S2 Del Mar test ride, I was kicking myself for not pre-ordering one of the Launch Edition bikes. Those 100 individually numbered motorcycles are all but guaranteed to become collectors items one day.
NIU
This alphabetical ordering gives us some doozies, like NIU’s cute little city scooters following up behind LiveWire’s rocket of an electric motorcycle.
But I call ’em like I see ’em, and I see NIU as a great option for anyone who needs a modestly powerful scooter in the city. I have the NIU NQi GT Long Range, and it has served as my daily driver for just over two years. The scooter does absolutely everything I need it to do (well, except for taking my dog to the vet) and has been an awesome way to get an electric vehicle in the city when my wife and I neither want (nor can afford) something as large as an electric car.
The NIU isn’t the most powerful scooter out there, but it keeps up with the 125cc scooters off the line without a problem.
One of its quirks is that your feet are up a bit high since one of the two giant batteries is under the foot platform, but I got used to it quickly and stopped noticing. I also wish it had more built-in storage, but I just added one of NIU’s cargo boxes on back and that gave me extra cargo space.
With a top speed of 80 km/h (50 mph), it’s been sufficient for the city, but I’d certainly love to upgrade to the newer NIU MQi GT EVO, which tops out at 100 km/h (62 mph). I test rode one last year at the EICMA Milan Motorcycle Show, and the first thing I noticed was how the more powerful motor accelerates even quicker than my NQi GT. If you’re going to be riding a lot with your partner or just want a faster and more powerful scooter, the EVO is a great option.
I haven’t ridden NIU’s RQi Sport electric motorcycle yet since it’s only been released in China. But the first chance I get, I’ll be on it.
The bike feels light and nimble, even if it’s not the fastest off the line like a LiveWire or Energica. But it makes up for it in style and experience.
The Anthem is also quite comfortable, especially for a smaller rider like me at 5’7″ or 170cm. But because you can raise the seat up by 4 inches, taller riders can feel good on the Anthem as well.
The last cool thing to mention on this bike is the removable battery. It may be small at just over 4 kWh, but it is removable with a quick release and even has wheels so you don’t have to carry the 65-pound pack inside to charge it. Instead, you just roll it like carry-on luggage. That’s a key benefit for apartment dwellers who don’t have a place to charge on the street.
But since this is a commuter bike and not really a long highway cruise type of bike, that’s probably going to be fine for most people.
I test rode one of the first production Metacycles in LA and took it on a combination of fast highway riding and local city street cruising. I got an extrapolated range of 40 miles (64 km), though that was with ample use of the sport mode. Not exactly the most impressive range, but obviously fine for anyone with a commute of less than 40 miles (or 20 miles if you don’t have a charge spot at work).
The bike itself is actually a lot of fun to ride. Not only is it a head turner and conversation starter at traffic lights, but it’s a nimble and easy-riding bike for weaving between cars and slicing through traffic.
In fact, it’s so easy to ride that it feels like a simple upgrade from an electric bicycle. If you’ve been riding higher-speed e-bikes like Super73s or other motorcycle-inspired designs and want to upgrade to an actual motorcycle, the Metacycle makes that transition quite easy.
The bike comes with some neat innovations I haven’t seen elsewhere, like a see-through glovebox with a wireless charger for your phone. The original 5,000 price was a great deal, but even the current 6,500 price feels reasonable for what you ultimately get.
Sur Ron Light Bee
The Sur Ron Light Bee is like if an electric bicycle hit puberty, lost its pedals, and grew some power. It’s not a “real motorcycle” in the sense that it’s barely 6 kW (8 HP), but it can hit a solid 45-50 mph off-road and is often found beating gas-powered motorbikes in races.
The thing barely weighs over 100 pounds, and thus it feels more like a heavy electric bicycle beneath you, except that it has a short enough wheel base and sufficient torque to flip you right over if you grab too much throttle.
The Sur Ron’s Achilles heel has always been its lower battery capacity, which can be sucked up in 40 minutes or less of super hard riding, though it could last for a couple of hours of leisurely trail riding.
But as a fun runabout that you toss in the back of your truck and take out to the boonies for off-road shenanigans, it’s a great starter off-road bike. And considering its usually priced at around 4,000, it’s just not that expensive either.
It may not be here for a long time, but it’s here for a good time.
Zero
I guess we saved the biggest for last here. Zero has so many models in its lineup that it’s hard to keep track of them these days. I think I’ve ridden most of them at this point. From the flagship SR/F and sleeker fully-fared SR/S, to the smaller Zero FXE and other bikes in between, there’s a bit of something for everyone.
I recently had the chance to test out the new Zero DSR/X, which is the company’s newest and perhaps most impressive model. The electric adventure bike gave me some of my first tastes of high-power adventure riding in the trails over Park City, Utah. Between the rider aides that help a so-so rider like me play at a much higher level to the utility additions like tons of locking storage space, that is one impressive bike! It also comes with a massive battery pack to match its massive pricetag of 24,495, so don’t expect to get into this one cheap.
Even so, Zero’s entry-level bikes in the FX line still offer a thrilling ride for closer to half of that price. I fell in love with a 2019 Zero FXS a few years ago, but the Zero FXE is likely my new favorite among the company’s starter bikes. As a commuter-level bike that still gets you fast speeds, powerful acceleration, and an entry ticket into Zero’s walled garden, it’s a hell of a ride.
Top comment by JeffnReno
I no longer ride but anyone that hasn’t had skin meet asphalt or gravel may not understand the need for protective gear at nearly any speed over 2 mph. I’ve got a few scars still to prove my point but still have many more happy memories to go with them. If I were younger and had little responsibility other than myself, I’d for sure be on 2 wheels as much as possible. Thanks for a nice article on today’s offerings.
As Zero’s have walked up, though, this undisputed leader of the US electric motorcycle market has been faced with a number of new start-ups trying to eat its lunch on the commuter end of the spectrum. Companies like Kollter, SONDORS, Ryvid, and CSC all offer interesting and unique commuter-level electric motorcycles that could give options to those that can’t afford (or can’t justify paying for) Zero’s higher prices.
What’s next?
One of the coolest things about the electric motorcycle market is just how quickly it is evolving. New e-moto companies seem to crop up every month, and new models are rolling out on a weekly basis.
Who knows what bikes we’ll see in the coming years?
The only thing for certain is that I’m going to need to find myself sitting in a pile of new saddles if I want to keep this up. And that ain’t a bad thing to me!
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STARK VARG
With 30% more power than a traditional 450 combustion bike the Stark VARG outperforms all other bikes on the market.
With 30% more power than a traditional 450 combustion bike the Stark VARG outperforms all other bikes on the market.
Light and Agile
With the lightest motocross frame on the market, the lowest centre of gravity and an optimized weight distribution the Stark VARG provides agility and a featherweight riding sensation.
With the lightest motocross frame on the market, the lowest centre of gravity and an optimized weight distribution the Stark VARG provides agility and a featherweight riding sensation.
938 NM 14200 RPM
The Stark VARG delivers an incredible 938Nm of torque on the rear wheel and the carbon fibre sleeve motor spins at up to 14200rpm.
The Stark VARG delivers an incredible 938Nm of torque on the rear wheel and the carbon fibre sleeve motor spins at up to 14200rpm.
100 Ride modes
The Stark VARG is equipped with an Android Stark phone that allows you to customize the bike, adjusting the power curve, engine braking, flywheel effect and traction control, to make the perfect bike for every rider and track.
The Stark VARG is equipped with an Android Stark phone that allows you to customize the bike, adjusting the power curve, engine braking, flywheel effect and traction control, to make the perfect bike for every rider and track.
6.5kWh – Up to 6hrs of riding
The 6.5kWh of the Stark VARG allows you to ride for up to 6 hours of easy trail riding or complete a full MXGP heat and recharging takes between 1 or 2 hours depending on the outlet and charger.
The 6.5kWh of the Stark VARG allows you to ride for up to 6 hours of easy trail riding or complete a full MXGP heat and recharging takes between 1 or 2 hours depending on the outlet and charger.
Ride anywhere, anytime
The Stark VARG’s near-silent motor allows you to ride anywhere, anytime, letting you ride in places you’d previously never imagined possible.
The Stark VARG’s near-silent motor allows you to ride anywhere, anytime, letting you ride in places you’d previously never imagined possible.
Zero emissions, low maintenance
With zero emissions and no filters to change the Stark VARG requires a very simple level of maintenance. It’s as easy to take care of as a bicycle.
With zero emissions and no filters to change the Stark VARG requires a very simple level of maintenance. It’s as easy to take care of as a bicycle.
The Best Electric Motorcycles Of 2023
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Imagine: the wind rushing through your hair as you cruise, streamlining down the highway; passers-by eyeing your sweet ride; no choking petrol fumes in your wake. And that’s just a teaser of what you’ll experience riding one of the best electric motorcycles of 2023. Yes, electric sports bikes have come a long way, and they’re calling out for you to come along for the ride.
Whether you dream of open roads, never-ending horizons, and lush wilderness, or you have the more practical need of getting from A to B (who are we kidding, we mean home-to-office, of course)—there’s an electric motorbike on the market for you.
With huge innovations in eco-friendly transport (think electric cars, e-bikes, and the ubiquitous e-scooter), it’s no wonder that e-motorcycles have upped their design game, too. Providing low-noise, fume-free, and smooth-sailing journeys, what’s not to like? And of course, the planet will thank you. You can get your kids au fait early on with the great range of mini bikes and kid’s electric cars out there, too.
Naturally, everyone’s different and desires a different spec from their e-motorcycle. We’ve done the legwork for you and found the quickest-charging, longest-range, most powerful, and best budget electric motorbikes of this year, so you can take your pick. For style and speed with a sustainable spin, we’ve got it all.
For 2023, the Cake Kalk INK, BMW CE 04, and Onyx RCR, among many others, make their first appearance on our ranking of the best electric motorcycles of the year.
After our ranking of the best electric motorbikes of 2023, take a look at our buying guide to see what you should pay attention to when shopping for an EV bike. We also explain the methodology behind our ranking of the top bikes of the year.
The 15 best electric motorcycles of 2023
| 1 | Energica Experia | Overall best |
| 2 | Cake Kalk INK | Best value |
| 3 | BMW CE 04 | Best premium |
| 4 | Zero FX | Best sports bike |
| 5 | Onyx RCR | Best street bike |
| 6 | Vespa Elettrica | Best electric scooter |
| 7 | Lightning LS-218 | Fastest motorbike |
| 8 | Arc Vector | Most stylish |
| 9 | Pursang E-Tracker | Best for offroad |
| 10 | Cake Osa Flex | Best for varied terrain |
| 11 | Damon Hypersport Premier | Best range |
| 12 | Livewire S2 Del Mar | Best for tech lovers |
| 13 | Evoke 6061 | Fastest charge |
| 14 | Super Soco TC | Most classic styling |
| 15 | Sondors Metacycle | Best budget |
As a bonus, check the upcoming 2023 electric motorbikes that we’re most excited about after the list.
After our ranking of the best electric motorbikes of 2023, take a look at our buying guide to see what you should pay attention to when shopping for an EV bike. We also explain the methodology behind our ranking of the top bikes of the year.
Energica Experia: Overall best electric motorcycle
When anyone brings up electric motorcycles, it’s easy to envision a dead battery cutting short the fun. Due to the logistical nightmare of squeezing large, heavy batteries onto a small frame, touring bikes have been out of the question.
Until now. Energica Experia is our top choice for an electric motorcycle as it’s gone somewhere others haven’t dared. It has the longest claimed range of any production motorcycle on the market, with up to 261 miles (420 km) of city driving on one charge.
But city driving isn’t the goal of touring. At highway speeds, the range is limited to 130 miles (209 km), but three different charging methods can get you back on the road in a hurry.
The Energica Experia has a great overall stance and handling, combined with a charming aerodynamic style. It is hands down the best electric motorcycle to hit the market.
| Price: | 25,880 |
| Engine power: | 75 kW – 102 HP |
| Top speed: | 180 km/h – 112 mph |
| Acceleration: | 0-100 km/h – 0-62 mph: 3.5 sec |
| Range: | 256 km – 160 miles |
| Website: | energicamotor.com |
Cake Kalk INK Electric Motorbike: Best value EV motorcycle
By mimicking the dual-sport motorcycle, Cake has created a cheap electric motorcycle that can silently sprint around trails. It started as an off-road-only model, but recent upgrades allow street legal use, registered as a 125cc bike in the USA and EU.
If you want something that’s not quite a full-size motorcycle yet not as compact as an electric bicycle, the Cake Kalk INK is a perfect choice. It’s lightweight and nimble, yet still able to deliver some power when you want it.
The Cake Kalk INK incorporated three ride modes that adjust speed and power to provide different levels of battery range. Another three braking modes can perfectly adjust what happens when you lift off the accelerator to match your conditions.
| Price: | 11,580 |
| Engine power: | 11 kW – 15 HP |
| Top speed: | 90 km/h – 56mph |
| Acceleration: | Unspecified |
| Range: | 3 hours of trail/enduro riding |
| Website: | huckberry.com |
BMW CE 04: Best premium electric motorbike
If there’s one brand that’s no stranger to bringing advanced electric variants to the streets, BMW deserves some credit. The German automaker introduced futuristic-looking EVs over a decade ago and continues to reshape the automotive and motorcycle industries with new platforms.
The BMW CE 04 is not your average motorcycle. Its low-slung shape with an elongated bench seat might remind you of a modified jetski out of water. But that’s far from the truth.
The reality is that this beast utilizes a compact yet powerful motor that pairs with a thin battery pack. This leaves you plenty of room for seating two passengers or extra gear, plus a sizable storage compartment that helps make practical daily use a breeze.
The BMW CE 04 takes a giant step forward in electric motorcycle evolution. Are you ready to take the leap?
| Price: | 11,795 |
| Engine power: | 31 kW – 42 HP |
| Top speed: | 121 km/h – 75 mph |
| Acceleration: | 0–50 km/h – 0-31.1 mph: 2.6 sec |
| Range: | 129 km – 80 Mi |
| Website: | bmwmotorcycles.com |
Zero FX: Best electric sports bike
It takes time to perfect any craft. And with over a decade of EV motorcycle production under its belt, Zero is staying ahead of the pack in many ways.
The Zero FX is most at home on the trails, where it will let you FOCUS on finding the right line while cruising through nature. But it’s a jack of all trades. You can throw it around city streets with just as much enthusiasm as your off-road adventures.
The chassis is built from aircraft aluminum and has been shaved down over many years of production, providing one of the best power-to-weight ratios on the market. Simply put, the Zero FX electric sports bike will blow your mind regardless of the conditions under the tires.
| Price: | 12,995 |
| Engine power: | 34 kW – 46 HP |
| Top speed: | 137 km/h – 85 mph |
| Acceleration: | Unspecified |
| Range: | 111 km – 69 miles |
| Website: | zeromotorcycles.com |
Onyx RCR Electric Motorbike: Best electric street bike
It’s a bird… it’s a plane. No, it’s the Onyx RCR electric street bike. Fitting precisely into no category, this sleek offering straddles the line between an e-bike and an electric motorcycle.
One thing’s for certain. The Onyx RCR brings back nostalgia with its cafe-racer looks and woodgrain decals. It’s available in two different models, one designed for street use and one for trail riding. You can also customize battery packs, suspension heights, and paint colors.
This E motorcycle is much more suitable for slower speeds, and the street-legal mode only goes up to 20 mph (32 km/h). But as an affordable electric street bike, this can win over your heart with one quick ride.
| Price: | 5,750 |
| Engine power: | 13 kW – 17 HP |
| Top speed: | 97 km/h – 60 mph |
| Acceleration: | Unspecified |
| Range: | 193 km – 120 miles |
| Website: | huckberry.com |
Vespa Elettrica: Best electric scooter
Kleenex, Google, Band-Aid. Few brands are so iconic that their trademarked product name takes over the generic term. When it comes to scooters, Vespa is the name of the game and has been since the 1940s.
Today’s Vespas aren’t like that of the past. While the exterior design might have you think otherwise, the Vespa Elettrica uses a fully electric drivetrain to make getting a town an absolute joy.
The power is on the lower end of the scale, but you won’t notice thanks to the respectable 148 lb-ft of instant torque. The inboard display seamlessly connects to your phone. And you have your choice of six stylish colors to make this electric motorcycle scooter your own.
If you don’t care about the Vespa brand name, check out the Piaggio 1. This cheaper alternative is based on the same platform and has similar performance.
| Price: | 7,499 |
| Engine power: | 4 kW – 5 HP |
| Top speed: | 70 km/h – 43 mph |
| Acceleration: | Unspecified |
| Range: | 100 km – 62 miles |
| Website: | vespa.com |
Lightning LS-218: Fastest electric motorbike
Some electric motorcycles are meant for city streets or off-road trails. But when it comes to the Lightning LS-218, there is one thing it seeks most of all. The wide-open road.
While the Voxan Wattman is technically the fastest motorcycle, it’s not approved for street use. On the other hand, the Lightning LS-218 can charge down the road at a blistering 218 mph or more, all while silently slipping through the tarmac.
The cost of this powerful E motorcycle is magnitudes more than most bikes, but it has every right to charge the premium. Its incredible design brings out the best in sports bike styling, while the range, acceleration, and top speed are all at the top of the game.
| Price: | 38,888 |
| Engine power: | 150 kW – 200 HP |
| Top speed: | 351 km/h – 218 mph |
| Acceleration: | 0-60 mph: 2.2 sec |
| Range: | 290 km – 180 miles |
| Website: | lightningmotorcycle.com |
Arc Vector: Most stylish electric motorcycle
Not many companies have the luxury of using a no-holds-barred approach. ARC is one of the lucky few that does. The result is an impeccable work of art, making the Arc Vector our top choice for style.
But the beauty of this electric street bike is more than skin deep. It’s infused into every component, from the carbon fiber swing arms to the modular battery monocoque platform. The Arc Vector is craftsmanship redefined.
Claiming the title of the world’s most advanced motorcycle, the Vector incorporates a Human Machine Interface with an Arc Pilot System heads-up display helmet and the game-changing Origin Jacket with active feedback. It is like nothing else the world has seen.
| Price: | £90,000 (~120,000 USD) |
| Engine power: | 87 kW – 117 HP |
| Top speed: | 351 km/h – 218 mph |
| Acceleration: | 0-100 km/h – 0-62 mph: 3.2 sec |
| Range: | 436 km – 271 miles |
| Website: | arcvehicle.com |
Pursang E-Tracker: Best electric motorcycle for off-road
One incredible part of the electric motorbike revolution is the innovation coming from new companies. The Spanish-based Pursang is among the top in the segment, offering an excellent option for those who want to fit in anywhere they can drive on two wheels.
The Pursang E-Track fuses a chic look with a powerful Bosch motor and a driving position that’s equally great for relaxed cruising and aggressive off-road sessions. The color TFT screen provides all the details you need and nothing you don’t.
The E-Track is an electric sports bike for those who want it all. There is enough power to have fun, a solid range to get you where you need to go, and it’s all dressed up in a package that’ll attract attention everywhere you go.
| Price: | 14,900 |
| Engine power: | 11 kW – 15 HP |
| Top speed: | 110 km/h – 68 mph |
| Acceleration: | Unspecified |
| Range: | 140 km – 87 miles |
| Website: | pursangmotorcycles.com |
Cake Osa Flex: Best E motorcycle for varied terrain
Being a jack of all trades isn’t easy. It requires flexibility and adapting to individual demands. Some electric motorcycles are built for one purpose. Others can handle it all.
When versatility is your priority, turn to the Cake Osa Flex. This high-performance utility machine is geared up with over a thousand accessory combinations to handle any situation with ease. It’s the Swiss Army knife of electric motorcycle scooters.
The battery pack has multiple power outlets, letting it double as a portable power station. It’s a workbench on wheels mixed with a commuter bike that can be packed with gear. The Cake Osa Flex is fully street-legal and ready to be registered as a 50cc bike.
| Price: | 8,880 |
| Engine power: | 5 kW – 7 HP |
| Top speed: | 45 km/h – 28 mph |
| Acceleration: | Unspecified |
| Range: | 92 km – 57 miles |
| Website: | huckberry.com |
Damon Hypersport Premier: Best electric motorbike for range
Hopping on two wheels isn’t for the faint of heart. But for those road warriors who want the full experience, the Damon Hypersport is worth checking out.
As one of the best electric roadsters on two wheels, the Hypersport pushes out a whopping 200 horsepower and can get up to 60 mph in less than three seconds. But it also hits the mark when it comes to longevity, with an impressive 200-mile (322 km) range.
The Damon Hypersport is engineered to take you faster, safer, and farther. You can instantly transform the riding position on the fly to avoid fatigue or gear up for the curves. An incorporated CoPilot system uses artificial intelligence to keep tabs on everything around you and warn of any hazards.
It’s the electric motorcycle for adults that has your back.
| Price: | 19,000 |
| Engine power: | 149 kW – 200 HP |
| Top speed: | 322 km/h – 200 mph |
| Acceleration: | 0-60 mph: |
| Range: | 322 km – 200 miles |
| Website: | damon.com |
Livewire S2 Del Mar: Best electric street bike for tech lovers
Harley Davidson’s image doesn’t blend well with the electric motorcycle revolution. But the brand’s spinoff EV motorcycle group, Livewire, is doing all it can to show Harley riders that electric motorbikes are the way of the future. And the S2 Del Mar has grabbed the spotlight.
At first glance, it’s mostly what you’d expect from a modern Harley bike. It’s a robust motorcycle that has only a few cues indicating the electric platform, most notable are the heat transfer fins flanking the bike.
But this isn’t Livewire’s first take. It’s a more nimble, lighter, and less expensive version of the Livewire ONE, yet it still has all the power and fun you could want.
The exclusive Del Mar Launch Edition S2 features an exclusive paint scheme and wheel design, but the regular production models are sure to impress with looks just as much as the legendary Harley Davidson ride, even if it doesn’t rumble as you’d expect.
| Price: | 17,699 |
| Engine power: | 59.6 kW – 80 HP (est.) |
| Top speed: | Unspecified |
| Acceleration: | 0-60 mph: 3.1 sec |
| Range: | 177 km – 110 miles |
| Website: | livewire.com |
Evoke 6061: Fastest charge electric motorbike
Battery electric vehicles have one serious disadvantage. When they run out of juice, it can be a long time before they’re ready to hit the road again.
The Evoke 6061 turns that idea about-face. By using a 336-volt battery pack, it can recharge up to 80% in 15 minutes. Just enough time for you to shake off any road fatigue, refuel your body, and hop back on.
This hand-assembled new electric motorcycle pleases the eye with its minimalistic design that puts the aluminum twin-plate frame in the spotlight. But the real treat comes when you turn the throttle. The impressive 160-horsepower motor rockets up to 62 mph in just 2.6 seconds.
The Evoke 6061 is making waves in the electric motorcycle segment. And for good reason.
| Price: | 24,995 |
| Engine power: | 120 kW – 160 HP |
| Top speed: | 230 km/h – 143 mph |
| Acceleration: | 0-100 km/h – 0-62 mph: 2.6 sec |
| Range: | 470 km – 292 miles |
| Website: | evokemotorcycles.com |
Super Soco TC: Most classic styling
There’s nothing better than getting on two wheels to hop around the city. Especially if those two wheels are packed with class and style.
The Super Soco TC might not be the most powerful electric motorcycle on the road, but its cafe-racer-inspired shape brings back fond memories as it glides down the road. The affordable price tag, removable battery packs, and comfortable riding position make it an excellent choice for short commutes or joy rides.
The graceful design elements do an incredible job of merging new-world technology with classic styling. It has a large display between the bars and an oversized LED headlight placed front and center. It’s pure joy to ride and look at.
| Price: | 3,330 |
| Engine power: | 1.9 kW – 2.5 horsepower |
| Top speed: | 45 km/h – 28 mph |
| Acceleration: | Unspecified |
| Range: | 48 km – 30 miles |
| Website: | vmotosoco.com |
Sondors Metacycle: Best cheap electric motorcycle
Take one look at the Sondors Metacycle and it’s clear that it breaks new ground. The Metacycle isn’t just a model name, it’s the introduction of a new segment that’s more powerful than most electric bicycles but not quite up to the full performance of a motorcycle.
It’s one of the best cheap electric motorcycles around, with an impressive 80 mph top speed and up to 80 miles on a single charge. The battery pack is easily removable, so you can park on the street and bring it inside when it needs to charge up away from home.
The Sondors Metacycle is the guilt-free, hassle-free way to get around town. It’s sure to put a smile on your face while letting you put your hard-earned cash to the best use possible.
| Price: | 6,500 |
| Engine power: | 14.5 kW – 20 HP |
| Top speed: | 129 km/h – 80 mph |
| Acceleration: | Unspecified |
| Range: | 129 km – 80 miles |
| Website: | sondors.com |
Bonus: The upcoming electric motorcycles we’re most excited about
What’s that we see glinting on the horizon? Oh, just the hottest electric motorcycles hitting the market very soon:
- Switch Scrambler – Make it yours: the Switch Scrambler is totally customizable, and whatever style choices you make, you can be sure it’ll look slick. It’s currently in the ABS testing phase and will be heading for full production later in the year.
- DAB Concept-E – One for the tech-fiends, the DAB Concept-E offers incredibly high-end components for a seamless experience. The slightly smaller-than-average battery means this one’s better for short-range city-riding rather than long journeys.
- Husqvarna E-Pilen – This electric motorcycle for adults is still in its conceptual phase, but it’ll be all the better for it. With a vroom-vroom aesthetic and plans for whippet-like speeds, the Husqvarna E-Pilen is certainly one to keep your eye on. Look out for full production within the next 2 years.
- Ducati Electric Racer – Still a bit of an enigma, the new model is currently being tested. When it’s finally released, the Ducati Electric Racer will be used for the MotoE series in 2023, taking the place of Energica as the official motorcycle supplier. Well, if it’s good enough for the pros…
With so many ground-breaking electric motorcycles entering the market – this could be the year electric begins to surpass petrol. We are seeing competitions where electric motorcycles are now dominating like the Malle Mile. We predict that we are going to see this happening in more and more motorcycle categories now.
Tobin Page, Australian Electric Motor Co
Advantages and disadvantages of electric motorcycles
Electric motorcycles have many advantages. Ease of maintenance, instant torque, and whisper-quiet noise levels are some of the top benefits.
But there are some disadvantages to electric motorbikes too. The main issues to consider are the limited range, charging time and infrastructure, and potential battery replacement needs.
The electric motorcycle that’s best for you
powerful than an electric bicycle, lower profile than an electric car: If you’re looking for a sustainable vehicle that’s a good all-around compromise between the two, you can’t go wrong with an electric motorcycle. In particular, they’re usually more cost-effective than an electric car – and they generally feature shorter recharge times, which is a definite plus.
If you’re looking to purchase an electric motorbike, there are a couple of features you should pay close attention to. These include:
- Range. As an EV, an electric motorbike does have a specific maximum distance that it can travel before you’re going to need to find a way to recharge. If you are using your electric motorcycle mainly for commuting, you may be able to select a bike with a lower range and prioritize other features. If you’re planning on adventuring further away from home, it might be a good idea to select one with a larger range – such as the Damon Hypersport Premier.
- Comfort. Motorcycles aren’t known for being the most comfortable of vehicles, but if you’re planning on riding it a lot, a little comfort will go a long way. Check to see what the seat is made of, whether the pedals are adjustable, and if the shocks of your future bike promise a bump-free ride.
- Safety. Motorcycles have gotten poor press in the past for their lack of safety features. The modern EV motorbike market is compensating for this with new high-tech safety features each year, such as 360-degree cameras and Smart rider assistance. If you’re at all worried about your safety while you’re zipping around on your motorbike, it’s a good idea to invest in a high-tech motorcycle that has these options.
Methodology: How we select, test, and rank the best options on the market
To find the best electric motorcycles on today’s market, we ranked the features we deemed most important – such as safety and range, as well as power, style, and comfort – and looked at all of the motorcycles that have come out recently (and will come out over the course of this year). The master list we came up with featured several sophisticated, powerful motorbikes!
We ranked each of these motorcycles, combing through reviews and testimonials until we had a ranking that we were ready to share. Finally, we picked one element from each bike to emphasize to award each a title as winner of a specific category.
Frequently asked questions about the best electric motorcycles
The Energica Experia is the best electric motorcycle of 2023. With a range of 160 miles (or 256 km), this sweet ride could see you across country borders if you choose. Not to mention, the uber-cool aesthetic and lightning-fast top speed seal the deal.
At just 5,000, the Sondors Metacycle is the cheapest electric motorcycle of 2023. It brings great value, backing its affordable price with a good range and a top speed that rivals several others in this competitive market.
Able to travel a lengthy 482 km (300 miles) on a single charge, the Damon Hypersport Premier is a true pegasus. Oh, and you won’t be meandering along, either: with a max speed of 200 mph (420 km/h), you’ll certainly feel the wind in your hair on this impressive bike.
While e-motorcycles currently sit on the higher end of the price spectrum, they are the transport of our epoche. Boasting quiet operation, no fumes, and of course, minimizing your carbon footprint, e-motorcycles are harbingers of an eco-friendly future. Check our round-up of the top electric motorcycles of 2023 to find the best one for you.
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The Best Electric Bikes: Upgrade Your Commute For A Sustainable Ride
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