Electric motorcycles are no longer a curiosity on UK roads. More riders are choosing them for the daily commute, and the choice of models keeps growing.
Curious how they work, what they cost to run, and whether one suits your riding? This guide covers the essentials.
What Is An Electric Motorcycle?
An electric motorcycle swaps the petrol engine and fuel tank for an electric motor and a rechargeable battery. There's no clutch and, on most models, no gears. You simply twist the throttle and go.
Power delivery is instant, since an electric motor produces its full pulling power from a standstill. That makes for smooth, responsive acceleration in town and out on the open road.
Best of all for many riders, there are zero tailpipe emissions whilst riding.
How Far Can They Go?
Range is the distance an electric motorcycle travels on a full charge, and it varies by model. Smaller commuter machines might cover 50 to 80 miles, while larger bikes stretch further.
Honda's WN7, for example, offers a claimed range of around 87 miles, which suits most commutes and weekend rides.
Real-world range depends on your speed, riding style, and the weather, much as fuel economy does on a petrol bike.
Charging An Electric Motorcycle
Charging is simpler than many people expect. Most riders charge at home overnight, plugging in much like a phone, so the bike is ready each morning.
For longer trips, rapid charging tops the battery up quickly. Many electric motorcycles now use the same CCS2 connector as electric cars, which opens up the public charging network.
A typical rapid charge takes a battery from 20 to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes, though this varies by model.
What Licence Do You Need?
Power rather than engine size determines an electric motorcycle's licence category. That output, measured in kilowatts, decides which licence you need, in the same way engine capacity does for petrol machines.
Most new riders start with a CBT, then work towards an A1, A2, or full A licence as their experience grows.
If you're unsure where you fit, our Honda New to Riding hub and Learn to Ride pages walk you through the steps.
Running Costs And Maintenance
Owning an electric motorcycle can cost less than a petrol equivalent. Charging at home usually works out cheaper than filling a tank, especially on an off-peak electricity tariff.
Maintenance is lighter too. With no engine oil, spark plugs, or clutch to service, there's simply less to go wrong.
Regenerative braking, which recovers energy as you slow down, also reduces wear on the brake pads.
What They're Like To Ride
The riding experience is refined and quiet. Without gears to change, you can focus on the road, the corners, and your surroundings.
The quietness surprises many first-time riders, and you hear more of the world around you.
For newer riders in particular, the lack of clutch control removes one of the trickiest early hurdles.
A Closer Look At The Honda WN7
The Honda WN7 shows how far electric motorcycles have come. As Honda's first full-sized electric motorcycle, it delivers proper performance with everyday usability.
It's A2-licence friendly, offers around 87 miles of range, and rapid-charges through the CCS2 network.
The bike has been warmly received since deliveries began, as covered in our look at the WN7's media reception and our first report on the WN7.
Is An Electric Motorcycle Right For You?
For commuters and shorter journeys, an electric motorcycle makes a strong case. Low running costs, easy home charging, and relaxed riding suit daily use well.
Riders who cover long distances between charges may still prefer petrol for now, and that's a fair choice.
The best way to decide is to experience one for yourself.
Explore the Honda WN7 and our wider new motorcycle range, or book an appointment at your local Vertu Motorcycles dealership to arrange a test ride.
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