In this modern era, environmental awareness is on the rise, leading to the development of various technological innovations to mitigate negative impacts, especially in the automotive sector. One notable example is the adoption of electric motorcycles. Before deciding to purchase an electric motorcycle, it's essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each brand. In this article, the BFI Finance team discusses electric motorcycles in general, their pros and cons, and provides recommendations for high-performance electric motorcycles.
Electric motorcycles, a revolutionary innovation in the transportation world, have undergone significant development since their inception. Here's a brief history and an overview of different types of electric motorcycles.
In , Ogden Bolton Jr. and Hosea W. Libbey patented the "electric bicycle." In the Stanley Cycle Show in London, Humber showcased an electric tandem bicycle with a battery. The October issue of Popular Mechanics introduced an electric motorcycle with a range of 121 km to 160 km. In , Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies created a prototype electric motorcycle.
In , the Limelette brothers founded Socovel, an electric motorcycle company in Brussels. Despite producing during the German occupation, they switched to conventional models after the war until .
In the early s, Mike Corbin designed the Corbin Electric commuter motorcycle. In , he launched the Quicksilver, setting a speed record of 266.165 km/h. In , Corbin created the City Bike prototype, a battery-powered street motorcycle, using Yardney Electric batteries.
The government plans to provide a subsidy of IDR 6.5 million for each electric motorcycle purchase in Indonesia, aiming to make these vehicles more affordable for the public. This was announced by the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, who stated that incentives are crucial to stimulate the growth of the electric motorcycle and car industry in the country.
He mentioned the government's ambition to produce 1.2 million electric motorcycles and 75,000 electric cars by . This initiative aligns with the policies of many countries that have subsidized electric vehicle purchases, regulated in the Minister of Transportation Regulation (P) Number 44 of on typical field trials and PM Number 45 of on certain vehicles using electric motors.
As time passes, more people are expected to transition to electric motorcycles, especially with the rising fuel prices. For those new to electric vehicles, understanding the advantages and disadvantages is essential.
The single electric motor includes Direct Current (DC) and Alternating Current (AC) motors. DC motors use direct current and consist of a rotor and stator. When the current flows, the generated magnetic field rotates the rotor. AC motors also have a rotor and stator, using alternating current. Although AC motors are more efficient, their initial torque is lower than DC motors.
Two-phase electric motors are divided into Synchronous and Asynchronous (Induction) motors. Synchronous motors create a steady movement with the stator's magnetic field, commonly used in applications requiring consistent speed. They excel in stability and reliability. Asynchronous motors, the most common type, are reliable, affordable, and easy to maintain.
Three-phase electric motors include induction motors and synchronous motors. Induction motors are common in industries, with the stator's magnetic field creating movement in the rotor. They offer high efficiency, good initial torque, and heavy load capacity. Three-phase synchronous motors maintain constant speed, suitable for applications requiring fixed speed and time.
Special electric motors include stepper motors, brushless DC motors, and linear motors. Stepper motors control accurate angular movement through discrete steps and are often used in 3D printers and CNC machines. Brushless DC motors are efficient, have a long lifespan, and require minimal maintenance, commonly used in electric vehicles and drones. Linear motors produce linear movement, widely used in industrial automation and applications requiring precise linear motion.
Electric motorcycles come with several advantages that make them a compelling option. The key advantages include:
Electric motors tend to be more efficient in energy usage, resulting in fuel savings and reduced operational costs.
Compared to internal combustion engines, electric motorcycles have lower emissions, positively contributing to the environment by reducing air pollution.
Electric motorcycles have relatively simple components, making maintenance easier and more cost-effective.
Electric engines produce smoother and quieter engine sounds compared to internal combustion engines, providing comfort in daily use.
Electric motorcycles provide substantial torque from the initial acceleration, offering quick and responsive acceleration.
Electric motorcycles are often easier to ride due to faster response times and better controllability.
Several countries provide incentives and subsidies to encourage the use of electric motorcycles as part of environmentally friendly energy initiatives.
Modern electric motorcycles are equipped with sophisticated monitoring systems, allowing users to monitor and optimize the motor's performance more effectively.
Despite their advantages, electric motorcycles have limitations and drawbacks that need consideration. These include:
The limited availability of charging stations can hinder the mobility of electric motorcycle users, especially in specific locations.
The number of authorized service centers specializing in electric motorcycles is still limited, making maintenance and repairs challenging.
The initial purchase cost of electric motorcycles is still high, posing a challenge for prospective buyers seeking more affordable options.
Battery capacity limitations affect the range, especially in heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses.
Charging the battery is a time-consuming process compared to refueling, posing a consideration for users who need instant mobility.
After understanding the advantages and disadvantages of electric motorcycles, here are some recommended brands to consider:
Detailed specifications for the Volta electric motorcycle include a maximum range of up to 60 km with a single battery and 120 km with a dual battery. Priced starting from IDR 15 million, Volta offers an affordable option with trendy design and attractive specifications. Suitable for passenger transport, carrying groceries, and long-distance travel, Volta has become a popular choice for online motorcycle drivers delivering food and passengers.
Selis, also known as PT Juara Bike, founded on March 21, , is recognized as one of the leading electric vehicle brands in Indonesia. They provide environmentally friendly vehicles powered by electricity. With high-quality standards, experienced experts, and widespread after-sales service in major cities across Indonesia, PT Juara Bike has played a significant role in the development of electric vehicles in the country. Continuously innovating, the SELIS brand offers the best-quality electric vehicles in Indonesia.
Smoot Motor, present in Indonesia since , offers innovative and quality mobility solutions while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They provide affordable electric motorcycles and introduce the SWAP Battery Swapping ecosystem throughout Indonesia. As a local product manufactured in Cikupa, Tangerang, Smoot Motor is designed to meet the needs and conditions of motorcycle riders in Indonesia. Smoot Motor is committed to accelerating the transition to the use of electric motorcycles in Indonesia.
Produced by PT Ilectra Motor Group (IMG) in Cikarang, West Java, Alva One draws attention with its robust design and excellent engine performance. The brand has received a government subsidy of IDR 7 million. Designed for urban mobility consumers, Alva One uses a hub drive motor without a drive belt. The motor's dynamo position in the rear wheel allows direct power transfer without using a transmission. This electric motor has a maximum power of around 4.8 kW or approximately 5.7 PS (5.5 hp), with a maximum torque of 46 Nm. Advanced features such as LED lighting systems and three driving modes provide user convenience, especially for beginners.
United E-Motor offers electric motorcycles with a full-style concept and a cool exterior, providing confidence in urban mobility. The TX series with higher performance and the MX- electric motor for more economical options are released to meet various needs. United E-Motor continues to innovate by integrating its vehicles with mobile devices through the U-Key application released in . This application provides users with added value through electric motor control functions, security, usage history, reports, and various other advanced features, establishing United E-Motor as a leader in implementing IoT technology in the electric vehicle sector.
In addressing environmental challenges and creating sustainable solutions, electric motorcycles emerge as an attractive option in this modern era. With a rich history of development and diverse types, electric motorcycles offer advantages such as efficiency, environmental friendliness, and ease of use.
That concludes the discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of electric motorcycles. If you're interested in being part of the shift towards more environmentally friendly transportation, BFI Finance provides electric motorcycle financing as a positive step in supporting a sustainable lifestyle. With easy and excellent financing services, apply now and contribute to creating a cleaner and more sustainable future.
As we move to a new era of electric, the UK Government has planned to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel two and three-wheelers by . The global shift towards protecting the planet and reducing emissions means that electric motorcycles and mopeds are set to be the bike of the future.
Link to Future Electric Vehicles
So, what does the bike of the future actually look like? Futuristic concepts usually included outlandish concepts and eccentric designs, but in reality, the bike of the future looks the same as our fuel-filled past, with electric motorbikes sharing the same design principles as their petrol-powered siblings.
In this blog, we are going to be exploring the advantages and disadvantages of electric motorcycles - so without further ado, let&#;s get into it, shall we?
As electric motorbikes are starting to make vast improvements and technological advances, now more than ever there are benefits to purchasing an electric motorcycle, such as:
When it comes to fuel I think it goes without saying that electric counterparts are by far more environmentally friendly especially when charged up on electricity generated from renewable sources.
Standard petrol-fuelled motorbikes require far more moving parts to get them going in comparison to electric bikes. Electric motorcycles do not have oil, spark plugs, air filters, or timing belts and many won&#;t have a gearbox or clutch either - your biggest maintenance costs will be your tyres and brakes.
Admittedly the initial cost of an electric motorbike is higher than a petrol-fuelled bike however in the long run, your electric bike might actually save you a bit of money. You will not only save money with cheaper refuelling but also potentially with lower maintenance costs.
For those who don&#;t mind not having a loud roaring engine, then switching to electric might be the choice for you. There are many electric motorbikes that are practically silent on the roads, however, on the rarer side at the moment you can pick up some which omit a noise to help other road users know of your presence.
As we mentioned previously, electric motorcycles do not have gearboxes meaning there will be no need for you to change gears.
If you&#;re used to shifting gear and riding, then it might take you a little while to get used to the ride, however, if you're a beginner, this might be one of the easiest ways to learn how to ride!
If you&#;re an occasional rider, then you&#;ll understand the pain of settling your bike in for the winter and ensuring your bike is ready to ride when the weather improves. With an electric bike you won&#;t have to worry about these things - just make sure to charge your battery and keep the bike in a secure, dry place, and you&#;re good to go when summer rolls around.
If you choose to switch to the electric side you&#;ll be pleased to know you can have a little bit of help from government grants. Plug-in grant funds up to a maximum of £150 towards mopeds and £500 towards buying an electric motorcycle providing they cost £10,000 or less.
*It is worth noting that the plug-in grant is due to end in , so before purchasing an electric bike or scoot, it is worth checking if the grant is still available.
Depending on where you ride air pollution charges are on the cards for a number of cities, and London has led the way with its Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ). Petrol or diesel motorbikes driving through the ULEZ zones that do not meet the Euro 3 standards or are produced before July . Whereas an electric motorcycle, with zero emissions, won&#;t pay a penny.
While most electric motorbikes won&#;t go over 90mph, they come packed with silly amounts of torque and pretty impressive acceleration.
By no means is range perfect on electric motorcycles thus far, however it is steadily improving. Some manufacturers such as Maeving and Super Soco have created motorbikes with dual batteries that can not only increase the range but (depending on your strategy) means you can switch the batteries when the other has run flat if you prefer, a method adopted by some delivery riders for instance.
Over the past few months, another thing that has been affected by inflation was the cost of fuel. At the time of writing in the UK, charging an electric motorbike or scooter currently costs 3p per mile (based upon 5.4kWh battery capacity charging at UK average 34p per kWh charging at home), in comparison to the 6p (based upon 110mpg, at £1.49 per litre / £6.76 a gallon) it costs to fill up a petrol fuelled motorbike.
So yes, whilst the upfront cost of an electric motorcycle is likely more expensive, charging and running costs on a day to day tend to be far cheaper!
Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in electric charging points in the UK. At the end of June , there were a total number of 44,408 electric vehicle charging points across the UK - a 36% increase in the total number of charging devices since June .
As we mentioned previously, electric motorcycles are by no means at their peak just yet and have still got a long way to come before more people are convinced to jump on the electric bandwagon:
Fully charging your electric motorbike or scooter can take anywhere between half an hour or a few hours, spending on which model and charger you have - removing the opportunities for a spontaneous ride if you&#;ve got a flat battery. This is also a slight inconvenience on the road as you may be waiting at the service station for a fairly long while as your bike charges up.
Electric motorcycles initially cost more than their petrol-fuelled counterparts - even with the help of a government grant. This can be quite intimidating for quite a lot of people, however, it is worth noting that as more electric models are becoming available, slowly but surely there will be a bike out there for everyone and their budgets.
One of the disadvantages of electric motorbikes that are leaving people hesitant to make the switch is the ever-rising electricity costs in the UK - statistics show that since the start of , gas and electricity prices have risen 36.2% and 17.3%.
Maintenance-free electric motorcycle batteries unfortunately do not last very long at all with an average lifespan of between 3-8 years. Obviously, the more you ride your motorbike the more times you will need to charge it and then replace it, you also have to be extremely careful not to overcharge the battery in fear of permanently damaging the battery - which is slightly inconvenient for those who opt to charge their battery overnight to fit their busy schedules.
On average a motorcycle battery replacement can cost anything between £600-£ but this really does vary greatly between models, and bearing in mind as of currently you will need to replace the battery every few years, the costs can really start to add up.
Due to their reduced ranges, if you&#;re planning to go on a long-distance journey you will need to plan ahead and check where the electric charging points are located. The last thing you want when you&#;re out enjoying the road is worrying about where the next charging point is and if you&#;ll make it.
Even though ranges on electric motorcycles are improving, they still are not yet up to the standard of petrol-fuelled motorcycles just yet. Electric motorcycles and mopeds typically come with a range of anything between 20-100 miles so whilst they may be okay for your typical short commute, if you are thinking of travelling longer distances then I don&#;t think an electric motorcycle may be for you.
As temperatures begin to drop further and for longer with each winter, cold temperatures can affect your electric motorbikes battery capacity, so while the range is shorter in comparison to petrol-fuelled motorcycles, in winter this gets far worse.
The increase in electric motorcycles has given rise to an increase in smart tech for your ride. From switching up the ride of your bike to tracking your journey, bike rides have never been so technical... until now:
Whilst there is already a great range of apps for motorcyclists already on the market, electric motorbikes have given us the capability to work on a whole new range of technology to offer further insight into how you ride.
The Zero app, for example, allows you to customise your motorcycle's performance using your mobile device. From this app, you are able to set your top speed, maximum torque, and deceleration and braking regenerative levels.
Not only are you able to set up your ride, but you can also see statistics about your ride, including real-time estimates for recharge times of your battery as well as view battery voltage and total kilowatt-hours used. This is also translated into your trip statistics, including average watt-hours per mile, cost per mile, money saved vs. gasoline, and CO2 reduced vs petrol.
While many petrol-powered models offer a range of ride modes, such as off-road and rain modes, some electric vehicles allow for much more control. Whether it&#;s within the bikes app or configurable on the vehicle itself you can have much more control over the power, torque, max speed, and brake regeneration, so you can create the perfect ride tailored to your specific needs.
A few motorcycle manufacturers now such as Zero, Maeving, Yamaha, and Supersoco have incorporated &#;hot-swappable&#; modules into their electric bikes. This system allows the bikes to be ridden using one or two power modules that can be added or removed in less than a minute - this is a handy extra that allows you to travel long distances without the need to charge your battery.
With new technology comes constant software updates. Thankfully, technology has moved on from the days of switching on your laptop to an hour of updates before you can start using it, and the same can be said for electric bike updates.
Over-the-air updates are becoming more and more popular, and with electric bikes, this means your software will be able to auto-update without the need to plug it in or wait for hours before you can ride.
If you&#;re thinking about switching to electric, you&#;ll be pleased to know we have written a few handy guides about upgrading to an electric motorcycle and the things you need to own to have an electric motorcycle.
The range of electric motorcycles and scooters is evolving every day, and each bike is as unique as we are.
If you need a hand with deciding which electric bike or moped is best for you, check out our top 10s below:
So there you have it, I hope you enjoyed our run down on just some of the pros and cons to purchasing an electric motorcycle.
Last but not least, you&#;ll be pleased to know we here at Lexham have been covering electric motorcycles for 15 years, so if you&#;re in the market for electric motorcycle insurance - make sure to get a quote directly with Lexham!
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