Faced with the dizzying rise in fuel costs and various pollution standards requirements, there is an urgent need to switch to electric. Cars were the first to benefit from this system, which is why they are the best known.
However, the motorcycle industry has also stood out in this context and continues to emancipate itself over the years. Public authorities are trying to do everything possible to encourage this sector by offering subsidies. Electric motorcycles come in several very interesting models depending on their power and performance. Discover all the useful details about electric motorcycles for adults.
The best adult-approved road electric motorcycle
What is an electric motorcycle for adults?
An electric motorcycle for adults is a two-wheeler equipped with an electric motor which is in turn powered by one or more batteries. As its name indicates, it is particularly designed for people who have reached the age of majority. Instead of going to refuel with diesel or gasoline as with thermal models, you just need an electrical outlet to recharge it.
When the battery is full, such a machine can ride several kilometers without any difficulty. Various prototypes with removable or non-removable batteries are found on the market. Whatever the case, the mechanism of these bikes is generally the same.
It’s about a transformation of chemical energy into electrical force and vice versa. Adult electric motorcycles offer various advantages. Firstly, you have interesting options and features among which are:
- The USB port for charging;
- A GPS and;
- Keyless technology.
In addition, these are ecological and very economical mopeds in the long term. Not to mention the fact that you have the possibility of achieving considerable feats with this type of machines.
What are the best electric motorcycles for adults?
Bikers in search of safety and respect for the planet do not hesitate to turn to electric motorcycles. That’s why many interesting prototypes are available on the current market. Discover the most sought-after models.
The super SOCO TC MAX
This motorcycle offers very good value for money and is made of a steel and aluminum frame. The vehicle weighs 93 kilograms, which is entirely acceptable for an adult motorcycle. You can be sure to ride smoothly and agilely while sneaking through in case of traffic jams. It has a range of 100 km with a maximum speed of 100 km/h.
Horwin CR6
With this adult electric motorcycle, you are assured comfort. It has a classic look, a revised design, and a better seating position. In terms of its capabilities, you will enjoy a range of 150 km and a motor power of 6.2 kW.
Also count on an acceleration from 0 to 60 km in 6 seconds. If you are looking for a go-anywhere motorcycle, it will certainly suit you.
Niu RQi Sport
This motorcycle has a Roadster style and gives you the ability to reach a maximum speed of 100 km/h. It has a 5 kW engine and you will certainly appreciate its inverted fork at the front and its central mono shock absorber at the rear. The weight of the vehicle is 186 kg, but it allows you to move unambiguously and at a considerable speed.
This machine combines two removable batteries of 36 Ah. This helps to achieve a range of up to 120 km and you just need 7 hours for a full charge. You will be able to make it smart by connecting it to your smartphone using a web application. Also note the presence of two cameras, front and rear.
Harley-Davidson Livewire
Harley-Davidson also wanted to position itself in the electric market. That’s why the manufacturer delivers an electric motorcycle with a maximum speed of 180 km/h and 105 horsepower.
The adventure is much more exciting with this model which gives you a range of 230 km in city driving and 150 km on trails. You will especially appreciate its 15.5 kW Samsung battery which can be quickly charged.
The Zero DSR
The look of this machine immediately recalls adventure. It is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 160 km/h and you will also benefit from its Trail driving performance. Also enjoy its stop-kit, its adjustable windshield, and its standard side case.
It also has steel side protection, additional lighting, as well as a fast charger. This adult electric motorcycle allows you to ride a distance of 262 km with a maximum charging time of 2 hours with Charge Tank technology.
Adult electric motorcycles indeed present considerable assets and participate in the fight against pollution. It is recommended to approach your municipality to find out the different subsidies available for the purchase of these machines, as they are quite expensive.
Electric motorcycles are an excellent choice for thrill-seekers who want to drive ecological machines.
What are the characteristics of an electric motorcycle for adults?
If there are differences between two-wheelers for adults and those for children, they are mainly interesting features that they are equipped with. They include the power of the motor, the performance of the motorcycle, and the type of license required.
The power
This is assessed according to the motor of the electric two-wheeler and it is a value that is estimated in kW or hp. Note first that 1 kW is equal to 1.36 hp. An electric motorcycle for adults is one that deploys a power of more than 40 kW or 54.4 hp.
However, you can find more powerful variants that can offer power beyond 100 kW. This is notably the case of the Wattman, which is French-made and can reach a power of 161 kW.
These motorcycles for adults are also distinguished by the torque of the electric motor, which is expressed in newton meters or Nm. This is a measure that defines the intensity of the rotational movement produced by the turbine. For these motorcycles, you have torques allowing:
- Ultra-fast starts;
- Great ease to overcome slopes and ride on rugged terrain;
- More powerful accelerations.
Regarding the motor technology, these models are generally equipped with a “Brushless” motor for better efficiency.
The performance
An electric motorcycle for adults can well be powerful without necessarily offering excellent performance. In addition to having powerful motors, adult machines also have good battery autonomy. Indeed, the expectations of a grown person will never be the same as those of a child.
While young people only need to ride short distances, adults travel longer distances. This is why the variants intended for them must have enough power and functionalities. However, note that the battery of these two-wheelers must have a longer life and a very fast recharge.
The driving licenses
Electric motorcycles are also subject to certain regulations, which is why you must hold a license for an electric motorcycle before you can drive them. However, it is noted that it depends on the power of the motorcycle. Young people only need an AM license to drive a model 50cc, This is not at all the case for adults who have the choice between several certifications:
- The A1 or 125 license which is intended for light electric two-wheelers. That is to say those that have a maximum engine power of 11 kW;
- The A2 license which corresponds to two-wheeler engines deploying power between 11 and 35 kW;
- The A license which is undoubtedly the most recommended for adult motorcycles. It is the one that gives the ability to drive any type of displacement. Note that to have it, you must first hold an A2 license.
Whichever option you choose, you will need to follow theoretical and practical training. But remember that the real license for adult electric motorcycles is A. With it, you have the opportunity to drive any kind of motorcycle.
What is the price for an adult electric motorcycle?
It must not be hidden that the purchase of an electric two-wheeler is quite costly. It is not only a question of thinking about the price of the machine itself. You will also have to think about spending money on maintenance, accessories, etc.
However, it is an investment that will benefit you in the long run. In addition, the government offers subsidies to support this type of expenditure. The aim being to encourage people to turn to zero waste.
The cost of the motorcycle
Adult electric motorcycles are available in several models. When you opt for lower-end models, you will need to budget around 2000 euros. This is equivalent to a 50cc. But note that it is indeed possible to find variants of more than 10,000 euros depending on the performance.
Everything depends on the design, the capacity of the motor, that of the battery, and various other elements. These different elements will determine the price of your adult motorcycle. You also have the ability to use a comparator to find good opportunities.
Price of maintenance and overhaul of your adult electric motorcycle
Once the cost of the motorcycle is known, it is just as important to have an idea of the regular maintenance it will be subject to and their costs. However, note that the rates are much more affordable than what is observed with thermal motorcycle models.
Generally, the first visit is recommended from a mileage of 1000 km. You will need to budget about 50 euros in this context depending on the type of electric motorcycle. It is also necessary to note that the cost can increase with each new mandatory check and according to the mileage of the motorcycle.
You can also have your motorcycle examined by a specialist, just to anticipate the inspections. The amount of maintenance for your motorcycle will most often not exceed 120 euros and this is justified for two reasons.
Firstly, the two-wheelers are only made up of about twenty parts. Next, wear usually concerns the braking system, tires, bearings, and seals.
The charging costs
Certainly, you will no longer have to go to the station to refuel with gasoline or diesel, but you will have to charge your battery and there you have several alternatives. To save money, you can do it at home by connecting the cable to one of your wall outlets.
This is much easier when the battery is removable, but you can also approach your machine or use a powerful electrical extension cord. However, know that these costs will be applied to your electricity bill. It is also important to mention that the price of kWh fluctuates regularly.
The other option is the installation of a charging station in your home, and this is a faster and more efficient technique. Several offers are available at this level, but you should be prepared to spend around 150 to 200 euros for an entry-level model. The much more sophisticated variants can cost up to 1500 euros.
Finally, you can turn to public charging spaces. The amount here depends on the price of kWh and the type of terminal in place. Each operator is also free to practice his quotations. Subscribing to a tariff package turns out to be much more beneficial.
Equipment for adult electric motorcycles and for the rider
Your safety is very important when you embark on such an adventure and this also applies to your motorcycle. This is why you must also budget for certain essential accessories. These include:
- The helmet which costs between 80 and 280 euros in the case of a full-face version and 40 euros for a city jet;
- The high visibility vest which is estimated at about fifty euros;
- Gloves estimated at 40 euros;
- License plates that you can have for about 15 to 30 euros.
As for clothing and other accessories, it’s up to you to see. You must not forget the insurance which is of paramount importance for your safety and that of your machine.
Finding an electric motorcycle without a license
Electric vehicles are always more popular in France. They allow for real savings on fuel, but also to take care of the environment. It is now possible to find superb electric motorcycles, which will not require you to have a motorcycle license. This is the case with the Super Soco TC Max. With its power equivalent to a 125 cc, all you have to do is spend a day’s training in a motorcycle school to drive it.
You will thus be able to easily appreciate the pleasures of two-wheelers, while enjoying the advantages of an electric vehicle. You can easily recharge it at home, with a traditional plug. Or you can have a special plug installed to always charge it faster and hit the road with it. The maximum speed of the motorcycle is 100 km/h and this can be an excellent first handle.
Furthermore, it is quite an economical model. Unlike more traditional motorcycles, the parts of electric models are much more durable and you will be able to save on the maintenance of your two-wheeler. All without having a sore ear because of the sometimes very noisy motor noise on motorcycles.