The electric motorcycle—familiar in form but different in spirit.
But why does it feel like so many are turning their backs on the mechanical growl that defined generations of riders?
This shift isn't just about embracing new tech; it’s a unique experience of instant torque and an exercise in silence.
For these reasons, as well as economic and environmental ones, many riders seek out electric motorcycles. Some just want the experience, and others are in the market to buy one.
And what better way to experience an electric motorcycle than renting one? We see them available everywhere, from Los Angeles to Phoenix to Pittsburgh!
If you’re curious about what riding one of these quiet machines is like, we’ll unravel some electrifying truths ahead of your first ride.
But first, do you know how many electric motorcycle companies currently exist?
Electric Motorcycle Brands
There are several prominent brands in the electric motorcycle industry, each offering unique models that cater to various preferences and riding styles.
Within the USA, Zero Motorcycles is a clear leader within the space. The company launched in Santa Cruz in 2006 and has continually grown its brand awareness and model offerings.
One of their latest is the DSR/X adventure bike, which is claimed to have a 179-mile range and a top speed of 112mph. We’ve seen these during some adventure rides, and they certainly stick out!
The other stateside leader is LiveWire, which is owned by Harley-Davidson. The original LiveWire One was out of most people’s price range, but the S2 models recently released—the S2 Mulholland and the S2 Del Mar—have become a favorite electric for many, including some very opinionated journalists.
But besides Zero and LiveWire, did you know plenty of other options are available worldwide? Styles and price points vary drastically, so there’s certainly something available for every rider.
Here's a brief overview of some notable electric motorcycle brands worldwide:
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Brutus Motorcycle: Known for its range of electric motorcycles, including the Brutus V9 cruiser and the Brutus 2 streetfighter. More Info
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Cake: A Swedish brand focusing on urban commuting and off-road riding. Models include the Makka, Aik, Osa, Kalk, and Bukk, each tailored for different riding needs. More Info
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Colibri: Offers the M22, a super-light, foldable electric motorcycle that is street-legal in the US and EU, with a range of 124 miles. More Info
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CSC Motorcycles: Based in Southern California, CSC offers models like the RX1E, an adventure-bike-styled electric motorcycle featuring Bosch ABS and adjustable suspension. More Info
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Curtiss Motorcycles: Known for its custom design options, Curtiss Motorcycles offers The 1, a customizable electric motorcycle with adjustable features and unique styling. These are ultra-expensive electric motorcycles, often priced in the six-figure range. More Info
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Damon Motorcycles: Offers the Hypersport and Hyperfighter models, known for their high performance, with a claimed output of 200 horsepower and a top speed of 200 mph. More Info
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Daymak: A Toronto-based company offering a variety of electric vehicles, including the EM2, a fully-faired sportbike. More Info
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Davinci Motor: Offers the DC100 and DC Classic, both boasting 135 horsepower, a top speed of 124 mph, and a range of at least 222 miles. More Info
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Energica: An Italian brand providing a range of models like the Ego, Experia, EsseEsse 9, and Eva Ribelle, each designed for different riding preferences. More Info
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Evoke Motorcycles: This brand offers models like the Urban Classic dedicated to cruising, Urban S, and 6061-GT, featuring regenerative braking and fast charging. More Info
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Huck Cycles: Based in North Carolina, offering unorthodox models like the Overland, Rebel, and Stinger, each weighing around 200 pounds. More Info
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Johammer: An Austrian brand offering the Johammer J1 with an unconventional design and innovative features like a motor and controller mounted in the rear wheel. More Info
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Kollter: An Austrian brand imported into the US, offering models ranging from the belt-drive ES1-S Pro to the chain-drive RS-1. More Info
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Lightning Motorcycles: Known for the LS-218 and Strike models, the LS-218 is one of the fastest-producing motorcycles. More Info
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Maeving: A British brand offering the Maeving RM1S, known for its removable battery and conventional appearance. More Info
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Stark Varg: Specializes in race-specific electric motocross bikes, known for their big power, quick top speeds, and range. Launched the Stark Varg EX dual sport in 2025. More Info
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Tacita: Notable for electric off-road motorcycles with five-speed transmissions, offering models like the T-Race and T-Cruise. More Info
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Volt Motorcycles: An electric motorcycle brand with a few sportbike options. More Info
As the list above shows, electric motorcycle companies are everywhere—and new ones appear yearly.
They've been around long enough to snag 5% of powered two-wheeler sales in places like the UK.
Sustainability is a significant factor driving the shift towards electric bikes. These rides deliver big-time eco-friendliness with zero emissions.
And with lower running costs than traditional gas guzzlers, thanks to fewer moving parts needing less maintenance, e-bikes offer economic perks that make wallets happy.
Riding an Electric Motorcycle: What to Expect and Tips
When you first throw a leg over most electric motorcycles, the feeling is somewhat awkward. Depending on the brand and battery location, some feel super skinny between the legs, and others feel top-heavy.
But that’s just the beginning; the ride takes you somewhere immediately different. Two things will stick out: instantaneous torque and silence. We’ll discuss below, along with some quick tips so you can know what to expect when you rent your first electric motorcycle.
Even seasoned riders need to rewire their brains to enjoy the hum and glide of electric motorcycles.
Prep for Instantaneous Torque
That instant torque can catch even seasoned riders off guard. These machines deliver 100% torque from the get-go—no clutch release needed.
To handle this power without launching into orbit, start with gentle twists of the throttle. Think about it as learning to tiptoe before you sprint; finesse is key.
Smoothness in acceleration keeps things under control because immediate torque means immediate response. But once you connect the brain to the right wrist and understand the immediate thrust of an electric motorcycle, smiles typically don’t stop.
Enjoy the Silence?
Imagine gliding through the streets, your bike humming a futuristic tune that's more sci-fi than a daily ride. This unique soundtrack to electric motorcycle riding rewrites road rhythms.
The buzz and whoosh of an electric motorcycle may seem like whispers compared to. Staying alert and noticeable on your silent motorcycle is crucial for safety since pedestrians and other drivers might not hear you coming.
Navigate Range Considerations
Think you might get stranded with an electric motorcycle? Range anxiety is real, but it's not the monster some make it out to be. Keeping a log of your trips can ease those worries.
The trick is to use your trip logs smartly to plan future routes that play nicely with your bike’s battery capacity or include charging pit stops. This way, you can swap horror stories about close calls with empty batteries for tales of well-planned journeys.
Plus, these electric bikes have the range displayed—just be aware of where charging stations are if on a long trip, or remember to plug it in when you arrive home or at the hotel.
Adjust to Braking Differences
Riding an electric motorcycle throws you a curveball in the braking department. Without traditional engine resistance to lean on, it's crucial to get chummy with both front and rear brake systems.
Do a few practice braking sessions in a parking lot before cranking on the highway or through town.
Riding an electric motorcycle for the first time means embracing substantial changes over a fuel-powered platform and staying even more alert. Just as the adage loud pipes save lives, silent bikes can slay lives.
So gear up—the brighter, the better—and rent one. Many who experience electric motos for the first time end up coming back. Others are waiting for even more range and power. But one thing is for sure: they’re here to stay. So the sooner you rent one, the quicker you’ll know if electric motorcycles are for you.
FAQs
Is it easy to ride an electric motorcycle?
Riding one can be straightforward, especially since you're ditching gear shifts and clutch work for a twist-and-go experience.
What are the disadvantages of electric motorcycles?
You might grapple with shorter ranges, longer recharge times, and heftier upfront costs compared to gas bikes.
What do I need to know before riding an electric bike?
Familiarize yourself with its instantaneous torque delivery, silent operation, and how regenerative braking changes your stop strategy.
Can a beginner ride an electric bike?
Sure thing. Beginners may actually find electrics less intimidating thanks to their simple controls and manageable power.
