Electric Bike VS Motorcycle

As electric bikes become more popular, it’s natural to compare them to electric and gas-powered motorcycles, which is understandable. Powered bikes are commonly used for commuting and zipping around cities. Is investing in an electric bike worthwhile if you already have a motorcycle? This article compares and contrasts electric bicycles and motorcycles in various areas.

Before we begin, it is critical to understand the primary distinction between electric bikes and motorcycles: how they are ridden. The primary difference between the two vehicle types is that a motor entirely propels motorcycles. In contrast, electric bikes use electric motors and human power to assist riders as needed. Motorcycles are also far more powerful than electric bicycles, with many models reaching speeds comparable to the fastest automobiles. You pedal like a typical pushbike on an electric bike, and the electric motor assists you. There is no pedaling on motorbikes, and the throttle controls all movement. The differences do not stop there.

Legal Requirements

In the eyes of the law, electric bikes and motorbikes are handled very differently. Motorcycles, whether electric or gasoline-powered, must pay road tax, have insurance and be registered with the DVLA. Motorcycle riders must also have a driver’s license to drive the vehicle legally. There are no such limitations with electric bikes. You do not need a driver’s license, the bike does not need to be registered or insured, and no tax is paid. Electric bikes are generally treated the same as traditional pedal bikes in the eyes of the law.

The clothing required of riders varies between motorcycles and electric bikes. Motorcycle riders are required by law to wear a crash helmet, and additional protective clothing is recommended. Motorcycles can reach faster speeds, which increases the risk of accidents. You do not need to wear a crash helmet when riding an electric bike (although wearing a helmet of some kind is strongly advised). You also don’t have to transport bulky motorcycle outfits. Electric bikes allow you to wear whatever you want, within reason.

Protective clothing is advised, especially if you intend to ride your electric bike on busy roads.

In contrast, electric bikes use electric motors and human power to assist riders as needed. Motorcycles are also far more powerful than electric bicycles, with many models reaching speeds comparable to the fastest automobiles. If you find yourself a mid drive electric bike for sale, You pedal like a typical pushbike on an electric bike, and the electric motor assists you at the pedals.

Speed

Unsurprisingly, commuter bikes cannot compete in speed with motorcycles (electric or gas). The most significant factor is legislation, which limits the rate at which electric bikes will assist the rider. Electric bikes are required by law to stop delivering power when they reach 15.5mph (25kph).

On the other hand, motorcycles are not subject to such restrictions. They are legally permitted to go at significantly higher speeds. If you enjoy speed, an electric or gas motorcycle may be your best option. However, as you’ll see in the following section, being able to move faster does not guarantee you’ll get to your destination sooner.

Commuting

Electric bikes are excellent commuter vehicles. They’re light, fast, and dependable, and they’re not affected by train delays!

Because of rush hour traffic and traffic lights, the enhanced speed capabilities of a motorcycle are meaningless in a city. Electronic bikes, like motorcycles, have the advantage of being able to sidle down the side of traffic. On the other hand, electric bicycles offer the bonus of using them in bike lanes and certain city parks. With an electric bike, you have more transportation options. Motorcycles are only permitted on public roads. As a result, the faster vehicle isn’t always the quickest mode of transportation.

Electric bikes alo provide several practical advantages over motorcycles. For example, there is no need for a parking space, and many offices have space for bikes to be kept safe. You can also fold some electric bikes. Folding electric bikes are even more versatile because they can be transported on trains and buses, taken into coffee shops or stored under your desk at work. Every aspect has been considered!

Maintenance

Electric bikes require significantly less upkeep than traditional motorcycles. There is no oil or cooling system to maintain, and there are fewer parts in total, implying that there is less to maintain. Furthermore, compared to gas and electric motorcycles, operating costs are negligible. You do not need to purchase fuel, nor do you need to charge the bike. Electric bikes are always ready to use; no preparation or planning is required. You can hop on and go whenever the mood strikes you!

Exercise

Electric bikes are considerably superior in terms of workout because they require pedaling to move. Of course, electric bikes significantly assist the rider, making them fun and accessible. However, there is still some needed human input beyond twisting a throttle. Electric bikes provide an accessible type of exercise that motorcycles just cannot for people who find traditional cycling very demanding, especially in cities.

While we may be biased, electric bikes are often the more versatile mode of transportation. They can be used in more areas and by more people than motorcycles, which is a significant advantage in a society where new and improved modes of personal transportation are continuously sought after.

While we may be biased, electric bikes are often the more versatile mode of transportation. They can be used in more areas and by more people than motorcycles, which is a significant advantage in a society where new and improved modes of personal transportation are continuously sought after. If you’re thinking of buying an electric bike, consider the KBO Breeze, our electric commuter bike available here, or our ever-popular KBO Ranger. This electric cargo bike makes your life easier.

Fuel

Most motorcycles require fuel in the form of gas, whereas e-bikes are often battery-powered. Riding an electric bike will save you money on commuting expenses in the long run. Of course, plugging in an e-bike’s battery to charge will increase your energy bill. However, it will be considerably less than needing to regularly fill up a gas tank. Furthermore, many municipal authorities and gas stations now provide free or low-cost charging facilities for electric vehicles.

Cost

Motorcycles can be incredibly expensive, with a new model costing $6,000 or more, depending on the features available. On the other hand, electric bikes are often available for $1,000 or less. In reality, the most expensive e-bikes cost almost half the price of the average motorcycle. When the additional upfront cost is combined with insurance responsibilities, licensing fees, repair, and maintenance, e-bikes become the obvious choice for cost-conscious commuters.

If you need a quick summary of everything we’ve discussed:

E-bikes

Pros

• Cycling anywhere, including on cycle paths and roads, can take shortcuts.
• It can be parked quite close to work (20 meters) in a sheltered bike rack.
• Quiet and clean.

• There would be no need to pay road tax, insurance, MOTs, or gas, which would offer you peace of mind that you would not constantly drain your bank account.
• Maintenance is likely to be less expensive than that of a motorcycle.
• Can most likely be recharged at work to avoid an increase in the electricity bill
• It will keep you moderately fit without requiring you to arrange separate workouts.

Cons

• Daily battery recharging will have to be incorporated into the routine.
• Heavy loads (such as grocery shopping) are more complicated.
• There are no pillion passengers.
• Long climbs still make you sweat a little – not ideal before work.
• When it rains, you spend more time in the rain.

Motorcycle 

Pros

• Commuter motorcycles are often quite dependable. You’ll be at work in 10 minutes if You press a button.
• Unlimited range – avoid the hassle and excessive expense (train fare) of taking the train to see your mother 100 miles away or attending events or appointments far away. 
• Can transport another passenger, including a girlfriend, for trips.
• Can carry heavy loads, such as groceries.
• When you’re exhausted or feeling lousy, you can blast home.
• No need to recharge
• It’s really fun.
• If driven appropriately, it’s probably safer than an E-bike (more gear, better helmet, and more road presence)

Cons

• The expenses are road tax, insurance, MOT, scheduled maintenance, and gas. It’s a constant drain on the bank account and a source of dread in many thoughts.
• A 500-600cc bike (and even some scooters) gets less mileage than one may assume, approximately 55mpg.
• At work, you must park in a parking lot (further away than for Ebike)
• The complication of a large motorcycle lock and, on occasion, a bike cover

Whatever you choose, make sure it suits all your needs. You’re not likely to go wrong with either an electric bike or a motorcycle as long as you pick a vehicle that suits your lifestyle. Ebikes are a fun, healthy and green way to get around, especially if you live in a city. Call us biased but we at KBO know that we offer the best ebikes around for whenever you want to get an ebike. You can browse our website if you don’t believe us. Don’t take our word for it but those of the numerous satisfied customers.