As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, many motorcycle enthusiasts are considering making the switch to electric motorcycles. While electric motorcycles offer several benefits, such as lower fuel costs and reduced environmental impact, they also have their own set of drawbacks. In this blog post, we’ll take a comprehensive look at electric motorcycles vs gasoline motorcycles to help you decide which option is right for you.
Therefore by the end of this article, you would have your answer and you will be able to make your purchase without any regret.
Electric Motorcycles
Electric Motorcycles are booming nowadays because of their new technology and being cheaper (We’ll talk about it in detail below). Also, Governments are providing incentives and subsidiaries for buying EVs due to the rising environmental issues and concerns
There are several reasons electric motorcycles are becoming popular day by day.
- They are noise-free and pollution free.
- EV Motorcycles require less maintenance
- It saves you from refueling every now and then
- Riding electric motorcycles is easy no headache of gear change
- Other Government Subsidy benefits
So, these are the benefits of electric motorcycles that every rider will get from purchasing electric motorcycles. Governments are also promoting EVs cause they are environment friendly and reduce the greenhouse effect.
Here is market data from databridgemarketresearch reports, “The electric motorcycles market value, which was USD 31.5 billion in 2021, is expected to reach the value of USD 57.44 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 7.80% during the forecast period. “48–60 Volt” accounts for the largest voltage segment in the electric motorcycles market, owing to the growing penetration of electric two-wheelers, especially in developed economies.”
Advantages of Electric Motorcycles
In this section, I will be talking about the advantages of electric motorcycles and elaborate on them further.
Environment Friendly
One of the main benefits of electric motorcycles is their reduced environmental impact. Electric motorcycles produce no emissions, making them a cleaner alternative to gasoline motorcycles.
That being said, by using EVs you are contributing to the planet by reducing the greenhouse effect.
According to epa.gov, “A typical passenger vehicle emits about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year. CO2 Emissions from a gallon of gasoline: 8,887 grams CO2/ gallon. CO2 Emissions from a gallon of diesel: 10,180 grams CO2/ gallon.”
The amount of carbon dioxide your vehicle emits per year will vary depending on the vehicle’s fuel economy, and the number of miles driven per year. But one thing is sure, if you are using a gasoline motorcycle you are responsible for pollution.
If you want to read more about the C02 produced by gasoline motorcycles and its impact on the environment visit scientific website.
However, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of the electricity used to charge electric motorcycles. If the electricity comes from a fossil fuel-based power plant, the environmental impact may not be much different than that of a gasoline motorcycle.
Instant Torque
Do you look for performance in motorcycles? The electric motorcycle has the edge here compared to gasoline. Here is why:-
Electric engines can reach their peak power and torque instantly at 0 RPM while the ICE engine produces less torque at lower RPM. Gasoline motorcycles can achieve their maximum torque only when their engine is spinning at a high RPM rate.
So, it’s clear that ICE engines take longer to spool up peak power and torque while electric motors can reach the peak torque and power instantly from start (0 RPM).
For comparison here are the acceleration data of electric motorcycles and gasoline motorcycles:-
| Electric Motorcycle (0-60 mph) | Gasoline Motorcycle (0-60 mph) |
| Lightning LS218 can reach 0-60mph in 2.2 sec. | Yamaha R6 can reach 0-60mph in 3 sec. |
| Energia Ego+ RS can reach 0-60mph in 2.6 sec. | Ninja H2R can reach 0-60mph in 2.93 sec |
| Arc Vector can reach 0-60mph in 3.1 sec. | Yamaha R7 can reach 0-60mph in 3.27sec. |
From the above data, it’s clear that electric motorcycles will win the race at 0-60mph but it will also depend on their spec. But overall Electric vehicles are the winner here in producing instant torque at 0 RPM.
Although, electric motorcycles offer instant torque and a smooth, quiet ride, making them ideal for urban commuting. However, they often have shorter ranges and slower top speeds compared to gasoline motorcycles. Gasoline motorcycles, on the other hand, tend to have longer ranges and faster top speeds, making them better suited for long-distance touring or high-speed performance.
Convenience
Electric motorcycles are generally more convenient than gasoline motorcycles in terms of fueling and maintenance.
With an electric motorcycle, you simply need to plug in and charge, rather than stop at a gas station. Electric motorcycles also require less maintenance than gasoline motorcycles, with no need to change oil or spark plugs.
If you want to spend more time riding rather than changing oil filters, brake fluids, etc then electric vehicles must be your first choice.
With an electric motorcycle, you don’t have to worry about anything like gasoline bikes. The only thing you will need to repair is the tires and brake pads, and that’s all. You just have to keep it charged and that’s all.
Charge it, ride it; no distraction– MotorcycleMonarch
The most important thing is electric engines have 90% fewer moving parts. Also therefore there is no need for complicated gear systems which make the bike less repairable.
You will be saving lots of money by having electric motorcycles because the only things that need to be replaced are their tires and brake pads. Also, most EV manufacturers provide some services for free i.e 4 to 5. Anyway services are done less frequently because there is nothing major to repair at all.
More Comfortable & Safe
If you transit from a gas motorcycle to an electric motorcycle then you will instantly know the difference.
Electric Vehicles are very comfortable to ride because of two reasons:-
- It doesn’t produce a vibration
- It produces very less noise
For these two reasons, you will be able to enjoy your ride in peace without any worry. Apart from this, many electric motorcycles use some advanced technology to provide you with a safer ride.
As I have discussed in this blog the co-pilot system of Damon’s motorcycle predicts the hazards in all direction and warn you.
It saves money
The initial cost of electric motorcycles are little high nowadays, but in the future, it will surely go down. But, in Asian countries EV motorcycles are cheap and budget-friendly.
Apart from the initial costs, governments are also providing some subsidies for buying it in some countries.
With Electric motorcycles, the major savings are from exemptions for refueling and maintenance.
Electric vehicle requires only charging which doesn’t cost much. So, you are going to save lots of money in the long run compared to gasoline motorcycles.
Disadvantages of Electric Motorcycles
In this section, I will be discussing the disadvantage of having electric motorcycles. And the only major con I came across is Limited Driving Range.
Range: One of the main disadvantages of electric motorcycles is their limited range compared to gasoline motorcycles. While the range of electric motorcycles has improved in recent years, they still tend to have a shorter range compared to gasoline motorcycles, which can be a limiting factor for long-distance touring or commuting.
Charging Infrastructure: Another disadvantage of electric motorcycles is the lack of charging infrastructure in some areas. While electric car charging stations are becoming more common, it can still be difficult to find a place to charge an electric motorcycle, especially when traveling long distances.
High Initial Cost: As mentioned earlier, electric motorcycles tend to be more expensive upfront compared to gasoline motorcycles. This can be a major drawback for some riders, especially if they are on a budget.
Limited Power: While electric motorcycles have improved in terms of power and performance in recent years, they still tend to have less power and torque compared to gasoline motorcycles. This can be a disadvantage for riders who are looking for a motorcycle with high-performance capabilities.
Limited Availability: Electric motorcycles are still relatively new and not all manufacturers offer them. This can make it difficult for riders to find the model and features they want in an electric motorcycle.
Gasoline Motorcycles
A gasoline motorcycle is a type of motorcycle that runs on gasoline as fuel. Gasoline motorcycles are powered by an internal combustion engine, which burns gasoline to generate power. Gasoline motorcycles are widely available and are popular for their power and performance, as well as their versatility and relatively low cost of ownership.
Advantages of Gas Motorcycle
Coming to the Advantages of Gas motorcycles, there are several advantages to gasoline motorcycles:-
Riding Range
This is one of the major advantageous factors of gasoline motorcycles that makes them stand out.
Gasoline motorcycles have a longer range compared to electric motorcycles. If you want to travel for a long i.e., say interstate travel you can do so.
The range of gasoline motorcycles can vary significantly depending on the size of the fuel tank, the efficiency of the engine, and the riding conditions. A small motorcycle with a small fuel tank may have a range of just a few hundred miles, while a larger touring motorcycle with a larger fuel tank could have a range of over 500 miles.
While electric motorcycles have a range of around 100-200 miles on a single charge, some high-end models can have a range of over 300 miles. Overall, for now, Gasoline motorcycles are the winner in terms of riding range.
High Performance
Gasoline motorcycles typically have more power and torque than electric motorcycles, which can make them more suited for high-speed riding and acceleration. While electric motorcycle does have the advantage of instant torque as we discussed already.
The performance of motorcycles will vary but gasoline motorcycle markets are very huge and have many models which satisfy the performance need of the rides. While with electric motorcycles we don’t have the same benefit.
Wide Availability
Because of the built-in infrastructure for gasoline motorcycles, it is widely available in most countries. There are many different brands and models of gasoline motorcycles available, ranging from small scooters to large touring motorcycles. You can get yourself a gasoline motorcycle depending on your needs and riding requirements. For more detail, you can read my blogs.
Lower Initial Cost
The cost of gasoline motorcycles is very lower than that of electric motorcycles. You can buy yourself a lower cc gas motorcycle at low prices and get riding. You can get yourself a new gasoline motorcycle for as low as $3,399. But even with the cheapest electric motorcycle, it will generally cost you over $4000. For reference, you can read my “Top Electric Motorcycles under $5000”.
Apart from the gasoline motorcycle being cheap, you can ride it as long as you want; you just have to refuel it. It is another big advantage of gasoline bikes which I have discussed in the next point.
Refueling Convenience
One of the biggest advantages of gasoline motorcycles is that they are convenient to refuel. Gasoline is available at Gas stations widely, also we can easily find many gas stations with the help of Google Maps.
Along with a full tank, we can also carry extra fuel with the help of fuel tanks, fuel cans, etc in case we are intending to travel to remote areas.
So, this is the benefit of gasoline motorcycles as they have a longer driving range and refueling conveniences that enable us to travel long trips without any issues.
But with electric motorcycles, it’s simply impossible for now. As there are no built-in infrastructure or charging stations to find. Apart from it, the charging time is still very high for some models like 4 to 5 hours.
Now, let’s talk about some of the disadvantages of gasoline motorcycles.
Disadvantages of Gas Motorcycle
There are several potential disadvantages to using a gasoline motorcycle as a mode of transportation:
Emissions: Gasoline motorcycles produce emissions, including carbon dioxide and other pollutants, which can contribute to air pollution and climate change.
Fuel costs: Gasoline can be expensive, particularly in certain parts of the world. This can make operating a gasoline motorcycle more costly than other modes of transportation.
Maintenance: Gasoline motorcycles generally require more maintenance than electric motorcycles, as they have more mechanical components that can wear out or need repair. This can add to the ongoing costs of ownership.
Noise: Gasoline motorcycles can be loud, which can be a nuisance to others, and may not be allowed in certain areas. Also, the sound of gasoline motorcycles varies as some users also used modified exhausts, etc.
Here is a little table showing the difference between Electric Motorcycles vs Gasoline motorcycles:-
| Features | Electric Motorcycle | Gas Motorcycles |
| Power source | It uses a Rechargeable battery | It uses Gasoline/ fuel. |
| Refueling | It requires a Plug in to charge. | We have to fill up at a gas station |
| Emission | Zero emissions (no exhaust) | Emits exhaust gases |
| Noise | It is quiet. | It is loud. |
| Maintenance | Fewer moving parts, less maintenance required | More moving parts, more maintenance required |
| Cost | The initial purchase price may be higher, but lower operating costs | The initial purchase price may be lower, but higher operating costs |
| Range | Limited by battery life | Unlimited, as long as there is gasoline available |
| Acceleration | Instant torque, can be very fast | Depends on engine size and horsepower |
Conclusion
There is no answer! As the ancient Romans used to say, “De gustibus non disputandum est” – there is no accounting for taste!
Ultimately, the choice between a gasoline motorcycle and an electric motorcycle will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you need a motorcycle that is easy to refuel and has a long range, a gasoline motorcycle may be a good choice. If you are more concerned about the environmental impact of your transportation or the long-term costs of ownership, an electric motorcycle may be a better fit.
