A lot of people consider electric scooters and electric motorcycles to be the same. But it turns out that they’re totally different. Each of these two devices come with their unique features and advantages. You need to consider a lot of factors before you make a buying decision. In the “Electric Scooter Vs Electric Motorcycle” post we’ll explain the features of both and the benefits that come with electric scooters and electric motorcycles.
Electric Scooter Vs Electric Motorcycle
Electric Motorcycles
In simple terms, they’re motorcycles powered by electricity instead of using petrol like traditional vehicles. They’re equipped with batteries that can be charged to last for hours while riding. They’re available in different sizes and shapes, their engines are also different which depends on the capacity of your motorcycle. Let’s take a look at the features and benefits that come with an electric motorcycle.
License
Even though some electric motorcycles come in a smaller size than the traditional motorcycle. You still need a license before you start driving around. Other things also apply such as valid tax, insurance, MOT, and also protective riding attire. All the rules that apply to your traditional motorcycle also apply to an electric motorcycle even if it’s small size. When it comes to electric scooters, they don’t normally require licenses in most cities. Other cities still require permits or obtaining a license.
Speed
This depends on your model; some electric motorcycles can have a top speed that’s equivalent to that of traditional motorcycles. You can attain a speed of up to 240km/h, but for smaller ones you should expect a lower speed than this. Electric motorcycles are generally faster than electric scooters since they come with more engine power. Electric scooters can hardly pass the speed of 80km/h. Only the advanced ones can attain this speed. If you want to go faster you should go for an electric motorcycle.
Torque
The average electric motorcycle can travel for more than 90mph and that’s because they come with high torque power. That’s less than the traditional motorcycle, their acceleration also is very impressive and is enough for riders provided. You’re not carrying an excessive load on your electric motorcycle. The torque also is clearly better than that of electric scooters.
Maintenance
Not only for electric motorcycles, but all-electric machines also require low maintenance than machines powered by fuel. Electric motorcycles are easier to maintain than traditional motorcycles. You don’t need to worry about oil change, no clutch. The batteries don’t require any maintenance. You don’t need to adjust the valves, no replacement of air filters, and more stuff like that. All you need to maintain are the tires and brakes pads when they wore out.
Also when it comes to comparing the cost of electricity and fuel, electric motorcycles are way cheaper. It will cost you $2 to power up your batteries on a single full charge that can cover up to 100 miles. On the other hand, you’ll spend about $8.75 to fuel your traditional motorcycle before it’s able to cover 100 miles range.
Understand the specifications
Even though you’ll hear a lot of good things about electric motorcycles. You should understand each brand comes with its own capacity. If you intend to carry heavy loads, make sure the engine power can handle that. Each output watts have a certain amount of load it can handle. You should do proper consultation on the appropriate output that can handle your needs.
Cost
The cost of electric motorcycles surpasses that of traditional motorcycles. We’re talking of high-quality electric bikes with excellent features and that can last for a long. You can find expensive brands in the market that cost up to $30,000, The Harleys’ electric motorcycle cost this amount and it’s definitely worth it when you look at the incredible features it has. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend 30K before owning an electric motorcycle. You can find some of the cheapest brands start at $8000 and upward. The Zero FX is one of such affordable ones you can find around this price range.
These are some of the few things you need to understand before buying an electric motorcycle.
Let’s now look into the electric scooters and see some of their capabilities.
Electric Scooter
Laws
Lawson electric scooters aren’t strict, they’re also forbidden to ride in some countries like UK. They’re legal to ride in the U.S and a lot of European countries. Some countries and states also require that you’re at least 18 years and you might need a driver’s license to do so. You’re also required to wear all protective equipment like Helmet and so on.
Performance
Electric scooters aren’t powered up to cover miles range like that of electric motorcycles. The maximum range you can cover with an e-scooter is 50km-80km. The average speed for most scooters doesn’t exceed 40km.
Cost
A typical budget electric scooter will cost between $300-$600. There are cheaper options in the market though, but most are designed for kids, they can’t handle the weight of an adult. You can find them for as low as $100. The lower the price, the lower the range they can cover. Remember also there are off-road electric scooters. These ones also are cheap and are designed for children, they shouldn’t cost more than $200.
Specifications
The expensive ones come with bigger batteries that can cover long distances on a single charge. They come with strong motors depending on the load they’re designed to handle. Also equipped with excellent braking systems. Overall, e-scooters are comfortable to ride and they’re easier to store because a typical electric scooter will weigh about 40lbs, they can be folded easily.
Maintenance
An electric scooter is easier to maintain and it’s less than that of electric motorcycles. The only things you need to maintain or replace are the tires or the batteries when they’re weak over time. You just need to recharge your battery well, ensure to plug into charge after using it, and make sure it’s 100% full before riding again. This will ensure the longevity of your scooter batteries.
Electric Scooter Vs Electric Motorcycle – Which Is The Best?
This will depend on your budget and the range you intend to cover. For short distances of no more than 10km, e-scooters will work fine for you, and for large distances, electric motorcycles are your best options. You’ll definitely save a lot of money with electric scooters since they don’t cost much. For less than $1000, you can find a durable e-scooter that can handle your needs.