Buyer's Guide: Best Electric Motorcycles to Source

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In the world of two-wheelers, a quiet revolution is taking place. Electric motorcycles are zooming into the market, offering an environmentally friendly, cost-effective and thrilling alternative to traditional gas-powered motorcycles.

Electric motorcycles, as the name implies, run on electricity. They are powered by rechargeable batteries, which can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet or a charging station.

Key features

Several key features set electric motorcycles apart from their gas counterparts.

Firstly, electric motorcycles are known for their instant torque, unlike bikes with internal combustion engines (ICEs), which require a build-up of RPM to reach their peak torque. Electric motorcycles deliver maximum torque the moment the throttle is twisted, resulting in rapid acceleration and an exhilarating experience for the rider.

Secondly, they are incredibly quiet. Electric motorcycles generate minimal noise, even at high speeds, providing a more peaceful ride. This also reduces noise pollution, a significant benefit in urban areas.

Lastly, electric motorcycles are remarkably simple to maintain. They have fewer moving parts than ICE-powered motorcycles, which means less wear and tear. There's no need for oil changes, spark plug replacements or carburetor tuning, making them ideal for riders who prefer low-maintenance vehicles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Electric motorcycles offer several advantages over gas-powered types. They are more eco-friendly, producing zero exhaust emissions, which contributes to cleaner air. They are also more energy-efficient, converting up to 90 percent of their energy into movement, compared to just 20 to 30 percent for gas motorcycles. In terms of running costs, electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, and the maintenance costs are lower too.

However, there are also disadvantages. The major one is their limited range. While advancements are being made, electric motorcycles can typically travel less distance than their gas-powered peers before needing to swap batteries or recharge. The necessary charging infrastructure is also not as widespread as gas stations yet, which can be a problem for long-distance riders.

Another downside is the higher upfront cost. Electric motorcycles tend to be more expensive to purchase than gas-powered ones, although this is somewhat offset by their lower running and maintenance costs. There's also the issue of battery life and replacement costs, although many manufacturers now offer warranties on their batteries.

Growing market

The electric motorcycles market will reach $57.44 billion by 2029 from $31.5 billion in 2021, with a CAGR of 7.8 percent, according to projections by Data Bridge Market Research. This growth is attributed to increasing demand thanks to rising consumer awareness about the environmental benefits of electric vehicles and the advancements in technology facilitating the production of more efficient and affordable electric motorcycles.

Frequently asked questions about electric motorcycles

Does Yamaha make electric motorcycles?

Yes, Yamaha, one of the world’s major motorcycle manufacturers, does make electric motorcycles. The company has been developing electric two-wheelers for several years now and offers a range of models that cater to different riders' needs.

The Yamaha TY-E, for example, is an electric trials bike that combines advanced electric technology with Yamaha's off-road expertise. It features a carbon-fiber monocoque frame, a high-output electric motor and a Li-ion battery. The design is focused on achieving light weight, high rigidity and superior riding performance.

Yamaha is also part of a consortium with other Japanese manufacturers, such as Honda, Kawasaki and Suzuki, to standardize swappable batteries for electric motorcycles. This initiative aims to overcome one of the main drawbacks of electric motorcycles: their limited range.

Does Honda produce electric motorcycles?

Yes, Honda, another leading motorcycle manufacturer, offers electric motorcycles. Honda has been investing heavily in electric technology and has several electric motorcycles and scooters in its lineup.

The Honda CR Electric is a concept bike that showcases the company's vision for electric off-road motorcycles. It features a high-power electric motor, a lightweight frame and advanced suspension systems for superior off-road performance.

On the urban mobility front, Honda offers the Benly e, an electric scooter designed for business use. It has a compact design, a low center of gravity and swappable batteries for easy recharging, making it ideal for deliveries and other short-distance rides in the city.

Is Harley-Davidson making electric motorcycles?

Yes, Harley-Davidson, the iconic American manufacturer of motorcycles, is indeed producing electric versions. The company's first electric motorcycle, the LiveWire, was launched in 2019, marking a significant shift in its traditional product lineup.

The LiveWire is a high-performance electric motorcycle that combines Harley-Davidson's classic design with cutting-edge electric technology. It offers an exhilarating riding experience, with rapid acceleration, agile handling and a high-speed range of around 95 miles or about 153km in the city.

Harley-Davidson has also announced plans to launch LiveWire as a dedicated brand to further expand its electric motorcycle offerings. This move signifies the company's commitment toward a sustainable future and its belief in the potential of electric vehicle technology.

Does Tesla manufacture electric motorcycles?

Contrary to popular belief, Tesla, the leading electric car manufacturer, does not produce electric motorcycles. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has stated that the company has no plans to enter the motorcycle market, citing safety concerns.

However, this does not mean that prospective electric motorcycle buyers are out of options. There are numerous electric motorcycle manufacturers to choose from, including established motorcycle brands as well as specialized electric motorcycle manufacturers in China, India, other parts of Asia, the US and Europe.

Will electric technology replace gas-powered motorcycles?

Although there's a growing trend toward electric motorcycles driven by environmental concerns and advancements in technology, it's uncertain if they will completely replace their gas-powered counterparts. Factors such as the high initial cost and lack of charging infrastructure in many regions may slow down their adoption. However, with declining battery prices, increased government incentives and advancements in charging infrastructure, it's plausible that electric motorcycles will make up a significant portion of the motorcycle market in the future. Nevertheless, the timeline for any potential total replacement is still unclear and would depend on various economic, technological and policy factors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, electric motorcycles are a viable and exciting alternative to traditional versions that run on gas. They offer numerous benefits, including environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness and thrilling performance. While there are some challenges, such as limited range and higher upfront cost, advancements in electric technology and infrastructure are gradually overcoming these.

Whether your target customer is a fan of Yamaha's off-road prowess, Honda's versatile range, or Harley-Davidson's classic design, there's an electric motorcycle out there for your market. So, why not take a step toward a greener future and let your market experience the thrill of electric riding today?

Online platforms nowadays allow buyers to easily look for the right manufacturer that meets their specific needs. Global Sources, for instance, not only provides site visitors with a comprehensive list of products and their details but also a list of suppliers that have been verified by third parties to ensure buyers are only dealing with legitimate companies. The B2B sourcing platform lets visitors filter and customize their searches, check the qualifications and relevant company information of the suppliers and take a virtual tour of some of the manufacturers’ facilities.

Electric motorcycle, removable battery

Company: Autotec International Corp.

Model U1 EEC and CE is an electric motorcycle equipped with a 12in 2,000W motor encased in aluminum, speed switch with reverse control, 12in tires, front and rear disc brakes, front and rear shock absorbers, and a removable battery. It has 45kph maximum speed, >18-degree climbing angle, 65km range per charge and 180kg load capacity. Product size is 2,01x38x98.5cm and net weight 65kg.

Autotec exports electric vehicles and parts. It has ISO 9001:2008- and QS 9000:1998 certifications.

Price: $840 to $900

MOQ: 1 unit

Lead time: 30 to 60 days

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Electric motorcycle, 2,000W motor, 60km range

Company: Wuxi Hongfan Group

Model EMM7-2851 is an electric motorcycle with a 2,000W motor, a 72V, 20Ah battery, front and rear disc brakes, and 120/70-12 front and rear tires. It has a range of 60km and a maximum speed of 45kph. Vehicle dimensions are 183x73x106cm.

Wuxi Hongfan has more than 15 years of experience in the manufacture of motorcycles. Scooters, tricycles, electric bikes and spare parts are also in its product range. The supplier has ISO 9001:2000 and 14001 certifications.

Price: $580 to $638

MOQ: 26 units

Lead time: 15 to 35 days

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Electric motorcycle for children

Company: Freeman Intelligent Power Ltd

For children 3 to 10 years old weighing up to 64kg, the DK2-7449 is a 300W electric motorcycle with a speed of up to 15.5mph or 24.9kph and a range of 13.7mi or 22km. It is equipped with a shock-absorbing spring, a hydraulic shock fork and three safe speed modes. This CE-approved product runs on a 36V lithium battery that charges in four to five hours and can support up to 90 minutes of use based on a load of 88.2 pounds or 40kg and speed of 9.3mph or 15kph.

Freeman offers unicycles, hoverboards, skateboards and electric scooters. It has a 7,000sqm factory with a daily output of 2,000 units.

Price: $145 to $180

MOQ: 200 units

Lead time: 30 to 35 days

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Electric scooter, 50 to 100km range

Company: Anhui Light Industries International Co. Ltd

The T9 electric scooter has a 1,600mm wheelbase, front hydraulic absorber, and 130/70-12 front and 120/70-12 rear tires. Its maximum speed is 70 to 100kph, climbing angle ≤30 degrees and range 50 to 100km. This vehicle, with a 3,000 and 5,000W motor, runs on a 72V, 30, 40 or 60Ah lead-acid or lithium battery, which charges in ≤8 hours. It is available in black, white, red, blue and other colors.

ISO 9001:2008-compliant Anhui Light offers a range of products and exports them to Eastern Europe, the US, the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia.

Price: $1,280 to $2,580

MOQ: 1 unit

Lead time: 25 to 30 days

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Electric scooter, two lithium batteries

Company: Zhongneng Vehicle Group Co. Ltd

The H7-0935 electric scooter runs on two 72V, 20Ah lithium batteries, can climb at 11 degrees and has a top speed of 45kph. It has a 1,315mm wheelbase, front and rear disc brakes, and 80/90-14 front and 90/90-14 rear tires. This patented unit measures 184x70.5x105.5cm and weighs 98kg net. Also available is a variant with a 3,000W motor, 75 to 80kph maximum speed and 20-degree climbing ability. Price and MOQ are on direct inquiry.

Zhongneng specializes in scooters and produces engines, and electric and gas motorcycles as well. It has ISO 9001:2008 certification.

Lead time: 30 to 40 days

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Electric scooter, 60 to 100km range

Company: Jinjiang Jiaxing Co.

The model Electric Motorcycles-017O is equipped with a 3,001 to 4,000W motor and a battery that charges in six to eight hours. On a full charge, it can travel for 60 to 100km at speeds of up to 70 to 80kph and with a maximum load of 180kg. This scooter has a 1,345mm wheelbase, 120/70-12 tires and a disc CBS. Its climbing ability is 30 percent or 15 degrees. Its net weight is 105kg.

ISO 9001:2008-compliant Jinjiang Jiaxing has a 30,000sqm factory and provides OEM services.

Price: $242.01 to $242.08

MOQ: 500 units

Lead time: 15 to 25 days

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Electric scooter, 45kph top speed

Company: Feihong Industry Co. Ltd

Model EMC-03-4490 is an electric scooter with a steel frame, 1,000W or custom motor, 48, 60 or 72V, lead-acid or lithium battery with 20, 32 or 40Ah capacity, and 10in tires. Its maximum speed is 45kph or as specified, maximum load 500kg or above and range up to 300km. This CE-approved vehicle has one- to two-year warranty.

Feihong markets electric bikes and scooters, hoverboards, tablets and laptops under the eCoolpa brand. It accepts OEM projects as well.

Price: $313 to $380 per carton

MOQ: 1 carton

Lead time: 20 to 30 days

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Electric scooter, 80 to 90km range

Company: Jinjiang Jiaxing Supply Management Co. Ltd

The Adult Electric Motorcycle-046QD is equipped with a 1,001 to 2,000W BLDC motor, 3.0-10 tubeless tires and a 60V, 26Ah battery. Its maximum speed is 40 to 60kph and range 80 to 90km.

Jinjiang Jiaxing Supply has an in-house R&D team and offers a range of products.

Price: $424

MOQ: 1,000 units

Lead time: 15 to 25 days

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Electric motorcycle, 40 to 80km range

Company: Zhejiang Luqi Intelligent Technology Co. Ltd

The HL-6.0 is an electric motorcycle with a 2,000 or 3,000W motor and a   60V, 20, 30 or 40Ah removable lithium battery. It has a maximum speed of 25, 45 or 70kph, maximum load of 293kg and range of 40 to 80km. Product net weight is 128kg.

Zhejiang Luqi specializes in electric scooters, which have an EEC COC certificate.

Price: $1,020 to $1,070

MOQ: 5 units

Lead time: 7 to 15 days

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Electric motorcycle, 120kph top speed

Company: Deka Intelligent Technology (Taizhou) Co. Ltd

The EK8-3030 electric motorcycle has 120kph maximum speed, 200kg load capacity and 60 to 100km range. It is equipped with 110/60-17 front and 140/60-17 rear tires, front and rear disc brakes, 72V, 40Ah lithium or lead-acid battery and up to 3,000W motor. This 198x77.5x107cm vehicle has a 1,335mm wheelbase.

ISO 9001:2015-compliant Deka has been manufacturing hoverboards, and electric scooters and bikes since 2012.

Price: $2,900

MOQ: 1 unit

Lead time: 45 to 55 days

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