The Pros and Cons of Electric Motorcycles and Scooters

Author: Jessica

Jun. 23, 2025

The Pros and Cons of Electric Motorcycles and Scooters

As we move to a new era of electric, the UK Government has planned to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel two and three-wheelers by . The global shift towards protecting the planet and reducing emissions means that electric motorcycles and mopeds are set to be the bike of the future.

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So, what does the bike of the future actually look like? Futuristic concepts usually included outlandish concepts and eccentric designs, but in reality, the bike of the future looks the same as our fuel-filled past, with electric motorbikes sharing the same design principles as their petrol-powered siblings.

In this blog, we are going to be exploring the advantages and disadvantages of electric motorcycles - so without further ado, let’s get into it, shall we?

As electric motorbikes are starting to make vast improvements and technological advances, now more than ever there are benefits to purchasing an electric motorcycle, such as:

When it comes to fuel I think it goes without saying that electric counterparts are by far more environmentally friendly especially when charged up on electricity generated from renewable sources.

Standard petrol-fuelled motorbikes require far more moving parts to get them going in comparison to electric bikes. Electric motorcycles do not have oil, spark plugs, air filters, or timing belts and many won’t have a gearbox or clutch either - your biggest maintenance costs will be your tyres and brakes.

Admittedly the initial cost of an electric motorbike is higher than a petrol-fuelled bike however in the long run, your electric bike might actually save you a bit of money. You will not only save money with cheaper refuelling but also potentially with lower maintenance costs.

For those who don’t mind not having a loud roaring engine, then switching to electric might be the choice for you. There are many electric motorbikes that are practically silent on the roads, however, on the rarer side at the moment you can pick up some which omit a noise to help other road users know of your presence.

As we mentioned previously, electric motorcycles do not have gearboxes meaning there will be no need for you to change gears.

If you’re used to shifting gear and riding, then it might take you a little while to get used to the ride, however, if you're a beginner, this might be one of the easiest ways to learn how to ride!

If you’re an occasional rider, then you’ll understand the pain of settling your bike in for the winter and ensuring your bike is ready to ride when the weather improves. With an electric bike you won’t have to worry about these things - just make sure to charge your battery and keep the bike in a secure, dry place, and you’re good to go when summer rolls around.

If you choose to switch to the electric side you’ll be pleased to know you can have a little bit of help from government grants. Plug-in grant funds up to a maximum of £150 towards mopeds and £500 towards buying an electric motorcycle providing they cost £10,000 or less.

*It is worth noting that the plug-in grant is due to end in , so before purchasing an electric bike or scoot, it is worth checking if the grant is still available.

Depending on where you ride air pollution charges are on the cards for a number of cities, and London has led the way with its Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ). Petrol or diesel motorbikes driving through the ULEZ zones that do not meet the Euro 3 standards or are produced before July . Whereas an electric motorcycle, with zero emissions, won’t pay a penny.

While most electric motorbikes won’t go over 90mph, they come packed with silly amounts of torque and pretty impressive acceleration.

By no means is range perfect on electric motorcycles thus far, however it is steadily improving. Some manufacturers such as Maeving and Super Soco have created motorbikes with dual batteries that can not only increase the range but (depending on your strategy) means you can switch the batteries when the other has run flat if you prefer, a method adopted by some delivery riders for instance.

Over the past few months, another thing that has been affected by inflation was the cost of fuel. At the time of writing in the UK, charging an electric motorbike or scooter currently costs 3p per mile (based upon 5.4kWh battery capacity charging at UK average 34p per kWh charging at home), in comparison to the 6p (based upon 110mpg, at £1.49 per litre / £6.76 a gallon) it costs to fill up a petrol fuelled motorbike.

So yes, whilst the upfront cost of an electric motorcycle is likely more expensive, charging and running costs on a day to day tend to be far cheaper!

Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in electric charging points in the UK. At the end of June , there were a total number of 44,408 electric vehicle charging points across the UK - a 36% increase in the total number of charging devices since June .

As we mentioned previously, electric motorcycles are by no means at their peak just yet and have still got a long way to come before more people are convinced to jump on the electric bandwagon:

Fully charging your electric motorbike or scooter can take anywhere between half an hour or a few hours, spending on which model and charger you have - removing the opportunities for a spontaneous ride if you’ve got a flat battery. This is also a slight inconvenience on the road as you may be waiting at the service station for a fairly long while as your bike charges up.

Electric motorcycles initially cost more than their petrol-fuelled counterparts - even with the help of a government grant. This can be quite intimidating for quite a lot of people, however, it is worth noting that as more electric models are becoming available, slowly but surely there will be a bike out there for everyone and their budgets.

One of the disadvantages of electric motorbikes that are leaving people hesitant to make the switch is the ever-rising electricity costs in the UK - statistics show that since the start of , gas and electricity prices have risen 36.2% and 17.3%.

Maintenance-free electric motorcycle batteries unfortunately do not last very long at all with an average lifespan of between 3-8 years. Obviously, the more you ride your motorbike the more times you will need to charge it and then replace it, you also have to be extremely careful not to overcharge the battery in fear of permanently damaging the battery - which is slightly inconvenient for those who opt to charge their battery overnight to fit their busy schedules.

On average a motorcycle battery replacement can cost anything between £600-£ but this really does vary greatly between models, and bearing in mind as of currently you will need to replace the battery every few years, the costs can really start to add up.

Due to their reduced ranges, if you’re planning to go on a long-distance journey you will need to plan ahead and check where the electric charging points are located. The last thing you want when you’re out enjoying the road is worrying about where the next charging point is and if you’ll make it.

Even though ranges on electric motorcycles are improving, they still are not yet up to the standard of petrol-fuelled motorcycles just yet. Electric motorcycles and mopeds typically come with a range of anything between 20-100 miles so whilst they may be okay for your typical short commute, if you are thinking of travelling longer distances then I don’t think an electric motorcycle may be for you.

As temperatures begin to drop further and for longer with each winter, cold temperatures can affect your electric motorbikes battery capacity, so while the range is shorter in comparison to petrol-fuelled motorcycles, in winter this gets far worse.

The increase in electric motorcycles has given rise to an increase in smart tech for your ride. From switching up the ride of your bike to tracking your journey, bike rides have never been so technical... until now:

Whilst there is already a great range of apps for motorcyclists already on the market, electric motorbikes have given us the capability to work on a whole new range of technology to offer further insight into how you ride.

The Zero app, for example, allows you to customise your motorcycle's performance using your mobile device. From this app, you are able to set your top speed, maximum torque, and deceleration and braking regenerative levels.

Not only are you able to set up your ride, but you can also see statistics about your ride, including real-time estimates for recharge times of your battery as well as view battery voltage and total kilowatt-hours used. This is also translated into your trip statistics, including average watt-hours per mile, cost per mile, money saved vs. gasoline, and CO2 reduced vs petrol.

While many petrol-powered models offer a range of ride modes, such as off-road and rain modes, some electric vehicles allow for much more control. Whether it’s within the bikes app or configurable on the vehicle itself you can have much more control over the power, torque, max speed, and brake regeneration, so you can create the perfect ride tailored to your specific needs.

A few motorcycle manufacturers now such as Zero, Maeving, Yamaha, and Supersoco have incorporated ‘hot-swappable’ modules into their electric bikes. This system allows the bikes to be ridden using one or two power modules that can be added or removed in less than a minute - this is a handy extra that allows you to travel long distances without the need to charge your battery.

With new technology comes constant software updates. Thankfully, technology has moved on from the days of switching on your laptop to an hour of updates before you can start using it, and the same can be said for electric bike updates.

Over-the-air updates are becoming more and more popular, and with electric bikes, this means your software will be able to auto-update without the need to plug it in or wait for hours before you can ride.

If you’re thinking about switching to electric, you’ll be pleased to know we have written a few handy guides about upgrading to an electric motorcycle and the things you need to own to have an electric motorcycle.

The range of electric motorcycles and scooters is evolving every day, and each bike is as unique as we are.

If you need a hand with deciding which electric bike or moped is best for you, check out our top 10s below:

  • 10 of the Best Electric Scooters and Mopeds
  • Top 10 Best Electric Motorcycles
  • 10 Great Electric Motorcycles for Beginners
  • 8 of the Best Electric Scooters for Delivery Work!

So there you have it, I hope you enjoyed our run down on just some of the pros and cons to purchasing an electric motorcycle.

E-Bike vs. Moped vs. Scooter: Which Is Your Prefect Ride | Himiway

Hearing about electrical advancements like e-bikes, mopeds, and scooters can often make you wonder what’s different about them. Truly, each one is an incredible electric ride, but there are some important distinctions. E-bikes are a bit like regular bicycles but have an energy supply, and you still need to pedal them, so it's like getting some exercise while you ride. On the other hand, mopeds are like the "easy mode" of these rides. You twist a handle, and off you go—no pedaling needed! Electric scooters provide a quick and efficient mode of personal transportation. Unlike E-bikes and mopeds, electric scooters are stand-up vehicles that are pretty simple to use: you need to stand on the platform, press a button, or give them a gentle push, and they'll move you ahead. In this article, we'll go into more detail on what makes Himiway e-bikes unique. Sometimes, people think they're all the same, but each has pros and cons. So, whether you're a bike pro or new to electric rides, this article is just for you.

Understanding Electric Bikes

Electric bikes, commonly called e-bikes, combine traditional bicycles with cutting-edge technology. These two-wheelers have the basic construction of a traditional bicycle but include an electric motor or engine. This electric motor would aid you while pedaling, boost your efforts, or even take charge of propulsion.

Features of an electric bike:

E-bikes have several integral components that provide a unique and efficient riding experience.

Battery

The battery is the power source for the electric motor. It is typically located in the downtube or the bike's rear rack. 

Motor

The motor provides the power to the bike. It is typically located in the rear wheel's hub or the bottom bracket. The motor power is measured in watts. A higher-wattage motor will provide more power and speed. 

Controller

The controller is the brain of the e-bike. It controls the motor's power output and the bike's speed. It is typically located near the battery. 

Display The bike’s display shows the rider essential information, such as the battery, speed, and assistance levels. It is typically located on the handlebar.  Throttle With the throttle, the rider can control the bike's speed without pedaling. It is typically located on the handlebar. Brakes  Brakes slow down or stop the bike. They are typicallyhydraulic disc brakes or rim brakes Tires The tires are the only bike part that touches the ground. They are important for providing traction and comfort. Himiway e-bikes typically have wider tires to provide more stability than traditional bicycles and other ebikes on the market.  Adjustable Handlebar The handlebar is the part the rider holds onto. It is typically adjustable to fit the rider's height.  Saddle The saddle is the bike seat to provide comfort for the rider. 

Advantages of Electric bikes

Some benefits the electric bike provides include:

Environmentally friendly transportation

In stark contrast to the pollution-emitting exhausts of cars and motorcycles, Himiway e-bikes operate with a near-silent, zero-emission electric motor. As you ride through the city streets, you can rest assured that you leave no carbon footprint behind, contributing to the noble cause of maintaining a clean and healthy planet.

Cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation

E-bikes don't just benefit the environment; they also prove to be a wise financial choice. For short-distance commuting or leisurely excursions, e-bikes are considerably more cost-effective than traditional gas-guzzlers. Moreover, they offer a swift means of transportation, courtesy of their electric motor, which can remarkably efficiently whisk you away to your destination.

Health and fitness benefits

Surprisingly, e-bikes don't compromise your physical fitness. Even with the electric motor helping, you can still have a fulfilling, thorough workout while pedaling. 

Easy to use and suitable for various skill levels

E-bikes are versatile machines; from the smooth asphalt of city streets to the rugged trails of off-road adventures, these bikes handle it all with finesse. They are also very good at tackling inclines, making hill-climbing a breeze, and ensuring that no path is too tough. 

If you want to learn more, please visit our website electric moped street legal.

Himiway Bikes' E-Bike Models and Features

Himiway offers several ebike models with various features. From all-terrain ebikes to commuter ebikes, the idea is to ensure you get the right electric bike to meet your exact needs.

All-Terrain Electric Bike - Himiway Zebra

The Himiway Zebra Premium All-Terrain Electric Bike is a versatile e-bike for various uses, including commuting, recreation, and off-road riding. It is a good choice if you are looking for a powerful and capable e-bike that can handle a variety of terrain. Here are some key features and specifications:

750W high-torque motor:

The Himiway Zebra is powered by a potent 750W rear hub motor that can provide up to 86Nm of torque. This makes it an excellent choice for riding on hills or rough terrain.

48V 20Ah battery: 

The Himiway Zebra has a large 48V 20Ah battery that provides up to 80 miles of range in pedal assist mode and 60 miles in throttle mode.

26" fat tires: 

The Himiway Zebra has 26" fat tires that provide excellent traction and stability on various terrains.

7-speed Shimano drivetrain: 

The Himiway Zebra has a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain that gives you precise control over your speed.

Off-Road Electric Mountain Bike - Himiway Cobra

The Himiway Cobra is a versatile and powerful e-mountain bike perfect for off-road and trail riding and commuting. It provides a comfortable and capable ride for those who want an e-bike that can handle different types of terrain.

750W high-torque motor: 

The Himiway Cobra is powered by a potent 750W rear hub motor that can provide up to 90Nm of torque. This makes it an excellent choice for riding on hills or rough terrain. 

48V 17.5Ah battery: 

The Himiway Cobra has a large 48V 17.5Ah battery that provides up to 70 miles of range in pedal assist mode and 50 miles in throttle mode.

26" X4.8" CST super fat tires:

The Himiway Cobra has 26" fat tires, providing excellent traction and stability on various terrains.

Hydraulic disc brakes: 

The Himiway Cobra has hydraulic disc brakes that provide robust and reliable stopping power.

Moped-Style E-Bike - Himiway Escape Pro

The Himiway Escape Pro Long Range Moped-Style Electric Bike is a comfortable and efficient e-bike ideal for commuting and everyday use. It is a good choice for people looking for an e-bike that is easy to ride and maintain. Here are some key features:

500W high-torque motor:

The Moped E-bike Himiway Escape Pro is powered by a powerful 750W rear hub motor that can provide up to 80Nm of torque. This bike is great for riding on hills or in city traffic. 

48V 17.5Ah battery: 

The Himiway Escape Pro has a large 48V 17.5Ah battery that provides up to 50 miles of range in pedal assist mode and 35 miles in throttle mode.

Hydraulic disc brakes:

The Himiway Escape Pro has hydraulic disc brakes that provide powerful and reliable stopping power.

Ergonomic saddle:

The Himiway Escape Pro has an ergonomic saddle that provides all-day comfort.

LCD screen:

The Himiway Escape Pro has an LCD that shows you information such as the battery, speed, and assistance levels.

Exploring Mopeds

A moped is a two-wheeled motor vehicle powered by a small gasoline engine. It typically has a top speed of 30 mph and does not require a motorcycle license to operate. Mopeds are often used for short-distance transportation, such as commuting or running errands.

Here are some of the key features of mopeds:

1. Small gasoline engine
2. Top speed of 30 mph (30 mph electric bike)
3. Does not require a motorcycle license
4. Often used for short-distance transportation
5. It can be pedaled like a bicycle
6. Has a step-through frame, making it easy to get on and off
7.Often has a storage compartment

Distinctive aspects of Mopeds compared to E-Bikes

Here are some of the distinctive aspects of mopeds compared to e-bikes:

Gasoline engines power mopeds and most ebikes run on lithium-ion batteries.
Due to the laws guiding ebike use, mopeds typically have a higher top speed.
Mopeds are often heavier than e-bikes.
Mopeds typically have a smaller range than e-bikes.

Himiway Bikes' Moped-style Model and Features

If you are looking to Himiway for a moped, you may go home with something else. Himiway offers a variety of e-bikes similar to mopeds in terms of their features and capabilities. The Himiway Escape Pro Long-Range Moped-Style Electric Bike is a commuter e-bike with a top speed of 28 mph and a range of up to 50 miles. It also has a step-through frame and a storage compartment, making it a good choice for people looking for moped-like e-bikes.

Unraveling Scooters

A scooter is a small, two-wheeled vehicle powered by a motor. It is typically used for short-distance transportation, such as commuting or running errands. Scooters can be either electric or gas-powered.

Here are some of the key features of scooters:

1. Two wheels
2. Powered by a motor
3. Typically used for short-distance transportation
4. It can be electric or gas-powered
5. It can be folded for easy storage and transportation.

Differentiating Scooters from E-Bikes and Mopeds

Scooters, e-bikes, and mopeds are all small, two-wheeled vehicles that can be used for short-distance transportation. However, there are some key differences between them:

Scooters:

Scooters are typically the lightest and most portable of the three vehicles. They are often folded for easy storage and transportation. Scooters can be either electric or gas-powered.

E-Bikes:

E-bikes are bicycles with an electric motor that assists the rider. E-bikes can be pedaled like a traditional bicycle, or the motor can power the bike. E-bikes are typically more potent than scooters and can travel longer distances.

Mopeds:

Mopeds are small motorcycles powered by a gasoline engine. Mopeds typically have a higher top speed than e-bikes and scooters. 

Choosing the Perfect Ride

Here is a brief comparison between e-bikes, mopeds, and electric scooters


Advantages of E-bikes

1. E-bikes are a great way to exercise and reduce your carbon footprint.
2. They are also a more affordable option than mopeds or scooters.
3. E-bikes are typically more comfortable to ride than mopeds or scooters.
4. E-bikes are easier to maintain than mopeds or scooters.

Advantages of mopeds

1. Mopeds have a higher top speed than e-bikes, which can be helpful if you need to travel long distances.
2. Mopeds are typically more durable than e-bikes.

Advantages of scooters

1. Scooters are the most portable of the three vehicles, making them easy to store and transport.
2. Scooters are easy to learn to ride.

Factors to consider when making a decision

Here are some factors to consider when deciding which type of vehicle is right for you:

Intended use and purpose:

What will you be using the vehicle for? Are you looking for a vehicle for commuting, running errands, or leisure? Will you be using it on paved roads or off-road trails?

Personal preferences and riding style:

How comfortable are you riding a bicycle? Do you prefer a more upright riding position or a more aggressive riding position? Do you want a vehicle that is easy to pedal or one that you can mostly rely on the motor for?

Legal requirements and regulations:

In some states, you may need a motorcycle license to operate a moped. You may also need to register your vehicle and pay for insurance.

Budget considerations:

How much are you willing to spend on a vehicle? E-bikes, mopeds, and scooters can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Himiway’s Commitment To Quality And Innovation

Regarding Himiway Bikes, you can always expect a commitment to excellence in our products. Our e-bikes are crafted using high-quality components, ensuring durability and longevity. These e-bikes are of the finest materials and parts to stand behind the promise that your e-bike investment will endure.

Furthermore, innovation is at the core of our philosophy. We continually seek ways to enhance our e-bikes, incorporating the latest and most advanced technology into their designs. This dedication to staying at the forefront of e-bike technology ensures you can always access cutting-edge features and improvements.

Conclusion

Electric bikes and mopeds are great choices if you want an affordable way to get around without sweating or using public transportation. Notably, unlike E-bikes and mopeds, electric scooters do not require pedaling and do not have a seat. By understanding the differences between E-Bikes, Mopeds, and Scooters, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs and preferences. 

E-bikes are an excellent option with its eco-friendly nature and numerous advantages. Explore the exceptional range of Himiway E-Bike models to experience the joy of electric mobility while embracing a greener future.

Want more information on w electric motorcycle? Feel free to contact us.

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