The touring class of electric motorcycles is in many ways the real test of how far the industry has come. Range and charging times are the most searched for and anticipated specs of any bike. This is quite telling as they take priority over power, which for motorcycle entusiasts is generally the most compelling stat. This speaks to the anxiety that held back ev cars in the early days, and is currently on the minds of possible early converts to electric motorcycles. Luckily both range and charging times have made huge improvements in recent years, to the point where we can really start to look at ev motorcycles as potential tourers, below are our top 5 favorites available as of early 2023.
Energica Eva EsseEsse9+
Energica is a well-established brand in the world of electric motorcycles, with an impressive portfolio of bikes. The EsseEsse9+ is a top pick for touring, with the option to include panniers and a tank bag. Its relaxed and upright riding position, along with an in-built sat-nav, make it comfortable for long rides. The powerful PMAC motor can produce 109 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, propelling the rider up to 125 mph. The 21.5 kWh battery provides excellent range: 249 miles in town, 143 miles in the city and country, and 112 miles on the motorway. With a 24 kW DC CCS Combo Fast Charger/AC Charger, you can get a 0-80% charge in 40 minutes.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire was the first mainstream brand to enter the electric bike market, and it has done a decent job with it. The LiveWire features incredible acceleration, going from 0-60 in around 3 seconds. It has a range of 146 miles at town speeds, 95 miles in the city and country, and 70 miles on the motorway. Level 3 DC Fast Charging technology allows for a 0-80% charge in 40 minutes, and a 0-100% charge in 60 minutes.
Energica Eva Ribelle
The Energica Eva Ribelle is a powerful and aggressive bike, perfect for riders looking for a thrilling experience. With a slightly forward-canted riding position, it invites the rider to be aggressive into the bends. However, its weight of 270kg can be a hindrance or a blessing in the bends. The Ribelle’s engine is the same one used in Energica’s MotoE racer, although tuned differently to produce a whopping 169 hp.
Zero SR/F
The Zero SR/F offers the best value for money in this list of the best electric motorcycles. While not marketed as a touring bike, it can still cover long distances with the addition of compatible SHAD and GIVI luggage sets. It has a slightly larger screen and a sports-tourer-like riding position, and can go from 0-60 in around 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 124 mph. Charging times vary, but Zero claims its fastest charge to 95% can be achieved in under an hour.
see more at zeromotorcycles.com
Alrenda TS Bravo
The Alrenda TS Bravo is marketed as a commuter bike but can be used for touring. Its 11 kW continuous rated motor can reach a top speed of 84 mph, and it has a range of 260 miles at 31 mph, 155 miles at 50 mph, and 93 miles at 75 mph. The 16.6 kW/h battery is larger than those used in other electric motorcycles, and real-world ranges have been posted. Charging from 0-80% takes 3.5 hours, and a full battery refill takes around 4-4.5 hours.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a convert to electric motorcycles yet or not, it’s hard to argue that the bikes on offer aren’t incredible machines. The stylings can match anything available to gas powered riders, and the power and handling are also very comptetitve; now with the developments in battery range and charging, are electric motorcycles ready for pole position? Let us know your thoughts, and whether there are any bikes you would add to the list.
Why not read our article on The Most Beautiful Electric Motorcycles Available In 2023
