Top 10 electric motorcycles that grabbed attention in 2019

With a vision to create minimalist designs that achieve high performance and style, designer Serge Rusak and his team founded Saroléa, a startup based in Belgium. The company made waves with the unveiling of the new Saroléa MANX7 superbike. This high-performance electric bike not only stands out for its stunning design but also for its intelligent structure.

Designed as an electric race bike, the Manx7 features a carbon fiber frame and premium materials. Its aesthetic is unique, which may not appeal to everyone. The Saroléa Manx7 is powered by an air-cooled DC electric motor generating 163 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. The bike offers three battery configurations: 14 kWh, 18 kWh, and 22 kWh. With the 22 kWh battery, the Manx7 can travel up to 330 km on a single charge. Saroléa claims that the battery can be charged up to 80% in just 25 minutes. The electric motor was chosen to simplify the design, as it eliminates the need for hundreds of mechanical parts found in traditional internal combustion engines. The Manx7 features a brushless motor with 120 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque.

Thanks to its powerful motor, the Manx7 offers smooth and near-instant acceleration. By twisting the throttle, riders can reach 100 km/h from a standstill in just 2.8 seconds. In addition to the top-tier 22 kWh battery, Saroléa offers 14 kWh and 18 kWh options. Depending on the version, the Manx7 offers ranges of 230, 380, and 330 km per charge – comparable to current gas-powered sportbikes. Using automotive-grade battery technology, the Manx7 can recharge from 0 to 80% in just 25 minutes. The battery is also designed to be easily removable, allowing owners to upgrade to newer technology in the future. All these cutting-edge features are wrapped in a sportbike design that blends sharp lines with smooth curves.

Currently, the MANX7 is still in the final stages of development, which is why Saroléa has not yet disclosed its price or release date. However, considering its use of high-end components, cutting-edge technology, and premium materials, it's expected to be produced in limited numbers and will likely be priced out of reach for most buyers.

Founded in 2016 with the sole mission of producing electric motorcycles, American company Zero Motorcycles has become one of the pioneers in the electric bike segment. For the 2019 model year, Zero Motorcycles upgraded its entire product line with higher capacity batteries, faster charging capabilities, and enhanced connectivity. These bikes were also showcased at the 2018 EICMA Motorcycle Show in Italy.

As for design, the 2019 Zero bikes remain largely unchanged from previous models, except for some new color options and improvements to the overall weight. Currently, the product lineup includes naked bikes (Zero S and SR), scramblers (Zero DS and DSR), dirt bikes (Zero FX), and motard (Zero FXS). While the 2018 models all shared a 45 kW (approximately 60 horsepower) electric motor, the new versions offer more variety, with three motor options: 52 kW (70 horsepower), 34 kW (46 horsepower), and 20 kW (27 horsepower).

As with previous updates, a standout feature of the 2019 Zero bikes is the battery and charging technology. This continues to be a key barrier that electric vehicles face when competing with traditional gas-powered vehicles. For the 2019 model, Zero introduced the Power Tank option, offering an additional 3.6 kWh of capacity to extend the bike’s range. The new 52 kW (70 horsepower) ZF7.2 electric motor allows the bike to reach speeds up to 167 km/h. The Power Tank can be installed on any Zero bike from 2014 onward. Additionally, the standard battery sizes—14.4 kWh, 7.2 kWh, and 3.6 kWh—have been upgraded by 10% compared to the 2018 models.

Another unique feature of Zero bikes is the ability to instantly recharge using the 14.4 kWh Power Tank, which increases the bike’s range. With the Power Tank, Zero Motorcycles can theoretically achieve a range of up to 358 km in city conditions or 180 km on highways. In addition, the standard 6 kW Charge Tank system allows for 95% battery charge in just one hour from a 220V power source. For the 2019 model, Zero has reduced charging times with a new Quick Charger accessory. The 1 kW Quick Charger lets users recharge the battery when it is removed from the bike (similar to how phone or camera batteries are charged), offering greater flexibility. Finally, Zero has developed a new feature, pending patent approval, called Long-Term Storage Mode to optimize battery health during periods of inactivity. This function helps store energy in both the bike’s main battery and removable batteries for extended periods without use. In the writer's view, this is another success for Zero, further blurring the lines between electric motorcycles and traditional gasoline-powered bikes.

Founded in 1991, Confederate Motors rose to prominence by crafting rare masterpieces made from solid aluminum. In 2017, the company rebranded as Curtiss Motorcycle and shifted focus toward developing electric motorcycles. A year later, the Curtiss Zeus was born. Inspired by the V-Twin engine, the Curtiss Zeus features the E-Twin electric motor platform, making it the world's most powerful electric motorcycle with an output of 170 horsepower.

Unveiled at the Quail Motorcycle Gathering in California, the Curtiss Zeus is named after the supreme god in Greek mythology. Continuing the legacy of Confederate Motors, the Zeus maintains its use of CNC-machined, solid aerospace-grade aluminum. Freed from the constraints of the traditional V-Twin engine and large fuel tank, the Curtiss Zeus sports a sleek, futuristic design. Its front suspension system employs a multi-point Girder, similar to Confederate Motors bikes, while the rear features a monoshock linked to a Cantilever swingarm. The lighting system combines classic and modern elements: the round classic-style front light and integrated LED turn signals at the rear.

Building on the V-Twin concept from previous models, Curtiss has created a new E-Twin engine platform. This system features two electric motors producing a combined 170 horsepower and 393 Nm of torque. With these specifications, the Curtiss Zeus holds the title of the most powerful electric motorcycle in the world. Boasting 393 Nm of torque, the Zeus also claims the title of the commercial motorcycle with the highest torque. The E-Twin motor is powered by a 14.4 kWh battery. The Curtiss Zeus is set to be produced in 2019, following the tradition of limited, handcrafted production runs and a high price tag.

The Energica Ego electric motorcycle accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (approximately 97 km/h) in just 3 seconds, reaching a top speed of 150 mph (241 km/h). Its battery provides a range of up to 161 km, and it takes only 30 minutes to charge 80%. With its impressive 0-60 mph acceleration in 3 seconds and top speed of 150 mph, the Energica Ego can be considered the Tesla Model S of the motorcycle world. Even though it runs solely on electric power, the Ego still produces sound due to the internal motor mechanism. "The bike makes noise because of the motor inside. The sound is similar to a whistle, and many have compared it to the noise of a jet engine," said Livia Cevolini, CEO of Energica.

A key feature of the 2019 Energica Ego is its advanced technology, including Traction Control, Cruise Control, a new Electronic Throttle Control, an energy management system, Heated Grips, and a new headlight design. Additionally, it offers a pedestrian warning system and Park Assistant for overtaking vehicles. These settings can be adjusted via a 4.3-inch TFT display. The 2019 Energica Ego is powered by a liquid-cooled AC electric motor with an output equivalent to 145 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3 seconds and reach a top speed of 240 km/h. Charging to full capacity takes hours, with a quick-charge option that reaches 85% in just 30 minutes, providing a range of 150 km. The bike offers four riding modes: Urban, Eco, Rain, and Sport, as well as four regenerative braking modes: Low, Medium, High, and Off.

Additionally, the 2019 version improves charging speed and cooling efficiency, reducing charging time by 15% compared to the previous generation. New features include a timer, customizable battery levels, and a silent charging mode. While the price for the 2019 Energica Ego Sport Black has not yet been disclosed, the 2017 model had a starting price of €25,850 (approximately 692 million VND) in Europe. On the racing track, the Energica Ego secured 7th place at the Isle of Man TT in 2017, the most grueling motorcycle race in the world. Energica is also the exclusive supplier for the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup (also known as MotoE), which will run alongside the MotoGP series starting in 2019, with technical support from the MotoGP team.

The unique feature of this model is that it operates entirely on electric power and is developed based on the Freeride E model. The new 2019 Freeride E-XC comes with a KTM PowerPack that offers a 50% increase in capacity compared to the Freeride E. According to KTM's engineers, this upgrade results in a range that's over 90 minutes longer than the previous generation. The 2019 Freeride E-XC offers three riding modes: Enduro, Cross, and Economy, with the Economy mode promising an additional 30 minutes of ride time by optimizing energy recovery. The charging time has also been improved compared to the earlier model. Additionally, the peak power of the bike has been boosted to 24 horsepower, with a torque of 30 lb-ft, while maintaining a lightweight design of only 111 kg.

The bike features a new frame along with a WP Xplor 43 front fork and a WP PDS monoshock rear suspension. KTM's CEO, Stefan Pierer, stated: "We are proud to introduce the new KTM Freeride E-XC, which represents the next step in the development of KTM's electric motorcycle technology and is a continuation of our commitment to this segment."

Hiện chưa được đặt tên chính thức, mẫu mô tô Tarform đầu tiên là "đứa con tinh thần" của Taras Kravchouk - Giám đốc điều hành kiêm nhà đồng sáng lập của Tarform Motorcycles. Với kinh nghiệm nhiều năm trong ngành thiết kế công nghiệp và một bảng lý lịch dày thành tích, Kravchouk cũng đã từng thiết kế ra nhiều mẫu xe sử dụng động cơ đốt trong truyền thống rất ấn tượng. Tuy nhiên khi nhận ra sự quan tâm của khách hàng với xe điện và các dòng mô tô hoài cổ, anh đã muốn tạo ra một chiếc mô tô điện mới cho Thế kỷ XXI.

Theo Kravchouk giải thích, Tarform muốn "hồi sinh" kiểu dáng cổ điển, và kết hợp nó với công nghệ hiện đại để tạo ra trải nghiệm lái mới, trên một chiếc xe có độ hoàn thiện cao được tạo ra bằng các phương pháp hiện đại và "xanh". Điều này được thể hiện rất rõ qua lớp vỏ của mẫu xe Tarform đầu tiên, được chế tạo bằng công nghệ in 3D. Không chỉ giúp tạo ra các chi tiết tinh xảo cao, công nghệ này giúp giảm tối đa sự hao phí nguyên liệu trong quá trình sản xuất, trong khi vẫn thân thiện với môi trường nhờ sử dụng vật liệu sinh học.

Với đèn pha LED chóa tròn và bộ yên vuốt về phía sau được bọc da nâu, mô tô Tarform có kiểu dáng tân hoài cổ, lấy cảm hứng trực tiếp từ phong cách cafe racer được ưa chuộng. Thiết kế của cặp tay phanh cũng hòa nhập hoàn hảo với ghi-đông, tạo cảm giác như chiếc xe được làm nguyên khối thay vì là tập hợp của các phụ tùng. Tương tự Ducati Scrambler, Tarform cũng lựa chọn đặt màn hình hiển thị đa thông tin vào lớp vỏ như một đồng hồ truyền thống, tạo sự cổ điển cho phía sau. Về hệ thống treo, mẫu mô tô đầu tiên của Tarform sử dụng phuộc USD cho phía trước và monoshock phía sau. Nằm giữa bộ khung xe là động cơ điện cùng khối pin với thông số kỹ thuật chưa được Tarform công bố chi tiết. Tuy nhiên hãng có cho biết rằng khối pin cho phép chiếc xe đạt tầm hoạt động 145km trong thành phố, 80km trên đường cao tốc và đường hỗn hợp 121km cho mỗi lần sạc đầy. Thời gian sạc của mẫu xe điện này chỉ trong dưới 4 tiếng.

Là một mẫu xe điện công nghệ cao, mô tô Tarform cũng được tích hợp sẵn hệ thống quản lý tình trạng hoạt động của toàn bộ chiếc xe. Nếu phát hiện ra bất kỳ hư hỏng hay triệu chứng bất thường nào. chiếc xe sẽ thông báo tới tận điện thoại của khách hàng và thậm chí còn có khả năng đặt lịch sửa chữa qua ứng dụng cài trên smartphone. Hiện tại, Tarform đã bắt đầu mở đơn đặt hàng cho chiếc xe chưa có tên của mình với mức giá khởi điểm dự kiến 18.000 USD (tương đương 420,1 triệu đồng), giao xe vào cuối năm 2019.

The American company Lightning is well-known for its sportbike, the LS-218, introduced in 2014 with 200 horsepower. The starting price for the LS-218 was 40,000 USD. Now, Lightning is unveiling a new electric motorcycle called the Strike, priced at 13,000 USD. This electric bike can reach speeds of up to 241 km/h and offers a range of 241 km. It's a highly anticipated electric vehicle. This sports bike has already triumphed in the Pikes Peak race in the United States, outpacing competitors with traditional combustion engines. A truly remarkable achievement. For Lightning, this marks the perfect beginning as they move toward releasing a version that meets road approval standards.

The LS-218, powered by a 220 horsepower electric motor, is equipped with a carbon fiber “armor” and a customizable battery pack. Silent and vibration-free, the LS-218 stands apart from traditional combustion engine motorcycles, which are often loud. But when it comes to power, the LS-218 commands respect. Weighing only 225 kg, the Lightning LS-218 achieves an incredible top speed of 352 km/h, making it the fastest electric motorcycle in the world. In terms of range, 150 km (with the 12 kWh battery) is perfectly acceptable for a two-wheeled vehicle.

Harley-Davidson has started accepting orders for the LiveWire, with deliveries scheduled to begin in August. The price in the U.S. is 29,800 USD, according to Fox News. The American brand’s green model supports LTE connectivity via the H-D Connect service, allowing users to remotely check the bike’s condition, receive maintenance schedules, and get alerted if anyone tries to tamper with the LiveWire. In the event of theft, owners can trace the bike’s location using GPS.

Each charge allows the LiveWire to cover 177 km in the city. While this range is sufficient for daily commuting, it falls short compared to offerings from Zero Motorcycles, an American electric bike manufacturer. A Zero motorcycle can achieve a city range of 262 km on a full charge. However, customers buying the Harley-Davidson LiveWire will own a motorcycle from a prestigious brand with impressive power, technology, and an eye-catching design. The LiveWire is developed from the Project LiveWire concept unveiled in 2014 and has undergone a worldwide test cycle. The bike uses a steel trellis frame, cast aluminum swingarm, belt drive, Brembo brakes, and Showa suspension. Its TFT display connects to smartphones via Bluetooth for calls, music, navigation, and even diagnostic functions for the bike.

The LiveWire features a low-mounted permanent magnet electric motor that lowers the center of gravity, improving balance in various riding conditions. During operation, a customizable sound system simulates engine noise based on the bike’s speed, addressing the quiet nature of electric motors and ensuring safer riding. Riders can choose from 7 different riding modes, including 4 preset modes from the factory and 3 user-customized ones. The bike’s rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) is made from lithium-ion modules encased in a cast aluminum frame. Additionally, there’s a 12V lithium-ion battery that powers the bike’s lights, electrical systems, horn, and display.

A Swedish company recently unveiled the Cake Kalk, an electric off-road motorcycle designed to be emissions-free. Much like other off-road bikes, the Kalk is stripped down to minimize weight. However, compared to standard dirt bikes, its appearance is much simpler and more minimalist, characterized by angular shapes and smooth surfaces, along with the absence of an exhaust system. Cake Kalk is hailed as a trailblazer, pioneering an entirely new segment.

The heart of the Cake Kalk is its central electric motor, which produces 20 horsepower and a peak torque of 42Nm. Powering the bike is a 2.6 kWh lithium-ion battery. The manufacturer claims that this off-road motorcycle can reach a top speed of 80km/h and cover a distance of over 80km on a single charge. Thanks to its lightweight construction, the Kalk weighs under 70kg. Only 50 units are being produced, each numbered and signed to emphasize its exclusivity. A unique feature of this bike is that most of its components were newly developed to meet the manufacturer’s technical and quality requirements.

In addition to this, numerous technological and production breakthroughs were applied in creating many of the Kalk’s components, such as the hubs, forks, rims, suspension system, and frame. The aluminum parts are CNC-machined with high precision, while other parts are made from ultra-light, ultra-durable carbon fiber materials. The manufacturer is currently accepting orders with a deposit of 1000 USD (approximately 22.8 million VND), and the price for the Cake Kalk is set at 13,000 USD (over 295 million VND). The first batch of bikes will be delivered starting in mid-June of this year. Additionally, the company announced that a mass-produced version of the Kalk will be launched by the end of 2018, at a lower price than the limited edition. This is just the first product in a line of bikes that Cake will introduce in the near future.

Vespa Elettrica can travel 100 km on a single charge, powered by an electric motor that produces a maximum output of 5.2 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. The scooter is priced at 6,390 EUR (approximately 171 million VND). According to the manufacturer, the Vespa Elettrica can cover a distance of 100 km before requiring a recharge. It draws power from a lithium-ion battery that takes about 4 hours to fully charge. The battery is designed to last up to 1,000 charges (around 10 years of use) before its capacity drops to 80%. With this design, the latest model boasts a peak power of 5.3 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. Piaggio has also equipped the scooter with two riding modes, ECO and Power, which can be toggled via a button. In Eco mode, the scooter’s speed is limited to 30 km/h to conserve battery, making it ideal for urban environments.

The Vespa Elettrica also offers a special version with a continuous range of 200 km on a single charge. This model is equipped with a generator that provides an additional 150 km of range, while the standard battery only supports 50 km. The Elettrica’s exterior design mirrors the classic style of Piaggio’s modern Vespa line. It is painted in a dominant silver color, accented with green trims. The seat stitching is available in various colors, allowing customers to personalize it to their liking.

Additionally, this version comes with a 4.3-inch digital display that shows key performance information, such as speed, battery level, and distance. The Vespa Elettrica can connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth and features a USB charging port for mobile devices. In the European market, this version will retail for 6,390 EUR (approximately 171 million VND), nearly double the price of the Primavera 125 model. Currently, the Vespa Primavera 125 is priced around 71 million VND in Vietnam.