Given the commendable fuel efficiency achieved by cоmbustiоn-engine motorcycles, the rationale behind the necessity for an electric counterpart may appear somewhat perplexing. However, this assertion can be challenged upon reviewing their performance metrics. Due to the disparity in recharging and refueling durations, individuals may not opt to engage in leisurely rides alongside those utilizing cоmbustiоn engines. However, for urban commuting or even achieving impressive speeds on a racetrack, these three electric bicycles offer remarkably enjoyable experiences.

Zero SR/F

Zero’s Street/Fighter e-bike establishes a new standard for mid-level electric bicycles in terms of performance. Similar to other electric motorcycles, Zero aims to offer a bike that is not only powered by electricity but also delivers an exhilarating experience when ridden. The SR/F exhibits the visual, tactile, and experiential characteristics commonly associated with motorcycles. The motorcycle exhibits a nаked-bike aesthetic, featuring a trellis frame that encompasses a visible battery and motor. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with robust front and rear tires, thereby enhancing its overall appearance. The motorcycle’s seat height of 31 inches is relatively low, enabling most riders to place their feet flat on the ground. Additionally, the tapered bars facilitate a slightly forward-leaning riding position while in motion.

The SR/F is equipped with a compact ZF75-10 motor, which generates a power output of 110 horsepower at 4,500 revolutions per minute. However, the primary distinguishing feature of this motorcycle lies in its impressive torque of 146.5 foot-pounds at 1,200 revolutions per minute. The enjoyable riding experience of this bicycle stems from the electric motor’s ability to provide seamless power delivery from the initial moment, devoid of gears and clutches. One consistently maintains the appropriate gear at all times. The maximum velocity of the SR/F is restricted to 124 miles per hour. Additionally, the inclusion of four distinct driving modes, namely Street, Sport, Eco, and Rain, along with the provision for 10 additional customizable modes, enhances the SR/F’s exceptional maneuverability. Each mode alters the torque delivery and regeneration settings. The MSC System developed by Bosch offers advanced functionalities such as straight line and cornering anti-lock braking system (ABS), as well as traction and drag control. The front brakes of the 4-pоt J. Juan system measure 320 mm, while the rear brakes measure 240 mm, thereby delivering effective stopping capability. The Showa front forks and rear piston possess the capability to be adjusted for preload, compression, and rebound damping. With a weight of 485 pounds, the bicycle necessitates supplementary effort from the pegs and bars to overcome obstacles. However, the adaptable suspension system and Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tires effectively enhance the bike’s maneuverability, resembling that of a café racer. The standard SR/F model exhibits a collective range of 123 miles, which can be extended to 200 miles with the inclusion of the Power Tank. However, it is important to note that the addition of the Power Tank results in the loss of the storage compartment designated for fuel. The complete charging process is accomplished within a duration of 1.8 hours using the rapid charge system. The price of the Zero Motorcycles model is $19,495, as stated on the official website zeromotorcycles.com.

Lightning LS-218If it’s real speed you need, hop on a Lightning LS-218—and hold on. The nаme says it all: The LS-218 boasts a top speed of 218 mph, making it the fastest production electric motorcycle. It’s also the fastest production motorcycle, period. The LS-218’s IPM liquid-cooled 180 kW motor puts out 241 hp, and a whopping 220 ft lbs of torque, all of which is available from takeoff. So, yes, twist that throttle, but grab on tight because this is a race bike designed for the track, with low clip-on bars and a hard seat. It’ll do 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds and 0 to 100 in 5 seconds. Top speed is nominally 184 mph, but with the optional rear sprocket and aero fairing, the LS-218 will live up to its nаme, hitting 218 mph. If you dare. The bike is so fast, it comes with its own racing data acquisition software pre-programmed. Don’t expect much from the dash, however, unless you’re actually on the track: most of the metrics deal with racing, with the exception of the tach and battery indicators. Speaking of batteries, the stock range is 100 miles, but with the optional 20 kW battery pack, that goes up to 160–180 miles.At 495 pounds, Lightning is no lightweight, but the handling is top-notch. In fact, this bike won the 2013 Pikes Peak race by 20 seconds over the next finisher. Massive 320 mm Brembo disc brakes, with forged 4-piston calipers, slow things down quickly; programmable regenerative braking also helps, and has the added bonus of putting some charge in the proverbial tank (sorry, battery). Available Ohlins FRGT front forks, fully adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound, keep the LS-218 stable, along with an Ohlins TTX36 shоck in the rear (also fully adjustable for preload), high and low speed compression and rebound, and ride height. It’s not just the bike that’s fast: with a DC fast charger, you can be back on the road with a full charge in as little as 30 minutes. $38,885; lightningmotorcycle.com

Harley-Davidson LiveWire

Is it a surprise that the king of twin-engine cruisers has jumped into the electric bike circuit? Not really. In a search for new riders, Harley-Davidson unleashed its LiveWire model with a design that both shows its wild side and pays homage to the brand’s classic look. Although the price point is high, the LiveWire clarifies Harley’s intention of showcasing its e-bike capabilities to create a platform for future models. The open styling shows off the finned battery case, bolted to the frame as a stressed member, with the motor, tucked underneath, looking like it was stolen from a jet. While not generating the traditional Harley lumpy growl, the LiveWire does give up a pleasant whirring noise reminiscent of a Star Wars Speeder. It also has a haptic pulse, like a heartbeat, to remind the rider it’s on. That permanent magnet DC motor, the Harley-Davidson Revelation, generates 105 hp and 86 ft lbs of torque. The torque engages instantly, rocketing the LiveWire from 0 to 60 in under 3 seconds.

In another unexpecteԀ move, Harley went outside to source parts (the list includes a set of Brembo brakes and an adjustable Showa front and rear suspension), but included its proprietary Reflex Defensive Rider system with lean-sensitive ABS, traction control, drag-torque slip control, and rear-wheel lift control. Given the bike’s 549-pound weight, the ABS comes in handy at turns under hard front and rear braking. Tucking the Level 1 Charger under the seat is a nice touch, and in under one hour you can do a quick DC recharge at any participating Harley-Davidson dealer or public charging station. Use the touch screen LCD dash to select one of four drive modes (Sport, Road, Range, or Rain), or set up to three customized modes. The regenerative braking system adjusts to increase its range. Connect to the internet for remotely monitoring battery charge status, tamper alerts, and vehicle location.

In terms of handling, the LiveWire has a more аggressive forward position than expected from Harley, with wider bars that create a more relaxed reach with better leverage for upper-body inputs. Reasonably wide tires, and a surprisingly firm ride, provide excellent grip and stability. Another welcome surprise: The handling characteristics tend toward those of sport bikes, not cruisers. With a lean angle of 45 degrees, don’t hesitate to go hard into some back roads. The low engine and low center of gravity help. Just don’t go too far into the country; the range is 95 miles combined. Harley claims 146 miles in city driving, but as with all e-bikes, be cautious. $29,995; harley-davidson.com