I can’t help but notice that those who ride electric motorcycles are treated with derision. The question is why? It’s highly likely that in the near future, ICE or internal combustion engines will be banned by the powers that be.
In Canada, a date has been set when the sale of light-duty vehicles must be zero emission compliant. Of course, this doesn’t preclude those of us who love ICE motorcycles from using our existing motorcycles. After a little research this morning, I was surprised to discover the number of nations that will have a ban, as it is extensive.
“Countries with proposed bans or implementing 100% sales of zero-emissions vehicles include China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Japan, Singapore, the UK, South Korea, Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Slovenia, Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, Canada, the 12 U.S. states that adhered to California’s Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Program, Sri Lanka, Cabo Verde, and Costa Rica.[2] https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phase-out_of_fossil_fuel_vehicles
What is even more interesting is the number of cities, particularly in Europe that are banning all but zero-emission vehicles for at least part of the day, starting in 2030. The list is too comprehensive to include in this article but can be found at:
I am surprised at how quickly electric motorcycle technology has advanced. This year there will be several manufacturers who will have motorcycles that will have ranges equal to petrol-fuelled motorcycles, and with charging times that have dropped to 30 minutes, after having traveled at highway speed for four hours (240 miles).
To that end, I want to look at one truly state-of-the-art electric motorcycle that holds the world record for the fastest electric motorcycle on the planet. This truly is a ‘superbike’.
The Lightning LS 218
The fastest bike in the world, 0-60 mph, is the Lightning LS 218, which covers the distance in, wait for it, 2 seconds. Yes, 2 seconds. The motorcycle has 244 horsepower and 220 FT/LBs of torque. It has a range of 188 miles. It charges to 80% with an (LFCS) charger in 12 minutes, and in 35 minutes to 80% with any level 3 charger. It is fully charged in 2 hours, even with a level 2 charger.
The seat height is 32 inches and its weight is 495 pounds.
The complete stats can be found at:
https://lightningmotorcycle.com/ls-218/
The downside is that the price is $46,000 US. However a Ducati Panigale which is comparable is $52,995 US. So, there’s that.
Technologically, electric motorcycles will become superior to ICE motorcycles in every way in the years, and not many years, to come, as will hydrogen motorcycles, based on Kawasaki’s latest Hydrogen motorcycle slated for public sale in 2026.
The winds of change, blow hard these days, but for motorcyclists, the options will be extensive for years to come.
Enjoy the ride.
Ciao…
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