Electric Motorbike Riding: A Beginner's Guide To Getting Started

Electric motorcycles are fully throttle-controlled without any pedalling involved. While you don't need a special license for e-bikes, you will need a motorcycle license to ride an electric motorcycle. In the United States, motorcycle licenses fall into two categories: Class M1 and Class M2. To ride any kind of motorcycle, including electric mopeds and electric scooters with power equivalent to more than 150cc, you'll need a Class M1 license. Riders must be at least 16 years old, wear a helmet, and register the vehicle.

Electric bikes vs electric motorcycles

Electric bikes and electric motorcycles differ in several ways. Electric bikes operate like traditional pushbikes, with an electric motor providing assistance to the rider's pedalling. Electric motorcycles, on the other hand, are fully throttle-controlled, meaning there is no pedalling involved. Electric bikes allow the rider to switch between assisted pedalling and a ride completely powered by the motor, while electric motorcycles aim for a drive without any physical effort from the rider.

In terms of safety, electric bicycle riders are often perceived as responsible and eco-minded, while motorcyclists are sometimes seen as taking unnecessary risks. However, some argue that electric bikes may be more dangerous than motorcycles due to riding styles and choices associated with e-bikes. For example, an electric bicycle at 15 mph may be considered safer than a motorcycle at 50 mph.

When it comes to licensing, the requirements vary depending on the vehicle and the location. In the United States, a motorcycle license is generally required to ride any kind of motorcycle, including electric motorcycles and scooters with power equivalent to more than 150cc. This typically falls into two categories: Class M1 and Class M2. A driver's license may be sufficient for motorized bicycles that cannot go more than 20 mph, and some states require riders to be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet.

Overall, electric bikes and electric motorcycles offer different experiences to riders. Electric bikes provide the option of physical activity while also having the assistance of a motor, whereas electric motorcycles offer a more relaxed ride without any pedalling involved.

Licensing requirements

In the United States, you will need a Class M1 or M2 motorcycle license to ride an electric motorcycle. This includes electric motorcycles with a horsepower equivalent of over 150cc, electric mopeds, and electric scooters. To obtain a Class M1 license, you must be at least 16 years old, pass a vision test, and have possessed a driver's license for at least six months.

In some states, the minimum age requirement may be as low as 15 years old. It's important to check the specific regulations in your state. Additionally, wearing a helmet is mandatory for riders of mopeds that have transmission and produce less than four gross brake horsepower. These mopeds must also be registered, and riders must follow the same registration requirements as other vehicles.

For motorized bicycles that cannot go faster than 20 mph, a driver's license is all that's required. However, it's important to note that electric bikes are different from electric motorcycles. Electric bikes are motor-assisted by pedaling, while electric motorcycles are fully throttle-controlled without any pedaling involved. So, while you don't need a special license for electric bikes, a motorcycle license is required for electric motorcycles.

Obtaining a motorcycle license typically involves completing a rider education course and passing a skills test. These courses are designed to teach you how to safely operate a motorcycle, including topics such as braking, turning, and maintaining proper control. Additionally, you may need to pass a written test to demonstrate your knowledge of traffic laws and road safety. By following these licensing requirements, you can ensure that you are legally permitted to ride an electric motorcycle and have the necessary skills to do so safely.

Age requirements

To drive an electric motorcycle, you must meet some criteria. Depending on the regulations in your state, you need to be around 15 to 16 years old. You must pass a vision test and possess a driver's license for at least six months.

In the United States, motorcycle licenses generally fall into two categories: Class M1 and Class M2. To ride any kind of motorcycle, including electric mopeds and electric scooters with power equivalent to more than 150cc, you'll need a Class M1 license.

For mopeds that have transmission and produce less than four gross brake horsepower, riders must be at least 16 years old, wear a helmet, and register the vehicle. Registration for these mopeds can be done without renewal, like for vehicles. A driver's license is all that's required for motorized bicycles that cannot go more than 20 mph.

Vision tests

To drive an electric motorcycle, you'll need to pass a vision test and possess a driver's license for at least six months. Depending on the regulations in your state, you'll also need to be around 15 to 16 years old.

In the United States, motorcycle licenses generally fall into two categories: Class M1 and Class M2. To ride any kind of motorcycle, including electric mopeds and electric scooters with power equivalent to more than 150cc, you'll need a Class M1 license. This includes electric motorcycles with a hp equivalent of over 150cc, electric mopeds, and electric scooters.

If you're riding a moped that has transmission and produces less than four gross brake horsepower, you must be at least 16 years old, wear a helmet, and register the vehicle. Registration for these mopeds can be done without renewal, like for vehicles. A driver's license is all that's required for motorized bicycles that cannot go more than 20 mph.

Electric bikes are motor-assisted by pedaling, while electric motorcycles are fully throttle-controlled without any pedaling involved. All the movement is controlled by the throttle. While you don't need a special license for e-bikes, a motorcycle license permits you to operate a two-wheeled motorcycle.

Helmet requirements

Electric motorbikes are throttle-controlled, meaning there is no pedalling involved. In the United States, you need a Class M1 or M2 motorcycle license to ride one legally.

Additionally, the helmet should have adequate ventilation to keep the rider cool during their journey. It is also important to ensure that the helmet is properly certified and complies with the relevant safety standards in your country or region. These standards ensure that the helmet has been rigorously tested and will provide adequate protection in the event of a crash.

When trying on a helmet, it should fit snugly but not too tightly. It should cover the rider's forehead and sit low on the head, just above the eyebrows. The chin strap should be securely fastened, and the rider should be able to move their head comfortably without the helmet shifting or falling off. It is also a good idea to look for a helmet with a clear, scratch-resistant visor that provides a wide field of vision.

Finally, it is important to regularly inspect your helmet for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If the helmet has been involved in a crash or impact, it is essential to replace it, even if there are no visible signs of damage. By following these helmet requirements and safety guidelines, riders can help ensure their protection and safety while enjoying the thrill of riding an electric motorbike.

Frequently asked questions