Electric VS Gasoline Motorcycle
Electric vs. Gasoline Motorcycle
Electric motorcycles and scooters are plug-in electric vehicles with two or three wheels powered by electricity. The electricity is stored on board in a rechargeable battery, which drives one or more electric motors. Electric scooters (as distinct from motorcycles) have a step-through frame.
Most electric motorcycles and scooters today are powered by rechargeable lithium ion batteries, though some early models used nickel-metal hydroxide batteries. Scooter maker Electric Vehicle has pioneered use of a lead/sodium silicate battery (a variation on the classic lead acid battery invented in 1859, still prevalent in automobiles) that compares favorably with lithium batteries in size, weight, and energy capacity, at less cost.
Charging
All electric scooters and motorcycles provide for recharging by plugging into ordinary wall outlets, usually taking about eight hours to recharge (i.e. overnight).
Electric and gasoline powered motorcycles and scooters of the same size and weight are roughly comparable in performance. In August 2013 Road and Track evaluated a high-end electric motorcycle as faster and better handling than any conventionally powered bike. Electric machines have better 0 to 60 acceleration, since they develop full torque immediately, and without a clutch the torque is instantly available.
Range
Electric motorcycles and scooters suffer considerable disadvantage in range, since batteries cannot store as much energy as a tank of gas. Anything over 130 miles (210 km) on a single charge is considered an exceptionally long range. As a result, while electric machines excel as daily commuters traveling a fixed distance round trip, on the open road riders experience inhibiting range anxiety. Also electric power trades off range against speed. For instance the current longest range electric scooter, the Liger, travels 220 km (140 mi) at 89 km/h (55 mph), but according to the manufacturer the range drops to about 129 km (80 mi) at 112 km/h (70 mph).
Maintenance
Electric scooters and motorcycles need virtually no maintenance. As Wired magazine’s transportation editor Damon Lavrinc reported after an experiment of trying to go six months using nothing but a Zero electric motorcycle: “[w]ith only a battery, a motor, and a black box (i.e. the controller) to keep you moving, electric motorcycles are a breeze to maintain compared to a conventional motorcycle, what with all the lubricating and adjusting and tuning you have to do. You basically just worry about consumables: brake pads, tires, maybe a brake fluid flush. That’s about it.”[60]
Fuel cost
At between one and two cents per mile (depending on electric rates), electric machines enjoy an enormous fuel cost advantage. Three months and 2,800 km (1,700 mi) of commuting on an electric motorcycle cost Lavrinc less than $30 for electricity; on a BMW gasoline bike a single trip of 650 km (400 mi) cost nearly the same.[55]
Noise
Electric vehicles are far quieter than gas powered ones, so silent they may sneak up on unwary pedestrians.[61] Some are equipped to emit artificial noise. Popular Mechanics called the comparative quiet of electric motorcycles the greatest difference between them and their gas counterparts, and a safety bonus because the rider can hear danger approaching.[62] Whether a loud motorcycle is more noticeable and thus more safe than a quiet one is contested.[63][64] At high speed the whine of an electric motorcycle is said to sound “like a spaceship.
Electric Motorcycle versus Gas Motorcycle? Performance, Efficiency, Cost and Maintenance
Electric or gas motorcycle are both fun to ride. Whatever option you may have both gives freedom and adventure. It is still one of the most preferred alternative mode of transportation worldwide. However, there are various benefits and drawbacks that a rider must consider. With the comeback of the electric motorcycle, many are warming up for this technology. Let us take a look of some of the advantages and disadvantages for you to decide.
ADVANTAGES OF ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE
1. Environment Friendly
eco-friendly
This is the most important impact of electric motorcycle. Possibly fewer greenhouse emissions. It reduces air pollution and limits effect of global warming.
2. Safe and Easy to Operate
easy and safe
Electric motorcycles are fun for people of all ages. With the safety features of this technology, it is considered a better wheel for a back-ride to school. Elderlies and conservative women hold in a high regard on electric motorcycle.
3. Stress and Sweat-free
sweat and stress free
The safety automatic features makes this kind of motorcycle a worry-free technology. You don’t have to figure out what gear you are in and how to clutch properly. You only have to perform a little physical effort to drive your motorcycle. The amazing thing is that you don’t have to worry for gas or oil.
DISADVANTAGES OF ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE
1. Expensive
expensive
The cost of an electric motorcycle is really expensive, it is generally higher compared to the gas motorcycle. Definitely your electric power bill will also go up. Electric motorcycles turn out to be more expensive when it comes to accessories particularly on batteries.
2. Short Driving Range
short driving range
Electric powered motorcycles usually have limited range. It is short range and slow refueling. It is not suitable for a long road trips.
3. Limited Battery Life
short battery life
Generally a maintenance-free batteries have limited life. The more use of the motorcycle, the earlier the battery life will end. Charging also must be guarded to avoid damage to the batteries. Overcharging may lead to permanent damage and the motorcycle can no longer function properly.
Gas powered motorcycle is still preferred by most motorcycle enthusiasts. It has an outweigh benefits that most riders admire. Let us have a look on the cons and pro that a rider must understand before considering this technology.
ADVANTAGES GAS MOTORCYCLE
1. Faster
faster
Compared to electric motorcycle, gas motorcycle is faster. It has better suspensions that you can go as fast as you like. It can bring you miles away to wherever destinations you want.
2. Resale Value
higher resale value
It is easy to find a buyer for gas motorcycle. The resale value of a gas powered motorcycle is higher compared to electric motorcycle. With proper maintenance, you can have a good market price.
3. Inexpensive
low price
Initial investment cost is cheaper. Maintenance as well as the services and spare parts are less expensive. You can pump gas anytime you need it without worrying of your electric bill to rise up.
DISADVANTAGES GAS MOTORCYCLE
1. Heavy
heavy
Though there are various types of motorcycle, but generally not all can easily pull a motorcycle. It is heavy that you need to exert force to move around a motorcycle. You need concentration, skills and strength to maneuver a motorcycle.
2. Maintenance
maintainance
There are options for maintenance. You can choose between dealers, private mechanic or you can do it on your own. Any options definitely will cost you money. Maintenance is a must to maintain a good running condition.
3. Pollution
pollution
Based on study, gas powered motorcycle have worse emissions. The chemicals found on the gas have bad health impact to human. Once inhaled, it can cause illness and hazardous to the body.
Electric motorcycles and gas motorcycles both are taking to road. As you make the decision, weigh the pros and cons. Choose whatever fits best to your lifestyle. Whichever option, both are great to take you to the top 10 motorcycle rides. You will enjoy more if you gear up every time you ride on your motorcycle. USO Volunteer Apparel has options for you to choose to go along with your ride.