Both e-bikes and electric motorcycles utilize an electric motor to provide power assistance to the rider and are common for short-distance commuting in many countries. Although both are two-wheeled electric vehicles, there are important differences between these two types of e-bikes. This article will explore their key differences in detail.
The difference between the two
Maximum motor rating
E-bike motors are strictly limited by regulations, and their continuous power output ratings are usually below 800w or even lower. In the U.S., the power of electric assist motors usually ranges from 250W-750W, with 750W being the maximum rated motor output for electric assist bicycles under U.S. road regulations. In contrast, electric motorcycles are usually equipped with more powerful electric motors, typically above 1000w, and some even with more powerful motors. The ability to provide substantially higher torque and power to the vehicle allows the motorcycle to achieve higher top speeds and acceleration beyond that of lower-powered electric bikes.
Pedal and Drive
All e-bikes are electrically assisted bicycles that require fully functioning pedals and can be powered by human pedaling alone. The electric motor of an e-bike can only provide power assist, which shuts off to stop the assist if the vehicle reaches a certain speed. Electric motorcycles do not include pedals because they are vehicles that are powered entirely by electric motors and do not require any human power to operate by pedaling through the legs.
Maximum Top Speed
Due to road travel as well as laws and regulations, the speed of e-bikes is strictly limited, and equipped with a speed limiter. Therefore, even when receiving full motor power assistance, the motor speed will not exceed 25km/h due to the speed limiter. Unlike e-bikes, e-motorcycles have a much faster speed than a stand-alone motorized vehicle. Even the entry-level models can reach speeds of up to 50km/h, while the high-performance models reach even higher speeds. Most of Lunyee's e-bikes reach speeds of up to 60km/h and have more features in terms of range, speed, and power.
Vehicle size and weight
Compact size and light weight are the advantages of e-bikes. Unlike e-bikes, motorcycles are significantly larger, have a longer wheelbase, and are taller due to their larger powertrains, and stronger frames to accommodate the increased motor power and body weight.
Conclusion
In summary, although both e-bikes and motorcycles only use motor powertrains, they still have significant differences in terms of maximum power limits, speed, weight, and performance.