When the first motorcycle was invented in the middle of the 18th century it was a steam-powered motorcycle. As time progressed the engine type changed to diesel then petrol and octane in the late 19th century, which left the only option for decades to motorcyclists. Now in this modern era, motorcycle companies have come out of their traditional ways and brought another revolutionary change through electric motorcycles. Let me discuss the differences between electric and gasoline motorcycles from my own experience.
1. Costs- (Purchase, operation, and maintenance)
Purchase cost
Electric motorcycle– The initial purchase cost of an electric motorcycle is higher than that of a gasoline-based motorcycle. Mainly for the battery technology electric motorcycles cost more, but in the long run, it will surely save you money.
Gasoline motorcycle– Unlike the electric motorcycle gasoline motorcycle’s initial purchase cost is lower but in the long run, will be more money-consuming.
Operating and maintaining cost
Electric motorcycle– Electric motorcycle needs lower maintenance costs due to fewer components than gasoline motorcycles. Here you don’t need to expanse for fuel, engine oil, plugs, filters, or exhaust system to manage. You only need to spend money on electricity which is much more cost effective than fuel or engine oil.
Gasoline motorcycle– A gasoline motorcycle not only requires gasoline or engine oil, but it also requires servicing or replacement parts like the spark plug, oil, air filters, and exhaust after a certain time. Overall this leads to expanse good amount of money.
2. Riding experience
Torque and speed
Electric motorcycle– I have ridden a few electric motorcycles and what I feel is, that from a stop an electric motorcycle provides quick acceleration with its instant torque. I don’t feel the acceleration a gasoline motorcycle provides. It can be said that this electric motorcycle gives better acceleration than some lower cc gasoline-based motorcycles but can not be compared with high-end motorcycles.
Gasoline motorcycle– There is nothing new to say about gasoline-based motorcycles’ instant torque or acceleration. the traditional acceleration of gasoline motorcycles feels like it is way better than the electric one.
Recharging or Refueling
Electric motorcycle– Recharging your electric motorcycle battery depends on your riding style and the model of your motorcycle. However, with a single charge, it can easily run up to 100-200 miles. It may take 30 minutes to a few hours to fully charge the battery.
Gasoline motorcycle– Refuel your motorcycle tank within a few minutes and you are good to go as far as you want. With a standard model if you fill your tank full you can easily go 200-300 miles.
3. Environmental Impact
Electric motorcycle– Electric motorcycles are environmentally friendly and it has no harmful effect on the environment. It is completely undeniable that in this place electric motorcycles will be completely ahead of gasoline motorcycles.
Gasoline motorcycle– Gasoline motorcycle releases harmful emissions and carbon dioxide which badly impact the environment. Newer models of motorcycles come with emission control systems that are less harmful to the environment than older model motorcycles.
4. Resale value
Electric motorcycle– Electric motorcycles will not be the same in five or ten years as they are now. Technology, design, and battery performance will change in the coming days. Although the resale value is unpredictable but i think the expected money will not get from the older versions.
Gasoline motorcycle– The matter of gasoline motorcycles is completely different from electric motorcycles. Unlike the electric motorcycle, a well-maintained old motorcycle can retain its value for decades. There is a saturated market for selling second-hand gasoline motorcycles that electric motorcycles don’t have.
Which one would be better for me?
In the above discussion, I have tried to cover the difference between two motorcycles. Electric motorcycles are better for short-range. On the other hand Gasoline motorcycles are better for long-range. Electric motorcycles are quiet and on the other hand gasoline motorcycles are loud. Which motorcycle should you choose depends on what you will be using the motorcycle for. I don’t like electric motorcycles, and if I had to select between these two I would go for the gasoline motorcycle. Everything has pros and cons so select your motorcycle wisely that fits your needs.
It would be wise to select the motorcycle considering its current and future utility. If you do not want to go on long trips with your motorcycle, and want a quiet, cost-effective, and completely eco-friendly motorcycle then go for an electric motorcycle. If you are like me and want to go on a long trip with the motorcycle, don’t feel like you are riding a motorcycle unless you hear the exhaust and also thinks about resale value then go for a gasoline motorcycle.