Who makes electric motorcycles right now

The electric motorcycle market includes established motorcycle manufacturers, startups focused only on electric models, and companies from outside the motorcycle industry. Some brands sell in the United States, some only in Europe or Asia, and some ship internationally but with limited dealer support. The brands available to you depend on where you live, your budget, and whether you want a street bike, dirt bike, cruiser, or sportier model.

This guide covers the real brands with actual products you can order or test ride, not vaporware or companies that folded. Availability and pricing change, so check the manufacturer's website for your region before assuming a brand is or isn't available to you.

Key Takeaways

  • Major motorcycle manufacturers like Harley-Davidson, KTM, and BMW now make electric models alongside their gas bikes, giving you dealer networks and warranty support.
  • Startups like Zero Motorcycles, Energica, and Cake focus only on electric bikes and often lead on range and charging speed, but have fewer dealers.
  • Chinese brands like Niu and Yadea dominate the scooter and lightweight segment but have limited availability in North America.
  • Availability varies sharply by country and region — a bike sold in Europe may not be sold in the US, and vice versa.
  • Price ranges from under $5,000 for lightweight models to over $40,000 for high-performance street bikes, depending on battery size and motor power.

Established motorcycle makers entering electric

Harley-Davidson launched the LiveWire line, starting with the LiveWire One, a cruiser-styled electric bike aimed at their traditional customer base. The company has announced plans for more models and lower price points. Harley dealers can service these bikes, which matters for warranty and repairs.

KTM, the Austrian dirt bike and sportbike manufacturer, makes the Freeride E-XC and E-SM for off-road and street use. KTM bikes are lighter and more performance-focused than Harley's offering. KTM has a large dealer network, especially in Europe and North America.

BMW Motorrad produces the CE 04, a maxi-scooter styled electric bike with a large battery and fast charging. BMW also makes the smaller C Evolution. BMW's dealer network is extensive, and their bikes carry premium pricing.

Yamaha has announced electric models but as of now has limited production bikes available in most markets. Their strategy appears focused on smaller, more affordable models rather than performance machines.

Electric-only manufacturers

Zero Motorcycles, based in California, has been making electric bikes since 2006. They offer street bikes (the SR/F and SR/S), dirt bikes (the DSR), and dual-sport models. Zero bikes are known for solid range and fast charging. They have a growing dealer network in North America and Europe, though far smaller than Harley or BMW.

Energica, an Italian company, makes high-performance street bikes like the Ego and Eva. Energica bikes are lighter and faster than Zero's comparable models, with prices to match. Energica has limited North American availability but is more established in Europe.

Cake, a Swedish brand, makes lightweight, minimalist electric bikes designed for urban commuting and light off-road use. Their Kalk model is popular in Europe. Cake bikes are affordable compared to performance-focused brands but have very limited US availability.

Sondors is a newer US-based brand making affordable electric motorcycles and scooters. They focus on lower price points than Zero or Energica. Dealer support is still building.

Chinese and Asian brands

Niu makes electric scooters and lightweight motorcycles, primarily sold in Asia and Europe. They are known for affordable pricing and good build quality for the price. North American availability is very limited.

Yadea is another Chinese manufacturer focused on scooters and commuter bikes. Like Niu, they have strong presence in Asia but minimal US distribution.

Zongshen and Loncin are Chinese manufacturers that produce electric bikes for their home market and some export. These brands are rarely seen in North America through official channels, though some models appear in other regions.

Chinese brands typically offer lower prices than Western manufacturers but may have less extensive warranty support and fewer service centers outside Asia.

What to compare when choosing a brand

Dealer and service network: If you need warranty work, repairs, or parts, a brand with dealers near you matters more than brand prestige. Harley, BMW, and KTM have established networks. Zero is growing but still sparse in many areas. Smaller brands may require shipping bikes for service.

Battery and range: Different brands use different battery suppliers and sizes. Zero and Energica publish detailed range figures. Compare real-world range in your climate and riding style, not just the manufacturer's claim. Cold weather reduces range significantly across all brands.

Charging speed: Some bikes charge faster than others. Fast charging (DC fast charging) can add 80 miles of range in 20 to 30 minutes on premium models, while slower chargers take hours. Check whether the bike supports DC fast charging and what chargers are available in your area.

Price and warranty: Prices vary from $5,000 to $45,000 depending on the model and brand. Warranty length and what it covers differ. Established brands like Harley and BMW typically offer longer warranties than startups.

Regional availability matters

A bike sold in Germany may not be street-legal in California. Emissions regulations, safety standards, and import rules differ by country and state. Before deciding on a brand, check whether that specific model is sold in your region and whether it meets local regulations.

Some brands sell through their own websites and ship internationally, but this often means no local dealer support and potential customs or import issues. Others work only through regional distributors. Contact the manufacturer directly to confirm what's available where you are.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy an electric motorcycle from a brand that doesn't have dealers near me?

Yes, but you should understand the tradeoff. You may be able to order online or through a distributor, but warranty service, repairs, and parts could require shipping the bike or waiting for mail delivery. Some manufacturers offer phone or email support for troubleshooting. Ask the brand directly about their service options before buying.

Which brand has the longest range?

Range depends on the specific model and battery size, not just the brand. High-end models from Zero, Energica, and BMW can exceed 200 miles on a charge, while smaller bikes from Cake or budget models from other brands may offer 50 to 100 miles. Check the specs for the exact model you're considering, not just the brand name.

Are Chinese electric motorcycle brands reliable?

Reliability varies by model and brand. Niu and Yadea have solid reputations in their home markets, but warranty support and parts availability in North America are limited. If you buy a Chinese brand in the US, research the specific importer and their warranty terms before purchasing.

Do I need to buy from a brand with a big dealer network?

It depends on your comfort with maintenance and your location. If you want traditional dealer service and parts availability, established brands like Harley, BMW, and KTM are safer. If you're comfortable with online support or live near a dealer for your chosen brand, smaller manufacturers can work fine.

What's the cheapest electric motorcycle brand?

Chinese brands like Niu and Yadea offer models under $5,000 in their home markets, but US availability is limited. In North America, Sondors and some Cake models are among the most affordable options from brands with any US presence. Prices change frequently, so check current listings for your region.