Electric motorcycles are one of the best transportation solutions for air pollution. They provide a "greener" option in traveling, producing zero air pollution. They typically use a single-speed transmission and don't require a clutch. The life span of the batteries is about 300 charges, or about 9,320 miles.
The blades of an electric motorcycle don't produce any noise pollution. When compared to traditional motorcycles, electric motorcycles are lightweight. They're available in a wide range of models and colors, and the average model costs a little under $7000.
Let's take a look at some of the best environmentally friendly electric motorcycles available (and soon to be available):
Brammo
Motorcycle.com named the Brammo Enertia the best electric motorcycle. The 100% electric motorcycle costs a little less than $8,000. The company reports the motorcycle gets 40+ miles per charge in urban commuting.
Many of the components are made from recycled materials, and the Enertia itself can be recycled. The motorcycle uses lithium iron phosphate batteries. The company states the batteries can be recycled for many other uses.
The Enertia Plus Electric Motorcycle, the step up in Brammo's line of electric bikes, gets 80+ miles per charge in urban commuting.
Due to its innovative digital drive train technology, Brammo's Empulse Electric Motorcycle can exceed 100 mph for sustained periods of time.
Marone Moto
A Canadian company manufactures the Marone Moto bike. The company claims that nearly every aspect of its electric bike is environmentally friendly.
Zero DS
The Zero DS, manufactured by Zero Motorcycles, is regarded as one of the best electric motorcycles on the market. It's suitable for on-road and off-road riding and weighs less than most gas scooters. It's lightweight frame is made from aircraft grade aluminum. The new Z-force Air Induction system allows the Zero DS to input more power from the motor by efficiently moving air through its core.
Its top speed is about 67 mph and it has a range of about 50 miles. The Zero DS costs a little less than $10,000. The 2011 version includes an innovative quick charge option which reduces the charging time by half.
The Zero S, an on-road version, has a shorter suspension than the Zero DS and includes slick tires. It has the same top speed, miles range, and price of the Zero DS.
Popular Mechanics' Electric Motorcycles Buyer's Guide includes essential details for a collection of electric motorcycles.
Eco-Friendly Prototypes
Check out the photographs and descriptions of some of the cool, innovative eco-friendly prototypes. The SunRed prototype is a solar powered motorcycle. Since the surface area of a motorcycle is small, an arc of solar panels is raised over the motorcycle when it's parked, in order to charge the battery. When parked, the motorcycle looks like a large armadillo with handlebars. The panels also work when the solar panels are down but at a greatly reduced rate.
The Suzuki Crosscage prototype is powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Hydrogen fuel cells have the potential of powering a motorcycle for a range surpassing current petrol-powered models. The Crosscage has the power and equivalent of a standard 125cc bike. It has an estimated range of about 125 miles.
Electric motorcycles are one of the best "green" transportation options available.
Brady Daniels is a member of the Motorcycle Insurance Quote writing staff. He writes feature articles about a variety of topics related to motorcycles.
