Exciting Electric Motorcycles on the Market
Electric motorcycles are no longer a niche technology that exists only in a distant utopian future. Owning an electric motorcycle is now a common reality for a growing number of riders.
Search New and Used Electric Motorcycles on the Cycle Trader Marketplace
There are motorcycles available for sale now that offer buyers the benefit of impressive torque and low maintenance, along with the added benefit of never having to visit a gas station. From commuter scooters to powerful superbikes, there’s an electric option for every kind of rider.
We have outlined the brands and models you can find in the U.S. now, as well as some recently announced models coming to the market that may be worth waiting for.
A Quick History
Electric motorcycles began largely as an experiment. In the 2010s, companies like Zero turned that experimentation into regular production, while big names such as Harley-Davidson used their R&D labs to test the waters. Lately, we’ve seen legacy manufacturers investing resources into prototypes and spin-off brands (Harley created LiveWire), while unique start-ups are chasing specific niches. As more entries enter production, competition increases and technology improves. Charge times are dropping while range increases and costs become more realistic for the average buyer.
Honda
In a surprise announcement, Honda unveiled a new electric motorcycle at the EICMA show in Milan early this month. The first model to launch under the brand’s new electric motorcycle brand direction, the naked WN7 makes use of a newly developed compact and lightweight motor that delivers high output and a predicted range of 87 miles on a full charge.
LiveWire
The Harley-Davidson LiveWire started as the inaugural electric model introduced by the iconic Motor Company before later being spun off as its own brand. That initial entry is now referred to as the LiveWire One. The brand has expanded its lineup to include the S2 Alpinista, S2 Mulholland and S2 Del Mar, as well as the S4 Honcho minibike. Their focus today is urban performance and approachable styling aimed at riders who want sportbike acceleration with commuter practicality. LiveWire has positioned itself to be a recognizable, dealer-supported electric option for buyers who like the idea of a legacy connection but want modern design and power.
Zero Motorcycles
Zero Motorcycles have been selling bikes for more than a decade and now offer a broad lineup: naked and sport models (SR/F and SR/S), dual-sport/DSR variants. The Zero XE and XB offer narrow, lightweight design complemented by agility and long suspension travel for off-road adventures. Zero’s strength is product variety and a well-developed charging/battery ecosystem. They build for range and utility rather than top speed.
Triumph TXP Series
As part of an unprecedented plan to launch 33 new models for 2026, Triumph recently unveiled their TXP series, including the TXP-12 and TXP-16. The battery-powered bikes are intended to attract young riders into the world of trials and trail riding. The rugged, off-road machines offer lightweight, minimalist designs and adjustable power modes for gradual progression.
Lightning
When Lightning Motorcycles first released the LS-218 in 2015, the superbike became the world’s fastest production motorcycle. Boasting 244 hp and 220 lb.-ft. of torque, it set multiple speed records by achieving a zero to 60 mph time of just two seconds and a top speed of 218 mph. Their product line skews toward superbike levels of acceleration, and pricing reflects that performance. Lightning began delivery of LS-218 in late 2015 and the Strike in 2019 followed by the Strike R in 2022
Urban Bike Brands
Brands such as Cake, Tarform, and Land District focus on lighter, urban machines that blur the line between e-bikes and commuter motorcycles. Cake’s line includes nimble, quiet models designed for city use, while Tarform pitches premium materials and sustainability.
Based in Cleveland, Land District builds modular electric bikes with removable batteries and customizable performance modes. These brands appeal to riders who prioritize design, sustainability, and nimble urban transport over long range or high performance.
Start-ups and Prototypes
Electric motorcycle entrepreneurship hasn’t slowed down. Real Motors’ Project: ARES and other boutique builders are producing striking futuristic prototypes and small-run production bikes that aim for design and emotional appeal rather than mass market scale.
Damon Motorcycles is positioning itself as one of the most technologically advanced electric motorcycle brands on the market. Its flagship model, the HyperSport, combines superbike performance (over 200hp and a claimed top speed around 200mph!) with cutting-edge safety and technology. They have recently added the HSR and HyperFighter to the lineup of models available for reservation. Damon’s patented CoPilot system uses radar, cameras, and sensors to monitor 360-degrees around the bike, warning riders of potential hazards. Another innovative technology lets riders electronically adjust handlebar and footpeg positions on the fly.
Historically conservative on electric bikes, Yamaha has been showing prototypes and concept bikes at shows since as far back as 2013. Electric motorcycles are no longer inaccessible. They’re now a broad category with real choices. Whether you want a commuter that’s inexpensive to operate, a sporty canyon carver, or a boutique bike, the market now supports substantial variety. The only hard part is deciding which kind of electric motorcycle you actually want to ride.
If you want your next bike to be an electric motorcycle, browse our marketplace at CycleTrader.com for new and used options.
Shelby Ballou
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