The electric motorcycle you choose depends on personal preference and riding behaviour. The good news is that there is an electric motorbike out there for every rider.
The first generation of electric bikes meant well. They broke the mold, pushed the envelope, and paved the way for us to make the best two-wheeled wonders we can. However, they were often expensive, unreliable, and put safety as an afterthought.
Thankfully, in 2023, those days are long gone. Bike brands are releasing exciting new motorcycles with features never seen before in their EV predecessors or ICE counterparts. For example, here at Damon, we’re disrupting the status quo with the world’s first multi-variant powertrain platform and our award-winning 360° advanced warning system.
With so many factors at play when choosing the right battery-powered motorcycle, it can be difficult to know where to start. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Whatever kind of rider you are, check out our electric motorcycle guide and the 9 key tips you should assess when choosing the best electric motorcycle for you.
Damon HyperSport HS PrototypeIn the past, the main motivation for purchasing an electric bike would be to reduce your carbon footprint. However, with electric motorcycles now going toe-to-toe with petrol models in terms of performance and variety, you can now choose bikes that fit your specific riding needs.
These may include:
The next tip will greatly determine whether you can take your electric motorbike across the country or if it’s better suited to going to and from the office.
Damon HyperSport HS in VancouverRange refers to the total distance your bike can do per charge. The total range estimate given on a motorbike’s specification can be affected by a few different factors, such as:
When considering the best electric bike for you, it’s essential to make some estimations. These will not only include your daily mileage but also the nature of your route (e.g. city streets, highways, rural areas, and access to charging stations).
This type of breakdown is important as all-electric motorbikes have a maximum range when fully charged. Look at the section of the manufacturer’s specifications, in particular, to make sure they’re quoting city, highway, or mixed battery mileage.
Take a look at how these electric motorcycles compare for range, top speed, horsepower, and charging time:
Most Futuristic Motorcycles in 2023 ComparedThe range of electric motorcycles varies from one model to the next. Lighter, scooter models deliver around 60 miles of range, whereas some heavier, cruiser models hit around 250 miles.
Here at Damon, our HyperSport HS and Premier models have a range capacity of over 200 miles (city and highway mix).
Now that you’ve considered what you’re using the bike for and the range it’s capable of, let’s move on to the bike’s power, torque, and speed. In other words, what can you expect when you nail that throttle?
There is some confusion about the difference in these terms within the riding community. So, we’re going to break down each one:
A question we’re frequently asked is, “Are electric motorcycles faster than gas?” This is a resounding yes.
Don’t believe us? Check out the power, torque, and top speed of the different Damon HyperSports below.
Damon HyperSport Versions ComparisonThe length of time it takes to put the life back into your battery is probably as important as the range available on a full charge.
Most electric motorcycles have built-in level one and level two chargers. Damon HyperSports also feature CCS fast-charging capability.
What’s the difference between the three?
To charge most electric bikes at home, you need to install a J1772-compliant EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment). Alternatively, you can use level two charging stations while on the road.
EV charging infrastructure has improved in the last few years. In Canada, for example, Petro-Canada has completely rolled out its coast-to-coast EV charging network. The charging infrastructure in the US has also seen impressive growth; in California alone, there are 18,000 EV charging stations.
So where can you find a level two charging station? Practically everywhere! Use any level two charger locator app to find a station near you.
Damon HyperSport Charging at HomeElectric motorcycles have the benefit of being more technologically advanced than their ICE counterparts.
On top of a more interactive dash, the electric motorcycles are upping their tech game by implementing advanced safety features to enhance rider safety.
Damon HyperSports will feature our CoPilot™ advanced warning system. The system will use radar, cameras, and non-visual sensors to track the speed, direction, and velocity of up to 64 moving objects around the motorcycle in 360 degrees.
In addition to this, several bike brands have started to produce their own mobile apps to increase riders’ levels of connectivity. Through our mobile app, Damon HyperSport owners will be able to customize CoPilot™’s alerts based on individual preferences. You’ll also be able to access features like GPS tracking or your electric motorcycle’s settings all on a user-friendly interface.
Additional features will be made available and easily downloadable through over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring your electric motorcycle always remains fresh and up to date.
It’s essential that the bike you choose has the correct dimensions and weight as well as the right seat height. Proper motorcycle ergonomics means you’ll be comfortable and in control of your bike no matter your riding position.
However, motorcycle riding position changes depending on whether you’re commuting in the city in a more upright posture or out there leaning forward to carve canyons. Because your riding position changes, your motorcycle should, too.
This is why Damon HyperSports all feature SHIFT™ technology. This allows riders to adjust their footpegs and handlebars – all at a push of a button. This on-the-fly adjustable ergonomics is extremely useful for remaining relaxed in stop-start traffic or maintaining control on the freeway, making your ride more comfortable at all times.
Still need help visualizing? Well, first take a look at these different motorcycle riding positions.
A Guide to Different Motorcycle Riding PositionsAnd here are the different riding positions you’ll be able to do using SHIFT™.
Damon Shift™ Technology Riding PositionsThis is an important question – let’s face it, the battery is the very heart of the bike. To be clear, this is the number of times the battery can be recharged and not the range of a fully charged battery.
Just as ICE motorcycles get worn out after many kilometers under its belt, the same will happen with electric motorcycles. However, through the lifetime of the vehicle, you will spend much less time, energy, and money on maintaining your electric motorcycle than you would an ICE bike. No more needing to winterize, remove the battery, or put in fuel stabilization – now you can just plug it in and go!
Rest assured, the bike you choose will likely have a long battery life. By the time you begin to see battery degradation, you would be ready for a new motorcycle already.
Damon HyperDrive™All-electric motorbike manufacturers are obliged to provide a warranty. The small print differs significantly, but apart from covering frame and cycle parts, the warranty should cover the battery’s shelf-life.
The devil is always in the details though and the warranty small print will usually have a lot of bike specifics you should know. These details will relate to things like:
In order to stay within the warranty terms, you have to adhere to these terms.
There is an electric motorbike to suit any budget. No longer are electric bikes only available to the super-wealthy and environmentally conscious. Technology and bike engineering are now at a place where you can order a high-powered electric sports bike for as little as $264 a month.
Furthermore, an additional saving grace for riders of EVs is the various incentives on offer. It’s clear for all to see, that switching to going electric will have a very positive effect on air quality. The global goal of greatly reducing our carbon footprint has resulted in Canada and the US introducing various incentives, grants, and even an electric motorcycle tax credit.
Bike brands will be glad to make you aware of them, but, if at a loss, check your government and state funding options for electric motorcycles.
As you can see, whether you’re after an electric scooter or an electric motorbike, there’s something out there for everyone. Damon’s HyperSports are no different. So, whether you’re a canyon carver, track day junkie, or an everyday commuter, there’s a motorcycle out there for you.
We hope you found our electric motorcycle guide helpful and that you’re now clearer on the best electric motorcycle for your needs.
New-styled, 3-wheeled scooters have been on our roads for just over a decade now, but despite being big in Europe, they still remain a somewhat unusual sight in the UK.
Many three-wheelers out there can be ridden on a standard car driving licence (subject to limitations), and make for excellent commuters and tourers for those who are looking to switch up their mode of transport.
However, what differentiates these new waves of 3-wheelers from the traditional trikes of the past is their ability to lean and handle like regular bikes and scooters - thanks to their clever suspension setups.
With that all being said, in this blog, we will be looking at just 8 of the best three-wheelers out there on the market ready for 2023!
Piaggio MP3 300
The Piaggio MP3 is a model that really started the trend for three-wheeler scooters back in 2006, with its latest entry-level model being updated last year with a number of improvements that make this beauty even better than it was.
The most noticeable upgrade must be the Euro 5 compliant 300cc HPE (High-Performance Engine) with electronic fuel injection, meaning that the MP3 300 now has improved power while actually being more economical regarding fuel consumption!
Another thing to note is that the MP3 300 is classified as a trike and can therefore be ridden with a standard car driver's licence! It handles much like a twist-and-go maxi scooter, with its quadrilateral suspension allowing you to lean like a regular bike but with the increased traction and stability of 3 wheels. The locking mechanism also helps to keep the scooter upright when you come to a standstill - there’s even a handbrake too!
And if you fancy an MP3 that is a little bit extra, for £250 more you can get the Sport version. While it may come with the same basic package as the normal one, the sports edition squeezes a couple of extra horses out of the engine and adds a few sporty visual tweaks, as well as traction control and Piaggio's multimedia platform (Piaggio MIA).
A brand new MP3 300 starts at £7,000 and is one of the easiest and best ways to get into three-wheel commuting. Last but not least, if you are planning to jump on one of these with a car licence, I would still highly recommend doing a quick CBT course to get used to scooter riding.
Engine: 278cc, 25.8hp, liquid-cooled HPE Torque: 26.1 Nm @ 6250 rpm Brakes: Front: 2x 258mm disc
Yamaha Tricity 125
Next up on the list, we have the Yamaha Tricity 125.
Tricity 125 is designed from the ground up to be an urban commuter. And unlike most other 3-wheel scooters, the front wheels are set up with closer spacing for a more agile and streamlined design. However, this does mean the Tricity is not classified as a trike but because it is a 125, can be ridden with a CBT.
Compared to the other three-wheelers on this list, the Tricity 125 is extremely lightweight, coming in at 168kg (with a full tank). The weight also means that things like upright locking systems are not required because you can simply put your foot down at standstill, without having to balance a bulky machine. Instead, each wheel has independent suspension allowing the Tricity to lean and handle just like a traditional scooter and the narrower shape will cut through traffic with ease.
Lastly, the Tricity 125 has also just been updated with Yamaha's latest Blue Core Euro 5 engine, providing excellent, tried, and tested 125cc performance and economic fuel consumption. And with a £4,450 price tag, this scoot could be the most cost-effective way to get started with a 3-wheel scooter.
Engine: 125cc (12hp), liquid-cooled SOHC, 4-valves, Single cylinder Torque: 11.2 Nm @ 6000 rpm Brakes: Front: Dual disc
Peugeot Metropolis Allure
Siting third on this list is Peugeot's entry into the 3-wheel scooter market, the Metropolis Allure.
The Metropolis Allure meets all the requirements to be ridden with a car licence, including an upright locking mechanism, foot brake pedal, and wide front wheel spacing. In fact, the visuals on this are very reminiscent of a Peugeot car with its angular headlights, front grill, and that familiar badge.
The Allure is also fully Euro 5 compliant and packs in a lot of technology, including dual tilting front wheels, ABS, tyre pressure sensor, and daytime running LED lights for maximum visibility. Aspherical mirrors aim to increase your field of vision in traffic and there's an electronically adjustable windscreen too.
Offering great performance thanks to its 35.6hp 4-stroke engine, and the extra comfort you get from this 3-wheeler's spacious proportions means that you can easily take this scooter out on tour as well!
Yamaha Tricity 300
Next on the list has got to be another from Yamaha’s Tricity family, the Yamaha Tricity 300.
This larger version of Yamaha's three-wheeler delivers significantly more power and takes urban mobility to another level thanks to a Euro 5-compliant 300cc 4-stroke engine.
The Tricity 300 has a few added extras to the newest edition, including ABS, traction control, a smart key, and a standing assist system for added convenience. The standing assist system essentially allows you to lock the front wheels in an upright position with the press of a button so you won't have to prop up the 239kg weight at a standstill. With that said, the Tricity 300 is still the lightest 3-wheeler in its class.
Unlike Yamaha's other 3-wheel offerings, this 300cc Tricity can be ridden on a car licence (depending on licence restrictions), although once again I would still recommend you get some basic motorcycle training first.
The Tricity starts at £8,400, making this the perfect scoot for those with a higher budget who like the look of the Tricity but are after a little more power!
Engine: 292cc, liquid-cooled, OHC, 4-valves, Single cylinder (27.6hp) Torque: 29 Nm @ 5750 rpm Brakes: Front and rear single disc 267mm Fuel Capacity: 13L Weight: 239kg (wet) Seat height: 795mm Price: £8,400
Can-Am Ryker 900
Sitting in the middle of our list, coming up next is the Can-Am Ryker 900.
Unlike all the other models here, the Can-Am Ryker is not really a motorcycle or scooter, it’s a slightly more traditional trike that handles like a super-powered go-kart or quad! It does however have a twist-and-go automatic transmission, as well as motorcycle-style handlebars and saddle but that's about where the similarities end.
The Ryker weighs in at 280 kilos with an empty tank, which makes it one of the heaviest machines on the list. Fortunately, it also has a 900cc in-line 3-cylinder engine with 82hp and 79 Nm of torque, so this thing can really shift, even with a bit of weight!
There are a bunch of customisation options available, with a choice of 600 or 900cc engines, as well as separate sport and rally editions that pack in their own unique features (and prices).
Overall, the Ryker is much closer to a traditional trike than any other on this lost and can be ridden on a car licence, and features a handy reverse mode. When it comes to pricing, the 3-wheeler starts from £12,853 for the standard 900cc version and makes for another interesting entry.
Engine: 900cc, 82 hp, liquid-cooled Torque: 79.1 Nm @ 6500 rpm Brakes: Front: 270mm discs with Nissin 2 piston calipers
Piaggio MP3 530 HPE Exclusive
Coming in hot, next up we have the Piaggio MP3 530 HPE Exclusive.
The MP3 530 HPE Exclusive was added to Piaggio's MP3 line-up last year and comes with a high-performance Euro 5 engine and a host of premium features. It basically takes all the great things the lower-capacity MP3 has to offer and brings it to the next level.
Packing a 530cc single-cylinder engine that produces 44 horsepower and 50Nm of torque, the MP3 530 is one of the most powerful three-wheel scooters ever made. Having said that, this is a hefty machine, weighing in at 280kg with a full tank, so it won't be the fastest Maxi on sale but still, the performance is very respectable for this category.
Now I know what you’re thinking, manoeuvring a 280kg scooter could be a bit intimidating, but like all MP3s, the 530 Exclusive can be locked in an upright position at a standstill so you won't have to support its weight directly. There is also a handy reverse gear and even a rearview camera which can feed clear vision to the large 7" TFT dash while moving backward.
It’s fair to say that plenty of attention has been given to making sure this scooter is as comfortable as possible with a spacious seat and ample leg room, this is a scooter that is perfect for both everyday riding and long-distance touring. It also comes with cruise control and a blind spot information system (BLIS) which will light up when something approaches from behind.
The Piaggio MP3 530 HPE Exclusive is the crown jewel in the MP3 range and comes priced at £11,500. Definitely one of the more expensive three-wheel options, but offering superior power and a host of tech features that make it a truly unique riding experience.
Engine: 530cc, liquid-cooled. single cylinder (44.1hp) Torque: 50Nm @ 7250 rpm Brakes: Front: 258mm double disc
Yamaha Niken GT
Freshly updated for 2023, the Niken GT is now packing the latest 890cc CP3 EU5 engine straight from the MT-09 for enhanced power and acceleration.
The Niken GT also comes packed with Yamaha's Leaning Multi Wheel (LMW) technology on the front end allows the bike to reach 45-degree lean angles for some mean cornering ability!
An area in which the Niken excels is in its stability, not to mention the extra comfort and wind shielding offered by its design. The latest GT version adds a high screen, heated grips, side cases, and a rear carrier to really maximise the touring capability.
Starting from £16,200, the Niken also comes loaded with features including traction control, adjustable suspension, ride modes, a slipper clutch, up and down quick-shifter, and cruise control. If you're an experienced rider looking to try something new - there's nothing on the road quite like this!
Engine: 890cc, 115 hp, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves, 3-cylinder, EURO5 Torque: 90.7 Nm @ 7000 rpm Brakes: Front: 298mm disc
Kymco CV3
Finishing up our list has got to be the highly anticipated Kymco CV3!
The CV3 is due to be released in early 2023 and aims to be the most powerful 3-wheel maxi scooter in the category. Coming fully equipped with independently leaning front wheels and the same 550cc parallel-twin engine already seen in Kymco's excellent AK550. The CV3 will produce 51hp and 52Nm of torque @6000rpm with a claimed top speed of 105mph.
Packed with cool tech features such as ride modes, heated grips, keyless ignition, cruise control, and ABS. The CV3 will also have a standing assist system to hold the bike upright at a standstill as well as a foot pedal brake and a large 6" TFT display with Kymco's Noodoe satnav technology built in.
You’ll also be pleased to know that the CV3 meets the requirements to be ridden with on full UK car licence (as long as it was issued before 2013). Combined with its ultra-low emissions and claimed 55mpg, this could be an excellent choice for car drivers looking for something a little more convenient and economical for their city commutes.
Priced at £11,999 this looks set to be another excellent addition to the high-end 3-wheel scooter market.
Engine: 550.4cc, 51 hp, DOHC, 4-Stroke, 8V, In-Line Twin Torque: 52 Nm @ 6000 rpm Brakes: Front: 270mm discs
Before you go
Well there you have it, 8 of the best 3-wheelers for 2023…
We want to know what you think. Do you agree? Do you disagree? Are you excited about the release of Kymco’s CV3 or considering the updated Niken GT? - Let us know in the comments below!
If you're interested in getting your 3-wheeler insured and on the road, make sure to get a 3-wheeler insurance quotation direct with Lexham!
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