The DeLorean Electric Bike Is a Stainless Steel E-Bike Styled After the Famous Car

The DeLorean electric bike is a pedal-information e-bike made by DeLorean Motors Reimagined, the company behind the revival of the DeLorean car brand. It's designed to look like a miniature version of the original DeLorean DMC-12 car, with the same brushed stainless steel body panels, gull-wing doors that open upward, and a futuristic aesthetic. The bike has a 750-watt motor, a pedal-information system that tops out at 20 mph, and a range of roughly 40 to 50 miles per charge, depending on terrain and riding style.

This is a novelty item first and a practical transportation tool second. It costs significantly more than a standard e-bike—prices have been reported in the $20,000 range—because you're paying for the design, the stainless steel construction, and the brand name. If you're looking for an affordable way to commute or run errands, this is not the bike to buy. If you want a conversation piece that actually works as an e-bike, this is what you're considering.

Key Takeaways

  • The DeLorean electric bike is a licensed product styled after the DeLorean DMC-12 car, with gull-wing doors and stainless steel panels.
  • It has a 750-watt motor, pedal-information technology, and a range of 40 to 50 miles per full charge.
  • The bike costs roughly $20,000, making it one of the most expensive e-bikes on the market.
  • Availability is limited and production runs are small, so you may need to order through the official DeLorean Motors Reimagined website or authorized dealers.
  • Maintenance and repairs require specialized knowledge because of the custom stainless steel body and unique design.

Motor, Battery, and Range Specifications

The DeLorean electric bike uses a 750-watt hub motor, which is a mid-range power level for e-bikes. This motor is strong enough to information you on hills and flat terrain without being so powerful that it requires a motorcycle license in most U.S. states. The bike operates as a pedal-information system, meaning the motor only engages when you're pedaling; it doesn't have a throttle you can twist to go without pedaling.

The battery capacity determines how far you can ride on a single charge. The DeLorean's battery is reported to deliver 40 to 50 miles of range under normal conditions, though this varies based on your weight, the terrain, how much you pedal versus rely on the motor, and weather. Heavier riders and hilly terrain will reduce range. Charging time is typically 4 to 6 hours from empty to full, though the exact time depends on the charger and battery specifications.

The bike's top assisted speed is 20 mph, which is the federal limit for Class 2 e-bikes in the United States. You can pedal faster than 20 mph if you want to, but the motor will stop assisting once you hit that speed.

Design, Build Quality, and Maintenance Concerns

The stainless steel body is the defining feature and the main reason for the high price. Stainless steel doesn't rust the way regular steel does, and it has a distinctive brushed metallic appearance that matches the original DeLorean car. The gull-wing doors open upward like the car's doors, which is visually striking but adds weight and complexity to the frame.

Because the bike is custom-built with non-standard materials and design, finding replacement parts or a repair shop that knows how to work on it will be difficult. A local bike shop may not have the informed or parts to fix a stainless steel frame or the specialized electrical components. You'll likely need to contact DeLorean Motors Reimagined directly for repairs, which could mean shipping the bike or waiting for a technician. This is a significant practical drawback compared to standard e-bikes, which can be serviced at almost any bike shop.

Stainless steel is durable, but it still requires care. You'll want to clean it regularly to prevent fingerprints and water spots from building up, and you should avoid storing it in extremely salty or corrosive environments, such as near the ocean or in areas where road salt is heavily used.

Price, Availability, and Where to Buy

The DeLorean electric bike is priced around $20,000, though exact pricing may vary depending on the retailer, any current promotions, and whether you're buying a new or used model. This puts it in the ultra-premium e-bike category—far above the $1,500 to $3,000 range of most quality e-bikes and even above high-end cargo or cargo e-bikes.

Availability is limited because production runs are small and the bike is made to order in many cases. Your best option is to check the official DeLorean Motors Reimagined website to see current inventory and ordering options. Some specialty e-bike retailers or luxury goods retailers may also carry it, but stock is not may provide. If you're interested in buying one, expect to either order it directly or wait for it to come into stock at an authorized dealer.

Because of the high price and limited availability, the used market for DeLorean e-bikes is also small. You may find listings on specialty e-bike marketplaces or luxury goods resale sites, but don't expect a large selection.

How the DeLorean E-Bike Compares to Standard E-Bikes

A standard e-bike in the $1,500 to $3,000 range will give you similar motor power, similar range, and similar top speed. The main differences are design, materials, and brand. A typical e-bike has an aluminum or steel frame painted in standard colors, and it looks like a regular bike with an electric motor added. The DeLorean looks like nothing else on the road.

If your goal is to get around town efficiently and affordably, a standard e-bike is the better choice. You'll save money, have easier access to repairs, and get essentially the same transportation function. If your goal is to own a unique, conversation-starting vehicle that also works as an e-bike, the DeLorean makes sense—but only if you can afford the premium price and accept the maintenance challenges.

Another consideration: standard e-bikes come in many styles, including cargo bikes, folding bikes, and mountain e-bikes. The DeLorean is a single design with limited customization options. If you need specific features—like the ability to carry groceries, fold for storage, or handle off-road terrain—a standard e-bike may be more practical.

Legal Status and Where You Can Ride

In the United States, the DeLorean electric bike falls into the Class 2 e-bike category because it has a 750-watt motor and a 20 mph top assisted speed. Class 2 e-bikes are allowed on most bike paths and trails where regular bikes are allowed, though some jurisdictions have specific rules. Before you ride, check your local and state regulations, because e-bike rules vary by location.

Some states and cities restrict e-bikes to certain paths or prohibit them entirely on certain trails. Others allow them freely. A few places require registration or a license plate for e-bikes, though this is uncommon. The best approach is to contact your local parks department or city transportation office and ask about e-bike rules in your area before you buy.

The bike does not require a motorcycle license or insurance in most U.S. states, and you don't need a driver's license to ride it. However, helmet use is often required by law, and you should wear one regardless of local rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride the DeLorean electric bike on bike paths and trails?

In most places, yes—it's a Class 2 e-bike, which is allowed on most paths where regular bikes are allowed. However, rules vary by location, and some trails prohibit e-bikes entirely. Check your local parks department or city transportation office for specific rules in your area before you ride.

How long does the battery last before it needs to be replaced?

E-bike batteries typically last 3 to 5 years or 500 to 1,000 charge cycles before they start to lose capacity. The exact lifespan depends on how often you charge it, how deeply you discharge it, and storage conditions. When the battery eventually wears out, you'll need to replace it through DeLorean Motors Reimagined or an authorized dealer.

What happens if the gull-wing doors break?

Repair or replacement would need to go through DeLorean Motors Reimagined, since the doors are a custom part. This could be expensive and time-consuming. Standard e-bikes don't have moving doors, so this is a unique maintenance risk you take on with this design.

Is the DeLorean electric bike worth the price?

That depends on what you value. If you want a practical, affordable e-bike for commuting, the answer is no—you can get the same transportation function for a fraction of the cost. If you want a unique, eye-catching vehicle that works as an e-bike and you have the budget for it, it may be worth it to you. Consider whether you'll actually ride it regularly or if it will mostly sit in your garage as a collectible.

Can I take the DeLorean electric bike on an airplane?

Most airlines allow e-bikes on planes if you remove the pedals, turn the handlebars, and pack it in a bike travel case or bag. However, airlines have different rules about battery size and shipping, so contact your airline before you book. The battery may need to be removed and carried separately or shipped ahead.