Honda's current electric motorcycle models and where to find them

Honda makes two electric motorcycles available in the United States: the Honda e (a small commuter bike) and the Honda PCX Electric (a scooter-style vehicle). The e is sold through Honda dealerships and is designed for urban riding with a range of roughly 50 miles per charge. The PCX Electric is less widely distributed in the U.S. market but available in some regions and through select dealers.

Both models use lithium-ion battery packs and plug into standard outlets or dedicated charging stations. Neither requires gasoline, oil changes, or a transmission. Honda has not yet released a full-size electric motorcycle comparable to its gas-powered CB or Gold Wing lines in the American market, though prototypes and international models suggest this may change.

Pricing and availability shift by model year and region. The Honda e typically costs between $7,000 and $8,000 before any state or federal incentives. Some states offer tax credits or rebates for electric two-wheelers, though these vary widely and are not may provide. Check with your local Honda dealer and your state's environmental or energy office for current incentive information.

Key Takeaways

  • Honda sells the e (a small commuter bike) and PCX Electric (a scooter) in the U.S., both powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries with no gas engine.
  • The Honda e has a range of roughly 50 miles per charge and is designed for short urban trips, not highway riding.
  • Charging happens at home using a standard outlet or at public charging stations, with full charge times ranging from 4 to 8 hours depending on the charger type.
  • Some states and local governments offer tax credits or rebates for electric motorcycles and scooters, but these programs vary and change year to year.
  • Honda has not released a full-size electric motorcycle in the U.S. market yet, though the company has shown prototypes internationally.

How the Honda e's battery and range work in practice

The Honda e runs on a 10 kWh lithium-ion battery that stores enough energy for roughly 50 miles of city riding under normal conditions. That range assumes moderate speed, flat terrain, and mild weather. Cold temperatures, highway speeds, and hills reduce range noticeably—sometimes by 20 to 30 percent in winter or on sustained climbs.

The battery charges fully in 4 to 8 hours depending on the charger. A standard 120-volt household outlet (the kind you use for lamps) charges slowly—roughly 5 to 6 miles of range per hour. A 240-volt home charger, similar to what powers an electric car, cuts that time roughly in half. Public charging networks like Electrify America and ChargePoint have stations in many cities, though availability and connector types vary by location.

The battery is sealed and requires no maintenance. Honda rates the battery to retain 70 percent of its capacity after 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Replacement costs are not published by Honda but typically run $2,000 to $4,000 for electric two-wheelers, based on industry patterns. Most owners will not face replacement during the bike's useful life if charged and stored properly.

Charging at home versus public networks

Home charging is the most practical option for daily use. A 240-volt Level 2 charger installed in a garage or driveway costs $500 to $1,500 for equipment and installation, depending on your electrical panel and local labor rates. Once installed, you can charge overnight and start each day with a full battery. This works well if your commute is under 50 miles round trip and you have off-street parking.

Public charging networks exist in most urban areas but are less dense than gas stations. Apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint show real-time availability and connector types near you. Charging at a public station typically costs $2 to $5 per session or $0.25 to $0.50 per kilowatt-hour, depending on the network and location. Speed varies: a Level 2 public charger takes 4 to 6 hours for a full charge, while DC fast chargers (rare for motorcycles) can do it in 30 to 60 minutes.

If you rent or lack dedicated parking, public charging is your main option, but plan trips carefully. The Honda e's 50-mile range means you need a charger within that distance for longer outings. Urban riders with predictable short routes find this manageable; rural riders or those with long commutes should consider whether the range fits their actual needs.

How Honda e maintenance differs from gas motorcycles

Electric motorcycles have far fewer moving parts than gas bikes. The Honda e has no oil, spark plugs, air filter, transmission fluid, or fuel system to maintain. No oil changes, no valve adjustments, no carburetor cleaning. This cuts routine maintenance costs and time dramatically.

What does need attention: tire pressure and tread (same as any bike), brake fluid (hydraulic brakes still use it), and the battery management system (which Honda monitors through software). Brakes last longer on electric bikes because regenerative braking—where the motor slows the bike and captures energy back into the battery—does much of the stopping work, reducing wear on brake pads.

Annual service for the Honda e typically costs $100 to $200 for inspection and fluid checks, compared to $300 to $500 for a comparable gas bike. Tire replacement, chain maintenance, and other wear items are the same. If the battery fails outside warranty, replacement is expensive, but this is rare in the first 5 to 8 years of ownership.

Comparing the Honda e to other small electric motorcycles

The Honda e competes with bikes like the Harley-Davidson LiveWire (larger, more expensive, longer range), the Zero S (similar size and price, slightly better range), and the Energica Eva (European brand, higher performance). The Honda e is lighter and more affordable than most, making it a practical choice for commuters who prioritize cost and simplicity over speed or distance.

The LiveWire starts around $15,000 and offers 140 miles of range, making it better for longer rides but less practical for urban-only use. The Zero S costs $7,000 to $8,000 like the e but has a slightly larger battery and 50 to 60 miles of range depending on the model year. Energica bikes start at $12,000 and target riders who want performance and European styling.

For city commuting under 50 miles per day, the Honda e's lower cost and Honda dealer network make it a straightforward choice. If you need longer range or want a larger, more powerful bike, the LiveWire or Zero offer more, but at higher cost. Test-ride options are limited—most dealers stock only one or two models—so contact your local Honda dealer to see what is available to ride.

Insurance, registration, and legal considerations

Electric motorcycles are registered and insured the same way as gas bikes in most states. You need a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license (obtained through a written test and riding skills test in most places). Insurance rates for the Honda e are typically 10 to 20 percent lower than comparable gas bikes because repair costs are lower and theft risk is perceived as lower.

Some states classify small electric scooters (like the PCX Electric) differently from motorcycles and may not require a motorcycle endorsement or full registration. Rules vary by state and sometimes by local jurisdiction. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or call your local office to confirm what is required for the specific model you are considering.

A few states and cities offer tax credits or rebates for electric motorcycle and scooter purchases. California, Colorado, and New York have programs that reduce the purchase price by $500 to $2,000, but these change year to year and have income or residency limits. Federal tax credits for electric motorcycles do not currently exist, though this may change. Ask your Honda dealer whether your state has an active program when you are ready to purchase.

What to expect from Honda's electric motorcycle roadmap

Honda has shown prototypes of larger electric motorcycles at international shows and has stated publicly that electric bikes are part of its long-term strategy. The company has not announced a U.S. release date for a full-size electric cruiser, sport bike, or adventure bike, but industry observers expect announcements within the next few years as battery costs fall and charging infrastructure expands.

In the meantime, Honda continues to refine the e and PCX Electric based on owner feedback. Battery capacity and range have improved slightly with each model year. Charging speed and software features are areas where Honda is likely to focus as the market matures.

If you are waiting for a larger or more powerful Honda electric bike, checking Honda's official website and contacting your local dealer for updates is the most reliable way to stay informed. Dealer mailing lists and Honda's customer communication channels will notify you of new releases before they reach the general market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a Honda e on the highway?

The Honda e is not designed for highway use. Its 50-mile range and top speed of roughly 60 mph make it unsafe and impractical for interstate or long-distance riding. It is built for city and suburban commuting on roads with speed limits of 45 mph or less. If you need highway capability, you would need a larger electric motorcycle like the Harley-Davidson LiveWire.

How long does a Honda e battery last before it needs replacement?

Honda rates the battery to retain 70 percent of its capacity after 8 years or 100,000 miles. Most owners will not need replacement during normal ownership. Degradation is gradual—you might notice a 5 to 10 percent range loss after 5 years of regular use, but the bike remains usable. Replacement, if needed, costs $2,000 to $4,000.

Can I charge a Honda e at a Tesla Supercharger?

No. Tesla Superchargers use a connector type designed for cars and are not compatible with motorcycles. You need a Level 2 charger (standard outlet or dedicated home charger) or a public motorcycle-compatible charging station. Apps like PlugShare show which public chargers near you work with motorcycles.

What happens if the battery dies while I am riding?

The Honda e's power decreases gradually as the battery drains—you will not suddenly lose power. The bike will slow down and the display will warn you when range is low. If you run the battery completely flat, the bike stops and you will need to push it to a charger or call for a tow. This is rare if you monitor the range display and plan trips within the 50-mile range.

Is the Honda e waterproof?

The Honda e is water-resistant, not waterproof. It can handle rain and wet roads, but you should not submerge it or ride through deep water. The battery and electrical connections are sealed, but prolonged exposure to saltwater or high-pressure washing can damage components. Rinse with fresh water after riding in rain or salt spray, and avoid pressure washers.