What Honda Electric Motorcycles Are Available Right Now

Honda currently 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). Neither is a full-size street bike yet. The e is designed for short urban trips and tops out around 50 mph, while the PCX Electric is marketed as a practical last-mile solution for city riding. Both are street-legal in most states, though registration and licensing rules vary by location.

Honda has also announced plans for larger electric motorcycles under development, including prototypes shown at motorcycle shows, but these are not yet available for purchase. The company has been cautious about entering the electric motorcycle market compared to competitors like Zero Motorcycles and Harley-Davidson's LiveWire, focusing first on smaller, lower-cost models.

Key Takeaways

  • Honda's current electric motorcycle lineup consists of the Honda e (a small commuter bike) and the PCX Electric (a scooter), both designed for city riding rather than highway use.
  • The Honda e has a range of roughly 50 miles per charge and a top speed around 50 mph, making it suitable for short commutes and local errands.
  • Charging time varies by model and charger type, but most Honda electric motorcycles can charge from empty to full in 4 to 8 hours using a standard household outlet.
  • Pricing, availability, and state-specific regulations differ by location, so checking with a local Honda dealer is the most direct way to learn what is currently in stock and what your state requires for registration.
  • Honda's larger electric motorcycle models are still in development and not yet available to consumers, though the company has shown prototypes at industry events.

Honda e Specifications and Real-World Performance

The Honda e is a lightweight electric motorcycle with a 10 kWh battery and a single-speed transmission. It produces roughly 11 kilowatts (about 15 horsepower) and reaches a top speed of approximately 50 mph. The bike weighs around 240 pounds, making it straightforward to handle for riders of most sizes and experience levels. The seat height is low — typically 28 to 30 inches — which appeals to shorter riders or those new to motorcycles.

Range on a full charge is approximately 50 miles under ideal conditions, though real-world distance depends on riding style, terrain, and weather. Aggressive acceleration and highway speeds drain the battery faster than steady city riding. The bike has regenerative braking, which captures energy when you slow down and feeds it back into the battery, extending range by 5 to 10 percent in typical urban riding.

The Honda e comes with a Level 1 charger (a standard 120-volt household outlet) that takes roughly 8 hours for a full charge. A Level 2 charger (240 volts) cuts that time to about 4 hours. Neither charging option is included with the bike — you purchase them separately or install a home charging station if you do not already have one.

Honda PCX Electric Features and Use Cases

The PCX Electric is a step-through scooter rather than a traditional motorcycle, with an automatic transmission and a more upright riding position. It has a smaller battery than the e (around 6.7 kWh) and a top speed of roughly 45 mph. The seat is lower and wider than the e, and the floorboard design makes it easier to put your feet down at stops. This model appeals to riders who prioritize comfort and ease of use over performance.

Range on the PCX Electric is approximately 40 miles per charge, again depending on riding conditions. The bike is lighter than the e — around 220 pounds — and its smaller footprint makes it easier to park and maneuver in tight urban spaces. Like the e, it includes regenerative braking and charges via Level 1 or Level 2 chargers, with similar charging times.

The PCX Electric is particularly popular in Asia and Europe, where small electric scooters dominate urban transportation. Availability in the United States is more limited than the e, and some dealers may need to special-order one. Check with your local Honda dealer to confirm whether they stock this model or can bring one in.

Charging Infrastructure and Home Setup

Most Honda electric motorcycle owners charge at home using either a standard outlet or a dedicated Level 2 charger. A Level 1 charger (120 volts) is the slowest option but requires no installation — you plug into any household outlet. A Level 2 charger (240 volts) is faster and requires a licensed electrician to install, typically costing $500 to $2,000 depending on your home's electrical panel and how far the charger is from the panel.

Public charging stations for motorcycles are less common than for cars, but they do exist in some cities. Most are Level 2 chargers at parking garages, shopping centers, or municipal lots. Apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint let you search for nearby stations, though availability varies widely by region. For a motorcycle with a 40 to 50 mile range, public charging is usually a backup option rather than a primary charging method.

If you do not own a home or cannot install a Level 2 charger, Level 1 charging is still practical for short commutes — you can charge overnight and have a full battery by morning. Plan for longer charging times and shorter daily range if you rely on Level 1 only.

Price, Availability, and Dealer Inventory

Honda electric motorcycle prices vary by model and region. The Honda e typically starts in the $7,000 to $8,000 range, while the PCX Electric is often priced slightly lower. These are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP), and actual prices at dealerships may differ. Some states and local governments offer tax credits or rebates for electric motorcycle purchases, which can reduce your out-of-pocket cost — check your state's environmental or energy office website for current programs.

Availability is inconsistent. Some Honda dealerships stock these bikes regularly, while others have long wait times or do not carry them at all. The best approach is to contact dealerships in your area directly and ask what they have in stock and when they expect new inventory. You can also check Honda's official website to find dealers near you and call ahead before visiting.

Financing options are available through Honda Financial Services and many independent lenders, with terms typically ranging from 24 to 72 months. Interest rates depend on your credit score and the lender. Some dealerships also offer lease options for the e, though this is less common than purchase financing.

Registration, Licensing, and State Requirements

Electric motorcycles are registered and licensed the same way as gas motorcycles in most states, but rules vary. Some states classify small electric bikes (under a certain wattage or top speed) as mopeds or motorized bicycles, which may have different registration fees, insurance requirements, and licensing rules. A few states have specific electric motorcycle classifications with their own rules.

Before purchasing, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency to confirm what class your chosen Honda falls into and what you will need to register it. You will typically need proof of purchase, a bill of sale, and identification. Insurance is required in all states, and rates for electric motorcycles are often lower than for comparable gas bikes because they are less powerful and have fewer moving parts.

Helmet laws also vary by state. Most states require helmets for all riders, but a few allow riders over a certain age to ride without one. Check your state's specific law before your first ride.

Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership Costs

Electric motorcycles have far fewer moving parts than gas bikes, which means lower maintenance costs over time. There is no oil to change, no spark plugs to replace, no transmission fluid, and no engine tune-ups. Brake pads wear more slowly because regenerative braking does most of the stopping work. Tire maintenance and replacement follow the same schedule as any motorcycle.

The main long-term cost is battery replacement. Honda batteries typically last 8 to 10 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles before capacity drops noticeably. Replacement battery costs vary but generally range from $2,000 to $4,000 for Honda electric motorcycles. Some manufacturers offer battery warranties covering 8 years or a specific mileage threshold — check your bike's warranty documentation to see what is covered.

Electricity cost per mile is significantly lower than gasoline. Charging a Honda e from empty to full costs roughly $1 to $2 in electricity, depending on your local rates. That translates to about 2 to 4 cents per mile, compared to 10 to 15 cents per mile for a gas motorcycle at current fuel prices.

Comparing Honda to Other Electric Motorcycle Brands

Honda's electric motorcycles are entry-level models aimed at commuters and city riders. If you want a larger, more powerful electric motorcycle with longer range, competitors like Zero Motorcycles, Harley-Davidson's LiveWire, and KTM offer models with 100+ mile ranges and higher top speeds. These bikes cost significantly more — typically $15,000 to $30,000 — but deliver performance closer to traditional street bikes.

Zero Motorcycles, for example, makes models like the SR/F with a 161-mile range and 110 mph top speed. Harley-Davidson's LiveWire S2 Del Mar offers similar performance. If your commute is short and you prioritize affordability and simplicity, Honda's e or PCX Electric makes sense. If you need highway capability or longer daily range, a more expensive electric motorcycle from another brand may be worth the investment.

Honda's advantage is dealer network and brand familiarity. Most people can find a Honda dealership within reasonable distance, and service is widely available. Smaller electric motorcycle brands may have fewer service centers in your area, which can complicate maintenance and repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a Honda electric motorcycle on the highway?

The Honda e and PCX Electric are not designed for highway riding. Their top speeds (around 45 to 50 mph) and range (40 to 50 miles) make them unsuitable for interstate travel or high-speed roads. Both are best used for city commuting and local trips. If you need highway capability, you will need a larger electric motorcycle from another manufacturer.

How long does the battery last before I need to replace it?

Honda electric motorcycle batteries typically last 8 to 10 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles under normal use. Actual lifespan depends on how often you charge, how deeply you discharge the battery, and your local climate. Most Honda batteries come with an 8-year warranty. Replacement costs range from $2,000 to $4,000.

What happens if I run out of battery while riding?

If the battery is completely depleted, the bike will not start. You will need to call a tow truck or have someone transport you to a charger. This is why understanding your bike's range and planning your route is important. Most riders keep their battery above 20 percent charge to avoid this situation.

Do I need a special license to ride an electric motorcycle?

In most states, you need a standard motorcycle license or endorsement, the same as for a gas motorcycle. A few states classify small electric bikes differently (as mopeds or motorized bicycles), which may have different licensing requirements. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to confirm what applies to the specific Honda model you are interested in.

Can I use a regular car charging station to charge my Honda motorcycle?

No. Honda electric motorcycles use different connectors and charging protocols than electric cars. You need a charger designed for motorcycles or a universal Level 2 charger with the correct connector type. Most Honda dealers can recommend compatible chargers and installation services in your area.