Recently, Honda revealed an advert for their upcoming participation in the Rose Parade, showing off several electric vehicles in the name of the zero-emissions theme, ‘Forever Determined.’
The image showed off an electric bike the brand’s simply christened ‘a Honda electric motorcycle’- odd, considering Honda doesn’t have any larger-capacity builds capable of thunder-juice (and doubly odd since the bike looked like some kind of CB500/CB750 Hornet).
A view of the electric bike mysteriously present on Honda’s Rose Parade advert. Media sourced from Motorcycle.com.
The brand’s move to promote a machine that’s not even been premiered yet has us thinking they’re about to go electric in a big kind of way – and now, we have further proof from Honda’s Racing Corporation.
“Honda has another critical mission to pursue in the area of motorsports – it is the realization of carbon neutrality,” explains Honda director and senior managing executive officer Shinji Aoyama in a report from RideApart.
A MotoGP Honda bike leaning into a twisty. Media sourced from HRC.
“Honda has already been conducting research and development of technologies for carbon neutrality while proactively leveraging the field of motorsports. From now onward, we will further enhance our initiatives to put such technologies into practical use in our racing activities.”
“Moreover, starting with motorcycles, we will explore possibilities of introducing electrified vehicles in actual races where we compete.”
A lineup of bikes present in Honda’s recent successes in competition. Media sourced from HRC’s Facebook page.
With other bike marques working advanced tech on the circuit to trickle down into production models, we’re curious to see what Honda’s next move is.
Stay tuned, drop a comment below letting us know what you think, and as always – stay safe on the twisties.
At the end of November, Greenger Powersports announced its new Saddleback electric balance bike for kids.
Greenger says the Saddleback is inspired by the mountains of Southern California and blends electronics, easy-to-use features, and proven engineering to create “a fun training tool for young kids looking to explore the outdoors.”
Greenger continued to say that motocross enthusiasts remember the Saddleback area, a natural landmark formed by the two highest peaks of the Santa Ana Mountains, as a “riding mecca back in the day.”
“Riders would drive for hours to get a chance to turn the dirt of these pine lined mountains. Today, Saddleback is a destination for families and outdoor enthusiast of all kinds.”
With the base of the mountains now dotted with suburban neighborhoods and a new generation of children, Greenger was looking for a way for those children to be able to explore in a quiet and friendly way. Thus was born the Saddleback electric balance bike.
Greenger Saddleback in Black
Offering either a 12-inch or 16-inch model, the Saddleback is driven by a 22V 150W hub motor, a disc brake, a push mode for younger riders or three adjustable speed modes. On the 12-inch model, the Level I top speed is 5 mph, Level II is 7 mph, and Level III is 9 mph; top speeds on the 16-inch model are 6.5 mph, 9.5 mph, and 12.5 mph.
Both models have aluminum rims. The 12-inch Saddleback weighs 20.9 lb, and the 16-inch weighs 26.5 lb. The LG battery uses a toolless bracket to make it quick and easy to swap if needed and provides a claimed 50-70 minutes of riding time based on mixed riding conditions.
The Saddleback is now available in Black or White for $749 for the 12-inch and $949 for the 16-inch (plus a $40 destination and freight charge). Both bikes come with a standard charger.
“With the success of the CRF-E2, it was a clear indicator kids of all ages want to ride.” said Brad Chapman, Greenger Sales & Marketing manager. “We want everyone to experience life on two-wheels powered by Greenger.”
Along these lines, in addition to the Saddleback, Greenger will be releasing a family of e-bike models in the first quarter of 2023 to “get the masses outdoors,” including the Telluride city bike, the Ozark folding recreational bike, and the Shasta and Shasta ST adventure bikes, as well as two Portable Power Stations: 1200w and 2000w.
At the EICMA show in Italy, the Piaggio Group introduced the new Aprilia ELECTRICa project, as well as several updated models in the company’s brand range, including the following:
Aprilia RS 660 Extrema
V7 Stone Special Edition and V9 Bobber Special Edition
Piaggio 1
Vespa GTV, Primavera Color Vibe, and 946 10° Anniversario
The Piaggio Group said its brands have “accepted the challenge of a changing world, introducing a vast offer of vehicles capable of meeting any mobility needs.” Pricing and availability dates of the new models have yet to be provided.
2023 Aprilia ELECTRICa Project
Although the Piaggio Group has been working on electric propulsion since 1975 – including releasing the first hybrid scooter in the world, the MP3 Hybrid, in 2009 – the Aprilia ELECTRICa project is a new concept for the company. Piaggio says the lightweight electric bike is the company’s response to the changing commuting needs in the world with a nod to “the thrilling riding experience that only a bike can provide.”
The electric motor on the ELECTRICa is positioned in the center and powers a chain final drive. The bike includes keyless ignition and LCD instrumentation. The aesthetics of the ELECTRICa carry the familiar Aprilia style, especially the modern interpretation of the triple headlamp cluster typical of all Aprilias.
The bike has compact dimensions and a low saddle height, and the company says the presence of both brake controls on the handlebar makes the transition from scooters easier.
Exact specifications, pricing, and availability were not available as of publication.
2023 Aprilia RS 660 Extrema
The 2023 Aprilia RS 660 Extrema is the sportiest and lightest RS 660 in the range, with updated and new standard equipment.
The Aprilia RS 660 has a liquid-cooled 659cc DOHC parallel-Twin making a claimed 100 hp and 49.4 lb-ft of torque at 8,500 rpm.
The 2023 RS 660 Extrema features a lighter street-legal exhaust system by SC Project with a carbon silencer positioned on the right side (and no longer beneath the engine). Also contributing to the overall reduction in weight are the carbon front fender and the new carbon engine undercover. Wet weight is a claimed 366 lb.
The RS 660 Extrema sport attributes are emphasized by the single-seat tail fairing (the passenger’s seat comes with the bike). Standard electronics on the RS 660 include traction control, cornering ABS, engine brake, engine map, and wheelie control – all adjustable – as well as five ride modes (Road and Track, three fixed and two customizable). The RS 660 Extrema also has software that allows the rider to set up the standard quick shift in a reverse-shift pattern without having to replace any bike components.
Pricing and availability of the RS 660 Extrema were not available as of publication, but we expect an MSRP north of $11,599, the list price of the 2022 Aprilia RS 660.
2023 Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Special Edition
Introduced as a ready-to-ride factory bobber in 2016, the Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber has an air- and oil-cooled longitudinal 853cc 90-degree V-Twin making a claimed 65 hp and 53.8 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm.
The engine sits in a twin-tube steel cradle frame. Suspension is basic, with a nonadjustable 40mm fork on the front and preload adjustable rear shocks. Stopping power comes from Brembo opposed 4-piston calipers grabbing a 320mm stainless steel floating disc up front and Brembo 2-piston calipers and a 260mm floating disc in the back. The 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels are still shod in the V9 Bobber’s characteristic oversized tires (130/90 up front, 150/80 rear).
Piaggio says the 30.9-inch seat height contributes to the bobber’s “sporty, active, and extended riding position.” The V9 Bobber has a 4.0-gal fuel tank, and the bike comes in with an overall wet weight of 463 lb.
The new Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Special Edition boasts a special Workshop twin-tone black and grey color scheme that enhances the teardrop fuel tank shape and extends to the aluminum side panels. A billet aluminum cap is a high-end touch.
The matte black brings out the Moto Guzzi branding milled on the aluminum cylinder head covers, and the familiar sound of the Moto Guzzi 850 twin cylinder is highlighted by the exhaust painted matte black with an aluminum bottom. Bar-end mirrors mounted at the ends of the handlebar, along with the fork seals and the short front fender, complete the equipment.
Pricing and availability on the 2023 Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Special Edition were not available.
2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition
The Moto Guzzi V7 Stone was updated for 2021 with a larger air-cooled 853cc longitudinal 90-degree V-Twin making a claimed 65 hp at 6,800 rpm and 54 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. Other updates included reduced effort from the single-disc dry clutch, a stiffer frame and bigger swingarm with a new bevel gear for the cardan shaft drive, revised damping and a longer stroke for the preload-adjustable rear shocks, an updated ABS module, and more.
The 2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition features a new Arrow exhaust system, which the company says has led to gains in performance, bumping up to 65.7 hp at 6,700 rpm and 55.3 lb-ft of torque at 4,900 rpm.
From a visual standpoint, Moto Guzzi has swapped out the matte shades typical of the Stone version for a special Shining Black color scheme, enhanced on the tank with graphics and red details that recall the style traits of the Eagle brand’s sportiest models.
This sport attitude is also highlighted by the red shock springs and contrasting red stitching of the saddle, also specific to this model. A plate on the handlebar riser identifies its special edition status, and the equipment package also includes bar-end rearview mirrors and an anodized black billet aluminum fuel cap.
Previous V7 Stone models started at $8,990. Pricing and availability of the 2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition were not available at publication.
2023 Piaggio 1
2023 Piaggio 1
Piaggio has upgraded the electric motor that powers Piaggio 1 range to deliver better performance. The moped version (Piaggio 1) has a claimed 3.1 hp from its motor built into the rear wheel and has a top speed limited to 27 mph. The motorbike version (Piaggio 1 Active) reaches 4 hp and has a top speed of TK mph. Piaggio says acceleration has increased 14% on Piaggio 1 and almost 12% on Piaggio 1 Active.
The 2023 Piaggio 1 has a full technological package that includes 5.5-inch digital color instrumentation, full LED lighting, and keyless ignition. It also has an underseat storage compartment large enough to hold a full helmet.
2023 Piaggio 1
The previous Piaggio 1+ model had a claimed range of approximately 62 miles in ECO mode and 42 miles in Sport mode, while the Piaggio 1 Active claimed 53 miles in ECO and 41 miles in Sport mode.
With both the versions, the battery is located beneath the seat and is easily removable and portable so it can be charged at home or in the office.
2023 Vespa GTV
2023 Vespa GTV
It has been four years since the last version of a Vespa scooter was launched, but at the beginning of October, the Piaggio Group announced the release of the new 2023 Vespa GTS range, featuring a 4-stroke, liquid-cooled 300cc high-performance engine (HPE) offering a claimed 23.8 hp at 8,250 rpm.
Built on the Vespa GTS base, the Vespa GTV maintains the traits of its origins but combines them with a new technological equipment package and new finishes, which Vespa says results in “an extraordinary marriage of tradition and modernity, classicism and aggressiveness, which manifests itself in the most authentically sporty Vespa ever.”
2023 Vespa GTV
The low headlamp is LED, and the new instrumentation maintains the circular shape but is entirely digital and displays maximum speed, average speed, instant and average mileage, range, and battery charge status, as well as all call, message, and music notifications if the vehicle is connected to a smartphone through the Vespa MIA system (available as a separate accessory).
The instrumentation is connected to the handlebar using a cantilevered bracket and enveloped by a small top fairing with sport inspiration. At the center of the front shield, the Vespa “neck-tie” has lateral slits and is enhanced by decorations with orange edging. A USB port comes as standard equipment, located in the storage compartment on the back of the shield.
2023 Vespa GTV
The Vespa GTV has a single-seat two-tone saddle with a racing look, and the rear part is designed for a hard cover color-coded to match the body and reminiscent of the typical racing Vespa fairings.
The five-spoke design of the wheel rims is also new – painted matte black with an orange graphic on the channel. On the safety front, standard features include ASR electronic traction control and ABS.
Vespa Primavera Color Vibe
2023 Vespa Primavera Color Vibe in Arancio Impulsivo
The Piaggio Group says the new Vespa Primavera Color Vibe is a “tribute to the colourful and carefree Vespa universe.”
The Primavera range features air-cooled i-get (Italian Green Experience Technology) 4-stroke engines available in 50cc and 150cc versions. The new Primavera Color Vibe is characterized by a special two-tone livery: the body, available in the Arancio Impulsivo and Bianco Innocente shades, is matched with a footboard in Ottanio, a shade of turquoise.
2023 Vespa Primavera Color Vibe in Bianco Innocente
A contrasting color “stain” is outlined in black and runs diagonally across the entire body through the dedicated graphics on the sides of the front shield and side panels. The decorations of the steering cover on the front shield are also in Ottanio, as well as the wheel rims, which were made exclusively for this version in a special glossy metallic finish.
2023 Vespa Primavera Color Vibe in Bianco Innocente
Finally, the outfitting is completed by sporty black trim for the headlamp and taillight frames, the profile that runs along the front shield, the crest on the front fender, the front suspension spring and guard, the passenger grab handle, and the muffler cover. The saddle is black with anthracite stitching.
Vespa 946 10° Anniversario
The Vespa 946 special 10° Anniversario outfit has an exclusive dedicated color that represents a modern take on the classic Vespa green shade, a color that is described as “soft and velvety, but has a hint of acidity.” The pearlescent color appears pastel at first glance, but then gains depth with illumination.
Backcountry Discovery Routes has partnered up with Zero Motorcycles to raise awareness of their EV charging stations – and now that the country’s scenic landscapes sport more recharge points, EV adventure riders have that much more land they can explore.
Typically an electric motorcycle will have roughly half the range of a fossil fuel motorbike; while an Africa Twin might sport more than 300 miles in range, something like the 180-mile range of Zero’s DSR/X is considered good for the genre.
Take a 10-hour picnic while she recharges, and hey – that range is bumped up to around 350 miles!
A motorcyclist enjoying the vitamin D on a rural route recommended by the nonprofit organization known as Backcountry Discovery Routes. Media sourced from BDR’s press release.
Regardless, EV charging stations encamped along the BDR’s recommended trails are certainly an easier way to get in a quiet, nature-heavy scoot – and Inna Thorn, BDR’s Executive Director, couldn’t agree more.
“We are excited to partner with Zero Motorcycles to help launch this new dimension to the adventure riding experience, and increase awareness of and access to EV charging infrastructure along outdoor recreation routes across the U.S.,” states Thorn.
A motorcyclist enjoying the vitamin D on a rural route recommended by the nonprofit organization known as Backcountry Discovery Routes. Media sourced from BDR’s press release.
“The reality, as futuristic as it may seem, of electric-powered adventure motorcycles is now. Being at the forefront of the EV movement along with Zero Motorcycles presents major opportunities for the BDR and our community to help create an eco-system where EV ADV becomes the norm.”
A motorcyclist enjoying the vitamin D on a rural route recommended by the nonprofit organization known as Backcountry Discovery Routes. Media sourced from BDR’s press release.
What do you think? Would you use BDR’s charging stations in the name of eco-friendly traveling?
Comment below letting us know what you think, and as ever – stay safe on the twisties.
Energica Motor Company, the Italian electric motorcycle company that offered its first production bike in 2013, will release its model year 2023 lineup at EICMA, taking place Nov. 10-13. While we know we’ll see several returning models, the star of Energica’s 2023 lineup will be the new Experia, the company’s first zero-emissions electric green tourer.
The first generation of Energica Motor Company featured the Ego, a racing-style competition motorcycle; the Eva, a naked version of the Ego with a more comfortable seating position; and the EsseEsse9, a relaxed and classic casual rider. Over 10 years, the company upgraded and expanded these three motorcycles, adding the Ego+, Ego RS, Eva Ribelle, Eva Ribelle RS, EsseEsee9+, and EsseEsse9+ RS.
The Experia will be the first model of a new generation for Energica. As a long-distance tourer, the Experia will truly be something different than what the company has done so far. Giampiero Testoni, CTO of Energica Motor Company, said the intention behind the Experia was “to create the first electric motorcycle created specifically for long-distance bike lovers.”
While electric bikes have been sprouting up all over for several years, there are obvious drawbacks, such as short ranges and a lack of charging stations. An electric tourer is an ambitious project for Energica, so we’ll see how it holds up to rider expectations.
Here’s what we know so far.
Energica Experia Motor and Battery
Electric means no shifting or clutch, no noise from the exhaust, no heat, and less vibrations, all of which can be considered advantages over internal combustion bikes. But does an electric motor offer comparable performance? We’re seeing advances all the time, and Energica’s new motor is certainly a step in the right direction.
The Experia features the new PMASynRM (Permanent Magnet Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Motor), which is lighter weight and in a lower position than on other Energica models. Energica claims the motor’s peak power as 75 kW (101 hp) at 7,500 rpm with 85 lb-ft of torque. Top speed is stated to be 112 mph, and the bike reportedly accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds.
The battery is also new, with the largest capacity of any Energica model so far. The capacity sits at 22.5 kWh maximum and will charge from 0-80% in 40 minutes on Level 3 chargers. This is also the first model to use Level 3 chargers, although it will also use Level 2 and 1 chargers for a longer, overnight charge.
The big question when it comes to an electric touring motorcycle has to be what kind of range the bike offers. Energica claims the Experia will get 153 miles of city/highway range combined or 261 miles in urban areas. This is a big step up from the 100 mile combined and 123 mile city range of the 2022 Ego, and the ability to use Level 3 fast charging is certainly beneficial for those seeking longer adventures.
Suspension and Brakes
In front of the Energica is the ZF Sachs suspension with 150mm travel and adjustable preload, extension, and compression. Rear suspension is also ZF Sachs with 55mm travel and 150mm of wheel travel. The Experia will feature a 330mm Brembo double floating disc for the front brake and a 240mm Brembo single disc in the back.
The Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tires ride on 17-inch aluminum wheels. Seat height is 33.3 inches, and the weight of the Experia is 573 lb.
Extras
The Experia will also feature electronic assists such as cruise control, six levels of traction control, and four riding modes: Eco, Urban, Rain, and Sport. There are two USB ports on the dash and two in a waterproof storage compartment, so riders should never run out of ports to plug in their devices (just be careful not to unnecessarily drain that battery).
No touring motorcycle would be complete without plenty of storage. The Launch Edition Experia comes with hard side panniers and a top case for a total of 29.5 gallons of storage.
Is the Energica Experia Worth It?
It’s clear that Energica is dedicated to expanding the horizons of electric motorcycles. While some might think the range is still not quite there to make an electric touring bike worth the price, the technology is advancing every year, and the 2023 Experia is a testimony to that.
The Experia is available for preorder for $25,880 in Bormio Ice. Visit Energica’s website for more information.
What do you do when you have an incubating electric machine?
Take the time to make sure she’s everything you could have ever wanted, of course – and that’s exactly what Damon has done in this recent partnership with SINBON.
If you’ve never heard of SINBON, they specialize in electronic connector manufacturing, with an emphasis on engineering designs for production (French for ‘they’re really good at electrical stuff’).
Damon’s electric drivetrain. Media sourced from Motorcycle.com.
Paired with Damon’s soon-to-be-completed production facility and her two sunny EV beasties, we’re looking forward to seeing what shows up at this year’s EICMA – and Jesse Huang, V.P., global sales of SINBON, is excited to start punting out progress in the name of clean sustainability.
“Part of our ‘Go Green’ campaign, SINBON is committed to environmental sustainability by helping put more environmentally friendly products on our planet,” explains Huang.
“We are very excited about our opportunity with Damon, arguably a green tech leader in the motorcycle industry.”
Damon’s HyperFighter, showing off the ‘Co-Pilot’ function. Media sourced from Damon Motors.
“SINBON and Damon have come together to break the limits on power, weight, and volume when it comes to next-generation electric vehicle components,” adds Chris Efstathiou, head of the supply chain at Damon Motors.
“This means rethinking entirely new component architectures and designs to produce the lightest weight yet high power electric vehicle electronics.”
What do you think?
Damon’s HyperSport. Media sourced from Javelin Technologies.
Stay tuned by checking back here at MBW, drop a comment below letting us know what you think, and as always – stay safe on the twisties.
BRP Inc., the parent company of Can-Am on- and off-road vehicles, as well as numerous other powersports products, has announced the start of construction of its first EV manufacturing plant, marking a major milestone in the company’s electric journey.
The announcement came the same day as a groundbreaking ceremony on Oct. 3 of the Can-Am electric two-wheel motorcycle production facility in Querétaro, Mexico, which will be adjacent to the current BRP campus in the city.
According to a media statement from BRP, production of the Can-Am Origin and Can-Am Pulse, the company’s first two electric motorcycle models unveiled at the recent Club BRP, is set to begin in March 2024, with expected deliveries to consumers during summer 2024.
“We have set out to reclaim our motorcycle heritage with the launch of a lineup of electric 2-wheel motorcycles, and we are gearing up to execute on our plan,” Sandy Scullion, president of Powersports Group at BRP, said in the media release. “We are excited to begin the construction of this new state-of-the-art EV manufacturing facility in Querétaro, Mexico, on the same campus where we are already producing our Sea-Doo personal watercraft and Rotax engines. We look forward to producing the first electric Can-Am motorcycles for a new generation of enthusiasts.”
Can-Am Pulse
New Can-Am Plant Will ‘LEED’ the Way
BRP reps said the electric motorcycle manufacturing plant is planned to initially generate 500 new jobs in an inclusive work environment that will be accessible to everyone, with modifiable workstations that can be adapted to different people.
Additionally, the manufacturing plant was designed follow LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) principles with sustainable materials in line with BRP’s Corporate Social Responsibility Plan to reduce the carbon footprint of its operations. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, which developed the principles, LEED-certified buildings “save money, improve efficiency, lower carbon emissions and create healthier places for people” and are ranked in four different categories: certified, silver, gold, or platinum.
Can-Am Origin
BRP leaders were in attendance at the Oct. 3 groundbreaking ceremony, as well as other special guests, including Graeme C. Clark, Canadian ambassador to Mexico; Luis Nava, mayor of the city of Querétaro; Íker Jiménez, general director of Global Economic Impulse; Tania Palacios, secretary of sustainable development of the Municipality of Querétaro; and Marco del Prete, secretary of sustainable development.
Last month, a new business combination was approved between Harley-Davidson Inc. and AEA-Bridges Impact Corp., a special purpose acquisition company with a dedicated sustainability focus. The new public group, LiveWire Inc., became the first publicly traded EV motorcycle company in the U.S., marking the occasion by ringing the opening bell of the New York Stock Exchange on Sept. 27.
That same day, LiveWire announced it was opening reservations for the production version of the all-electric S2 Del Mar motorcycle, the first LiveWire model to feature the new Arrow architecture and the second to join the lineup next to the LiveWire ONE, the company’s flagship electric motorcycle.
Jochen Zeitz, who is chairman, president, and CEO of Harley-Davidson, as well as chairman and CEO of LiveWire, said the merging of the two companies represents a “proud and exciting milestone for LiveWire towards its ambition to become the most desirable electric motorcycle brand in the world.”
“We believe LiveWire is well positioned to define the two-wheel EV market,” Zietz said, “and we’re excited about the future.”
According to a press statement announcing the opening of reservations for the S2 Del Mar, performance highlights of the bike include expected outcomes of 80 hp, 184 lb-ft of torque, 75-minute recharge time from 20% to 80% using Level 2 charging, and 431 lb of weight, delivering projected 0-to-60 mph times of 3.1 seconds. These specs are better than those sent out in May, when the company was only saying “less than 440 pounds” for the weight and a 0-to-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds.
The claimed city riding range of the Del Mar has also been bumped up 100 to 110 miles. The media statement reported that range estimates are based on “expected performance on a fully-charged battery and are derived from SAE J2982 Riding Range Test Procedure data on a sample motorcycle under ideal laboratory conditions.” Actual range will likely vary depending on a variety of factors, including personal riding habits, road and driving conditions, ambient weather, vehicle condition and maintenance, tire pressure, vehicle configuration (parts and accessories), and vehicle loading (cargo, rider and passenger weight).
LiveWire S2 Del Mar in Nightfall Blue
The production S2 Del Mar debuts with an MSRP of $16,999 in three colors: Pacific Gray, Nightfall Blue, and Asphalt Black. Delivery of the production version is planned to follow the Launch Edition, with an expected timeline set for the spring of 2023. Priority delivery will be given to customers with confirmed reservations, which can be placed now online.
LiveWire S2 Del Mar in Asphalt Black
All LiveWire S2 Del Mar motorcycles will be assembled at Harley-Davidson Vehicle Operations in York, Pennsylvania.
To learn more about the LiveWire S2 Del Mar Launch Edition motorcycle visit the LiveWire website.
Australian company Benzina Zero has finally launched their electric scooter range for sale after almost five years of development.
The three-model range officially launched in Brisbane recently is led by the Sport at $A7250, plus on-road costs.
It can go up to 90km on a single charge with a top speed of 75km/h and features a twin-speaker Bluetooth audio system and USB charger.
The base model is the $A4250 City which can go up to 80km on a single charge and has a top speed of 45km/h.
I particularly like the look of the macho adventure Duo crossover model at $A4650. It can reach speeds up to 65km/h with a range of about 105km. It has more than 20 different attachments so you can attach luggage or even a surfboard.
All Benzina Zero scooters are powered by quiet Bosch motors, can be charged anywhere like a phone, include an anti-theft system and audible alarm, and have keyless ignition.
A performance version of the adventure scooter, called the Duo+ ($A5250) and a Vasto commemorative edition start production next year.
Australian customers can buy Benzina Zero scooters at 10 Australian dealerships (one in Sydney, two in Adelaide and the rest in Queensland).
Longtime motorcycle and scooter industry stalwarts Joe D’Ercole and Ben Silver have developed the scooters with a Chinese factory.
Ben (left) and Joe of Benzina Zero
Ben says motorists are switching to electric two-wheelers for the “social, lifestyle and environmental benefits”.
“We were the first electric vehicle manufacturer in the country to sign up to the B-cycle battery recharging program ahead of all the major players including four and two-wheel vehicles,” the says.
Their innovative company imports and distributes electric first and last-mile mopeds and scooters to more than 18 countries across Europe, Asia and Australia.
Benzina Zero has also been listed as finalists for the innovation award in the 2022 Queensland Auto Awards, announced on November 19.
Husqvarna’s new electric minicycle, the 2023 EE 3, follows in the footsteps of the Husqvarna EE 5. First produced in 2020, the EE 5 was Husqvarna’s first step into electric mobility, designed with a focus on competition and performance to rival 50cc gas-powered motorcycles. The EE 5’s new younger sibling, the EE 3, features much of the same high-quality technology but in a smaller and more manageable package for aspiring riders just getting started.
The EE 3 and EE 5 act as stepping stones for young riders, allowing them to get comfortable on a motorcycle without being overwhelmed. As electric bikes, there is no clutch or gearbox to master, simplifying the riding experience. Both bikes produce next to no noise, making them ideal for riding in areas sensitive to sound emissions.
The EE 5 is built to compete with 50cc gas-powered minicycles.
While the EE 5 produces a peak power of 5kW, making it competitive with gas-powered motorcycles, the EE 3 produces a less-intimidating 3.8kW of peak power. The electric motors for both bikes have a slim and compact design, making them well-suited for the frames. The EE 5’s 907Wh lithium-ion battery will run for a claimed two hours of general riding or 25 minutes of power-racing with a charge time of 70 minutes. Similarly, Husqvarna says the EE 3’s 648Wh lithium-ion battery will run for two hours of general riding and 30 minutes of fast-paced riding with a charge time of 60 minutes. The charger can be plugged into any 110- or 230-volt socket.
The slim design of the electric motor sits well-balanced in the EE 3’s frame.
Both the EE 3 and the EE 5 feature adjustable seat heights, so young riders can adjust their seat as they grow. With a seat height of 23.6 inches and the ability to lower the seat to 21.9 inches, the EE 3 will be more approachable for shorter riders than the EE 5, which sits at 26.2 inches and can be lowered to 24.2 inches. The EE 3 features 10-inch wheels front and back, while the EE 5 sports a 12-inch front wheel and 10-inch rear wheel.
The EE 3 has an adjustable seat height that ranges from 21.9 inches to 23.1 inches, while the EE 5’s seat height can be adjusted from 24.2 inches to 26.2 inches.
Both bikes come with six different ride modes, so parents can adjust the power level depending on the rider and the type of riding. A dongle under the seat allows parents to lock the ride mode so that riders can’t change to a more powerful ride mode in the middle of their ride. For added safety, both bikes have a roll-over sensor that immediately cuts power and a wrist lanyard key that cuts power in an uncontrollable riding situation.
2023 Husqvarna EE 3 and EE 5 Technical Highlights
Electric motors with 3.8kW (EE 3) and 5kW (EE 5) peak output
Six different ride modes
648Wh (EE 3) and 907Wh (EE 5) lithium-ion batteries
60 minutes (EE 3) and 70 minute (EE 5) charge time from empty to 100% (claimed)
EE 3 seat height of 23.1 inches (adjusts to 21.9 inches)
EE 5 seat height of 26.2 inches (adjusts to 24.2 inches)
New MAXXIS MAXXCROSS MX-ST tires give predictable grip on a variety of terrain
EE 3 tires are 10 inches
EE 5 front tire is 12 inches and rear tire is 10 inches
EE 3 features durable WP suspension
EE 5 features WP XACT air fork and a WP XACT rear shock
Swedish-inspired design and new, modern graphics in white, blue, and electric yellow accents
Ergonomics are adjustable to suit rider size
The new 2023 EE 3 and the returning 2023 EE 5 will be available starting in October 2022.
