Short answer: An electric motorcycle is worth it if you value instant torque, near-silent riding, very low running costs, and zero shifting — and your rides fit within its battery range with somewhere to charge. A gas motorcycle still wins for long-distance touring, fast “fill-up” refueling, and the widest model selection. For commuting, learning, and around-town riding, electric is genuinely compelling; for big-mile road trips, gas is still king.
Here’s the honest comparison, from Empire Cycle & Powersports in Spokane Valley.
What’s the difference between an electric and a gas motorcycle?
An electric motorcycle runs on a battery and motor with no clutch, gears, or engine noise; a gas motorcycle burns fuel through a traditional engine and transmission. In practice that means electric bikes are twist-and-go with instant power and almost no maintenance, while gas bikes offer longer range, quick refueling, and the shifting experience many riders love.
Electric vs. gas motorcycle at a glance
| Factor | Electric | Gas |
|---|---|---|
| Power delivery | Instant torque, twist-and-go | Builds with revs; shift gears |
| Noise | Near silent | Traditional engine sound |
| Range per “fill” | Shorter; depends on battery | Longer; big tanks go far |
| Refuel/recharge | Plug in (minutes to hours) | Fill up in minutes anywhere |
| Maintenance | Very low (no oil, few moving parts) | Regular oil, filters, etc. |
| Learning curve | Easiest — no clutch/gears | Clutch and shifting to learn |
| Best use | Commuting, town, trails, learning | Touring, long distance, variety |
Are electric motorcycles cheaper to own?
Yes, day to day — they cost much less to fuel and maintain. Charging from electricity is cheaper per mile than gasoline, and with no oil changes, spark plugs, or complex transmission, routine maintenance nearly disappears. The trade-off is that the up-front price can be higher on comparable models, and you’ll plan rides around charging. Over years of ownership, low running costs can close much of that gap.
Are electric motorcycles good for beginners?
They’re one of the easiest ways to start riding. With no clutch and no gears, a new rider can focus entirely on balance, braking, and looking where they want to go. The power is smooth and controllable on lower settings, and the quiet operation is less intimidating. For someone nervous about stalling or shifting, electric removes two of the biggest first-ride worries.
What are the downsides of electric motorcycles?
The two real limits are range and charging. If your ride is longer than the battery’s range, or you don’t have a convenient place to charge, a gas bike is simpler. Model selection is also narrower than gas, though it’s growing fast. If most of your riding is commuting or local loops, these limits rarely bite; if you dream of all-day interstate touring, gas still makes more sense today.
What does Empire carry?
We stock a solid selection of electric motorcycles — see the electric motorcycle inventory, including RAWRR electric models that are especially popular with new and younger riders and for light trail use. Prefer the classic experience? Our gas lineup spans CF MOTO, Triumph, and more on the motorcycle inventory page.
Still weighing it?
Tell us your typical ride and where you’d charge, and we’ll tell you honestly whether electric fits. Schedule a test ride, browse the inventory, or text 509-498-3541. Whatever you choose, our pricing is Up Front — freight, setup, and doc fee already included, only tax and title/registration added.
Empire Cycle & Powersports — Spokane Valley, WA. New and pre-owned electric and gas motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides, and snowmobiles, all with Up Front Pricing.