Rider Experience
Consistently predictable precisely controllable throttle at any speed, from slower than walking pace to maximum power. Maximum power instantly available from 0 rpm. Some bikes output >1200Nm (886 lb-ft) at the rear wheel - so be prepared. With a near flat torque curve and no gears speed builds relentlessly to maximum.
Rolling off the throttle engages regenerative braking. Different manufacturers take different approaches to regen (some blend the transition, for others it’s on/off). Regen aggressiveness is configurable, usually from “coast” to “brake quite hard”.
No clutch and impossible to stall. The simplicity of operation and instant predictable response at any speed increases safety and affords the rider great confidence.
Configurable convenience and safety, ABS, traction control, multiple throttle maps, reverse “gear”.
Electrics give off no heat, emit no fumes, and do not vibrate. They don’t wake the neighbours, wildlife doesn’t run away as they pass by. There’s no noise drowning everything else out - hear tyre treads, road surfaces, brakes engaging, suspension compressing, birds tweeting, waves breaking, even pedestrians talking.
Ride sensibly… or not… others can’t really tell 😇
Owner Experience
Extremely reliable and cheap to run. The Zero @ MC3 is a great example of this.
Charging at home from the grid costs as little as 1c per km. Some public chargers are free, most cost between 3c and 6c per km, the most expensive around 10c per km (still about 2/3 the cost of petrol).
Motors can last a lifetime without needing attention, maybe replace a set of bearings after a couple of hundred thousand km. Will start first time and ride like new even after months of standing.
Batteries degrade with use but it is barely noticeable. As they utilise a chemical process slight variations in raw materials and manufacturing processes mean no two are identical. Generally batteries come with replacement warranties in case capacity loss is faster than expected or any of the cells weaken. Battery replacements are extremely rare, expect at least 80% (often >90%) of original capacity after at least 250,000km.
Most electrics use no oil or coolant which helps keep the driveway and/or garage floor clean. In fact, some owners carpet their garages.
Rear tyres can wear out very quickly.