Touring is also going electric. The Energica Ego+, with a 140-mile range and highway-ready power, is being used for long-distance rides across the UK. Riders are mapping cross-country routes using apps like Plugsurfing and Zap-Map, which now include filters specifically for motorcycle-compatible chargers. In 2024, the first all-electric motorcycle tour from Land’s End to John o’Groats was completed in under 72 hours, proving that long-distance e-riding is not only possible but practical.
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Despite progress, challenges remain. Range anxiety still affects riders in rural areas, where charging stations are sparse. Cold winter weather can reduce battery efficiency by up to 20%, and insurance costs for e-bikes remain high due to their performance and repair complexity. However, the government’s Future of Transport Regulatory Sandbox is testing new policies, including tailored insurance models and incentives for e-motorcycle purchases.
Environmental impact is a key driver. With the UK’s 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles now including motorcycles, manufacturers are investing heavily in electrification. The British motorcycle industry, centred in Birmingham and Leicestershire, is adapting with new R&D in battery tech and lightweight chassis design.
In 2024, electric motorcycles are no longer just a green alternative—they’re a smart, high-performance choice for the modern British rider. As technology improves and infrastructure expands, the roar of combustion engines may soon be replaced by the silent hum of electric power. The future of two-wheeled travel in the UK is here—and it’s electric.
