Motorcycles, in their essence, are motorized bicycles. Dating back to the dawn of the 20th century, both electric and combustion engines were experimented with to give cyclists a break from pedaling. This ingenuity paved the way for the motorcycles we admire and ride today, from classic cafe racers to modern roadsters.
Now, history has come full circle. The market is brimming with motorized bicycles once again, but this time, they are entirely electric. DC motor technology has advanced significantly in the last century, leading to powerful e-bikes that blur the lines with mopeds. This evolution is prompting legal discussions about speed and power limits for these new “e-mopeds” and whether they should require motorcycle licenses.
In the meantime, for those captivated by the aesthetic of motorcycles, especially vintage designs, there’s a fantastic selection of electric bikes that capture that spirit. We’ve compiled a list of 10 e-bikes currently available that draw inspiration from motorcycles of various eras and styles – from dirt bikes to vintage cruisers and everything in between. Some are instantly recognizable as motorcycle-inspired, while others offer a more subtle nod to classic designs. This isn’t a definitive “best of” list, but rather a curated selection of stylish and cool e-bikes that stand out in today’s market.
Michael Blast Greaser Classic: Embrace the Board Tracker Vibe
Motor: Bafang 500W Brushless Hub Drive
Price: $2,299 USD
Buy It Here: Michael Blast Greaser Classic
The Michael Blast Greaser Classic immediately evokes the golden age of pre-war “Board Racer” motorcycles. This style, which also heavily influenced the cafe racer movement of the 50s and 60s, is embodied in the Greaser Classic, albeit with a focus on comfort and style rather than outright speed.
The design is undeniably stylish, with the “tank” cleverly concealing the battery and control board – a common design cue in motorcycle-inspired e-bikes. It houses a Samsung 48V 14.5Ah battery, powering a robust Bafang 500W brushless rear hub motor. This setup delivers speeds up to 22 MPH (35 KPH) with pedal assist and provides a commuting-friendly range of 37 to 50 miles (60 to 80 KM) on a single charge.
Interestingly, while the Greaser Classic offers vintage motorcycle aesthetics, a half-twist or thumb throttle is an optional extra, available for a modest $100. However, for enthusiasts of vintage motorcycles seeking that classic look in their e-bike, the Greaser Classic delivers authentic style in spades.
BeeCool Bikes Bee Challenger: Unleash Your Inner Scrambler
Motor: 750W or 1000W Brushless Hub Motor
Price: Starting at $2,599 USD
Buy It Here: BeeCool Bikes Bee Challenger
Scrambler motorcycles are experiencing a major resurgence in popularity, and the BeeCool Bikes Bee Challenger e-bike perfectly captures this trend. BeeCool Bikes, known for their rugged all-terrain e-bikes, has created a model that so closely resembles a scrambler motorcycle that it’s easy to mistake it for one at first glance.
This likeness is enhanced by the “fuel tank” design, which, as is typical with these designs, cleverly houses the battery pack and control board. It even features a “gas cap” detail adorned with the BeeCool brand logo. Powering the Bee Challenger is a substantial 48V 30Ah Samsung or LG lithium battery pack, paired with either a standard 750W hub motor producing 80 Nm of torque or an upgraded 1000W hub motor with 105 Nm of torque. This configuration allows for an impressive range of 60 to 80 miles (95 to 125 KM) and a top speed of 28 MPH using pedal assist or throttle.
One aspect where the Bee Challenger mirrors motorcycles is its weight. Tipping the scales at 105 lbs, it’s a heavier e-bike. However, once in motion on its robust 4 x 24 inch fat tires, the weight becomes less noticeable, and the bike offers a stable and powerful ride, limited only by battery life.
Monday Motorcycles Piezo: The Urban British Standard Reimagined
Motor: 2,000W Brushless Hub Motor
Price: $4,599 USD
Buy It Here: Monday Motorcycles Piezo
Monday Motorcycles aims high with its name, and their Piezo e-bike lives up to that ambition by literally embodying the “motorized bicycle” concept while drawing heavily from classic British motorcycle design. The Piezo features a long, cafe-style seat with classic parallel stitching, a prominent “tank,” and a large headlight, all reminiscent of British standard motorcycles. Intriguingly, the “tank” isn’t for the battery; it’s a spacious storage compartment, large enough for a briefcase or satchel, while the battery is cleverly positioned under the lower frame rail.
This thoughtful design emphasizes its purpose as a commuter e-bike. The Piezo offers variable modes to comply with different e-bike regulations. Mode 1 limits the speed to 20 MPH (32 KPH), Mode 2 increases it to a “Standard” 28 MPH (45 KPH), and Mode 3 unlocks the bike’s full potential, reaching 40 MPH (64 KPH) on throttle, effectively transforming it into an electric moped. Given its moped capabilities, the Piezo is equipped with motorcycle-grade hydraulic disc brakes, DOT-approved headlight and taillight with turn signals.
Power comes from a potent 2,000W (1,000W nominal) rear hub motor designed by Monday Motorcycles. It’s fueled by a substantial 72V 33Ah 2.4 kWh battery, with an optional 2.8 kWh “range upgrade” battery available. Claimed range is 70 miles (112 KM) in Mode 2 with pedal assist, and approximately 50 miles (80 KM) on throttle only. The Piezo’s robust construction and moped-level components contribute to it being the heaviest e-bike on this list at 150 lbs.
Super73 Z Miami: The Mini-Bike Reborn as an E-Bike
Motor: 500W Brushless Hub Motor
Price: $1,995 USD
Buy It Here: Super73 Z Miami
Mini-bikes have a rich history in motorcycling, from the iconic Honda Super Cub to Kawasaki’s Z125 Pro. Super73 taps into this heritage with the Z Miami, an e-bike that embodies the mini-bike spirit. Drawing clear inspiration from the classic 1960s Honda Monkey, the Z Miami is a minimalist machine: frame, wheels, battery, handlebars, and essential components.
Unlike many e-bikes, the Z Miami features a direct-drive 500W hub motor, providing ample torque for acceleration and sustained power at speed. The 48V 12.8Ah 615 Wh battery, housed within the “gas tank” along with the controller, delivers an estimated pedal-assist range of 30 to 50 miles (50 to 80 KM).
The Z Miami is designed as a suburban runabout, ideal for local errands and leisurely city pathway rides. It’s configured as a Class 2 e-bike, reaching 20 MPH with thumb throttle or pedal assist. While it can be unlocked for higher speeds in compliant regions, its top speed remains around 26 MPH (42 KPH). Still, the Z Miami offers a fun and practical package: up to 50 miles of range on 4 x 20 inch fat tires at 20 MPH, all at a price point under $2,000.
Revibikes Cheetah Cafe Racer: Unmistakably Cafe Racer Inspired
Motor: Bafang 750W Brushless Hub Motor
Price: $2,449 USD
Buy It Here: Revibikes Cheetah Cafe Racer
As the name suggests, the Revibikes Cheetah Cafe Racer makes no secret of its inspiration. For readers of Return of the Cafe Racers, the design cues are immediately apparent. This e-bike is a direct homage to the cafe racer motorcycle style.
The Cheetah is powered by a Bafang 750W hub drive motor, capable of bursts up to 1,000W for extra power when needed. The battery, integrated into the “tank” area, is a 48V 13Ah 624Wh unit, with an option to upgrade to a 17.5Ah 840Wh battery for extended range. The standard battery provides a range of 30 to 45 miles (50 to 72 KM), while the upgraded battery extends it to 40 to 65 miles (65 to 105 KM).
Shipped as a Class 3 e-bike, the Cheetah reaches 28 MPH (45 KPH), and can be unlocked for speeds exceeding 30 MPH (48 KPH) in areas where permitted, though this may impact range. A standout feature is its impressive 400 lbs payload capacity, including the rider, and its compatibility with cargo racks, pannier holders, and saddlebag mounts. While primarily designed for commuting, with the extended range battery, it can also serve as a light-duty cargo e-bike, all while maintaining its cool cafe racer aesthetic.
Vintage Electric Bikes 72 Volt Roadster: Pre-War Harley Davidson Elegance, Electrified
Motor: 750W Brushless Hub Motor
Price: $6,995 USD
Buy It Here: Vintage Electric Bikes 72 Volt Roadster
The Vintage Electric Bikes 72 Volt Roadster is another e-bike that proudly displays its motorcycle DNA. Its lines instantly recall classic pre-war Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The battery pack, shaped like a V-twin engine complete with cooling fins, is a striking design element. This battery delivers a potent 72V to the rear hub motor.
This rear hub motor is a key feature. While nominally rated at 750W, in “race mode,” it can unleash up to 4,000W of peak power, accompanied by a staggering 180 Nm (132 lbs-ft) of torque – exceeding many motorcycles. This performance is a major contributor to the Roadster’s premium price point of around $7,000.
The 72V 15.6Ah 1.1 kWh battery is integrated into the bike and cannot be removed for charging, mirroring the charging process of electric motorcycles. Despite its immense power, the Roadster achieves a range of 40 to 75 miles (65 to 120 KM) in normal mode, though race mode will deplete the battery more quickly. The ability to accelerate from 5 MPH to 40 MPH in approximately 3 seconds with pedal assist highlights the exhilarating performance this e-bike offers.
Michael Blast Vacay Hi-Step: British Motorway Cruiser Style, Electrified
Motor: Bafang 500W Brushless Hub Motor
Price: $2,799 USD
Buy It Here: Michael Blast Vacay Hi-Step
Michael Blast makes another appearance on our list, unsurprising given their brand’s focus on classic and vintage motorcycle aesthetics. The Vacay Hi-Step is a premium offering, inspired by classic British motorway cruisers, bikes often customized into cafe racers.
Hints of Triumph Bonneville and Royal Enfield designs are evident in the Vacay Hi-Step, creating a stylish and functional e-bike. It features a 48V 14.5Ah Samsung battery powering a Bafang 500W hub drive motor. The battery holder and cover, wrapped in diamond-stitched leather, add a touch of British elegance.
The Vacay Hi-Step reaches speeds of 22 MPH (35 KPH) with pedal assist and, unlike the Greaser, includes a half-twist throttle as standard. Range is estimated at 37 to 50 miles (60 to 80 KM), positioning it as a commuter-focused e-bike, suitable for daily rides and weekend excursions. With its elegant design and classic motorway cruiser styling, the Vacay Hi-Step is arguably one of the most visually appealing motorcycle-inspired e-bikes available.
C3STROM Astro Pro: Futuristic Naked Sportbike E-Bike
Motor: Bafang 750W Brushless Hub Motor
Price: $2,699 USD
Buy It Here: C3STROM Astro Pro
The C3STROM Astro Pro blends design elements from various motorcycle styles, creating a unique and cohesive look. Its primary inspiration appears to be naked sportbikes, with touches of supermoto and British cafe racer influences.
Classified as a Class 3 e-bike and marketed as an e-moped, the Astro Pro achieves a top speed of 32 MPH (51 KPH) with pedal assist or throttle. This performance is delivered by a Bafang 750W rear hub motor (1.4 kW peak output, 80 Nm nominal torque), despite the bike’s 94 lbs weight and 4.25 x 20 inch tires. A Samsung 52V 20Ah 1.04 kWh battery provides a range of 30 miles (48 KM) on electric throttle only, extending to 75 miles (120 KM) with pedal assist.
As an e-moped, the Astro Pro includes DOT-approved headlight and taillight with integrated turn signals. It features front suspension and a hardtail rear, with a payload capacity of 330 lbs. Its futuristic and sharp design bears a resemblance to the Husqvarna Vitpilen, a positive association. The Astro Pro offers a compelling package of style, performance, and features for under $3,000.
Wicked Thumb Destroyer: The Chopper E-Bike Experience
Motor: Bafang 750W Brushless Hub Motor
Price: $2,895 USD
Buy It Here: Wicked Thumb Destroyer
The Wicked Thumb Destroyer is best described as a chopper e-bike – a unique and unexpected design. It features drag-style handlebars, a low, almost bobber-style saddle positioned behind the pedals, creating a distinct chopper riding stance.
Powered by a Bafang 750W rear hub drive motor, the Destroyer is a Class 3 e-bike with a top speed of 28 MPH (45 KPH) using pedal assist or an optional twist throttle. It offers a range of 35 to 50 miles (55 to 80 KM) from its integrated Samsung 48V 17.5Ah 840 Wh battery, which supports fast charging (4-5 hours with the included 3A charger).
The Destroyer stands out with its 9 levels of pedal assist, utilizing a 12-magnet cadence sensor. This extensive PAS system likely compensates for the unique riding position with the low seat and forward-mounted pedals, as well as the rolling resistance of its substantial 4 x 26 inch fat tires.
Engwe M20: The Scrambler Adventure E-Bike
Motor: Bafang 750W Brushless Hub Motor
Price: $1,599 USD
Buy It Here: Engwe M20
The Engwe M20 clearly draws its design inspiration from scrambler motorcycles. Engwe markets the M20 as an “adventure e-bike,” emphasizing its off-road capabilities. Despite its compact size, the M20 is a capable machine, equipped with a 1,000W rear hub drive motor.
This motor delivers a consistent 55 Nm of torque across its speed range, from 1 MPH to its top speed of 28 MPH (45 KPH). The standard configuration includes a single 48V 13Ah battery providing a range of 35 to 50 miles (55 to 80 KM). However, the M20 is designed to accommodate a second optional battery, effectively doubling the range to up to 100 miles (160 KM). Instead of drawing power simultaneously, the control system switches between batteries, maximizing range. For a scrambler-inspired e-bike, this extended range makes the M20 well-suited for full-day trail riding and off-road adventures, potentially eliminating the need for bike racks or trailers to reach riding locations.
