The allure of motorcycles, with their powerful stance and vintage aesthetics, has captivated riders for over a century. From the early “motorized bicycles” at the dawn of the 20th century to today’s sleek cafe racers and rugged scramblers, the motorcycle’s design language is iconic. Now, this classic style is revving into the electric bike world. For those who love the motorcycle vibe but prefer a greener, pedal-powered ride, a new breed of electric bikes is emerging – e-bikes that capture the look and feel of motorcycles without the noise and emissions.
These aren’t just regular e-bikes with a paint job. Many of these models deliberately emulate specific motorcycle styles, from vintage board racers to modern scramblers and mini-bikes. They often feature design cues like faux gas tanks that house batteries, retro-inspired frames, and beefy tires that enhance their motorcycle-like appearance. This fusion of classic motorcycle aesthetics with modern electric technology offers a unique appeal, attracting both e-bike enthusiasts and motorcycle aficionados alike.
Here, we explore a curated list of electric bikes currently on the market that masterfully blend motorcycle design with e-bike functionality. These models are not ranked or presented as “best of” choices, but rather as a selection of stylish and noteworthy e-bikes that successfully capture the spirit of motorcycles.
Michael Blast Greaser Classic: Embracing the Board Racer Era
Motor: Bafang 500W brushless hub drive
Price: $2,299 USD
Where To Buy: Michael Blast Greaser Classic
The Michael Blast Greaser Classic instantly transports you to the pre-World War II era of “Board Racer” motorcycles. This e-bike embodies the same design ethos that later influenced the cafe racer movement, prioritizing aesthetics and a comfortable ride over outright speed. Its design is a clear nod to the early days of motorcycling.
A key design feature is the “tank,” which cleverly conceals the battery and control board, a recurring theme in motorcycle-inspired e-bikes. This tank houses a Samsung 48V 14.5Ah battery, powering a robust Bafang 500W brushless rear hub motor. This setup allows for speeds up to 22 MPH (approximately 35 KPH) with pedal assist and provides a range of 37 to 50 miles (60 to 80 KM) on a single charge, making it well-suited for commuting.
Interestingly, the base price of $2,299 USD does not include a standard throttle (half-twist or thumb), which is available as a $100 optional upgrade. Despite this, for enthusiasts of vintage motorcycle design seeking to integrate that aesthetic into their e-bike experience, the Greaser Classic delivers a genuinely classic feel.
BeeCool Bikes Bee Challenger: Scrambler Spirit, Electric Heart
Motor: 750W or 1000W brushless hub motor
Price: Starting at $2,599 USD
Where To Buy: BeeCool Bikes Bee Challenger
Scrambler motorcycles are enjoying a resurgence in popularity, and the BeeCool Bikes Bee Challenger e-bike taps directly into this trend. BeeCool Bikes specializes in all-terrain e-bikes, and the Bee Challenger perfectly captures the scrambler motorcycle aesthetic. From a distance, it’s easy to mistake it for a gas-powered scrambler.
This visual similarity is partly due to the “fuel tank” design, which again serves as housing for the battery pack and control board. It even features a “gas cap” detail, cleverly incorporating the BeeCool brand logo. The battery is a substantial 48V 30Ah Samsung or LG lithium pack, powering either a standard 750W hub motor with 80 Nm of torque or an upgraded 1000W hub motor with 105 Nm of torque. This translates to an estimated 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. At 105 lbs, it is a considerably heavy e-bike. However, its robust 4 x 24 inch fat tires provide stability and traction, ensuring a solid ride as long as the battery holds out.
Monday Motorcycles Piezo: British Classic Reimagined as an E-Moped
Motor: 2,000W brushless hub motor
Price: $4,599 USD
Where To Buy: Monday Motorcycles Piezo
Monday Motorcycles’ name itself suggests a focus on “motorized bicycles,” and their Piezo model embodies this concept while drawing inspiration from classic British motorcycles. The Piezo features design elements reminiscent of British standards, including a long, cafe-style seat with classic parallel stitching, a prominent “tank,” and a large headlight. Intriguingly, the “tank” area isn’t for the battery; instead, it provides a spacious storage compartment, large enough for a briefcase. The battery is cleverly positioned under the lower frame rail.
This design emphasizes the Piezo’s commuter-focused purpose. It offers variable modes to comply with different e-bike regulations. Mode 1 limits the bike to 20 MPH (32 KPH), Mode 2 increases it to a “Standard” 28 MPH (45 KPH), and Mode 3 unlocks its full potential, reaching 40 MPH (64 KPH) on throttle, effectively transforming it into an electric moped. Due to its moped classification in higher modes, the Piezo is equipped with motorcycle-grade hydraulic disc brakes, DOT-approved headlight and taillight with turn signals.
Power comes from a Monday Motorcycles-designed 2,000W (1,000W nominal) rear hub motor, paired with a substantial 72V 33Ah 2.4 kWh battery, with an optional 2.8 kWh “range upgrade” battery. Claimed range is 70 miles (112 KM) in Mode 2 with pedal assist, and around 50 miles (80 KM) on throttle only. The Piezo’s robust construction and e-moped capabilities contribute to its weight, making it the heaviest on this list at 150 lbs.
Super73 Z Miami: Mini-Bike Fun, Electric Style
Motor: 500W brushless hub motor
Price: $1,995 USD
Where To Buy: Super73 Z Miami
Inspired by the legacy of mini-bikes like the Honda Monkey, the Super73 Z Miami embraces the compact and fun spirit of these iconic machines. This e-bike keeps it simple: frame, wheels, battery, handlebars – a minimalist design that emphasizes the joy of riding.
Unlike many e-bikes with geared motors, the Z Miami features a direct-drive 500W hub motor. Its single-speed setup relies on torque for initial acceleration and power to maintain speed. The 48W 12.8Ah 615 Wh battery is housed within the “gas tank,” along with the controller, providing an estimated pedal-assist range of 30 to 50 miles (50 to 80 KM).
Marketed as a “suburban explorer,” the Z Miami is ideal for local errands and city pathways. It’s configured as a Class 2 e-bike, reaching 20 MPH on thumb throttle or pedal assist. While it can be unlocked for slightly higher speeds in areas with less restrictive regulations, its focus is on enjoyable, accessible riding rather than top speed. With a price under $2,000, the Z Miami offers a fun and affordable entry into the world of motorcycle-inspired e-bikes.
Revibikes Cheetah Cafe Racer: Unmistakably Cafe Racer
Motor: Bafang 750W brushless hub motor
Price: $2,449 USD
Where To Buy: Revibikes Cheetah Cafe Racer
The Revibikes Cheetah Cafe Racer leaves no doubt about its design inspiration. As the name suggests, this e-bike is a direct homage to the cafe racer motorcycle style. Its aesthetics are immediately recognizable to anyone familiar with the cafe racer scene.
The Cheetah is powered by a Bafang 750W hub drive motor, capable of peaking at 1,000W for extra power. The battery, housed in the “tank” area, is a 48V 13Ah 624Wh unit, with an optional 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 compliant regions, though this may impact range. A standout feature of the Cheetah is its impressive 400 lbs payload capacity, including the rider. Combined with optional cargo racks and pannier mounts, it can serve as a versatile commuter or light-duty cargo bike, all while maintaining its cool cafe racer aesthetic.
Vintage Electric Bikes 72 Volt Roadster: Pre-War Harley Davidson Elegance
Motor: 750W brushless hub motor
Price: $6,995 USD
Where To Buy: Vintage Electric Bikes 72 Volt Roadster
The Vintage Electric Bikes 72 Volt Roadster exudes pre-war Harley-Davidson styling from every angle. Its design clearly echoes the classic lines of early 20th-century motorcycles. The battery pack, shaped like a V-twin engine with cooling fins, is a particularly striking detail, further enhancing the motorcycle resemblance.
This visually distinctive battery pack is functional as well, powering a high-performance 72V rear hub motor. While nominally rated at 750W, in “race mode,” this motor can unleash up to 4,000W of peak power, delivering an astonishing 180 Nm of torque – exceeding many motorcycles. This power is a key feature and contributes to the Roadster’s premium price point.
The battery is a non-removable 72V 15.6Ah 1.1 kWh unit, requiring on-bike charging, similar to electric motorcycles. Despite its power, the Roadster offers a range of 40 to 75 miles (65 to 120 KM) in normal mode, though race mode will significantly reduce range. The ability to accelerate from 5 MPH to 40 MPH in mere seconds highlights the thrilling performance this e-bike offers.
Michael Blast Vacay Hi-Step: British Motorway Cruiser Vibe
Motor: Bafang 500W brushless hub motor
Price: $2,799 USD
Where To Buy: Michael Blast Vacay Hi-Step
Michael Blast’s commitment to classic motorcycle aesthetics is further exemplified by the Vacay Hi-Step. This premium model draws inspiration from British motorway cruisers, motorcycles often adapted into cafe racers. Hints of Triumph Bonneville and Royal Enfield designs are subtly integrated into its stylish form.
The Vacay Hi-Step combines these classic cues with modern e-bike technology. It utilizes a 48V 14.5Ah Samsung battery and a Bafang 500W hub drive motor. A notable design detail is the diamond-stitched leather cover for the battery housing, adding a touch of British elegance.
The Vacay reaches speeds of 22 MPH (35 KPH) with pedal assist and, unlike the Greaser Classic, includes a standard half-twist throttle. Its estimated range of 37 to 50 miles (60 to 80 KM) positions it as a commuter-oriented e-bike, suitable for daily rides and weekend excursions. Its blend of elegant design and classic motorcycle inspiration makes it a visually appealing option in the motorcycle-style e-bike category.
C3STROM Astro Pro: Futuristic Naked Sport Inspiration
Motor: Bafang 750W brushless hub motor
Price: $2,699 USD
Where To Buy: C3STROM Astro Pro
The C3STROM Astro Pro achieves a unique blend of motorcycle styles, resulting in a cohesive and modern design. While drawing inspiration from various genres, its most prominent influence is the naked sport motorcycle, with touches of supermoto and cafe racer elements.
Classified as a Class 3 e-bike and marketed as an e-moped, the Astro Pro reaches a top speed of 32 MPH (~51 KPH) via pedal assist or throttle. This performance is achieved with 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 from 30 miles (48 KM) on throttle only 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 sharp, futuristic aesthetic is reminiscent of the Husqvarna Vitpilen, making it a visually striking and well-equipped e-bike option under $3,000.
Wicked Thumb Destroyer: The Chopper E-Bike
Motor: Bafang 750W brushless hub motor
Price: $2,895 USD
Where To Buy: Wicked Thumb Destroyer
The Wicked Thumb Destroyer boldly enters uncharted territory: the chopper e-bike. With drag-style handlebars and a low-slung saddle reminiscent of bobber motorcycles, it creates a distinct chopper riding posture. The seat is positioned back from the pedals, further emphasizing the chopper stance.
Powered by a Bafang 750W rear hub drive motor, the Destroyer is a Class 3 e-bike capable of 28 MPH (45 KPH) with pedal assist or an optional twist throttle, offering a range of 35 to 50 miles (55 to 80 KM). This range is supported by a permanently mounted Samsung 48V 17.5Ah 840 Wh battery, which can be fast-charged in 4-5 hours with the included 3A charger.
A notable feature is its nine levels of pedal assist, utilizing a 12-magnet cadence sensor. This extensive PAS system may compensate for the unique riding position and the rolling resistance of its chunky 4 x 26 inch fat tires. The Destroyer offers a truly unique and attention-grabbing e-bike experience for those drawn to the chopper aesthetic.
Engwe M20: Scrambler Adventure, Electric Power
Motor: Bafang 750W brushless hub motor
Price: $1,599 USD
Where To Buy: Engwe M20
The Engwe M20 immediately conveys its scrambler motorcycle inspiration. Engwe markets the M20 as an “adventure eBike,” designed for trail riding and off-road exploration. Despite its compact size, it packs a punch 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 maximum 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 a potential 100 miles (160 KM). The control board intelligently switches between batteries, extending ride times significantly. This extended range and scrambler styling make the Engwe M20 a capable and appealing e-bike for both on and off-road adventures.
These ten electric bikes showcase the diverse ways in which motorcycle aesthetics are being incorporated into e-bike design. Whether you’re drawn to the vintage charm of board racers and cafe racers, the rugged appeal of scramblers, or the bold statement of choppers, there’s an electric bike that captures the spirit of motorcycling while offering a modern, eco-friendly ride. As the e-bike market continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative designs that bridge the gap between these two-wheeled worlds.
