It is common for people to assume that reducing their impact on the environment means cutting back on the things they enjoy.
However, this doesn’t have to be the case. Advances in modern technology mean that it is now possible to reduce our carbon footprints without sacrificing our hobbies and creature comforts.
If you want to make your past-times more eco-friendly, it is often simply a matter of researching the alternatives. A few years ago, electric dirt bikes were expensive and, most of the time, inferior to their gasoline counterparts.
The main drawback of electric bikes was their battery life. Which meant you had to plan short biking routes or be prepared to carry your vehicle home once the battery runs dry.
So buying an electric bike in the past meant you were spending much more money for a few hours of riding at most.
Thankfully electric motors have come a long way in the last few years with many of them running for longer distances while producing no carbon emissions. Now electric dirt bikes are rapidly growing in popularity as outdoor enthusiasts discover how they can enjoy their hobby while minimizing the environmental impact.
Even some of the most reputable manufacturers have started building electric models of their classic bikes.
Electric motors have not only gotten better. However, they have also become much more affordable so you no longer have to worry about breaking the bank just to get a decent vehicle. This list will go through 4 of the best electric dirt bikes available for sale. As well as offer some advice on what to look out for when buying an electric bike.
OUR TOP PICK
A common issue with electric dirt bikes is the need to carry a portable generator with you for when you need a recharge.
Since you’re going to be riding the bike outside in the hills, you will probably transport your bike on a flatbed or pickup truck so it isn’t hard to bring a generator as well.
However, if you want a vehicle that you won’t need to recharge after a few hours, the Bultaco Brinco R is a dirt bike and mountain bike all in one.
The rotating pedals can function independently of the motor, meaning if you run out of juice, you can still pedal your bike home.
There are three modes for altering the speed and power usage.
Sport mode will allow you to access the bike’s full potential while touring mode gives you the same torque while using slightly less battery power.
Finally, if you want to ride for longer distances Eco mode gives you up to 100km of pleasant cruising.
The battery takes up to three hours to charge, which means you won’t be able to take the bike out for a ride at a moment’s notice.
The keyless start feature includes a keycard and magnetic bracelet both of which can be used to get moving with a single tap.
If you lose the bike, you can find it using an app on your phone which will also provide other useful information about your bike’s performance.
Pros
- Keyless start - Instantly start the bike by touching the provided keycard or bracelet to the control panel.
- Three riding modes - Switch between sports mode, touring mode, or eco mode depending on how long you want to ride and how much power you need.
- Connects to your phone - Instantly find your bike through geolocation or check up on its performance through the phone app.
- Independent pedaling - Switch from using the motor to manual pedaling if your battery runs low, or if you just want the exercise.
- 100 km range - Drive as far as 100km on eco mode or go full power for 50km in sports mode.
Cons
- 3 hour charge time - This bike takes a while to charge so remember to start prepping the battery before you want to take the bike out for a ride.
EDITORS CHOICE
If you’re looking for an electric motorcycle that is suitable for a younger rider. The Kuberg Freerider is a great choice for first-timers and dirt biking enthusiasts alike. It costs $5,508.45.
This bike is fully customizable offering you the choice between three different wheel sizes, and different fork heights. As well as an 8kw 12kw, or 14kw controller. As well as being comfortable, the frame is also highly durable which is useful knowledge if you are planning to use it for jumps or tricks.
The Maxxis Creepy Crawler tires are extra-large to provide greater stability and the 48v motor can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h.
With a clutchless, one-speed transmission you never need to worry about changing gears or stalling. The bike is also incredibly versatile and capable of driving along flat terrain, mud tracks, or rocky hills. Charging time can take up to 2.5 hours. Although the company promises that you can get the battery up to 80% in only an hour.
Once you're fully charged and ready to go you will have up to an hour of full-throttle riding.
Obviously, you don’t have to be constantly pushing the bike to its max speed and the battery will last longer when driven at lower speeds.
Pros
- Fully customizable - The company offers a variety of options for customizing your bike so it can fit any rider comfortably.
- Maxxis Creepy Crawler tires - The 20” x 2.5” tires provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
- Steel double-cradle tube frame - This bike not only looks sleek and stylish but is also highly durable so you don’t need to worry about dropping it while you practice jumps.
- Manitou Dorado Expert forks - Provide great suspension and give you full control over the front wheel.
Cons
- Only one hour riding time - The motor on this bike will only last an hour running at full throttle so you may need to bring a portable generator to recharge the battery during longer rides.
- 2.5 hour charging time - You will need to charge this bike for 2.5 hrs before you can take it out.
BEST VALUE
Cake is a Swedish company that is relatively new, but its products speak for themselves.
This futuristic electric bike has three riding modes. For a maximum of 3-4 hrs, casual riding time in explore mode, or 1hr of thrilling, unlimited speed in excel mode. Cake Kalk INK Electric Bike has the price of $11,580.
Each of the different modes not only affects how long you can ride but also how fast you can go.
Explore mode will cap your speed at 45 km/h, excite mode is limited to 70 km/h, and excel has no limit. Providing as much torque as you need to make that jump. Charging your bike will take up to three hours so remember to start charging well before you plan to take it out.
The INK is an upgraded version of the Kalk OR with larger tires and wheels for extra stability.
This bike will run just as well on flat or rocky terrain with Cake’s own patented suspension system. This provides a comfortable and exhilarating ride. When you order the bike you can choose to receive a second battery so you will always have a spare.
There are also three break modes that allow you to choose between freewheeling, 2-stroke, and 4-stroke motor breaks.
While freewheeling releasing the throttle will not slow down the engine at all. The 2 stroke brakes on the other hand will slow the engine down gradually.
The 4-stroke will slow the motor down rapidly upon releasing the throttle which is great for complex dirt biking tracks where you need full control over your speed.
Pros
- 3 riding modes - Easily control your speed and battery consumption by switching between three different riding modes.
- 3 brake settings - As well as different riding modes, you can switch between freewheeling and two different sets of brakes so you have complete control over your speed.
- Can be purchased with a spare battery - You can buy the bike with a spare battery for longer rides or just in case you need to replace the old one.
- Lightweight chassis and powerful drive train - Thanks to the outer frame being so light and the powerful drive chain, this bike can get up to 90km/h at full throttle.
- Direct mounted shock rear suspension - The rear suspension placed directly under the saddle is built to be comfortable and durable.
Cons
- 3 hour charging time - You need to remember to put the bike on charge 3 hours before you go for a ride.
- Company based in Europe- So delivery to the US may take slightly longer.
RUNNER UP
If you know anything about dirt bikes, you’ve probably heard of KTM.
This company has been producing world-famous motorcycles for many years.
With the Freeride E-XC, KTM has applied its expertise to making an electric dirt bike with all the reliability and power of a gasoline driven model. This electric bike costs $11,299.00.
As with the other bikes on this list, there are three riding modes that dictate your speed and energy consumption.
In economy, you will be limited to 50mph, Enduro will cap the power output to 16KW and Cross will unleash all 18Kw of power the bike has to offer.
If your battery is running low, the control panel will automatically put the engine in limp home mode which will help you get back to your flatbed, or home for a recharge.
The control unit works to make all of the electric components function the way they should, which is why it is water-cooled to ensure the bike can run in any conditions.
An amazing feature of this bike is the ability to regain battery power while coasting in economy mode.
This means you can drive extra-long and keep your battery going while riding downhill or cruising along flat terrain.
The frame of the bike is lightweight but extremely durable thanks to the open lower section with an aluminum skid plate to protect the engine.
Both the rear and front suspension are made from high-quality WP XPLOR parts for a comfortable and smooth ride.
This bike also takes significantly less time to charge than other models, only requiring one hour and 50 minutes to reach 100%.
Pros
- Water-cooled control unit - The bike’s onboard computer is sealed and water-cooled to handle any weather conditions.
- Recharge your bike in economy mode - As with other bikes there are three riding modes and your bike can even recharge its battery while coasting in economy mode.
- WP XPLOR Suspension - Both the front and rear suspension are durable and capable of absorbing the shock of any impact.
- Limp home mode - If the battery falls below 10% the bike will enter limp home mode to make sure you can get home.
- Fast charging time - This bike takes only an hour and fifteen minutes to reach 80% charge and less than two hours to be fully charged.
Cons
- Not suitable for young riders - This bike may be too tall for young riders as well as being a very powerful bike that is unsuitable for beginners.
Best Electric Dirt Bike Buying Guide
If you’re already a dirt biking enthusiast that wants to switch from gasoline to battery power, you will already know what you are looking for.
If you’re new to the hobby you may be a bit more confused by the complex jargon and plethora of different components.
Either way here are a few tips and useful things to look out for when trying to differentiate a good bike from a great one
Battery Life And Charging Time
The biggest drawback of electric dirt bikes is still their batteries.
Most models can only be ridden for just over an hour when going full throttle and unlike gasoline bikes, you can’t just carry a can of gas with you in case you need a top-up.
This isn’t as much of a problem as it sounds.
There are many portable generators you can buy which are easy to carry and can be loaded onto your flatbed or pick-up truck alongside your bike to facilitate a quick recharge.
Most batteries will take 2 hours to reach full charge so remember to start preparing your bike a while before you want to take it out.
Once out on the track, most electric motors are linked to control panels that offer three riding modes so you can go full throttle, or rein in the power to save your battery life.
To make the most of these features your bike will need a simple and easy-to-read display so you can keep track of your remaining battery and how far you can push your bike.
Wheel Size And Suspension
As well as the battery, you can’t forget the essentials.
Without strong wheels and decent suspension, you won’t be able to control your vehicle while tearing down dirt tracks.
The suspension will both protect the motor and chassis from heavy impacts and drops, as well as keep your ride as smooth as possible.
When it comes to wheels you want to be looking for ones with a durable frame and spokes. Wider tires will provide more stability and traction in muddy conditions.
Brakes
Going fast is one thing but in order to have control over your dirt bike, good brakes are vital.
Traditional disc brakes are reliable but some electric bikes include an automatic braking system that will activate whenever you let go of the throttle.
Naturally automatic brakes will depend on the control unit to work, so some people may prefer being able to control when they put the brakes on.
A bigger brake disc is preferable as they provide more braking power and won’t get worn out as fast.
The Drivetrain
The drivetrain is the part of the bike that connects the engine to the rear wheel. Different types of drive chains you might see are chains, belts, and shafts.
Generally, shafts and belts are more durable and won’t need to be replaced as often, especially shafts. However, if something does go wrong these parts are far harder to repair and replace than chains.
Chains need to be lubricated and replaced more often, but this is easy to do and often you will be able to maintain this part of the bike yourself without taking it to a mechanic.
The Chassis
The chassis is the frame of the bike often composed of plastic and metal.
As well as protecting the essential components of the bike, the chassis also has to be able to withstand the impact of jumps and drops.
As such it is essential when buying a bike to choose one that is light enough for you to pick up if you drop it, but durable enough that the chassis won’t break.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get My Electric Dirt Bike Wet?
As you can guess by the name, dirt bikes aren’t designed to drive over flat concrete roads and if you can’t rip down muddy tracks at high speeds, are you really even dirt biking?
Of course, mud equals moisture and you may be very concerned about the electric motor getting wet. Thankfully, this isn’t a problem.
Many of the electrical components are sealed away in metal casing to protect them from water.
You can ride in the rain or over muddy terrain however, it is important to remember that no electric bikes are completely waterproof so don’t leave your vehicle out in the rain for prolonged periods of time.
Are Electric Bikes As Good As Gasoline Bikes?
Gas bikes can be a bit more reliable and easy to repair, as mechanical parts are more replaceable than onboard computers.
They are also easier to refill as a jerry can of gasoline is more portable and takes up less space than a small generator. Also refilling a gasoline engine is much quicker for getting the bike ready than 3 hours of battery charging.
That said, electric bikes also have their advantages. For a start, electric motors don’t need to warm up as much before they can be driven.
These motors also have more torque meaning they can generate more rotational force while offline than traditional engines.
Last but not least electric bikes are a great way to enjoy dirt biking while also reducing your impact on the planet.
Through Faster Faster, I want to talk through all of the information and tips I have found helpful, to guide other people through owning and riding dirt bikes.
You will find a mixture of both informational and review pieces on this site that will help you with any questions you may have.
- Choosing Your Kawasaki Street Legal Dirt Bike - March 14, 2023
- Honda Street Legal Dirt Bike: Dual Sport and Enduro Guide - March 9, 2023
- KTM Street Legal Dirt Bike: Enduro and Supermoto Models - March 9, 2023