Electric vs. Petrol Motorcycles: Pros and Cons You Must Know
The choice between the electric bike and the petrol bike is determined by the selection process between the two, which includes cost, environmental effect, convenience, and maintenance. To date, EV bikes are being sought after because they are eco-friendly and consume less fuel in running. Petrol bikes dominate the market since they have the infrastructure and ease of refueling. Which one is suitable for you? Let's break it down.
Electric Bikes Are More Eco-Friendly
One of the biggest advantages of electric bikes is that they help in reducing carbon emissions. New electric bikes do not use petrol or diesel and, therefore, do not emit CO2 or other harmful gases, making them a greener alternative. Besides, with renewable energy sources increasing, best e bikes can be even more environmentally friendly in the future.
On the other hand, petrol bikes work on ICEs and burn fossil fuels, which release pollutants into the air. This leads to air pollution and climatic change and is, therefore, less environment-friendly.
Purchasing Price – Electric Bikes Are Costly for the First Time
The first and foremost drawback of electric bikes is that they are relatively pricey in the initial phase. Battery technology is the costliest constituent of an EV bike, and this explains why. Although the government provides subsidies, the best electric bikes are relatively more pricey than petrol bikes for the initial investment.
Petrol bikes are relatively inexpensive and based on large-scale production, they become available in all conceivable price ranges.
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Charging vs Fueling – Convenience Factors
Now, one of the biggest practical differences between electric bikes and petrol bikes is how much time it takes to refuel/charge.
In other words, refueling a petrol bike is merely a matter of a few minutes from any fueling station, which happens to be very convenient for long-distance travelers.
On the other side, an EV bike takes at least 1.5 hours for fast charging and 4-6 hours by standard charging; that is, the biggest drawback for regular long-distance travelers.
Charging infrastructure in many countries is still in its infancy, so the new user of electric bikes has to carefully plan their trips to avoid running out of charge.
Range and Long Drive Considerations
Most electric bikes have a range of about 100-110 km per single charge. However, some high-end models can go up to 150 km. This is pretty much enough for city commutes but not so great for long drives.
Contrarily, petrol bikes don't have range anxiety since they can be refueled anywhere. With the fuel tank capacity and mileage, a petrol bike can cover easily 250-500 km on a full tank.
Therefore, electric bikes are best suited for city rides, and petrol bikes are the best for long trips.
Running Cost – Electric Bikes Are More Economical
Electric bikes are pretty clear winners when it comes to running costs.
The cost of electricity to charge an electric bike for 100 km is between ₹10-₹15.
Whereas, for the same distance, a petrol bike with mileage 50 km/l would be requiring 2 liters of petrol and will cost around ₹90-₹100.
Hence, EV bikes are nearly 10 times cheaper in terms of per-kilometer cost.
Long-Term Cost Analysis
Over a period of 5 years or 50,000 km, the fuel cost for a petrol bike can go up to ₹1,00,000, while an electric bike would incur electricity charges of around ₹5,000-₹10,000. However, battery replacement after 5-6 years, which can cost ₹40,000-₹50,000, should also be added to long-term costs.
Charging Infrastructure – A Major Barrier for Electric Bikes
Though EV bikes are gaining popularity, charging infrastructure is not available in many places. Long-distance travel is quite difficult as the number of EV charging stations is less compared to petrol pumps.
If you usually travel within the city, charging at home or at work will be a viable option.
If you frequently travel long distances, you may not find charging points easily, so a petrol bike will be more reliable.
The EV market is changing, and infrastructure will be better over time, but for now, petrol bikes offer better convenience for long-distance rides.
Maintenance Matters
The well-treatment of your bike is very important, which may either be an electric bike or a petrol bike. Though the moving parts are fewer in the case of electric bikes, meaning less maintenance in comparison to a petrol bike, engine oil must be changed, spark plugs must be replaced, and clutch adjustments have to be done.
You'll need to invest in quality accessories, including covers, lights, and helmets, for keeping your bike in perfect condition.
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Conclusion - Which One to Buy?
Electric Bike vs. Petrol Bike depends upon your requirements
You may go for an electric bike if:
✅ They reduce running costs and save money in the long term
✅ Worried about environmental impact and thus want an environment-friendly option
✅ Mostly ride within the city and have a charging facility either at home or work
✅ Can afford the initial higher costs but are low on maintenance costs
Choose Petrol Bike if:
✅ You cover big distances every day and need to refuel fast
✅ You do not want to bother with the limits of charging
✅ You prefer a lower purchase price and easy access to spare parts
✅ You like to have more variety and individual settings possible
Electric bikes are definitely the future of mobility with lower running costs, low maintenance, and an environmentally friendly alternative to petrol bikes. However, when it comes to charging time, range, and infrastructure issues, they seem a little less practical for longer distances.
If you happen to travel within the city, an electric bike makes a very smart choice. But if you go out too frequently on trips, then it is still better to have a petrol bike now.