[ggreer]

I agree about the gimmickry. Unfortunately, I don't see many advantages for electric bikes with current technology. Motorcycles get pretty good mileage; gas isn't a big expense. Not having to shift isn't a big differentiator. There are bikes with CVTs available today. More importantly, riding requires learning many other skills: counter-steering, how to brake while turning, low-speed maneuvering, avoiding target fixation, etc. And when it comes to acceleration, motorcycles are already stupendously fast. A modern sportbike can go from 0-60mph in 2.8 seconds. The limiting factor is not power, but the fact that the bike will wheelie if pushed harder.

The biggest advantage of an electric bike is probably less maintenance. If the drivetrain was sealed, you'd only have to deal with tires and brakes.

That said, electric bikes have some pretty big disadvantages. Battery weight forces them to sacrifice range or increase weight (or both). At least in the near future, electric bikes are going to be worse at handling, braking, and accelerating.

It's a shame, because I'd love to have an electric bike with the same range, power, and handling as my Ninja 250.