Are Electric Motorcycles Quiet? The Truth About Sound and Safety

In the ever-evolving world of motorcycling, electric bikes have sparked a revolution, promising eco-friendly thrills and cutting-edge technology. But for many potential buyers, one burning question remains: Are electric motorcycles quiet? This comprehensive guide will explore the sound profile of electric motorbikes, debunk common myths, and highlight the advantages of these whisper-quiet rides. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious newcomer, buckle up as we take you on a journey through the silent streets of the future.

The Sound of Silence: Understanding Electric Motorcycle Noise Levels

The Myth of the Silent Ride

Many people assume that electric motorcycles are completely silent, gliding through streets without a whisper. However, this isn’t entirely accurate. While it’s true that electric motorbikes are significantly quieter than their petrol-powered counterparts, they’re not entirely noiseless.

Comparing Decibels: Electric vs Petrol Motorcycles

To understand the difference in noise levels, let’s look at some numbers:

  • Traditional petrol motorcycles: 80-100 decibels (dB) at high speeds
  • Electric motorcycles: 60-80 dB at similar speeds

To put this into perspective, here’s a quick comparison:

  • Normal conversation: 60 dB
  • City traffic: 70-80 dB
  • Petrol lawnmower: 90 dB

As you can see, electric motorcycles operate at a noise level closer to that of a normal conversation or light city traffic, making them considerably quieter than traditional bikes.

The Sources of Sound in Electric Motorcycles

While electric motorcycles don’t have the roaring exhaust note of petrol bikes, they do produce some sounds. Let’s explore the primary sources:

1. Electric Motor Whine

The most noticeable sound from an electric motorcycle is the high-pitched whine of the electric motor. This sound is often described as a futuristic “whoosh” or “whirr” that increases in pitch as the bike accelerates.

2. Chain or Belt Drive

Many electric motorcycles use a chain or belt drive system to transfer power from the motor to the rear wheel. These components can produce a subtle whirring or clicking sound, especially at lower speeds.

3. Tyre Noise

As with any vehicle, the contact between tyres and road surface generates noise. This becomes more noticeable in electric motorcycles due to the absence of engine noise.

4. Wind Resistance

At higher speeds, the sound of wind rushing past the rider and the motorcycle’s fairing becomes more prominent. This is true for both electric and petrol motorcycles but is more noticeable on electric bikes due to the lack of engine noise.

The Benefits of a Quieter Ride

The reduced noise levels of electric motorcycles offer several advantages:

  • Reduced noise pollution: Electric motorbikes contribute significantly less to urban noise pollution, making cities more pleasant for everyone.
  • Enhanced awareness: Riders can hear their surroundings better, potentially improving safety.
  • Stealth mode: Perfect for early morning rides without disturbing neighbours.
  • Reduced fatigue: Long rides become less tiring without constant engine noise.
  • Improved communication: Riders can more easily communicate with passengers or other riders at stops.

Safety Considerations: The Sound of Silence

The “Loud Pipes Save Lives” Debate

There’s a longstanding belief in the motorcycling community that “loud pipes save lives,” suggesting that the noise from exhaust pipes alerts other road users to a motorcycle’s presence. However, research has shown that this theory may not hold up in practice. In fact, the quieter nature of electric motorcycles may encourage riders to adopt more defensive riding techniques and rely less on being heard.

Modern Safety Features

Many electric motorcycles come equipped with advanced safety features that can compensate for their quieter operation:

  • Adaptive headlights
  • Traction control systems
  • Anti-lock braking systems (ABS)
  • Stability control
  • Collision warning systems

For instance, the Zero SR/S (£20,700) from English Electric Motor Co boasts an impressive array of safety features, including Bosch MSC stability control and a custom-tuned ABS.

Legal Requirements and Artificial Sound Generation

To address concerns about pedestrian safety, some countries have implemented regulations requiring electric vehicles, including motorcycles, to emit artificial sounds at low speeds. Manufacturers are developing innovative solutions to meet these requirements while maintaining the benefits of a quieter ride.

Spotlight on English Electric Motor Co’s Quiet Performers

English Electric Motor Co offers a diverse range of electric motorcycles that combine quiet operation with exhilarating performance. Let’s take a closer look at some standout models:

1. Zero SR/F (£20,200)

The Zero SR/F is a perfect example of how quiet can be powerful. With its 110 hp motor and 190 Nm of torque, this bike delivers thrilling acceleration without the roar of a petrol engine. Its near-silent operation allows riders to enjoy the pure essence of the ride.

Zero SR/F

2. Energica Eva Ribelle (£26,690)

For those seeking a sportier ride, the Energica Eva Ribelle offers a unique blend of performance and quietness. Its powerful motor produces minimal noise, allowing riders to focus on the road and the thrill of the ride.

Energica Eva Ribelle

3. RGNT No.1 Classic SE (£12,990)

Combining classic styling with modern electric technology, the RGNT No.1 Classic SE proves that quiet operation doesn’t mean compromising on style or performance.

RGNT No.1 Classic SE

The Future of Motorcycle Sound

As electric motorcycle technology continues to advance, we can expect further innovations in sound design and noise reduction. Some possibilities include:

  • Customisable sound profiles
  • Active noise cancellation technology
  • Enhanced aerodynamics for even quieter high-speed operation

Conclusion: Embracing the Sound of the Future

Are electric motorcycles quiet? The answer is a resounding yes, at least compared to their petrol-powered counterparts. This quieter operation brings numerous benefits, from reduced noise pollution to enhanced riding experiences. While some may miss the traditional roar of a petrol engine, the whisper-quiet ride of an electric motorcycle offers a new dimension of motorcycling pleasure.

As we’ve seen, English Electric Motor Co offers a wide range of electric motorcycles that cater to various riding styles and preferences, all while delivering the benefits of quieter operation. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek performance of the Zero SR/F or the classic charm of the RGNT No.1 Classic SE, there’s an electric motorcycle that’s perfect for your quiet riding adventures.

The future of motorcycling is not just electric – it’s quietly revolutionary. As technology continues to advance, we can look forward to even more innovative and exciting developments in the world of electric motorcycles. So why not embrace the sound of silence and experience the thrill of electric riding for yourself?

Visit English Electric Motor Co to explore our full range of electric motorcycles and discover the quiet revolution that’s taking the motorcycling world by storm. Your silent adventure awaits!

Who are English Electric Motor Co?

Established in 2017 from the multi award-winning Old Empire Motorcycles, English Electric Motor Co. (EEMC) has developed a 5 star reputation for offering award-winning machines and providing exceptional service. The EEMC team have prepped, serviced and sold almost 1000 electric motorcycles to the UK, franchising the business into the southern hemisphere with Australian Electric Motor Co.

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EEMC Ltd T/A English Electric Motor Co is also authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Ref No 782562) for consumer credit purposes. We are a broker for finance and not a lender. Please be aware lenders may pay us a commission for introducing you to them. This commission can be based on the amount you borrow or the vehicle you purchase. Different lenders may pay different commissions for such introductions. Any commission amounts lenders pay will not affect the amount that you pay under your finance agreement, all of which are set by the lender.
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Supercharged Servicing

Being an exclusively electric dealer within the UK we have found ourselves receiving enquiries through the entirety of the country and currently have many of our customers based as far north as the highlands and as far south as Poole.

Very quickly we decided it was important to offer a comprehensive, reliable and reasonable nationwide delivery and mobile service to enable the sale of any of our brands within our range to anywhere within the country.

Inductive Insurance

Although electric motorcycles and scooter insurance is a relatively new, small but growing market we are glad to say that to insure any of our electric motorcycles will not cost any more than an equivalently priced and powered combustion models.

We’ve scouted high and low to find the best possible insurance for electric motorcycles and electric scooters and turns out the best guys in the electric insurance industry happened to be based just down the road from us!

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New technology is not truly effective if the systems that back it are outdated. Along with our travelling demo days and pop up showrooms we are offering a comprehensive mobile servicing system for electric motorbikes, meaning less cost and downtime for you whilst the minimal service needs your electric motorcycle has are met. Service costings and frequency vary for each brand and model but a general service undertaken at our workshop can be as little as £60 ex VAT.

Delivery and Demos

New technology is not truly effective if the systems that back it are outdated. Along with our travelling demo days and pop up showrooms we are offering a comprehensive mobile servicing system for electric motorbikes, meaning less cost and downtime for you whilst the minimal service needs your electric motorcycle has are met. Service costings and frequency vary for each brand and model but a general service undertaken at our workshop can be as little as £60 ex VAT.

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