Chinese electric motorcycles

[Richard230]

Here is an article about ElectroForce Motors and their range of electric motorcycles.  They look nice in the photos, prices are low - as is the performance.  But they would make a nice in-city commuter and the potentially low prices would go a long way to getting people into the EV market.  But being Chinese, no doubt distribution, sales, service and parts supply networks would likely be an issue. 

http://news.motorbiker.org/blogs.nsf/dx/new-electric-motorcycles-from-china-looks-a-winner.htm

[protomech]

Tau+ claims similar performance, weight, top speed to the Enertia+, slightly lower battery capacity. $5000 vs $10000 (after $1000 Brammo rebate) is a rather stark difference.

The Mμ (M-mu? bad translation?) looks sportier, but it's a little slower than the Tau. (Edit: this is wrong, both the Tau and Mu have a base, +, and Pro model with identical powertrains)

After discontinuing the XU, Zero has effectively vacated the low-power electric market. I wonder if Brammo will continue to stick it out with the Enertia - remember when Brammo was talking about selling the Enertia alongside the Enertia+?

[Richard230]

Electric motorcycles remain a tough market to figure out.  I think that is why the major manufacturers remain on the fence.  They are not sure if it is worth the effort for them to jump into the pool.  BMW was claiming to introduce their well-developed    scooter this year, but I haven't heard much about it lately.   

[protomech]

Chinese vehicles will have a very tough road to acceptance in the US.

Honda opened its first dealership in the US in 1959 to sell motorcycles. In 1970 they introduced their first car to the US market.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Honda_Motor_Company

I wonder if a similar strategy would work now, 50 years later. There's significant and well-deserved stigma against cheap Chinese engineering, but there's no reason that has to be the case. A well-made small vehicle could begin building a brand based around inexpensive excellence.

But I won't be buying one of the first model years .. because I expect they'll be crap.

[kingcharles]

Too bad it does not have an onboard charger. Otherwise it would be a great city bike.