Most of my life I've ridden sport bikes (Interceptors, Hurricanes, etc.), so the higher speed of the Empulse is attractive... but, as others have posted, how often do you really need to go that fast?
For me, I'm attracted to the 100 MPH figure, not because I plan to burn up my tires and batteries super fast but because I spend a portion of every single day on the freeways commuting.
A bike that will exceed a ton feels a LOT safer to me at 65 when I need to pass than one that's topped out at 75. It really comes down to available torque, I guess.
I commuted for several years on a BMW R1200R and the big twin really shot past cars in passing whenever I'd downshift and go to WOT. (Yes, I did 135 mph. Once.) Then I tried a Honda 250 Reflex. What a sad story on the highway! Now I'm on a TMax 500 which is a dream commuter, but decidedly anemic in that critical passing range.
What I don't know, of course, is how an electric bike, especially, say the Empulse, would deliver its torque at highway speeds. I suspect I'll be pleased! And for sure, around town, when you really need to move out of the way NOW, I'm sure, with its gearing, the torque will deliver impressively.
- Bill
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"Everybody has a plan until they get hit." - Mike Tyson
