Monthly registration figures consistantly highlight the limited popularity of battery-powered bikes in the UK, so a new survey of 200 bikers finding that around 80% would refuse to switch from petrol to electric come as no real surprise.
The survey, commissioned by customer care firm Warranty Solutions Group, found just 17% of those asked would consider changing to an electric bike, with the remainder as ‘don’t knows’. Concerns raised centred on familiar topics: range, charging infrastructure, purchase costs and practicality of ownership.
The survey asked about other aspects of motorcycling, too, and affordability was a common theme. Insurance was an important cost pressure for 38%, while 46% believed high costs were the biggest barrier preventing new riders from entering motorcycling. And a pessimistic 52% of those surveyed believe the next generation is less likely to take up riding.
Simon Drown, head of motorcycles at Warranty Solutions Group, said: “Motorcycling has always been driven by passion, so it’s perhaps not surprising that many riders remain cautious about making the switch to electric motorcycles.
“While electric technology continues to evolve, concerns around range, charging infrastructure, purchase costs and overall riding experience are clearly still influencing rider attitudes. What this survey shows is that manufacturers and the wider industry still have work to do to convince riders that electric motorcycles can deliver the same practicality, excitement and ownership confidence as traditional petrol-powered bikes.”