Honda Creates Electric Bicycle for Adults, but Charging Raises Doubts

Honda Introduces Its First Serial Electric Motorcycle

Honda, the company that revolutionized the motorcycle industry in the 1960s-1970s, has finally introduced its first serial electric motorcycle, the WN7, after a long period of being limited to only electric scooters. This model marks an important step for the Japanese manufacturer into the world of two-wheeled electromobility.

Design and Technical Features

The motorcycle is executed in a streetfighter style with characteristic musculature and modern flat surfaces, reminiscent of the 2024 EV Fun concept. The model is equipped with a 5.1-inch LCD display, LED optics, and a classic single-sided swingarm, like the legendary 1987 RC30.

Power and Dynamics

The name WN7 stands for “Be the Wind” (W), naked (N), and power class (7). According to the manufacturer, the model develops 67 hp (50 kW) and 100 Nm of torque, which corresponds to the power of 600cc gasoline motorcycles and the torque of liter-class sport models.

British publication MCN confirms that the WN7 demonstrates performance that competes with conventional middle-class motorcycles

The weight of the electric motorcycle is 217 kg, which is 25 kg heavier than the gasoline Honda CB750 Hornet. A version with limited power for the European A1 license category is expected.

Range and Charging

The official battery capacity is not disclosed, but the manufacturer claims a range of over 130 km on a single charge. Support for CCS2 fast charging allows the battery to be charged from 20% to 80% in 30 minutes, while a full charge from a home station takes 3 hours.

Pricing Policy and Market Prospects

The model is already available for pre-order in Great Britain with a price of £12,999, which significantly exceeds the cost of other electric and gasoline Honda models. For comparison, the company’s electric scooters cost £3,299-3,800, the gasoline CB750 Hornet is £7,449, and the sporty CB1000 Hornet SP is £10,099.

A competitor is the electric S2 from LiveWire with a range of up to 193 km and a price of £8,799-10,599, which makes the WN7 a rather expensive choice for technology enthusiasts.

The appearance of the WN7 demonstrates that Honda is serious about competing in the electric motorcycle market, despite the high price. This model could become a turning point for other traditional manufacturers who have so far hesitated to make a mass transition to electric drive in the motorcycle industry. The success of the WN7 on the market may determine the company’s future strategy for electrifying its entire line of two-wheeled vehicles.

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