Motorcycles are all about freedom, speed, and style. Café racers are special because of their classic, vintage look. Now, there’s a new trend getting popular: electric café racers. Picture a slim, lightweight café racer that runs on a quiet, eco-friendly electric motor. This bike mixes retro style with modern, high-tech features.
Electric café racers are gaining attention. They offer the best of both worlds: the cool, classic look of old-school bikes and the clean, efficient power of electric engines. Whether you are an experienced rider or new to motorcycles, electric café racers bring a fresh and exciting way to ride.
In this guide, we’ll talk about what makes electric café racers special. We will cover their main features, top models, custom upgrades, and current market trends. Let’s find out why these bikes are becoming so popular among motorcycle lovers.
What is an electric cafe racer?
An electric café racer is a motorcycle that looks like an old-style bike but runs on an electric motor, not a gas engine. It has the classic design of café racers, known for their lightweight build and sleek look, combined with modern electric technology.
These bikes are quiet, eco-friendly, and don’t release any harmful fumes. They have a simple, stylish design with low seats and slim frames, making them good for city rides. Riders like electric café racers because they speed up fast, need less maintenance, and help the environment.
Why Electric Café Racers are Trending
Electric café racers are becoming popular because they mix style, speed, and eco-friendliness. People love their classic look, which feels like old motorcycles. But these bikes have electric motors, so they are quiet and don’t create gas fumes or pollution.
Many riders pick electric café racers because they are simple to take care of. They don’t need oil changes, and they have fewer parts that can break. They also speed up fast, which makes them fun to ride in the city. Plus, as more people care about the environment, electric bikes are seen as a smart, green choice.
Key Features of Electric Café Racers
Now that you know what an electric café racer is, let’s look at what makes these bikes special. When you see one on the road, you’ll notice a few key features.
1. Classic Look with a Modern Twist
Electric café racers have a retro style, just like café racers from the 1960s. They have low seats, slim bodies, and clean lines. They look fast even when they’re not moving. But unlike the old models, these bikes use an electric motor. It’s quiet and hidden well, so you still get that vintage feel but with modern power.
2. Smooth and Quiet Ride
Electric café racers are smooth and almost silent. Gas bikes make a lot of noise from the engine. But with electric motors, you only hear a soft hum. When you twist the throttle, the bike speeds up quickly without the roar. This makes city rides more peaceful and enjoyable. You can zip through traffic without making a lot of noise.
3. Battery Power and Range
These bikes use batteries instead of gas. The battery is the main part of the bike’s power. Most electric café racers have lithium-ion batteries. These are strong and last a long time. The size of the battery decides how far you can go on one charge. Some bikes can travel up to 80-100 miles before you need to recharge. Charging is simple – just plug it into a regular wall outlet. It usually takes about 4-6 hours for a full charge.
4. Eco-Friendly Choice
Electric café racers don’t burn gas, so they don’t release emissions. This means you’re not polluting the air while riding. It’s a green, clean way to get around. The quiet ride also helps reduce noise pollution. It’s good for you and the planet.
5. Low Maintenance
Many riders like electric café racers because they need less upkeep. Gas bikes have many parts like engines, exhausts, and carburetors. These parts need regular care. Electric bikes have fewer moving parts, so there’s less that can go wrong. You won’t need to do oil changes or replace spark plugs. This makes owning an electric café racer easier and cheaper.
6. Modern Tech Features
Even though electric café racers look vintage, they come with modern technology. Many bikes have LED lights, digital displays, and even Bluetooth. Some models let you track the battery level and performance with a smartphone app. It’s a mix of old-school style and new tech.
7. Customization Options
If you like to customize, electric café racers are a great choice. You can change the seat, handlebars, and paint. You can even upgrade the battery for more power. Some riders build their own electric café racers from scratch using parts and kits. It’s a fun way to make a bike that matches your style.
Leading Electric Café Racer Models
If you’re thinking about getting an electric café racer, there are many good options. Each bike has unique features and a cool style. Here are some popular models you should know.
1. Famel E-XF
The Famel E-XF looks like a classic café racer but has modern touches. It has a sleek design that honors vintage motorcycles. The bike has a 5 kW electric motor, giving it a strong boost. You can ride up to 70 km on one charge, which is perfect for short city trips. The lightweight frame and stylish body make it stand out.
2. Ovaobike CR-21
The Ovaobike CR-21 has a retro-modern style. It mixes old café racer looks with new technology. It comes with an 11 kW motor, making it perform like a 300cc gas bike. The ride is smooth and fast, great for riders who love speed and style. The CR-21 also features a digital display showing speed and battery life.
3. Maeving RM1
The Maeving RM1 is a British electric café racer with a classic design. It has a removable battery, so you can take it out and charge it indoors. It has a range of up to 80 miles, making it good for longer rides. The bike is light and easy to handle, perfect for city streets. Many riders like the Maeving RM1 for its smooth ride and stylish look.
4. Revolve Electric Café Racer
The Revolve Electric Café Racer is known for its speed and sleek design. It can reach a top speed of 60 mph with its powerful 72V 50Ah battery. You can ride up to 70 miles on one charge. The bike has a low, sporty look and comes with LED lights for a modern touch. It’s a great pick for riders who want a fast, stylish, and eco-friendly bike.
5. Savic C-Series
The Savic C-Series is Australia’s first full-size electric café racer. It is strong and powerful, going from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. The C-Series focuses on speed and performance but still has a classic look. It has a large battery for long rides. Many people love the Savic C-Series for its power and stylish design.
Quick Comparison Table:
| Model | Motor Power | Top Speed | Range (Miles) | Key Feature |
| Famel E-XF | 5 kW | 40 mph | 45 | Classic design |
| Ovaobike CR-21 | 11 kW | 70 mph | 60 | Retro-modern styling |
| Maeving RM1 | 6 kW | 50 mph | 80 | Removable battery |
| Revolve Café Racer | 72V 50Ah | 60 mph | 70 | Powerful battery, sleek look |
| Savic C-Series | 40 kW | 100 mph | 100 | High performance |
These are just a few of the top electric café racers on the market right now. Each model offers something different, so there’s likely one that fits your needs and style.
Customization and DIY Builds
One of the best things about electric café racers is that you can customize them. Many riders love making their bikes unique. Electric café racers give you endless ways to personalize.
1. Why Customize?
Customizing your electric café racer is a great way to stand out. You can add your own style and touch. Maybe you want a new seat, special handlebars, or a unique paint job. You can also upgrade the motor or battery for better speed and range. Customization helps you build a bike that fits your taste.
2. Simple Custom Upgrades
You don’t need to be an expert to customize your bike. Here are some easy upgrades to try:
- Change the Seat: A new seat can give your bike a fresh look. You can pick a vintage-style seat or a more modern one.
- Switch the Handlebars: New handlebars can change how your bike feels. Café racer handlebars are low and give a sporty vibe.
- Paint and Decals: A fresh paint job or decals can make your bike stand out. Choose classic black or a bright color for a bold look.
3. Upgrading the Motor and Battery
If you want more speed or range, try upgrading the motor or battery. A stronger motor gives faster acceleration. A bigger battery lets you ride longer without charging. Make sure the new parts fit your bike. It’s smart to ask the manufacturer before making big changes.
4. DIY Electric Café Racer Builds
If you like hands-on projects, you might want to build your own electric café racer. It’s a big task, but it can be fun. You can use a conversion kit, which has everything needed to turn a regular bike into an electric one. Here’s what you need:
- Motor: This replaces the gas engine.
- Battery: It powers the bike.
- Controller: It manages power flow from the battery to the motor.
- Throttle: The part you twist to control speed.
Building your own bike takes time, patience, and basic skills. In the end, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind electric café racer you made yourself. It’s a great way to learn how electric motorcycles work.
5. Popular Custom Builds
Many riders have made amazing custom electric café racers. Here are some great examples:
- Super Soco TC Max Custom: Riders have turned this bike into a sleek café racer with custom seats, handlebars, and a unique paint job.
- DIY Classic Conversion: Some people have used kits to turn old gas-powered café racers into electric ones. They keep the vintage look but add a modern motor.
These custom builds can inspire you if you want to create your own bike.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
Electric café racers are not just a passing trend. They are getting more popular every year. Let’s see why people love them and what the future may bring.
1. Rise of Electric Vehicles
In recent years, many people are choosing electric vehicles. Cars, scooters, and motorcycles are going electric. This shift is happening because electric vehicles are better for the environment. They do not release harmful gases like gas-powered vehicles do. As people learn more about climate change, they want greener choices. Electric café racers fit this trend well.
2. A New Style Icon
Café racers are known for their cool, classic look. Now, electric café racers offer the same style with a modern twist. Riders who want something different and eye-catching are choosing electric café racers. They look vintage but have high-tech features, making them a new icon on the streets.
3. Better Technology
Electric motorcycle technology is improving fast. New batteries last longer and charge faster. Motors are becoming stronger and more efficient. These changes help electric café racers go farther and faster than before. Soon, electric café racers might match gas bikes in performance.
4. Government Support
Many governments support electric vehicles. They offer tax credits, rebates, and discounts. These benefits make electric bikes cheaper to buy. Some cities are also adding more charging stations. This makes it easier for electric bike owners. This support helps electric café racers become even more popular.
5. Growing Interest in Custom Builds
More people are excited about building or customizing electric café racers. The DIY market is growing. Riders enjoy the challenge of creating their own unique bikes. This trend will likely continue as more people want to make their rides personal.
6. What’s Next for Electric Café Racers?
The future for electric café racers looks bright. We will likely see better batteries, faster charging times, and improved performance. New models will have smart features like digital displays, app controls, and better safety systems. In a few years, electric café racers could be as common as gas-powered bikes.
Today’s riders want bikes that look good, ride well, and are eco-friendly. Electric café racers meet all these needs. They combine the best parts of classic motorcycles with the benefits of electric power.
Buying Guide for Electric Café Racers
If you’re thinking about buying an electric café racer, there are a few important things to know. This guide will help you pick the right bike.
1. Know Your Riding Needs
Think about how you plan to use the bike. Is it for daily commuting, weekend rides, or just for show? If you need it for commuting, choose a bike with a good battery range. For short, fun rides, focus more on style than long distance.
2. Check the Battery and Range
The battery is the most important part of an electric café racer. It decides how far you can ride before recharging. Most models go between 40 to 100 miles on one charge. For longer rides, pick a bike with a bigger battery. Also, check the charging time. Some bikes charge in 2-3 hours, but others take up to 6 hours.
3. Look at Motor Power and Speed
Motor power affects how fast and strong the bike feels. For city rides, a motor with 5-11 kW power works well. If you want more speed, go for models with 20-40 kW motors. These can reach speeds of 100 mph or more.
4. Check Design and Comfort
The look of the bike is important for many riders. Electric café racers come in styles from vintage to modern. Choose one that matches your taste. Comfort is also key. Make sure the seat feels good, especially for long rides. If possible, test the bike to see how it feels.
5. Compare Features
Different bikes come with different features. Here are some to consider:
- Digital Display: Shows speed, battery level, and distance.
- LED Lights: Bright and energy-efficient.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Lets you link your phone to the bike.
- Smart App Control: Lets you track battery and motor health with an app.
Pick the features that fit your needs best.
6. Think About the Price
Electric café racers can be pricey. They start at around $5,000 and go up to $20,000 or more for top models. Set a budget before shopping. Remember, electric bikes often cost less to maintain than gas bikes, so you may save money over time.
7. Test Ride Before Buying
If you can, always take a test ride before you buy. This will help you decide if the bike feels right. Pay attention to how it handles, how smooth it rides, and if the seat is comfortable. A test ride can help you avoid picking a bike that doesn’t suit you.
8. Check Warranty and Support
Make sure the bike has a good warranty. Most cover the battery and motor for 1-2 years. A warranty can give you peace of mind if there are any issues. Also, check if there’s a service center nearby for repairs.
Maintenance and Care for Electric Café Racers
Electric café racers are easier to care for than gas motorcycles. They have fewer parts, so there’s less to maintain. But regular upkeep is still needed. Here’s how to keep your bike in good shape.
1. Battery Care
The battery is the heart of your electric café racer. Follow these tips to make it last longer:
- Charge Regularly: Don’t let the battery drop to zero. Keep it between 20% and 80%.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave your bike in very hot or cold places. This can harm the battery.
- Check for Swelling: If the battery looks swollen, stop using it and get it checked. Swelling can mean damage.
2. Check the Tires
Good tires are important for a smooth, safe ride. Inspect your tires often for:
- Air Pressure: Low pressure can make riding unsafe. Use a tire gauge to check monthly.
- Tread Wear: Look at the tread. If it’s worn down, replace the tire.
3. Inspect the Brakes
Your brakes need to be in top condition. Here’s how to check them:
- Test the Brakes: Before each ride, squeeze the brake levers. They should feel strong.
- Check the Brake Pads: If the pads are thin, replace them. Worn pads make it hard to stop quickly.
4. Clean the Bike Often
Dirt and dust can build up, especially if you ride in the city. Cleaning helps keep your bike looking good and working well.
- Wipe Down the Frame: Use a soft cloth to clean the bike. Don’t use too much water, especially near the motor and battery.
- Clean the Chain: If your bike has a chain, wipe it with a dry cloth. Use chain lubricant to keep it smooth.
5. Install Software Updates
Many electric café racers have smart features. Check for updates from the manufacturer.
- Install Updates: Updates can improve performance. They may fix bugs or add new features.
6. Store Your Bike Properly
Where you keep your bike matters. Follow these storage tips:
- Keep It Dry: Store the bike in a dry place to prevent rust.
- Turn Off the Power: If you’re not using the bike for a while, turn off the power and unplug the battery.
7. Schedule Regular Checkups
Even though electric café racers need less maintenance, a yearly checkup is a good idea.
- Visit a Service Center: A professional can inspect the motor, battery, and other parts. This helps ensure everything is working well.
Legal and Licensing Considerations
Before riding your electric café racer, learn the legal rules. Laws can differ by country and state. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Do You Need a License?
In most places, you need a motorcycle license to ride an electric café racer. The process is like getting a license for gas bikes. You may need to pass a written test and a riding test. Check the local rules to see which license you need.
2. Registration and Insurance
Electric café racers usually need to be registered, just like gas bikes. You’ll get a license plate and registration papers. This proves your bike is legal for the road. Insurance is also required. It covers you in case of an accident or theft. Choose an insurance policy that fits your needs.
3. Safety Requirements
Many countries have safety rules for motorcycles. Your electric café racer must meet these rules to be legal. Common requirements include:
- Working Lights: Your bike needs a headlight, taillight, and turn signals.
- Mirrors: You need at least one mirror to see behind you.
- Horn: Your bike must have a working horn.
4. Rules for Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles often have special rules. In some cities, electric bikes can use bus lanes or bike paths. However, there may be limits. For example, some places do not allow electric motorcycles on highways because they may be slower than gas bikes. Always check local laws to avoid fines.
5. Helmet Laws
In most places, you must wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle, including electric café racers. A helmet protects your head in an accident. Make sure your helmet meets safety standards. Look for a DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) certified helmet.
6. Age Restrictions
There may be age limits for riding electric café racers. In many places, you need to be at least 16 or 18 years old to get a motorcycle license. Younger riders may be allowed to ride electric scooters or mopeds, but not full-size motorcycles.
7. Noise and Emissions Rules
A big advantage of electric café racers is that they are quiet and have zero emissions. This means they don’t make noise or pollute the air. Many cities have strict rules against loud motorcycles. Electric bikes easily meet these rules since they don’t have noisy engines.
Community and Culture
Riding an electric café racer is about more than just getting around. It’s about being part of a growing, exciting community. Here’s what makes this culture special.
1. The Café Racer Spirit
The café racer culture began in the 1960s. Riders wanted fast, stylish bikes for short, quick rides. Today, this spirit is still alive, even with electric bikes. Riders enjoy the mix of vintage style and modern technology. It’s all about looking good, riding fast, and having fun.
2. Growing Electric Bike Communities
As more people choose electric bikes, new communities are forming. Groups of riders meet up to show off their bikes and go for rides together. These groups are friendly and welcome new members. It’s a great way to meet others who love electric café racers.
3. Online Forums and Social Media
The internet is a big part of the electric café racer world. Many riders join online forums to share tips, talk about their bikes, and get advice. Social media sites like Instagram and Facebook are filled with photos and videos of custom electric café racers. You can follow hashtags like #ElectricCafeRacer to see the latest trends.
4. Events and Meetups
There are many events where fans of electric café racers gather. You can find local bike shows, ride-outs, or even races. These events are a great place to see different bikes, talk to other riders, and learn about new models. Some shows focus on vintage café racers, but electric bikes are becoming popular too.
5. Custom Builds and DIY Projects
A big part of café racer culture is customization. Many riders love to build their own bikes or make changes to store-bought models. The community values creativity and craftsmanship. You’ll see many unique bikes that reflect the owner’s personal style. If you like DIY projects, you’ll find plenty of support and ideas from other riders.
Conclusion
Electric café racers combine style and innovation. They have the classic look of vintage motorcycles but use clean, modern electric motors. These bikes are eco-friendly and offer a smooth, quiet ride that many riders enjoy.
If you care about the planet, want a unique bike, and like being part of a community, an electric café racer is a great choice. They are fun to ride, easy to maintain, and can be customized in many ways. You can buy a ready-made model or build your own. Either way, you’ll get a bike that stands out.
The future is bright for electric café racers. Technology keeps getting better, making these bikes faster and more efficient. As more people switch to electric bikes, the market will grow. This means we will see more models, features, and options in the years ahead.
Riding an electric café racer is about more than just getting around. It’s about style, community, and helping the move toward cleaner, greener travel. If you want something different, try an electric café racer. You might just fall in love with it.
FAQs
What is the average range of an electric café racer on a single charge?
Most electric café racers offer a range between 40 to 100 miles per charge, depending on the model and battery capacity.
How long does it take to fully charge an electric café racer’s battery?
Charging times typically range from 4 to 6 hours using a standard household outlet, though this can vary based on the battery size and charger specifications.
Do I need a special license to ride an electric café racer?
Licensing requirements vary by region. In many areas, a motorcycle license is required, but it’s essential to check local regulations to confirm.
How does the maintenance of an electric café racer compare to a traditional gas-powered motorcycle?
Electric café racers generally require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts, eliminating the need for oil changes and reducing wear on components.
Can I customize my electric café racer?
Yes, many electric café racers can be customized with modifications to the seat, handlebars, paint, and even performance upgrades like enhanced batteries or motors.
Are electric café racers suitable for long-distance travel?
While they are ideal for city commuting and short trips, their range may limit long-distance travel unless charging stations are accessible along your route.
How do electric café racers perform in terms of speed and acceleration?
Electric motors provide instant torque, resulting in quick acceleration. Top speeds vary by model, with some reaching up to 100 mph.
What are the environmental benefits of choosing an electric café racer?
They produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing air pollution, and operate quietly, contributing to lower noise pollution.
How does the cost of owning an electric café racer compare to a traditional motorcycle?
Although the initial purchase price may be higher, lower fuel and maintenance costs can make electric café racers more economical over time.
Where can I find charging stations for my electric café racer?
Charging stations are increasingly available in urban areas, parking facilities, and along highways. Various apps and websites can help locate nearby charging points.
