There’s little doubt electric bikes such as the Vespa Elletrica or Gogora Smartscooter were created to appeal to manscaped millennials out to save the planet. Others, however, appeal to traditional motorcycle enthusiasts who demand performance and roguish looks. The Brutus V9 would be right at home parked among the “real” bikes at Alabama Jack’s. A top speed of 115 mph and a range of 280 miles allows it to do everything a gas bike can do, except set off car alarms when you roll into a parking garage. Realizing they need to appeal to buyers other than distinguished dudes with salt-and-pepper beards, the Harley Davidson Livewire was created. Looking like it was designed for Keanu Reeves, the Livewire is loaded with high-tech features including traction control, GPS and even a faux exhaust note. The Ducati crowd will love the Energica EGO’s Italian café racer styling, ability to go from 0-60 in 3 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph. When you add in the eco-happy benefit of never needing a gas station, ease of parking and virtually no ongoing maintenance, an electric bike suddenly becomes a viable means of transport; BrutusMotorcycle.com; HarleyDavidson.com; EnergicaMotorUSA.com.
