More than eight in ten UK motorcyclists would not switch to an electric motorcycle, according to new research from Warranty Solutions Group (WSG), highlighting continued scepticism towards electric bikes despite growing industry investment in the sector.
The survey of more than 200 riders found that 81% would not currently consider moving to an electric motorcycle, with just 17% saying they would be willing to make the switch.
The findings suggest that concerns around range, charging infrastructure, purchase costs and ownership practicality continue to outweigh the perceived benefits of electric motorcycles for many riders.
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The research also revealed growing concerns around the affordability of motorcycling. Insurance was identified as the biggest ownership cost pressure by 38% of riders, ahead of maintenance and repair costs (23%) and riding gear and safety equipment (18%).
Cost pressures are also influencing the future growth of the sector. Nearly half of riders (46%) believe high costs are the biggest factor discouraging new riders from entering motorcycling, ahead of licensing requirements (18%) and safety concerns (17%).
More than half of respondents (52%) believe the next generation is less likely to become motorcyclists, reflecting growing concerns around affordability, training costs and the overall cost of ownership.
The survey also highlighted continuing safety concerns within the riding community. Almost half of riders identified poor driver awareness of motorcycles as the biggest safety risk on UK roads, while a significant proportion reported experiencing either a near miss or collision during the past 12 months.
Simon Drown, Head of Specialist Products and Motorcycles at Warranty Solutions Group, said: “Motorcycling has always been driven by passion, freedom and the riding experience, 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.
“What’s particularly striking is that the survey isn’t just highlighting concerns around electric motorcycles. It’s showing that riders are becoming increasingly focused on the overall cost of ownership.
“Insurance, maintenance, repairs and riding equipment are all becoming more expensive, while almost half of riders believe cost is now the biggest barrier preventing new people from entering the market. As motorcycles become more technologically advanced, riders want reassurance that ownership remains affordable and predictable over the long term.”
Stefan Choma, Director of Operations at SuperBike Factory Limited, said: “These findings reflect many of the conversations we’re having with riders every day. Interest in new technology is growing, but for most motorcyclists the priority remains finding a bike that delivers enjoyment, practicality and affordability.
“The used motorcycle market continues to perform strongly because riders are making considered purchasing decisions based on real-world ownership experience. While electric motorcycles will undoubtedly play a role in the future of the industry, today’s riders remain heavily invested in traditional motorcycles and want confidence that any alternative can genuinely meet their needs both on and off the road.
“Reliability, affordability and ownership confidence have become increasingly important factors for riders. As household budgets remain under pressure, people are looking carefully at the long-term costs of ownership and making purchasing decisions that balance performance, practicality and value.”
The findings reinforce wider trends identified in WSG’s Motorcycle Market View Report, which highlights how rising labour rates, increasingly sophisticated technology and growing repair complexity are changing motorcycle ownership across the UK. Modern motorcycles increasingly feature advanced electronics, rider-assistance systems and connected technology, making reliability and protection more important than ever before.
Simon Drown added: “Whether riders choose petrol or electric motorcycles in the future, one thing is clear – ownership costs are becoming a bigger consideration than ever before. Riders are planning further ahead and looking for ways to protect themselves from unexpected expenses while continuing to enjoy the freedom that motorcycling offers.”
New Motorcycle Warranties From WSG
In response to rising repair costs and increasing motorcycle complexity, Warranty Solutions Group has launched a new direct-to-consumer motorcycle warranty proposition, giving riders direct access to protection against unexpected repair bills.
Designed specifically for modern riders, the warranty provides straightforward protection across a wide range of motorcycles and has been developed to reflect the realities of modern motorcycle ownership, where repairs are becoming increasingly complex and expensive.
The proposition includes comprehensive mechanical and electrical component cover and has been designed to give riders greater confidence and certainty around long-term ownership costs. The launch follows growing demand from riders seeking protection against rising repair bills as motorcycle technology continues to evolve.
Motorcyclists can now access warranties directly via
https://customer.warrantysolutionsgroup.co.uk/
About WSG
Warranty Solutions Group is the UK’s premium and highest rated provider of extended used vehicle warranties. Underpinned by one mission of being the most trusted warranty company, we proudly protect hundreds of thousands of motorists every year from unexpected vehicle repair bills and work in partnership with almost 3,000 dealerships across the country.
With WSG there is no jargon, endless exclusions or difficult claim processes, just superior warranty coverage backed by thousands of five-star reviews
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Original post on modernclassicbikes.co.uk and published by Frank Duggan. Frank is the Founder and Editor of Modern Classic Motorcycle News, an independent motorcycle publication covering modern classic motorcycles, roadsters, scramblers, cruisers, electric motorcycles and the wider motorcycle industry.
