Honda’s EV Fun Concept: A Bold Step Toward Electric Motorcycling in 2025
The long-awaited arrival of a full-sized electric motorcycle from Honda is nearly here, with the new Honda EV Fun Concept debuting at EICMA 2023 in Milan. This middleweight electric bike promises to bridge the gap between concept and production, with Honda aiming for a 2025 release. Given Honda’s status as a pioneering force in the motorcycle industry, this announcement could mark a significant moment for EV adoption in motorcycling.
Honda’s Entry into the Electric Motorcycle Market
Honda has been cautious with its entry into the electric motorcycle market, even as other brands like Harley-Davidson have released models such as the LiveWire. Despite the LiveWire’s innovative engineering, electric motorcycles have yet to break into mainstream use, often remaining niche products. However, as other major manufacturers ramp up their electric motorcycle projects, it seems that the industry is waiting for a breakthrough—a tipping point that could make EV bikes a common sight on the roads.
Honda’s unveiling of the EV Fun Concept hints that it may see a viable path to profitability in electric motorcycles. Although “EV Fun” is a temporary name, Honda’s confidence in the bike’s potential is clear.
What We Know About the EV Fun Concept
Honda hasn’t shared extensive technical details on the EV Fun Concept yet, but it describes it as an “electric sports model equivalent to a mid-sized internal combustion engine motorcycle.” This classification could mean anything from a 250cc to a 750cc equivalent in traditional motorcycle terms, with potential power outputs ranging from 30 hp to 100 hp. Based on its design and components, many speculate that the bike is likely to fall within this range, possibly leaning toward the higher end.
The EV Fun Concept showcases some high-performance features, including Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires (180/55-17 rear and 120/70-17 front), twin four-piston radial Nissin front calipers, an inverted fork, and a single-sided swingarm. These elements, along with its longer wheelbase—comparable to a CB750 Hornet—suggest that Honda aims for the EV Fun to provide more than just urban commuting capabilities.
Design Choices and Charging System
The EV Fun Concept is equipped with a substantial, non-removable battery pack, neatly encased where the engine would typically sit. Honda has also confirmed that the bike will use CCS2 charging—the widely adopted Combined Charging System in Europe, supporting both rapid DC charging and slower AC charging. While the range is reportedly over 100 kilometers (around 62 miles), this might only make it suitable for city use or short-range rides. A smaller battery, however, does help in keeping the bike lighter.
Unlike traditional motorcycles, the EV Fun Concept doesn’t have a gear shifter or clutch lever. Honda has opted for a standard braking layout, with the front brake lever on the left bar and the rear brake controlled by a foot pedal, maintaining a familiar feel for riders transitioning from conventional bikes.
Potential Regenerative Braking and Two-Wheel Drive
One of the most intriguing aspects of the EV Fun Concept is an unexplained unit in the front hub, connected by thick electrical cables. Honda has not detailed its purpose, but its design suggests the possibility of regenerative braking, where braking energy is converted back into electricity to recharge the battery. If this is indeed a motor/generator unit, it could even enable two-wheel drive functionality, an innovative feature for an electric motorcycle.
Quiet and Efficient Belt Drive
The rear wheel of the EV Fun Concept is driven by a toothed belt—a common choice for electric bikes. Without the engine noise to mask the sound, a chain drive can produce an undesirable level of noise, making the quieter belt drive preferable for many electric bikes.
The EV Fun Concept’s Sibling: EV Urban Concept
Alongside the EV Fun, Honda also unveiled the EV Urban Concept at EICMA, a larger scooter that shares some features with the EV Fun, such as the front hub unit and belt drive. However, Honda has not confirmed if the EV Urban will go into production. For now, Honda’s main focus remains on bringing the EV Fun to market.
A Look Toward 2025
Honda’s entry into the electric motorcycle market with the EV Fun Concept could signal a shift in the industry. By combining mid-size performance, advanced components, and EV-specific features like regenerative braking, the EV Fun may set new standards for electric motorcycles in the coming years. The EV Fun’s 2025 release will not only give Honda fans an electric option but also provide a glimpse into the future of motorcycles, where electrification is likely to become an integral part of the riding experience.
Are you ready for Honda’s first full-size electric motorcycle? What are your thoughts on the EV Fun Concept? Drop a comment below, and let’s discuss if this could be the game-changer for electric motorcycling! Don’t forget to share this with fellow motorcycle enthusiasts looking toward an electric future!
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Kristina is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
