Yamaha's Current Electric Motorcycle Models

Yamaha makes two electric motorcycles currently sold in the U.S. market: the Yamaha PES2 and the Yamaha PES1. The PES2 is the larger, more powerful model designed for highway and mixed riding, while the PES1 is a smaller, lighter bike aimed at urban commuting and shorter trips. Both use hub motors built into the rear wheel and are street-legal in all 50 states.

The PES2 produces 35 kilowatts (about 47 horsepower) and has a top speed of 100 mph. The PES1 produces 11 kilowatts (about 15 horsepower) and tops out around 60 mph. Yamaha also sells the E01 in some markets outside the U.S., which sits between these two in power and range. Availability and pricing change by model year, so check with a Yamaha dealer for current inventory and what's actually in stock near you.

Key Takeaways

  • Yamaha's PES2 is built for highway speeds and longer commutes, while the PES1 is designed for city riding and shorter daily trips.
  • Both models use hub motors and are street-legal nationwide, but you still need a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license to ride legally.
  • Range varies by model and riding conditions: the PES2 claims around 140 miles per charge, while the PES1 claims around 60 miles.
  • Charging time depends on the outlet type — a standard 120-volt outlet takes much longer than a dedicated 240-volt charger.
  • Insurance, registration, and maintenance costs are generally lower than gas motorcycles, but availability of service centers varies by region.

Range and Battery Specifications

The PES2 comes with a 52.5 kWh battery and Yamaha rates it for approximately 140 miles of range under ideal conditions. Real-world range depends heavily on riding style, terrain, weather, and how much throttle you use. Highway riding at constant speed drains the battery faster than city riding with frequent stops, which is the opposite of gas bikes. Cold weather reduces range by 20 to 30 percent in most electric motorcycles.

The PES1 has a smaller battery and is rated for around 60 miles per charge. Neither bike has a removable battery, so you charge the whole motorcycle at a charging station or at home. Yamaha does not publish exact battery degradation rates, but most lithium-ion motorcycle batteries retain 80 to 90 percent of their capacity after five years of normal use. Battery replacement is expensive — expect several thousand dollars — so ask a dealer what warranty coverage applies to the battery specifically.

Charging Options and Time

The PES2 can charge from a standard 120-volt household outlet, but this is the slowest option and takes roughly 20 to 30 hours for a full charge. Most owners install a dedicated 240-volt Level 2 charger at home, which cuts charging time to 4 to 8 hours depending on the charger's power output. Yamaha sells a home charging unit, and many electricians can install one for $500 to $2,000 depending on your home's electrical setup.

Public charging networks like Electrify America and ChargePoint have DC fast chargers that can add 80 miles of range in 30 minutes on the PES2, though availability varies widely by region. Rural areas have far fewer public chargers than cities and suburbs. Before buying, map out charging stations along your regular routes using apps like PlugShare or the charger network's own app. The PES1 charges more slowly than the PES2 and is really designed for home charging only.

Licensing, Registration, and Insurance

You need a valid motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license to ride a Yamaha electric motorcycle legally, just as you would for any gas motorcycle. The endorsement requirements vary by state — some require a written test only, others require a riding skills test, and some waive the test if you take an approved motorcycle safety course. Check your state's DMV website for the exact steps in your area.

Registration is handled like any other motorcycle in your state. You'll pay registration fees, which are usually lower than for gas bikes in states that offer reduced rates for electric vehicles. Insurance is available from most major carriers, and premiums are typically 20 to 40 percent lower than comparable gas motorcycles because repair costs are lower and theft rates are different. Get quotes from at least three insurers before buying, because rates vary widely and some companies have limited experience with electric motorcycles.

Maintenance and Service Availability

Electric motorcycles have far fewer moving parts than gas bikes. There's no oil to change, no spark plugs, no transmission fluid, and no fuel filter. Brake fluid, tire maintenance, and suspension service are the same as any motorcycle. Regenerative braking on the PES2 means the brakes wear more slowly because the motor helps slow the bike. Routine maintenance costs are roughly half what you'd spend on a gas motorcycle over the same mileage.

Service availability is the real constraint. Not every Yamaha dealer has trained technicians for electric models, and some dealers in rural areas may have none. Before buying, call the nearest Yamaha dealer and ask if they service electric motorcycles and how long the wait typically is. If the nearest service center is more than an hour away, factor in travel time and inconvenience. Some owners in underserved areas have had to wait weeks for service or travel long distances for warranty work.

Cost Comparison to Gas Motorcycles

The PES2 starts around $13,000 to $15,000 depending on the model year and dealer, while the PES1 starts around $4,000 to $5,000. Comparable gas motorcycles in the same performance class cost $6,000 to $12,000 for the PES1's equivalent and $10,000 to $18,000 for the PES2's equivalent. The upfront cost is higher for the PES2 but lower for the PES1, so the price advantage depends on which model you're comparing.

Over five years of ownership, the total cost of ownership (purchase, fuel or electricity, maintenance, insurance, registration) often favors the electric bike. Electricity costs roughly one-third what gas costs per mile, and maintenance is half the price. However, if you ride fewer than 5,000 miles per year, the lower maintenance savings may not offset the higher purchase price. Calculate your own break-even point based on your expected annual mileage and local electricity rates.

Riding Experience and Performance

Electric motors deliver maximum torque when ready, so both Yamaha models feel quick off the line compared to gas bikes with the same horsepower rating. The PES2 accelerates smoothly and reaches highway speeds without drama. The PES1 is more modest but still adequate for city riding and suburban commutes. Both bikes are heavier than equivalent gas motorcycles because of the battery weight, which affects handling and maneuverability in tight spaces.

Regenerative braking on the PES2 means the motor slows the bike when you release the throttle, which takes some getting used to if you've only ridden gas bikes. This reduces brake wear and extends range slightly. The riding position and ergonomics are standard motorcycle geometry — not radically different from gas bikes. Test ride both models at a dealer before deciding, because comfort and control feel different to each rider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special license to ride a Yamaha electric motorcycle?

You need a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license, the same as for any gas motorcycle. The endorsement process varies by state — some require only a written test, others require a riding skills test, and some waive the test if you complete an approved motorcycle safety course. Check your state's DMV website for the specific requirements where you live.

Can I charge a Yamaha electric motorcycle at a Tesla Supercharger?

No. Tesla Superchargers use a connector type designed for Tesla vehicles only. Yamaha electric motorcycles use standard EV charging connectors like CCS or CHAdeMO depending on the model. Use public charging networks like Electrify America, ChargePoint, or Evgo that support motorcycles, or charge at home with a Level 2 charger.

What happens if the battery dies while I'm riding?

The bike will gradually lose power as the battery depletes — you won't suddenly stop. You'll notice the acceleration slowing and the top speed dropping. If you're paying attention to the battery gauge on the display, you'll have plenty of warning to find a charger or coast to a safe stop. Most riders plan routes around known charging locations to avoid this situation entirely.

Is there a federal tax credit for buying a Yamaha electric motorcycle?

The federal tax credit for electric motorcycles was $2,500 under previous law, but as of 2024 that credit has expired. Some states offer their own rebates or tax credits for electric motorcycle purchases — check your state's environmental or energy office website. Local utility companies sometimes offer rebates too, so ask when you're shopping for a home charger.

How long does a Yamaha electric motorcycle battery last?

Most lithium-ion motorcycle batteries retain 80 to 90 percent of their capacity after five years of normal use. Yamaha typically warranties the battery for five years or a certain mileage limit — ask a dealer for the exact terms. Full battery replacement is expensive (several thousand dollars), but most owners don't need replacement within the first decade of ownership if they charge and store the bike properly.