Electric dirt bikes are now a real choice in Australia, alongside petrol bikes that have decades of refinement and a large dealer network behind them. Neither is better for everyone. The right choice depends on where you ride, how long for, and what you can charge or carry.
Range and refuelling
A petrol bike can be refuelled in minutes from a jerry can, which matters on remote trails and multi-day rides. An electric bike's riding time depends heavily on terrain, speed, rider weight and power mode, and recharging takes hours rather than minutes. Makers' run-time claims vary widely with conditions. Our guide to range claims explains how to read them.
Charging at home
Check what each charger needs before you buy. Some chargers suit a normal household outlet; others list different supply requirements or optional faster chargers. Check charge times from the maker's own specification, and note whether they are to 80 per cent or full.
Noise
Electric bikes are much quieter. That can help on private property and with neighbours. It doesn't change the rules about where riding is permitted.
Maintenance
Electric bikes have no engine oil, air filter, spark plug or clutch to service in the usual sense. They still need suspension, brake, chain, tyre and bearing maintenance like any dirt bike. Petrol bikes, especially competition models, need regular engine servicing. Ask the dealer what local service and parts support exists for the specific model, and for electric bikes, what happens if the battery needs replacing.
Power figures don't convert
Petrol bikes are described by engine capacity in cc. Electric bikes are described by motor output in kW or horsepower, often with separate peak and continuous figures. There's no reliable conversion between cc and kW, so we never show one as an equivalent of the other. Compare how a bike is built and who it's built for, not a single power number.
Weight
Makers publish weight on different bases: wet, without fuel, kerb, or with no basis stated. For electric bikes, it's not always clear whether the battery is included. Our bike pages show the basis next to every weight, and the compare page warns you when the bases differ.
Questions to ask either way
- Where is the nearest dealer that services this model?
- What does the warranty cover, and what servicing does it require?
- How will I transport the bike, and what does it weigh ready to ride?
- For electric: what charger is included, what supply does it need, and what does a replacement battery cost?