Are you thinking about changing your motorbike or buying a new solution for your urban commute? The choice between an electric motorbike and a traditional 50cc petrol-powered one is becoming increasingly common, especially when economy and sustainability come into play. But how much does it really cost to maintain each one? In this article, we will take a detailed look at the maintenance and operating costs, taking as an example a motorcyclist who travels 100 km per week between home and work.
The Scenario: 100K Weekly to Work
To make the comparison as realistic as possible, let's consider a user who travels, on average, 100 kilometers every week, which translates into around 5,200 kilometers per year. This is a common profile for those who use their motorcycle as their main means of transport to work in the city.
Electric Motorcycle: The Silent and Economical Revolution
Electric motorbikes are gaining more and more fans due to their numerous advantages, and economy is, without a doubt, one of the most significant.
Energy Costs: A Breeze on Your Wallet
The cost of "fueling" an electric motorcycle is considerably lower than that of gasoline. Let's look at the numbers:
- Average Consumption: An electric scooter equivalent to a 125cc (we will use this as a reference for a safe estimate, smaller models can be even more efficient) consumes, on average, around 3.72 kWh for every 100 km .
- Electricity Price: Considering an average electricity price in Portugal for domestic customers in 2025 of €0.155 per kWh .
- Cost per 100 km: This means that traveling 100 km on an electric motorcycle costs just 3.72 kWh * €0.155/kWh = €0.58 (approximately).
- Weekly Cost: For our weekly 100 km, the energy expenditure is only 0,58 € .
- Annual Cost: Over a year (5200 km), the total cost of electricity would be around 30 € .
Number of Charges: Simplicity and Convenience
With a consumption of 3.72 kWh for 100 km and assuming a battery with a capacity of between 2 kWh and 3 kWh (common in urban scooters), our user would need to carry out between 1 and 2 full charges per week . Many users opt for partial and more frequent charges, taking advantage of the night or periods when the bike is parked, making the process even more convenient.
Electric Motorcycle Maintenance: Fewer Parts, Fewer Headaches
The mechanical simplicity of electric motorcycles translates into significantly lower maintenance costs:
- Engine and Transmission: They require virtually no maintenance. No more oils, engine filters, spark plugs or complex drive belts.
- Tires: With an estimated useful life of between 10,000 and 15,000 km, the annualized cost for tires (considering a pair at €80) would be approximately 33 € for the 5200 km per year.
- Brake Pads: Thanks to regenerative braking (which helps charge the battery when decelerating), pad wear is generally reduced. We estimate an annualized cost of around 16 € .
- Other Checks: An annual general check (tightening, lights, electrical system) can be around 10 € .
Adding it all up, the estimated annual maintenance cost for an electric motorbike is around €59 .
50cc Gasoline Motorcycle: The Traditional Option Under Analysis
50cc petrol scooters are a popular choice for their agility and affordability. But how do the costs compare?
Fuel Costs: The Weight of Gasoline
- Average Consumption: A modern 50cc scooter consumes, on average, about 2.5 liters of gasoline for every 100 km .
- Gasoline Price: Using a reference price for Simples 95 gasoline in Portugal of €1.72 per liter .
- Cost per 100 km: Traveling 100 km on a 50cc petrol scooter costs 2.5 L * 1.72 €/L = €4.30 .
- Weekly Cost: For the same 100 km per week, the fuel cost is €4.30 .
- Annual Cost: Over the course of a year (5200 km), the total cost of gasoline amounts to 223,60 € .
50cc Petrol Motorcycle Maintenance: A More Extensive List
Maintaining a combustion motorcycle involves more components and, consequently, more costs:
- Inspections and Oil Changes: Needed every 2,500-3,000 km or annually. For 5200 km/year, this could mean an annual cost of around 75 € .
- Air filter: Estimated replacement in 20 €/year .
- Spark plug: Annualized cost of about 15 € .
- Transmission Belt (CVT) and Rollers: Wear components with an estimated annualized cost of 40 € .
- Tires: Similar to electricity, with an annualized cost of 33 € .
- Brake Pads/Shoes: Estimated annualized cost in 28 € .
- Others (lamps, adjustments): Estimate of 20 €/year .
The estimated annual maintenance cost for a 50cc petrol motorbike can easily reach €231 .
The Ultimate Comparison: Electric vs. Gasoline by the Numbers
Let's then put side by side the total annual costs (energy/fuel + maintenance) for our user who travels 100 km per week:
-
Electric Motorcycle:
- Annual Energy Cost: €30
- Annual Maintenance Cost: €59
- ESTIMATED TOTAL ANNUAL COST: €89
-
50cc Gasoline Motorcycle:
- Annual Fuel Cost: €223.60
- Annual Maintenance Cost: €231
- ESTIMATED TOTAL ANNUAL COST: €454.60
The difference is clear: opting for an electric motorbike can represent an estimated annual saving of approximately €365!
Conclusion: The Smart Choice for Your Wallet and the Planet
The numbers don't lie. For a user who travels 100 km per week, an electric motorbike proves to be significantly more economical in terms of both "fuel" (electricity) and maintenance costs. The annual savings can be substantial, easing the family budget and contributing to a cleaner environment, thanks to the absence of direct emissions.
It is important to note that these calculations are estimates and may vary depending on the specific motorcycle model, riding style and prices in your area. However, the general trend is undeniable: electric mobility offers a more sustainable and economically advantageous alternative in the long term.
At Extreme Freedom , we are here to help you find the perfect electric motorbike for your needs and answer any questions you may have. Visit us and find out how you can start saving while enjoying the freedom on two wheels!
(Note: This article does not consider the initial cost of purchasing the vehicles, mandatory insurance or the Single Circulation Tax (IUC), from which electric motorbikes are exempt in Portugal. The useful life of the electric motorbike battery and its eventual replacement cost are a factor to consider in the very long term, generally after many years of use.)