Eicma 2018: Husqvarna unveil EE 5 electric motorcycle

Husqvarna’s first electric motorbike will arrive at authorised dealers in the summer of 2019. The Husqvarna EE 5 is aimed at young riders and makes just shy of 7bhp.

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The bike is completely battery powered, using a 907 Wh Li-ion quick-charging battery, meaning it can be used by youngsters in gardens without risk of upsetting the neighbours. Charging the battery to 80% takes just 45 minutes, with a full refill requiring 70 minutes.

The use of an electric motor also removes the need for a clutch, meaning an easier transition into dirt riding. Plus, should anything go wrong, a lanyard attached between the rider’s wrist and the kill switch stops the motor when activated during an off.

Mimicking the performance of a two-stroke 50cc motocrosser, the EE 5 name stands for Electric Engine, with the 5 referring to the 5KW of power produced by the motor.

Controlling this power are six different rider modes, selected via an instrument panel between the steering head and seat. An advanced set of 35mm WP XACT air forks with 205mm of wheel travel and a WP rear shock also help keep everything under control on any terrain.

An adjustable seat height also means the standard 698mm setting can be easily reduced in two steps to 653mm. This can then be lowered again to 556mm with an optional suspension lowering kit.

KTM SX-E 5

Husqvarna’s sister company, KTM have also launched a 5KW electric mini bike and the two look suspiciously similar. Billed as an electric version of the KTM 50 SX, the bike gives youngsters a chance to learn the ropes.