Honda WN7 Electric Motorcycle: Honda has officially entered the electric motorcycle segment in Europe with the unveiling of its first production-ready sports electric motorcycle, the Honda WN7. This launch marks a significant step in the Japanese automaker’s electrification strategy, aligning with its long-term goal of achieving carbon neutrality across all products and corporate operations. With its stylish naked design, advanced technology, and competitive performance, the WN7 aims to combine the thrill of riding with the eco-friendliness of electric power.
Key Highlights of Honda WN7 Electric Motorcycle
- Model Name Meaning:
- W – Derived from the development concept “Be the Wind”
- N – Represents “Naked” styling
- 7 – Indicates the performance class the bike competes in
- Price: Approximately £12,999 (around Rs. 15.5 lakh) in the UK.
- Market Availability: Launching first in the UK, with gradual rollout across Europe. No official plans for India yet.
- Category: Sports electric naked motorcycle, targeting the “Fun” segment.
- Weight: 217 kg, making it heavier than conventional 600cc ICE motorcycles.
Honda WN7 Electric Motorcycle Powertrain and Performance
- Motor: 18 kW liquid-cooled electric motor.
- Performance Equivalence: Comparable to a 600cc internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycle.
- Torque Output: Strong enough to rival 1000cc ICE motorcycles, ensuring quick acceleration in city and highway riding.
- Transmission: Belt-drive system with a DCT-like control indicated by +/- buttons on the handlebars.
- Top Speed & Acceleration: Exact figures pending EICMA 2025, but designed for spirited yet manageable performance.
Honda WN7 Electric Motorcycle Battery and Range
- Battery Type: Fixed lithium-ion battery pack.
- Estimated Range: Approximately 130 km on a single charge.
- Charging Options:
- Fast Charging (CCS2): 20% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
- Home Charging (6 kVA): Full charge from zero in under 3 hours.
- Eco-Friendly Focus: Part of Honda’s strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by the 2040s for all motorcycles.
Design and Features
- Styling: Modern naked bike look with a muscular, aggressive profile.
- Lighting: Full LED setup, including dual pod headlamps and horizontal DRLs.
- Suspension:
- Front: USD forks
- Rear: Mono-shock with sporty setup
- Brakes: Dual-disc front brakes for precise stopping power.
- Display and Connectivity: 5-inch full-color TFT screen with Honda RoadSync, offering:
- Navigation
- Phone call and SMS alerts
- Real-time EV information such as range and charging status
- Ride Features: Likely to include cruise control and smartphone connectivity menus for enhanced touring convenience.
Variants
- Full Power Version: Delivers the standard 18 kW motor output.
- A1 License Version: Slightly restricted output to comply with European A1 license regulations, targeting younger riders or beginners. Both variants share the same bodywork, electronics, and charging system.
Competitive Edge
- Performance vs. ICE: Rivals a 600cc ICE motorcycle in output while offering the smooth, quiet experience unique to electric vehicles.
- Rapid Charging: Fast charging capability gives it a practical advantage over other electric motorcycles in the same range.
- Global Strategy: Honda positions the WN7 as the starting point for a broader lineup of electric motorcycles, from commuter models to fun-oriented bikes.
Final Verdict
The Honda WN7 Electric Motorcycle marks Honda’s bold entry into the sports EV segment. With a claimed 130 km range, liquid-cooled 18 kW motor, and modern naked styling, it bridges the gap between performance and sustainability. The bike’s connectivity features, fast charging capabilities, and strong torque output make it appealing to enthusiasts seeking a fun, eco-friendly ride. While the WN7 is currently Europe-focused and unlikely to launch in India soon, it sets the stage for Honda’s future electric two-wheelers and reinforces the brand’s commitment to carbon neutrality.
