Honda has launched the WN7, its first full size electric motorcycle and the room feels different now. No more waiting for concepts or teasers – this is real, priced at £12,999 in the UK (about $17,700 in the US) and will be in production by the end of the year at Honda’s Atessa plant in Italy.
Born from last year’s EV Fun concept at EICMA, the WN7 keeps the sharp lines and forward leaning stance that turned heads. Honda calls it “be the wind” where W honors the flow, N marks the naked frame, and 7 flags the power tier. Changes from the show bike are small but smart – a comfier seat, a license plate mount where it should be and that same minimalist bodywork that leaves the rear end clean with no exhaust in sight. Up front, stacked LED bars frame the headlight, flanked by clear indicators and gold trimmed wind deflectors. The single sided swingarm goes back to a single rear disc brake, while dual discs handle the front. At 478 pounds curb weight, it’s light for its class and should be easy to maneuvre through traffic without the drama of heavier rivals.
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- Lots of realistic details – Features include steering, suspension, a 2-speed gearbox, a 4-piston articulated engine and turbocharger
Power comes from an 18kW water cooled motor hooked to a chain drive, dishing out 100Nm of torque – enough to match a 1000cc gas bike’s low end grunt. Honda says the overall output is 600cc territory, smooth acceleration with that instant electric surge. Riders get two flavors – this full 18kW setup or an 11kW version for A1 license holders, opening up the door for new blood.
On a full charge the range is 130 kilometers (81 miles), so it’s perfect for commuting and urban circuits rather than long distance trips. The fixed lithium-ion battery eliminates the need for swappable packs, sacrificing adventure in favor of convenience. But charging is fast – 20-80% in 30 minutes from a CCS2 rapid charger or zero to full in under 3 hours from a 6kVA outlet at home.
A 5-inch TFT LCD on the dash connects to the RoadSync app for navigation, calls and bike stats, keeping your eyes focused and clutter free. Left-switch controls provide convenient access places, and complete LED lighting casts a modern glow over the entire package. Then there’s the 20-liter underseat storage bin, which is big enough to hold a spare helmet or groceries, making errands a breeze.
Europe gets first crack at it, with subsidies in the UK and Italy. Stateside? Honda is holding back for now but at this price it could disrupt the market if it comes here. Undercuts Zero’s lineup by a chunk, sure, but the range gets side-eye – 83 miles tops out below some LiveWire options that cost half as much. Critics call it steep for commuter duty where smaller brands offer more distance for less. Honda is banking on its badge for reliability and that refined ride feel, the kind that comes from 500 million bikes sold.
