Honda WN7 first ride: full-sized electric motorcycle impresses and frustrates

Honda enters the electric motorcycle market

Honda has launched its first series-production, full-sized electric motorcycle, the WN7, and TechRadar has published a first ride of the machine. The company is one of the world's best-known automotive brands, and its arrival follows an earlier electric scooter, the CUV e.

Until now, the electric motorcycle sector has been led mainly by smaller firms. Maeving builds retro-styled city bikes, Zero has spent more than 20 years developing adventure and performance models, and Harley-Davidson was among the first large brands to take the risk, though its sales have struggled. According to TechRadar, the market may have been waiting for a name like Honda to get involved.

What the WN7 is and how it works

The name needs some unpacking. TechRadar reports that the W stands for Wind, the N for Naked, meaning the bike has no fairing, and the seven points to its position in the lineup.

The WN7 is offered in two power ratings, an 11kW version and a more powerful 18kW version, aimed at riders holding different licence levels. Both share the same peak output of 50kW, around 67bhp, with 100Nm of torque. As with most electric motorcycles there is no clutch or gearbox, so riding is simply a matter of twisting the throttle.

The 9.3kWh lithium-ion battery is a stressed member, meaning it forms part of the chassis. That keeps the battery fixed in place, but it helps the bike handle like a proper sport bike. The tank-shaped section is not for fuel; it hides the charging port, which supports slow home charging and DC fast charging at public stations.

Riding impressions: quick, stable and well built

TechRadar's rider found the WN7 feels solid and well assembled, as expected from Honda. The bike uses Showa inverted forks and large front disc brakes with two-piston calipers, and the low-mounted battery gives it a low centre of gravity that keeps it stable even at low speeds.

Starting the bike involves a key fob kept in a pocket, a small ignition button on the frame, and a thumb switch on the handlebar. Honda has also added forward and reverse assist, which makes moving the 217kg machine at walking pace easier. Adjustable regenerative braking, set through paddles on the handlebar, lets riders choose how much the bike slows when the throttle is closed, which feels more natural for people used to combustion bikes.

Acceleration is described as almost sickeningly quick, with no gears to interrupt the surge of torque. However, the bike runs out of pace at around 70mph and is limited to 80mph, so it feels underpowered when traffic moves faster on highways.

Charging, range and the practical drawbacks

Honda says a DC fast charger can take the battery from 20% to 80% in around 30 minutes, adding roughly 50 miles of riding. TechRadar notes that is better than Zero Motorcycles currently offers, although Zero has promised DC fast charging for 2027.

Honda claims a maximum range of 87 miles per charge, but the review suggests this figure is optimistic in real use. The reviewer also criticises the uncomfortable seat and a charging port cover that opens at the slightest touch. The large TFT display is bright and simple to operate, but there is no true smartphone mirroring; instead the Honda RoadSync app connects over Bluetooth for basic navigation, music controls and EV telemetry.

The upside is that the bike draws attention. The reviewer describes it as a proper head-turner and conversation starter at charging stations.

What the WN7 means for riders

TechRadar's verdict is mixed. The WN7 is sharp, futuristic and looks unlike anything else in Honda's current range, and it sets what the site calls a new benchmark for build quality in the category. It could be the recognisable brand the electric motorcycle market has lacked.

At the same time, the reviewer admits to not feeling the spark. Range anxiety remains as much of an issue as with Honda's rivals, and highway speeds expose the limits of the powertrain. For riders with shorter commutes and overnight home charging, the WN7 looks like a strong option; for long-distance touring, the numbers still do not add up.