Is it possible to drive an electric motorcycle with a B license?

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Air pollution and global warming are forcing it, clean vehicles both in public transport and for individuals are slowly becoming more democratic in Europe. The French electric two-wheeler market jumped in 2017 to + 33.20%, even if volumes are still marginal, with around 7,000 registrations.

While electric mobility is popular, the issues of autonomy and charging time remain a downside. But the growing supply of models and the ecological bonus introduced by the state are attracting new users. Here is a little reminder of the rules for riding an electric motorcycle.

Is it possible to drive an electric motorcycle with a B license?

The boom in the electric motorcycle market in France

While electrics are booming, most registrations (85.4%) are represented by 50cc equivalent scooters. The reason for this runaway relies heavily on the administrations which have decided to equip their fleet of professional utilities urban, both light and clean, like the Ligier Pro three-wheeler adopted by La Poste.

Also, the sself-service electric cooter emulated, particularly in Paris and its suburbs.

The models 125 cc equivalents and more and more and more machines limited to 4 kW and 45 km / h are crisscrossing urban areas. But the big cubes, like the maxi-scooter BMW C evolution, are also progressing.

Which license for which electric two-wheeler ?

Little vocabulary reminder. For electric motorcycles, we refer to the power in kW (kilo Watts), with an equivalent in displacement, expressed in cm3. According to their power, not all vehicles require the same driver’s license.

With the B or A1 license

The A1 license allows you to drive a light motorcycle with power not exceeding 11 kilowatts – equivalent of one maximum displacement of 125 cm³ – and a 3-wheeler with a maximum power of 15 kilowatts.

This motorcycle license is accessible from the age of 16. If you were born after 1987 and this is the 1st category of license that you take, you must hold a road safety certificate (ASR).

To pass this motorcycle license, the candidate must validate two tests. The first part is theoretical with the passage of the code exam. If you hold a license category obtained for less than 5 years, you are exempt from this theoretical test. Then come the uncirculated test (HC) and an outstanding test (CIR).

However, since January 1, 2011, there is a license equivalence for B license holders who wish to ride a two-wheeler with an equivalent of 50 to 125cc. Car license holders for at least 2 years and aged 21 or over will simply have to follow a 7-hour training course.

With the AM license

The driving license category AM is equivalent to the Road Safety Certificate (BSR).

This permit, valid for 15 years, can be issued from 14 years old if the driver was born after January 1, 1988, at the end of a specific training of 8 hours delivered in driving school.

This license allows you to drive only mopeds with a cylinder capacity less than or equal to 50 cm³, i.e. from 1 to 4 KW maximum.

Please note, since March 1, 2019, regulatory motorcycle equipment (motorcycle helmet, approved gloves, shoes, jacket and suitable pants) is required to pass the assessment of category AM.

With the A2 license

This motorcycle license implemented from June 2, 2016, allows drive a two-wheeler with a power not exceeding 35 kW – and a 3-wheeler with a maximum power limited to 15 kW.

It is intended for anyone aged over 18. Passing the code is essential, unless you hold a license category obtained for less than 5 years.

The practical test also takes place in two stages: a 17-minute non-traffic test which also includes an oral test to check your knowledge of safety rules, then a traffic test which then lasts 35 minutes.

With license A

The A license allows you to drive all motorcycles whatever their power. To obtain it, you simply need to have held category A2 for at least 2 years and have successfully completed a 7-hour training course.

Speed ​​enthusiasts can then drive the Ernergica EGO, equipped with a lithium battery with a capacity of 11.7 kWh for a power of 100 kW, or 136 hp; the Harley Davidson Livewire, or the brand new SR / F roadster from the manufacturer Zero. Equipped with an engine with a power of 82 kW and 190 Nm of torque, adjustable Showa suspensions, front brake discs of 320 mm and a rather light weight around 220 kg, it boasts a maximum speed of 200 km / h.

Beware of electricity

Mollassons electric motorcycles? On the contrary ! At the moment, their speed is often electronically restricted to limit battery wear. However, they display a important couple, which tends to offer good acceleration times. Watch out for the risk of speeding, especially in built-up areas.

Electric motorcycles are, in fact, very fast to reach 0 to 100 km / h. On the other hand, they often have trouble getting back on the motorway for example. If you have lost points, consider the points recovery course.

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