How to choose the best motorcycle insurance
When choosing an insurance policy, whether for a home or a vehicle, many factors come into play that can determine the choice of one type of policy or another.
In the case of motorcycle insurance, sometimes the price is the determining factor in opting for one or the other. However, in most cases, if not all, it is worth increasing basic insurance protection and evaluating different options.
To do so, it is important to consider several tips that will ensure comprehensive coverage and avoid the owner of the motorcycle certain problems in the medium and long term.
Rossvolt, as an expert in the electric automotive sector, will give you some tips to help you choose the best motorcycle insurance. Are you ready?
Why is it so important to choose the right motorcycle insurance?
There is no denying that the level of risk when driving a two-wheeled vehicle is higher than when driving other types of vehicles, such as cars.
For this reason, choosing the most suitable motorcycle insurance according to your preferences is vital to provide you with all the guarantees you need when you are out on the road daily.
In many cases, when choosing the best motorcycle insurance, only the motorcycle insurance quotes are considered. However, it is essential to evaluate more aspects that, although you may think they are not very important, can be decisive when the time comes.
Below, we will go deeper into the questions you have to ask yourself before choosing one motorcycle insurance or another. Let's get to it!
How to choose the best motorcycle insurance
In the following sections, we give you the keys you should consider to choose the motorcycle insurance you need.
1. How do you usually use your motorcycle?
Being a motorcyclist is a lifestyle, but it doesn't mean you use this vehicle every day. That's the first thing you should consider: how much do you use your bike?
To find out, establish these points:
- How often do you ride your motorcycle?
- What journeys do you make?
- How many kilometers do you ride?
- Do you usually ride alone or with someone else?
Then follow a simple rule of three: the more you use your bike, the more risks your bike is exposed to and the more cover your insurance should have.
2. What does your motorcycle look like?
Just as when you take out cover for your car, motorcycle insurance depends on the characteristics of the vehicle:
- Its cylinder capacity.
- It is fairing.
- Its accessories.
- If it is classic motorbike insurance or not.
- If the motorbike is top of the range.
Here we use the same rule of three that we saw in the previous section. In other words, the more valuable and newer the motorcycle, the more cover you will have to take out.
When making motorcycle insurance quotes, you need to assess your investment in the vehicle and when. From there, you can then go for the policy you need. Don't forget that it will never cover more than your motorcycle is worth.
3. Where are you going to park your motorcycle?
Another vital question when choosing motorcycle insurance is where you park your vehicle. Not only when you are at home but also on your regular commute, especially when you go to work.
If your motorcycle is parked most of the time in a garage, the level of risk decreases. For example, it will be more difficult to damage it by vandalism or weather conditions. This will be taken into account by you but also by the insurer when setting the price.
4. How do you want to pay for your motorcycle insurance?
The best motorcycle insurance is the one that offers you the best coverage for the lowest price. That is why, when talking about economic issues, we will focus only on the payment method.
It is not uncommon for your insurer to offer you to pay in installments, but they do not always do so without receiving consideration. So check if there is a discount if you pay in one installment and if the cost increases if you pay monthly, in three or four installments, or in whatever way you agree with the company.
In any case, it is normal that if you make a single payment, the insurance price will be lower.
5. What coverages are basic when taking out motorcycle insurance?
Multi motorcycle insurance or with various covers is always the best option. These are the ones that you must have, regardless of the policy you take out:
- That it covers the driver's health care.
- That it offers roadside assistance from kilometer zero.
- That it has a good defense, it must deal with the processing of appeals through administrative and enforcement channels, regardless of the fine imposed on you.
- It must guarantee that you will receive financial compensation in the event of theft or damage.
In addition to all these factors, it is also important that you check the ratings and reviews of former customers to make sure that all the services offered by the insurer are true and that they are delivered. In the end, a good or bad review can tip the balance one way or the other.
From Rossvolt, we hope these tips have been useful, and we invite you to choose the best motorcycle insurance, but above all, that you enjoy it to the fullest wherever you go!
Top 7 essential apps every driver should know
Nowadays, technology is present in practically all areas of life, providing us with facilities and conveniences for whatever we need.
This context, characterized by technology and digitalization, also extends to the field of driving and traveling, with the development of driving apps that try to solve doubts and offer content oriented to the user's interests and needs on the road becoming more and more frequent.
At Rossvolt, as a manufacturer of electric motorcycles with a focus on innovation and technology, we are going to discover the list of apps for drivers that you should have on your phone. Grab your phone and take note!
What are the 7 apps for drivers that you can't do without?
Smartphones, since their inception, have had a Play Store with an endless number of apps for all tastes and needs, including any requirements that drivers may have when tackling their journey or during it.
There are many apps for drivers, but some stand out for dealing with issues that are truly relevant to drivers. The options are varied. However, at Rossvolt, we have made a selection of those, available for Android and iOS, that stand out for meeting the demands of most drivers and are geared to cover all their needs.
Below, we invite you to discover the 7 best driving apps that you can find.
1.- Waze. We could say that it is a collaborative app, as it is the users of the service themselves who provide the information, and it is, for many, one of the best driving apps. It allows you to know, at a European level, the state of traffic, road works, and anything else happening on the roads in real-time. This tool will save time and some problems related to fines or traffic jams, for example.
2.- GasBuddy app or Google Maps. These are two applications that, using the phone's GPS, can find the nearest service station or petrol station at the lowest price. The App uses data sent by users, apps, and petrol station operators directly, so it has up-to-date information.
3.- PlugShare. In case you are committed to electric mobility, this App, available for iOS and Android, provides information on where the nearest charging point is, so if your battery charge is on its last legs, don't forget to check this App!
4.- Drivies App: Are you a good driver? Then Drivies is sure to confirm it. It is an application that seeks to encourage the development of good driving habits to promote driving based on safety. When this is the case, the App detects it and rewards the user. For example, one of the rewards is to help you get the lowest prices when taking out your motorcycle insurance.
5.- Find my Car. This App for Android devices is perfect for anyone who forgets where they parked their vehicle... in other words, for most drivers. The App records the exact spot where you've left your vehicle and then uses Google Navigation to navigate the vehicle via GPS. If you have an iPhone, you'll discover other similar options, such as Find My Car Parking. In any case, no more hours of wandering around because you forgot where you left your motorcycle.
6.- Drivvo. Also available for iOS and Android. This App helps drivers save money by keeping track of expenses related to their vehicles, such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance. It also provides drivers with useful summaries and statistics.
7.- Driver mode. Finally, Driver mode is an iPhone application that allows you to control the different apps on your phone without touching them. It comes with a non-glance interface and is useful for avoiding distractions while driving. For Android, you can use Driver mode, thanks to Google Assistant.
What is the best App for driving?
Knowing all these driving apps will allow you to enjoy your journeys even more and bring conveniences and facilities to make your trips safer and more enjoyable.
Each App offers different functionalities, so deciding which is the best App for drivers is a bit complicated. You'll have to try them and tell us which one you choose. But without a doubt, best driving apps are the ones that enriches your experience on the road by ensuring your comfort and safety. From Rossvolt, we can only wish you a happy journey!
Safety equipment for motorcycling: Everything you need to know
For many, motorcycles are considered their favorite mode of transport, not only because of the freedom they represent but also because of the adrenaline rush they feel on top of it.
When riding a motorcycle, whether it is a short distance trip or a route that has hundreds and hundreds of kilometers ahead of it, it is essential to take into account several motorcycle protection elements that will guarantee our safety at all times in case of any unforeseen events, bumps or falls.
At Rossvolt, as lovers and experts of motorcycles and electric mobility, we want to guarantee you maximum safety on the road at all times. That's why in the following post, we will take a closer look at the safety equipment for motorcycles, take note!
What is motorcycle equipment?
Motorcycle equipment includes all those elements that protect the integrity of the rider on the road. Among these items, only one is mandatory now: the motorcycle helmet.
However, the rest are highly recommended, especially when the weather conditions are not optimal and you have a long journey ahead.
Motorcycle helmet, what should you know?
As you already know, at the moment, the only element that is compulsory by law when riding a motorcycle is the helmet, as stated in the General Road Traffic Regulations.
Furthermore, this document specifies that the motorcycle helmet must be approved or certified to comply with current legislation and that its use is compulsory on all types of roads.
When choosing the best motorcycle helmet, it is important to remember that it must have specific characteristics to perform its function properly.
Among the most standard models of motorcycle helmets, there are several options, from full-face helmets recommended for long journeys to avoid wind blows to the face and eyes to open-face or jet helmets or modular helmets.
Another factor to take into account when buying a motorcycle helmet is the choice of size, avoiding in any case that it is loose, trying to adjust it as much as possible to the head so that it exerts some pressure, always in a controlled manner and without being an excessive pressure.
When you do not wear a motorcycle helmet, you risk a fine, but above all, most importantly, you threaten your safety and expose yourself to worse consequences in an accident. For this reason, you should never neglect to wear a helmet at any time, no matter how short or well-known the route is.
In the following section, we invite you to learn about other safety elements for motorcyclists that are not mandatory but highly recommended. Let's get to it!
What other safety features are there for motorcyclists?
To ensure complete safety and be really protected on two wheels on the asphalt, in addition to the best motorcycle helmet, you also need to take into account the following elements:
- Gloves. Although there has been a lot of talk about making them compulsory, they are not at the moment. What they are, however, is almost essential. They protect you in the event of a fall, improve grip, and reduce vibrations... So please don't skimp on buying good summer or winter gloves and ensure they protect the knuckles and the rest of the hand and wrist.
- Motorcycle jacket. When choosing a motorbike jacket, don't settle for just anyone, but check the materials and strength to ensure it is protective. These jackets must be made of materials that can withstand abrasion and allow mobility, so the choice of size also plays an important role. In addition, if you opt for brightly colored garments, you will improve your visibility to other drivers. There are models of motorbike jackets for summer that help ventilation and perspiration, avoiding accumulating too much heat for times when the heat is suffocating.
- Motorcycle trousers. Motorbike trousers are intended to fulfill the same function as jackets. So they are another essential motorbike accessory when you're out on the road, especially on long trips.
- Motorcycle boots. Motorbike boots are not everyone's cup of tea, although there is a wide variety of designs to find models that best suit your style. In any case, their design should protect you, at least up to the ankle. Also, ensure they have protection on the toe and heel, so they are effective in case of impact.
- Leather overalls. Leather overalls are rarely used for short rides because they can be uncomfortable for your routine. However, they are ideal and highly recommended for longer routes or trips, as they can protect the body's most sensitive areas that may be exposed to other types of clothing.
In addition to these garments, other motorcycle accessories help drivers enjoy their favorite vehicle with guaranteed safety and comfort, such as visors and goggles. They have to be the right choice to have a wide vision angle and correspond to the weather conditions.
At Rossvolt, as specialists in electric motorcycles, we will be happy to advise you on everything you need to make the most of the road while ensuring complete safety at all times. Contact us!
Motorcycle luggage: rules, options and tricks
Are you a two-wheel lover? If so, you are surely looking forward to taking your motorcycle at all times and planning with it the most amazing trips and routes. For that, it is sometimes necessary to spend a night away from home, which requires you to load and prepare your motorcycle with the essential luggage for your stay.
The solution is clear: you need to find the best motorcycle luggage systems. The reality is that although it may seem like a simple, everyday action, it is necessary to take into account some standard size and placement measures to ensure the comfort and safety of travelers, two essential aspects to save you from a bad travel experience.
From Rossvolt, as manufacturers of electric motorcycles and mobility experts, we will reveal everything you need to know about motorcycle luggage; what measures are allowed, how to place it and some tricks to ensure the comfort of travelers. Take note!
Which are the rules that motorcycle luggage must meet?
Although later you will learn some practical tips when choosing the most suitable motorcycle luggage, the first thing you should be clear about are the rules that motorcycle luggage must comply with and keep in mind that complying with them will not only help you avoid a fine, but mainly you must comply with them in order not to put at risk neither your integrity nor that of the rest of your companions on the road.
Here are the main motorcycle luggage regulations that you should take into account:
- Weight. The motorcycle manufacturer will indicate the maximum weight that the vehicle can support, including the luggage, and do not exceed it because it could endanger the vehicle's stability.
- Speed. It would be best if you also remembered that riding a loaded motorcycle is not the same as riding a lighter motorcycle. The movements tend to be slower, the braking distance increases and the agility to make unexpected movements is considerably reduced. In this sense, it is essential to be safe and ride at a speed following the riding conditions.
- Length. We must remember that we are not riding alone on the road, so we cannot carry luggage that protrudes excessively from the motorcycle's structure. According to the regulations, motorcycle luggage cannot occupy more than half a meter on each side starting from the longitudinal axis of the motorcycle.
Of course, keep in mind that if you opt for side motorcycle luggage rack systems, the ride will not be the same as the stability conditions vary. You have to take their volume as a new reference, something you will have to do, especially when riding between cars.
And, although it may seem obvious, remember that you cannot carry luggage on the front of the motorcycle. Not only is it dangerous because it changes the vehicle's balance and obscures the headlights, but also because luggage can considerably reduce the driver's visibility.
What motorcycle are luggage options available?
There are many options for motorcycle luggage racks that you can find in specialized automotive stores. Here we show you the most outstanding and recurrent ones:
- Rear suitcase. Also known as a top case, it is a motorcycle luggage box. It is the one used by couriers and has both supporters and detractors. For some, it spoils the motorcycle's aesthetics, but it is clear that it is very practical, and you can take advantage of it in your daily life. For example, carrying the helmet of the copilot. Also, for trips where you do not need too much luggage.
- Side cases. The side cases for your motorcycle are compatible with the luggage rack and maximize your options to carry a larger volume of luggage, especially to cope with long trips. With a little skill, you can store many things. Remember that in Spain, for example, a motorcycle suitcase cannot exceed half a meter on each side. For this reason, keeping the papers in the bags is advisable to prove that they are homologated. In addition, as a tip, carrying a universal motorcycle luggage rack will save you problems and uncertainty about whether it is a piece of approved luggage.
- Backpack on the back. It is a classic to see a driver in his day-to-day with a backpack on his back. It can be used for everything, to go to work, to go to sports or to travel, although it must be taken into account that the backpack's volume does not affect the safety elements of the motorcycle jacket.
- Leg bag. This is a fanny pack with a closing mechanism that allows it to be attached to the leg. It is used to carry the basics when you don't need anything else: your house keys, your cell phone or your documents. Of course, it is compatible with the rest of the options for your luggage on the motorcycle.
- Tank backpack. With this backpack, you can go on a trip for a few days. Opt for models that change the size to suit your needs and do not occupy more volume than necessary.
What tips will help you make the most of your chosen luggage rack and ensure your safety?
As is evident, the limitations when it comes to carrying luggage on a motorcycle are greater than in a vehicle, so the skill when it comes to packing is essential in these cases to make the most of every space. On the other hand, the strategy when placing all the luggage will greatly influence its comfort and safety of it, so you must take into account the following tricks to get the most out of your luggage rack:
- Luggage carrier suitcase. Do not carry belongings that move a lot inside, as the noise can scare you on the road.
- Side cases. Please do not place the panniers close to the exhaust pipe, as they can burn.
- Backpack on the back. Always opt for a waterproof model so that what you carry inside does not get wet in case it rains during the trip. In addition, it is better if the zipper is on the side so that it does not open so easily.
- Leg bag. We also recommend that it be waterproof.
- Tank backpack. In addition to being waterproof, it must allow the handlebars to rotate well and have quality magnets.
For Rossvolt, the most important thing is that you enjoy two wheels on every trip. Therefore, our blog will always bring you the best tips to ensure the best experiences on the road. If you want to know more tips like these, don't hesitate: Join our community!
Motorcycle tires, everything you need to know
Tires are one of the most important parts of a motorcycle. They are what keep you in contact with the road. Therefore, constant servicing is essential to ensure maximum safety on roads.
Even though constant maintenance is essential to avoid unforeseen events or scares on the asphalt, it is curious how some motorcyclists pay little attention to this element, prolonging their replacement for when they are already too damaged.
From Rossvolt, as specialists in electric mobility, we will bring you all the information you need about motorcycle tires: their pressure, wear and when to change them, take note!
Motorcycle tire pressure
One of the most important technical characteristics of tires is their pressure level. The correct tire pressure will ensure maximum safety on the roads.
There is a misconception that tires below the normal tire pressures provide more grip, but this is not the case. If the manufacturer's recommendations are not adhered to, the chances are that, at some point, the tire will not keep enough tire surface on the road, and a loss of control will occur.
Another defect caused by altered tire pressure, either over or under, is premature tire wear. When this situation occurs, some areas of the motorcycle tire rub harder on the road than others, wearing out certain parts of the tire prematurely, leading the rider to change the tire.
If the tire pressure is too high, there is also a risk of a tire blowout. If, on the other hand, the tire pressure is too low, the rubber loses consistency, and it is easier for the sidewall to bite into a curb or the edge of a pothole, leading to a puncture.
Tire wear
Another factor closely related to tire pressure is tire wear. It is essential to carry out regular checks on the level of wear of motorcycle tires, as factors such as the level of use, maintenance conditions, and the type of road surface ridden can accelerate or retard tire wear.
There are warnings on the tires which indicate that the tire should no longer be used to make it easier for the rider to know when a tire is excessively worn and needs to be changed.
That does not mean that it is necessary to wait until this point. It is highly recommended to carry out regular checks to monitor the evolution of the tire and, at the slightest doubt of excessive wear, consult an automotive specialist.
When should motorcycle tires be changed?
There is no precise answer to the question of when to change motorcycle tires. Since, as we have seen, several factors affect when to change motorcycle tires, including rim model, motorcycle model, riding style, and so on.
Here's a standard simple guide to the general facts that might help you to know whether your tires need changing or not. However, if in doubt, you must consult a specialist mechanic.
- Wear. If the tire has less than 1.6 mm tread, it should be replaced. It should never reach the wear indicator on the tire.
- Mileage. Low-quality tires usually last 5,000 km; high-quality tires generally reach 30,000 or 40,000 km.
- Date of manufacture. Even if they have tread left, keeping a tire for more than 3 or 4 years is not advisable. It could have crystallized.
- Condition. If the tire shows discoloration, cracks on the sidewalls, bites, or appears to have crystallized, it is time to change it.
Whether out of convenience or carelessness and laziness about going to the mechanic, tires could be overused, taking an unnecessary risk. For this reason, it is essential to carry out regular inspections to help realize whether tires need to be replaced.
Age of motorcycle tires
The DOT refers to an important number you should know, as it indicates both the manufacturer and the production date of the motorcycle tire.
The date of manufacture of the tires is stamped on the sidewall of the tire immediately after the code that indicates the factory where the rubber was manufactured; DOT number.
The DOT includes 3 groups of alphanumeric characters; the first two refer to the manufacturer and the manufacturing plant, while the third refers to the date of production. On the other hand, the first two digits of the production date indicate the week of production, while the last 2 digits refer to the year.
Motorcycle tire fitting
Although it may seem obvious, motorcycle tires should be replaced by professionals. It is common for many people to try to do their repairs, but in this case, it is inadvisable. Among other things, you need a specific type of tool and the knowledge to use it properly.
The workshops have a motorcycle tire machine designed for these vehicles. This machine is prepared to work with the specific diameters making the correct balancing afterward. This way, the wheel will be perfect, and vibrations and other problems during driving will be avoided, missing any kinds of unnecessary risks.
Choose quality tire brands
Finally, it is highly recommended to choose the best motorcycle tires. The differences between one brand and another can be very large. Therefore, it is essential to use those with extensive experience that guarantees a good quality tire, using the best materials in their manufacture and considering all the necessary quality controls.
It is not only important to use these tires for the quality and safety they provide but also for their longevity. Cheap, poor-quality tires last a quarter of the time of the higher-priced professional tires, so if you use a calculator, not only in terms of safety, they are also more economical in the long run.
As you can see, motorcycle tires are one of the most considerable parts when it comes to ensuring maximum safety. It is essential to have regular checks to regulate and confirm their optimal maintenance: monitoring pressure and wear to change them at the right time.
At Rossvolt, we would like to inform you about what's new in the industry and how to take care of your motorcycle. That's why our blog will keep you updated with the best two-wheeled tips. Join our community!
Tips to bear in mind when out riding in a group
Riding a motorcycle can be a way of getting from one place to another for whatever reason, but it can also be a way of life, where a weekend ride on the best roads can be the best escape from a week of stress and work.
Belonging to a motorcycle group is a way of life. You only have to talk to any rider to see that this is true. The collaboration and union in these groups of friends is the result of years and years of riding together on the best roads in the country.
Riding in a motorcycle group can be an incredible adventure. However, it is highly recommended to follow several tips to ensure safety and fun in any case.
From Rossvolt, lovers of the road, we will bring you the tips to bear when out riding in a group to avoid any unforeseen events that could jeopardize a perfect experience, take note!
What tips to remember when out riding in a group will help you on your ride?
Riding in a group safely and efficiently is one of the key skills of road motorcycling. However, the first few times you ride in a group, it can be a confusing experience.
We've got the essential information and techniques you need to stay safe, ride confidently and have an enjoyable time. These tips to bear in mind when out riding in a motorcycle group will help you make this adventure a success:
- Plan your route well. The first step is to plan your chosen route. It would help to establish the starting time and the stops you will make. Also, your plans will not be the same if you only go out for one day as if you plan to extend your route a little further. In any case, look for places where you can comfortably and safely make these stops, ensuring that the whole group is knowledgeable and agrees with the route.
- Where to charge or refuel. On a motorcycle group ride, remember that not everyone rides the same motorcycle, so some motorbikes use more fuel or need to be electrically charged frequently. These factors will determine how often to stop to charge the motorcycle or fill the tank.
- Battery and fuel charging. On this occasion, instead of focusing on the stops that will be made along the route, we will focus on a previous tip. It is highly recommended that all the group members start the road with the tank and battery at maximum charge. In this way, most of the members will need to stop practically simultaneously, reducing the number of stops or avoiding unnecessary stops.
- Timetables. It is important to plan the route's schedule, avoid peak traffic hours and, in the case of the main winter or summer months, avoid riding at times when the level of heat or cold is excessive to ensure, as far as possible, maximum enjoyment of the route. It is also important to allow enough time for adequate rest between each day of your ride.
- Hand signals for motorcycle riding in a group. As a good rider, you probably know that many hand signals indicate different maneuvers to other riders. Before starting the route, establish a series of agreed and easily understood gestures to maintain communication between all group members. In addition, if the group breaks up or members become distant, they will have to wait at each junction to regroup.
- Motorcycle riding positions in a group. It is best if the most experienced rider or the rider who knows the route best rides in front. In addition, the next most experienced rider should be the one to close the group to ensure that no one is left behind. As in any other case, keeping a good safety distance is good so that you will have no problem braking if the motorcycle in front of you breaks. It is best to position yourself in a sort of zigzag pattern. If someone is left behind for any reason, the rest of the group should wait for the rider but do not commit recklessness.
- Condition of the vehicle. Of course, before starting the ride, all members must check the condition of their motorcycles to ensure maximum safety and to avoid, as far as possible, any unforeseen events or breakdowns that could ruin the outing.
You may have already taken some of these tips into account. However, it never hurts to remember them and put them into practice. Never forget that when going out in a group, respect, communication between members, trust in each other, and camaraderie must prevail.
At Rossvolt, we will be happy to accompany you on each of your outings, enjoy the road with you and provide you with maximum safety and autonomy at all times, always prioritizing the best experience on the road with our electric motorcycles. Become part of our community and enjoy the road with us and, above all, have a good trip!
Charging Point For Electric Motorcycle, All You Need To Know
Have you ever been stranded with your motorcycle? No one wants to experience running out of power before getting to their destination, so checking the battery level of your motorcycle before the commencement of any trip is essential to avoid any unforeseen events or an unexpected discharge.
In this sense, having a motorbike with a high level of autonomy is one of the key factors when choosing one motorbike over another, as nowadays it is a handicap not to be able to plan long trips due to the lack of autonomy.
At Rossvolt, we have listened to the demands of the customers. That's why our motorbikes have the longest autonomy and independence on the market so that the number of kilometers to be covered is never an obstacle on any of your trips. In the following post, we will focus on everything you need to know about electric charging points. Take note!
How does the motor work in an electric motorcycle?
Before delving into the methodology to be followed to charge an electric motorbike, it is first important to clarify certain aspects. When referring to electric motorbikes, we no longer talk about displacement, compression, bore per stroke, or power and torque at a given number of revolutions. All these terms become amps, kilowatts, life cycles, chargers, and regenerative braking in electric motorbikes.
As you know, in the electric motorbike, the electric motor is responsible for converting the electrical energy into mechanical energy, achieving the movement of the motorbike. One of the advantages of this type of motor is that it is a reversible motor, so the energy produced by the rotation of the wheels can be used as a generator, making full use of this energy.
Even though in all-electric motorbikes, the operation of the motor and the transformation of energy are the same, there are different types of chargers, connectors, and charging modes.
What types of chargers are there?
As mentioned above, battery operation is generally the same for all-electric motorbikes. However, there are different charges depending on the type of battery.
When we talk about chargers, we refer to the system that recharges the battery, not the type of connector that connects to the motorbike. The charger is the device we use to recharge power on the motorbike and will vary depending on whether the power is delivered in alternating or direct current. There are several types of chargers, differentiating:
- Domestic charger. This type of charger can be found on the wall and works with the single-phase alternating current of homes, making it the slowest and simplest.
- Semi-fast chargers. Are designed for public roads or charging points located at petrol stations.
- Fast charger. They can reach a charging power of 50 kW of direct current.
- Ultra-fast chargers. These are the fastest chargers. However, they are the most difficult to find.
What connectors can an electric motorcycle have?
When we talk about electrical connectors, we refer to the types of plugs through which electric motorbikes can be charged. In the same way that there are different connectors depending on the country, we can also find other connectors depending on the electric motorcycle.
You may have heard about different electric motorcycle connectors but you may not be familiar with the characteristics of each one. Here we tell you the most important of each of them.
- Schuko connector: This is the domestic plug that we find at home.
- Type 1: One of the most widely used single-phase connectors globally, although it is not noted for its charging speed.
- Type 2, CCs, or Mennekes: European standard charging connector as it can be single-phase or three-phase.
- CCS Combo 2: Combines an AC Type 2 connector with a two-terminal connector for DC charging.
Although there are different types of connectors, there are adapters to act as an intermediary between the connector and the motorcycle. There is no problem if we arrive at a charging station and do not find the connector we are interested in.
Charging modes of an electric motorbike
Depending on the charging point you are at, there are four different types of charging:
- Level 1 charging point: These are very common but offer the slowest charging speed. It is also called the typical standard household socket or 120-volt socket. If you want to plug your bike in overnight, they are available. This level of charging operates on alternating current.
- Level 2 charging point: Most electric motorbikes are prepared by their manufacturer to use level 2 charging points and are becoming increasingly popular. It should take a few hours to charge a battery with this level 2 charge point fully. This charging level operates on AC power.
- Level 3 charge point: This mode allows semi-fast charging at charging stations, 16 and 32 amps up to 22kW.
- Level 4 charging point: This is characterized as the fastest charging mode used at outdoor charging points, from 44kW upwards.
Different companies have contributed to the ecosystem of electric charging points, and Rossvolt also has a place. More and more charging points are located at petrol stations or in public car parks. In addition, more and more facilities and installations are taking place in private homes, making charging an electric vehicle an increasingly simple task.
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Thanks to technological and infrastructural advances toward full sustainable mobility in the not too distant future, more and more facilities and installations make it possible to charge your electric vehicle without any problems.
Equipment supplies electrical power for charging plug-in electric vehicles; the charging stations provide connectors that conform to various standards. Although batteries can only be charged with DC power, recent models of electric vehicles have an inbuilt AC-DC converter that allows them to be plugged into a household AC electrical receptacle.
The difference between a standard household AC electrical receptacle and a charging station is that there will be no need to convert AC-DC. In a charging station, the converter is inbuilt, and supplies already converted DC power directly to the vehicle bypassing the vehicle's onboard converter. Most fully electric vehicle models can accept both AC and DC power.
Although most charging stations are located in private car parks, shopping malls, government facilities, etc., installing a charging point in a car park is becoming easier and easier. It is becoming increasingly easy to install a charging point in your car park. To do this, it is only necessary to take into account certain aspects such as carrying out a site analysis, ensuring that the location meets the lighting and safety requirements, carrying out infrastructure planning, and, finally, installing the charging point taking into account all the necessary elements that complete the construction.
Imagine how convenient and sustainable it would be to have an electric charging point in the garage of your home… Start being part of the electric motorcycle revolution!
Top 5 tips to drive an electric motorcycle
The great awareness of the environment has developed a high level of interest in vehicles that are responsible and respectful of the environment in which we live. As a result, electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular, and it is becoming more and more common to see these vehicles on the roads and streets of cities.
Have you ever ridden an electric motorcycle? What did you think of the experience? Have you enjoyed the adrenaline of speed? Are you a fan of motorcycle routes?
Regardless of whether or not you have ever ridden an electric motorcycle, Rossvolt wants to make sure that every time you do, it is a unique experience. That's why we have prepared for you a top 5 tips for you to enjoy every ride to the fullest, always prioritizing safety and enjoyment. Are you ready? Here we go!
1. Battery charge level
The speed and intensity of the motorbike are not at odds with whether it is an electric motorbike or not. However, they will depend on the battery level of the bike, so it is advisable to make sure of the charge level before riding the motorcycle, especially if you are going on long routes or trips.
There is no limit to the number of kilometres you can travel on an electric motorbike. However, in the same way, as with a combustion motorbike, you will need to stop to recharge the battery at charging stations.
Fortunately, due to the boom in this type of vehicle, most petrol stations nowadays also have a recharging point for electric vehicles, so recharging your electric motorbike is becoming an increasingly simple task.
2. Safe equipment
Riding a motorbike carries more risk than riding any other means of transport with bodywork, as the protection is visibly less. Therefore, when riding an electric motorbike, we must be aware of the dangers we are exposed to.
For this reason, carrying good equipment is key to reducing risks in the event of an accident or fall. There are different biker outfits depending on the time of the year, so be careful! It's not because it's summer and it's hot that we should pay less attention to this factor or be less equipped.
Regarding the helmet is one of the most important elements and requires regular checks to ensure that it offers maximum safety. You may not know it, but helmets generally have an expiration date since, as they are used, they lose their faculties, and their protective elements may have deteriorated.
However, many other security elements for riding a motorbike are not required, they are highly recommended, especially on a road trip, such as a protective jacket, knee pads, or helmet. In addition, there are also special motorbike trousers and footwear that will guarantee you greater safety.
3. Be careful with the temperature
The technology of an electric motorcycle is quite sensitive to temperature. Exposing the electric motorcycle to the sun or extreme cold can considerably reduce the range of the motorcycle, so it is important to take this into account, especially when parking it.
In addition, when recharging, it is also advisable to take this into account as doing so at very high or low temperatures could affect recharging, slowing it down or negatively affecting the battery's health.
In any case, it is advisable for any vehicle, whether electric or combustion, not to be exposed to very high or low temperatures, as it is always susceptible to alterations in its mechanism.
4. Watch out for the throttle
If you are a fan of high speeds and feel the adrenaline at every acceleration, you should be aware that the system of an electric motorcycle is slightly different from that of a combustion one.
So, pay attention, this is of interest to you! Torque figures are much higher in electric motorcycles than gasoline ones, reflected in fast acceleration. In other words, if you open the throttle on an electric motorcycle, you can pick up a lot of speed in a very short time. So this is a detail to keep in mind, especially so that you are not caught off guard and don't get scared if it's your first time riding an electric motorcycle.
Of course, once you have it under control, you will be the first to leave at every traffic light, and you will be able to enjoy the speed of your bike to the maximum.
5. Electric motorbike sound
The last tip has to do with your safety. One of the characteristics of electric motorcycles is their low noise emission, something that a priori is super positive but with which we must be aware. The fact that they do not emit any sound means that other vehicles do not expect your arrival, so you should consider this in your driving to anticipate any unforeseen event.
However, a plus point is that you will be able to hear better what is going on around you and be more aware of what is happening on the road.
With these tips, you are more than ready to ride your electric motorcycle to the maximum with total safety; you just have to press the throttle and enjoy. 3, 2, 1... go!