Electric motorcycles have failed to gain serious traction in Australia, but that isn’t stopping Honda Australia from bringing one to local EV enthusiasts. The WN7, Honda’s first full-size electric motorcycle, will be available to Australian customers in Q4, 2026, via a unique program that’s closer to a lease than outright purchase.
First seen as the ‘EV Fun Concept’ at EICMA 2024, this fixed-battery electric motorcycle returned to EICMA last year in production form with the WN7 name. This references the bike’s motto, Be the Wind (W), its naked body style (N) and its power class (7), which is equivalent to a 600cc internal combustion motorcycle.
Full details and specifications are yet to be released, but the known data for this city-oriented motorcycle includes an 800mm seat height, 1,480mm wheelbase and 35-degree handlebar angle. The 217kg kerb weight (33 per cent lighter than a CB750 Hornet) is thanks mostly to the bike’s “split chassis”. The battery’s aluminium case serves as a stressed member, with little more than a headstem at the front and subframe at the rear.
The WN7’s lithium-ion battery produces a listed 349.44v, with the 18kW electric motor positioned behind, in the place a gearbox would be on a conventional motorcycle. Listed outputs are 50kW and 100Nm, equivalent to a 600cc and 1000cc ICE motor, respectively, with helical gears and belt final drive to reduce noise and vibration. Listed performance includes 0-50m acceleration in 3.9 seconds and a riding range of around 140km. Recharging takes a little under three hours, with 20-80 per cent recharge possible in 30 minutes.
Four selectable riding modes – Standard, Sport, Rain and Economy – impact acceleration and range, with a Selectable Speed Limit Assist function to accommodate city speed zones. A separate ‘Walk’ mode serves as a reverse gear to allow easy manoeuvring when parking, while adjustable deceleration levels adjust regeneration of the battery. All this data is displayed on a five-inch TFT screen that features model-specific menus and Honda’s RoadSync connectivity.
The WN7 will only be offered in Australia through a two-year subscription program, in partnership with Carbar. Subscription costs start at approximately $400/month, and include registration, insurance, roadside assistance and scheduled servicing, providing customers with a simple and seamless experience.
Expressions of Interest for the WN7 opened in August, with release limited to existing Honda owners through an application process that requires them to share their Honda story and explain why they should have the opportunity to ride this motorcycle.
“The WN7 represents an exciting new chapter for Honda in Australia as we introduce our first electric motorcycle to the local market.” said Chris Schultz, General Manager - Powersports and Products at Honda Australia. “With limited numbers available, we're looking forward to enquiries from passionate Honda customers and learning more about the stories and experiences that connect them with our brand.
“Through our partnership with Carbar, we've also worked to make the process as simple and accessible as possible, allowing customers to focus on the riding experience.”
For more details on the WN7, and to register your interest, click HERE.
