The global electric two-wheeler market is growing exponentially, with global sales reaching 4.4 million in the first half of 2025 alone. Consumers of e-bikes are attracted by the prospect of lower maintenance costs, superior torque for acceleration, and environmental benefits. One of the few downsides of purchasing an e-bike in some parts of the world, though, is the lack of infrastructure. While some parts of Europe and China boast fully integrated, high-speed, safe networks for e-bike owners, others lag behind. For e-bikes to be adopted on a wider scale, it is vital to provide dedicated bike lanes, robust public charging solutions, and secure storage.
Countries Leading the Way
European countries leading in integration and safety include the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, France, and Belgium. For instance, the Netherlands is home to an extensive network of segregated, high-quality bike lanes, often featuring cycling highways connecting city centers to suburbs. Germany, meanwhile, has 12.5 million e-bike owners, thanks in no small part to its separated cycling paths. Denmark is also one of the most highly rated e-bike countries, as its infrastructure includes cycling tracks, bike signals, and bridges designed for two-wheeled vehicles only. China, the worldwide leader in e-bike usage, has somewhat chaotic yet well-functioning infrastructure comprising bike lanes and numerous EV charging solutions—including charging piles, cabinets, and battery-swapping stations. Countries leading the way are also prioritizing EV charging costs. For instance, in Europe, the cost of charging an e-bike battery is negligible—between €0.05 and €0.20 for a full charge. In China, costs are similar, ranging from ¥1 to ¥2.
Emerging Infrastructure in Other Parts of the World
In countries such as the USA and Canada, e-bike infrastructure is improving but still falls behind developments in Europe and Asia. Some cities are working to increase the number of bike lanes, yet many cyclists still feel unsafe due to a lack of adequate separation from car traffic. In other countries, such as Indonesia and Brazil, infrastructure is still in incipient stages. For instance, in Indonesia, the government has invested more in electric car infrastructure than in e-bike infrastructure, even though shared e-bike programs are already operating in cities like Jakarta.
Charging Station Challenges
In countries with emerging e-bike markets, one of the biggest challenges ahead is establishing an adequate number of dedicated charging stations. Currently, most charging locations are designed to fit the size, parking layout, and connector height of cars. In some cases, penalties are imposed on two-wheelers that use stations designed for cars. Other issues include cables that are too heavy or short for motorcycle charge ports, a lack of secure parking while bikes are charging, no storage facilities for helmets and gear, and payment machines that are difficult to operate with gloves. All these factors can sway consumers toward buying cars rather than e-bikes.
Key Developmental Priorities
Countries wishing to boost e-bike adoption must invest in a multifaceted infrastructure strategy, starting with safe lanes that are correctly separated from traffic. Fast-charging integration is also key. Premium electric motorcycles are already adopting CCS and other rapid-charge standards, reducing anxiety about slower charging. Governments can also follow China’s lead by embracing battery swapping to offer near-instant energy replenishment without the need for personal charging equipment. Finally, policymakers must recognize the potential of two-wheelers to provide long-distance transport outside major cities. Small towns, workplaces, and mobility hubs must all have charging stations that are fully adapted to the needs of e-bikers.
E-bike sales are growing in many parts of the world, but riders are still facing major challenges. The lack of charging stations and separate bike lanes are two obstacles governments must overcome. Fast-charging stations must be set up not only in major urban areas but also in rural ones if e-bikes are to achieve their full growth potential.
