Whether you’re an ICE (internal combustion engine) enthusiast or an electric motorcycle champion, the fundamentals of riding remain the same—balance, control, and a connection to the machine. But the feel and execution of those techniques can vary between the two. After logging miles on both, I’ve learned that the principles hold true, but the differences in power delivery, weight, and response demand a tailored approach.
Cornering: Finding the Perfect Line
Cornering is the bread and butter of motorcycling. The thrill of carving through a twisty road is why many of us ride. On both ICE and e-motorbikes, the basics remain: maintain correct speed, look through the turn, countersteer, and trust the lean. But there are some subtle differences in how each bike handles curves.

On an ICE bike you rely on engine braking to help set-up the corner. Rolling off the throttle naturally slows you down, giving you time to position your line and evaluate your weight, angle and riding position before you hit the curve. With an electric motorcycle, unless you have regenerative braking, you’re more reliant on predicting the corner ahead and translating that to your throttle and brake responses. (think riding a pushbike at very high speed).
If you're lucky enough to have regen-braking equipped then typically, it will offer a similar de-acceleration to your engine braking, however, being an electrical system driven by sensors, the regen levels can often be adjusted manually. Too much regen on a curve can be like slamming on the brakes mid-tilt. However, it's quickly learnt and adjusting regen levels can be a great way to tune your riding experience.
I’ve learned to roll into the corner more deliberately on my EV and manage my throttle inputs carefully to maintain smooth transitions. On ICE bikes, I can rely on the exhaust note and engine feedback to gauge my speed; with e-moto, it’s all about feel, since they’re whisper-quiet.
Braking: Mastering the Stop
On a traditional gas-powered bike, braking is straightforward: squeeze the front lever progressively, tap the rear for balance, and let the ABS (if equipped) do its job if you overcook it.
Electric bikes, on the other hand, generally don't have a foot brake. Instead the rear brake is on the left hand lever, like a pushbike and akin to that of a twist and go scooter
ICE bikes shine in situations where you need to trail brake into a corner or modulate the rear brake during low-speed manoeuvres. With e-moto, most of this is done via the throttle. EV riders will quickly learn to tickle the throttle and manage a range of grips according to the road ahead and stability requirements.

It doesn't help that in some regions (EU), there are laws to prevent accidental launch. This generally means absolutely no throttle when braking. But many owners and some manufacturers are removing this and instead implementing an ‘auto park’ type system.
Regen also has a part to play here and can feel like an invisible hand slowing you down, which can be tricky to modulate when you’re trying to finesse your line. Learning to blend regen and conventional braking on an electric bike takes a little practice, but once you nail it, you’ll appreciate the reduced wear on your brake pads.
Throttle Control: Smooth Inputs, Steady Ride
On a gas-powered bike, you’ve got that familiar firmness to the throttle, coupled with a delay from the engine spooling up, especially in lower RPMs. Throttle response varies depending on the engine size, tuning, and even the weather, which gives each bike its unique personality.

Electric bikes are a whole different beast. Twist the throttle on an electric, and you get instant torque—no waiting for the engine to catch up, no gears to shift through. That immediacy can be exhilarating, but it can also be unforgiving if you’re not used to it. On ICE bikes, you can “play” with the throttle, letting the engine response guide you, but electrics demand more precise control.
Low-Speed Manoeuvres: Feathering the Clutch
Navigating tight spaces—whether it’s a parking lot or a slow roll in traffic—is the ultimate test of balance and skill. On ICE bikes, the friction zone between clutch and throttle is your best friend. Feathering the clutch gives you the control you need for tight U-turns or figures of eight.
Electric bikes don’t have clutches, so low-speed control relies entirely on throttle modulation and brake work. This initially felt unnatural to me. Without the ability to slip a clutch, you have to be extra precise with the throttle to avoid lurching forward. It’s a different experience but easily translated. Some electrics, like Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire, offer “creep” modes that mimic the feel of an idling ICE bike, making them easier to handle in tight spots.
Weight distribution also plays an advantage for e-moto bikers. Many EV's carry their battery packs low in the chassis, which can make them feel much more stable at low speeds compared to a top-heavy ICE bike. Once you get used to it, tight manoeuvres on an electric can feel almost effortless.
Riding in Traffic: Staying Sharp
Riding in city traffic is a game of anticipation and quick reactions, no matter what you’re riding. On an ICE bike, you’re often working the clutch and throttle to navigate stop-and-go situations. Engine braking can help you manage your speed without constantly tapping the brakes.

Electric motorcycles excel in traffic thanks to their instant torque and the absence of clutch work means less fatigue during long commutes. However, their silent operation poses a unique challenge: pedestrians and drivers often don’t hear you coming. I’ve taken to using my horn more frequently on an electric and being extra vigilant, especially at intersections.
Conclusion: Two Different Drivetrains, One Shared Passion
Riding skills are universal, but the way you apply them depends on the machine beneath you. ICE bikes have a character shaped by their engines, gears, and sounds, while two-wheeled EV's bring futuristic power delivery, a multitude of adjustable parameters and a quieter, smoother experience. Each has its quirks and demands a different approach, but both offer the same thrill of freedom that only a motorcycle can provide.
At the end of the day, the fundamentals of riding remain constant: look where you want to go, respect the throttle, and always ride within your limits. Whether you’re on a roaring V-twin or a silent electric rocket, every ride is an opportunity to learn, improve, and connect with the road. EV's are fast adopting systems like ABS, CBS and TCS, all of which will provide more upfront safety features whilst allowing adjustment to suit your riding style. Ride safe, ride smart, and enjoy the journey.