Thinking of getting around Gran Canaria on a two-wheeled electric vehicle? Then you’ve probably come across a lot of terms that sound similar: electric motorbike, electric scooter, 49cc, A2, and so on. But are they all the same? Not exactly.
The first thing to know is that "electric motorbike" is a general term covering various types of electric vehicles. Among them, two categories are particularly common:
- Electric scooter: automatic, flat-foot platform, ideal for the city and short journeys. Some models are equivalent to 49cc or 125cc.
- A2 electric motorbikes: more powerful, with greater range and a design similar to a traditional petrol bike. These require an A2 licence and are aimed at more experienced riders.
In this comparison between scooters and electric motorbikes, we’ll help you figure out which one suits you best—depending on how you plan to use it, the type of licence you have, and the kind of routes you want to take around the island.
Key Differences Between Electric Motorbike Types
While both types are electrically powered, there are important differences between a scooter and a conventional-style motorbike. The most notable are riding position and overall build:
- The scooter has a flat floorboard for your feet, it’s lower, lighter, and very easy to handle. Perfect for city rides or short commutes.
- The traditional electric motorbike is ridden like a petrol bike—with a higher frame, bigger wheels, and a different posture. It needs more experience, but offers better control at higher speeds.
Choosing between a scooter and a more traditional electric motorbike comes down to your riding experience, the types of journeys you’ll take, and your licence. It’s not just about style—it affects manoeuvrability, performance, and who it’s best for.
Power and Range: Which Routes Suit Each One?
One of the biggest deciding factors between an electric 125 scooter and a more powerful electric motorbike is range—and here the difference truly shows, especially on long rides or inland routes.
- A 49cc electric motorbike (similar to a moped) is perfect for short city trips. It’s limited to 45 km/h and usually offers 50–80 km of real-world range.
- A 125cc electric scooter steps things up: reaching 90–100 km/h and offering between 70–120 km of range.
- A2 electric motorbikes, made for longer journeys or daily rides outside the city, are long-range electric models capable of doing 130–200 km on a single charge, depending on speed, terrain and road type.
On Gran Canaria, this is particularly important: If you’ll be staying mostly around Las Palmas, Maspalomas or Arucas, a 49cc or 125cc will be more than enough. But if you’re heading towards Tejeda, Artenara or tackling long routes without easy access to a plug—you’ll definitely need more battery.
Licence Requirements: Are You Allowed to Ride?
This is another major difference—especially when it comes to rentals:
- A 49cc electric motorbike can be ridden with an AM licence from age 15.
- A 125cc electric scooter requires an A1 licence (available from 16) or a B licence held for at least 3 years.
- A2 electric motorbikes, which are more powerful and have greater range, require the A2 licence. That means being over 18 and passing a specific test.
When renting, most companies in Gran Canaria will ask for:
- A valid driving licence (B or higher)
- Be over 21
- Some riding experience, depending on the model
What’s the Riding Experience Like?
It’s not just about power. You also need to think about comfort, maintenance and how each bike feels. Even though both are electric, they don’t ride the same way.
Electric scooters are known for ease of use: quiet, automatic, lightweight, and easy to park. Charging is simple and they require very little upkeep.
Larger electric motorbikes (A2 type) offer more stability, better braking and a feel more like a traditional petrol bike. But they’re also heavier, harder to handle for beginners, and take more getting used to.
What do people say about electric motorbikes?
- They love how smooth and economical they are (no petrol, no oil, no filters).
- Some miss the sound or having gears—especially if they’re used to traditional motorbikes.
- Range remains the biggest “but”, although it improves year by year.
Which One Should You Choose for Gran Canaria?
Here’s a quick guide based on your profile and journey style:
100% Urban Use If you’re just riding around the city or very short distances (less than 10 km/day): 49cc electric motorbike
Urban & Light Intercity Travel For commuting, coastal rides or doing 40–60 km a day comfortably: 125cc electric scooter
Longer Routes, Hills & Worry-Free Battery For touring the whole island, mountain roads or travelling as a pair: Long-range electric motorbike (A2 type)
What If I Want to Rent a Scooter or Electric Motorbike?
Gran Canaria is one of the best places to rent electric two-wheelers. Distances are manageable, there are charging points available, and the weather is ideal all year round.
You only need:
- A valid licence (B with 3 years, or A1/A2)
- To be over 18 (often over 21)
- A model that suits your level of experience
And if you’re not sure what’s best, Scooter and Bike Rental will help you decide whether a 125cc electric scooter or one of the A2 electric motorbikes is the better fit for your adventure.
Final Thoughts: Scooter or Electric Motorbike?
Choosing between a scooter and a more powerful motorbike depends on how, where and how often you plan to ride. If you want something practical, automatic and easy to handle, the 125cc electric scooter is ideal for everyday riding and exploring cities. But if you're after more power, more autonomy and a riding experience that feels closer to a traditional motorbike, then A2 electric motorbikes are the better choice for longer or more demanding routes.
Both options are sustainable, quiet and increasingly accessible. And here in Gran Canaria, Scooter and Bike Rental lets you hire based on your licence and experience—so you’ll find the bike that truly suits you.Because not all electric motorbikes are the same—and choosing the right one makes all the difference.
