EV-Sales FAQ

Subscriber's choice question index: FAQ

Q01:Do I need a Motorcycle license (M1) to operate Specialty-E-Motorcycle?
Current California law starting from 2006 requires the rider to have a moped license (M2).
Laws vary from state to state. Some states require riders to be at least 16 and have a valid driver’s license.
Call your local police department or DMV for more information, or check out http://moped2.org/mlaws.htm

Q02:Do I need Motorcycle insurance to operate Specialty-E-Motorcycle?
Laws vary from state to state. Current California law does not require motorcycle insurance to operate Specialty-E-Motorcycle Electric motorcycle.
Specialty-E-Motorcycle strongly recommends the user to purchase insurance to safeguard against unforeseen accidents.

Q03:Do I need to wear a helmet to operate Specialty-E-Motorcycle?
Yes. It will vary from state to state but the current California law requires the driver to wear a helmet when operating Specialty-E-Motorcycle Electric Motorcycle.

Q04:Do I need to register my Specialty-E-Motorcycle?
It will vary from state to state, but in general to register your Specialty-E-Motorcycle Electric Motorcycle, you’ll most likely need:
• The Certificate of Origin (Specialty-E-Motorcycle will provide)
• The invoice/bill of sale
• Proof of insurance (not required in California)

Q05:How do I obtain a Specialty-E-Motorcycle Electric Motorcycle license plate?
Current California law requires you to complete form REG 230 and a one-time registration fee.
The form REG230 can be downloaded from the web site: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/forms/formsreg_alpha.htm

Q06:What type of fuel does Specialty-E-Motorcycle Electric Motorcycle use?
NONE. The great thing about GEM is that it is powered entirely by electricity. You can avoid long lines at the gas pump as well as high gasoline prices.

Q07:Does Specialty-E-Motorcycle require a smog check or emission test?
No. Specialty-E-Motorcycle Electric Motorcycle does not have an exhaust pipe to emit fumes. It is powered entirely by electricity.

Q08:Is Specialty-E-Motorcycle very noisy like gasoline-powered scooter?
No. Specialty-E-Motorcycle Electric Motorcycle is very quiet. It is powered by a brushless DC motor.

Q09:What is the typical electricity costs for charging my Specialty-E-Motorcycle?
It depends on the electricity cost in your local state. In general the residential electricity costs range from 6 to 8 cents per KWH (1000 watts hour). For a 1500 W GEM-I 1400 model it is about 12 cents to fully charge the battery. Specialty-E-Motorcycle Electric Motorcycle can run about 60 miles on level ground per charge. In other words, the 3 dollars a gallon you typically spend on gasoline is equivalent to 1500 miles spent on 3 dollars of electricity.

Q10:Where can I get a Specialty-E-Motorcycle?
Please check our web site to find a distributor near you or purchase directly from our online store.

Q11:How much maintenance does Specialty-E-Motorcycle need?
Specialty-E-Motorcycle motorcycle is simple and efficient vehicle that requires very little maintenance. No yearly oil change or tune-up. The brushless electric motor does not require maintenance and carries a one-year warranty. As long as it is cared for, it has many years of good use.

Q12:What regular maintenance should I perform?
We recommend a quick visual and mechanical check before each ride. A safety inspection chart is located in your Owner’s Manual.

Q13:Who do I contact if I have a problem that is not covered in my warranty?
We recommend you contact the closest GEM authorized retailer for assistance.

Q14:What is the life expectancy of my battery?
If the battery is properly charged in the upright position, you should expect up to 500 charges.

Q15:How long does it take to recharge the battery?
The battery will take 4 hours to charge 80% of the capacity and 6 hours to fully charge the battery.

Q16:What do I need to do to maintain the brakes?
Virtually nothing. A periodic inspection of the brake cable and brake pads are all it takes.

Q17:Does the motor need any maintenance?
No, the motor is a maintenance free brushless DC motor.

Q18:How often do the tires need to be changed?
The tires need to be changed when the tread is significantly worn.

Q19:Specialty-E-Motorcycle Electric Motorcycle looks similar to the mopeds I see on the street, what’s the difference?
Since GEM runs entirely on electricity, it is the more socially conscious alternative to the often times noisy gas guzzling mopeds. Also, the GEM Electric Motorcycle is extremely quiet; it will not cause a disturbance to local neighbors and establishments.

Q20:How fast can the Specialty-E-Motorcycle go? Can I drive it on the freeway?
GEM is recommended for general local use; it can go up to 30 MPH. This vehicle is a great alternative to a car, especially for those quick runs to the grocery store, getting through large college/industrial campuses, or just a leisure ride through the neighborhood. No more fighting for parking spaces or dealing with bumper-to-bumper traffic!