Musk’s statement came in response to an AI-generated video depicting a fictional “Tesla electric motorcycle” that recently went viral on X (formerly Twitter). Replying directly under the video, the Tesla CEO wrote bluntly: “It will never happen, because we can’t make motorcycles safe.”

Musk clarified that he does not doubt Tesla’s technical capability to design an electric motorcycle. However, he emphasized that the inherent nature of two-wheeled vehicles makes them significantly riskier than cars. He also referenced a personal experience from his youth, recalling that he nearly lost his life after a collision with a truck while riding a motorcycle on public roads.

That said, Musk drew a clear distinction between street motorcycles and off-road bikes. He suggested that dirt bikes could be relatively safer if ridden carefully, as they typically operate in environments with far less interaction with cars and large trucks.

Musk’s comments have sparked debate, particularly given Tesla’s ongoing safety challenges. The company has faced repeated scrutiny over issues such as jammed door handles and the performance of its Autopilot system. Critics have pointed out the apparent contradiction in Musk dismissing electric motorcycles as unsafe while Tesla vehicles themselves remain under investigation for safety-related concerns.

Tesla’s Autopilot system, in particular, has drawn criticism regarding its ability to detect motorcycles. Several fatal accidents have occurred in which Tesla vehicles operating with Autopilot engaged collided with motorcycles. Some experts argue that Tesla’s camera-based self-driving approach may struggle to accurately identify motorcycles—especially cruiser-style bikes whose closely spaced taillights can be mistaken for distant car lights.

Despite Tesla’s absence, the global electric motorcycle market continues to expand rapidly. Traditional manufacturers such as Honda, BMW, and Kawasaki have begun launching commercial electric motorcycle models, while specialized brands like Zero Motorcycles and LiveWire are steadily improving performance and expanding their distribution networks.

In the mass-market segment, many smaller companies are focusing on affordable electric two-wheelers designed for daily commuting. Notably, Asian manufacturers such as Yadea, NIU, and VinFast are aggressively pushing low-cost electric motorcycles and scooters, accelerating the electrification of two-wheeled transport in many countries—at a pace significantly faster than in the U.S. market.

The reality is that even without Tesla’s involvement, the electric motorcycle industry is thriving. The sector continues to innovate, scale, and attract a growing global customer base, proving that the future of electric two-wheelers does not depend on Tesla’s participation.