A motorcycle dealer in Najaf’s Khan al-Mukhadhar market showcases new Chinese-made models as demand grows for both fuel and electric bikes. Photo by 964media.
Electric bikes gain traction in Najaf, but riders say fuel models still lead on power
NAJAF — As electric delivery bikes spread rapidly in Najaf, riders and dealers say traditional fuel-powered motorcycles continue to dominate for strength, endurance and long-distance work, leaving the city’s largest bike market split between two growing demands.
In Khan al-Mukhadhar — the biggest motorcycle marketplace in Najaf governorate — dealers now promote both types side by side. Munthir al-Rawaziq, a showroom owner and agent for the Chinese brand Shining Motor, said gear-based fuel bikes remain the first choice for workers who depend on power and durability.
Dealer Nizar al-Janabi said newer electric bikes with six batteries now perform “very close” to fuel models. “The demand now is for electric bikes because they are comfortable for the customer,” he told 964media. “They don’t need fuel or oil, and with larger batteries they can travel long distances.”
Al-Janabi said bikes in the market range from 350,000 dinars (about $248) to 1.25 million dinars (about $887), noting that China continues to dominate Iraq’s motorcycle supply. “The bikes have good specifications, and they undergo quality checks,” he said.
Customer Ahmed Fadel, visiting from al-Hayyirah, said he arrived specifically to buy an electric model. “They advised me to buy an electric bike because it’s economical, doesn’t need fuel or oil, and there is no traffic registration process,” he said.
Al-Rawaziq said demand remains strong for “5-gear” motorcycles and cargo-scooter trucks, especially among delivery workers seeking brands like Shining and Dayun. He attributed the scarcity of Japanese motorcycles to import issues. “They arrive without papers — what we call ‘kuluk’ — and they face legal penalties, unlike Chinese bikes, which come with official documents and are registered to the owner,” he said.
He said Chinese motorcycle prices range from 1 million dinars ($710) to 4 million dinars ($2,840), including the plate and annual registration. Quality varies by grade, and dealers choose which level to import. “Customers in Najaf look for specific features, starting from the 4-gear models upward,” he said.
Sales drop sharply in winter. “Winter is destructive for motorcycle sellers,” al-Rawaziq said. “Our shops stay open, but we only sell a few bikes.”
He described Khan al-Mukhadhar as the biggest market in Iraq for motorcycles and parts, serving buyers from all governorates. “Electric bikes have affected the market a lot, and registration issues have also played a role,” he said. “Electric bikes are economical and quiet, but there is no competition between electric and gear bikes in terms of power.”