Environmental concerns are unavoidable in the 21st century. Whether it is recycling your old phone or opting for a cold drink over alcohol at your next party, we all want to limit our impact on the environment as much as possible and be salt of the Earth. There are some things that you have control over and others that you don't - what's more, there are electric bikes! Checking out our guide to electric bikes, we cover electric bike parts, e-bike laws and regulations, the benefits of e-bikes, and fair trade beauty before taking a look at some great individual models.
1. E-bike: What Is It?
An E-bike, also known as an electric bicycle or electric bike, is a bicycle with an integrated electric motor that can be used for propulsion. Electric bicycles are becoming increasingly popular in many countries due to their ease of use and advantages over traditional bicycles.
Electric bikes are powered by a battery, typically located in the rear carrier or under the seat. Most electric bikes have a throttle that can be used to provide power on demand, or there may be pedals with a motorized assist. Electric bikes are generally much quieter than petrol-powered vehicles and emit no pollutants.
There are many different types of electric bikes available on the market, from simple commuter bikes to more powerful off-road models. The price of an electric bike will vary depending on the size of the battery, the motor power, and the features included.
2. Types of E-Bikes: Motor on Demand, Pedal Assisted, and Throttle Controlled
There are three types of e-bikes: motor-on-demand, pedal-assisted, and throttle control.
Motor on Demand: The motor is only engaged when the rider wants it to be—usually with a button on the handlebar. The motor provides power to the rear wheel and can give the bike full throttle power without the rider having to paddle.
Pedal Assisted: The motor is engaged by pedaling and provides power to assist the rider. The rider controls the amount of power provided by the motor by how hard they pedal. This type of bike is great for riders who want a little boost up hills or when starting from a stop.
Throttle Controlled: The motor is engaged by a twist throttle on the handlebar. The rider controls how much power is provided by the motor with the Throttle. This type of bike is great for riders who want constant power from the motor, such as when riding on flat terrain or at high speeds.
E-bikes are a great way to get around, whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or a way to commute without breaking a sweat.
3. Pedal-Assisted vs. Throttle Electric Bicycles
The concept of "pedal-assist" technology is self-explanatory. The rider of a pedal-assist electric bike will still need to put in some effort, albeit less than they would on a standard bicycle. If you like the sensation of riding a traditional bike but need a little extra help on time-sensitive errands or longer, harder journeys, this is the electric bike for you. The amount of assistance you receive when pedaling can usually be adjusted on most models. The level of assistance is adjustable per ride.
A throttle will do the job for you on an electric bike, making it similar to a motorcycle. The Throttle is usually positioned on the handlebar and is operated by twisting or pulling a lever. A rider of a throttle-powered electric bike doesn't need to use the pedals in any way to begin going.
Without the motor, an electric bike functions similarly to a pedal-only bicycle.
4. Learn about Electric Bikes Motors
Larger motors are sometimes mistaken for being more powerful, although this is not always the case. Despite the fact that a larger motor should, in principle, be able to generate more power, the maximum allowable motor power is just 750 watts. Most of the time, a 750W motor is installed in an electric bike not because its designers wanted to make the world's fastest bike but because the design was inherently heavy and needed the extra power to compensate for the weight.
Rather than relying on the horsepower of a bike's engine, you should consider the following alternatives:
- How far can you go on a single charge?
- Power consumption during full charge
- Brand-specific; typical settings are "Eco," "Active," "Sport," "Power," and "Turbo," in that order from slowest to fastest.
- Drive by wire or pedal assisted
5. Regular Bicycle vs. Electric Bicycle
In what ways are electric bikes superior to regular bicycles? It depends on the rider and the kind of experience they want to have. However, there is a widespread myth that electric bikes can only be used by time-pressed commuters. In reality, electric bikes can be useful for a wide variety of riders and situations, such as providing a little extra assistance when venturing out on a windy day or taking a more challenging route with plenty of hills.
Standard bicycle parts are compatible with electric bikes. Lighting, kickstands, and other accessories are all possible on electric bikes. Accessories, such as a rack for convenient hauling, are now available to enhance your electric bike experience. Following safety protocols and always sporting a helmet is essential when riding a bike.
6. How Do Electric Bikes Work?
E-bikes work by using a battery to power an electric motor, which then helps to spin the bike's wheels. The motor is usually located in the front wheel hub and provides assistive force when you're pedaling. This makes it much easier to ride up hills or into strong headwinds—without getting as tired as you would on a traditional bicycle.
Most e-bikes also come with a battery pack, which helps power the motor and can be recharged when not in use. These battery packs are usually Lithium-ion batteries, similar to what you'd find in many laptops or cell phones. When fully charged, these batteries can help an e-bike motor provide power for anywhere from 15-60 miles, depending on terrain and other factors.
So whether you're looking for a way to commute without breaking a sweat or wanting to explore more of your surroundings without tiring yourself out too much, an electric bike could be the perfect solution!
7. Advantages of E-Bikes
The main advantage of e-bikes is that they allow riders to travel at speeds that are not possible on a traditional bicycle. For example, an electric bicycle can travel at 20 miles per hour (mph), whereas a traditional bicycle typically maxes out at around 10 mph. This means that e-bike riders can cover more ground in less time. More advantages are:
- The environmental advantage of e-bikes.
- The health advantage of e-bikes.
- The economic advantage of e-bikes.
- The social advantage of e-bikes.
Health Improvement
Because of the common misconception that electric bikes require less effort to ride, they are often seen as less of a workout than standard bikes. According to research from Brigham Young University published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, electric bike riders get almost as much exercise as mountain bikers do without the arduous after-effects. The truth is that cyclists still have to pedal, even with pedal help, which results in calorie burning. It's a fantastic cardiovascular workout that can also aid in muscle and stamina development.
More Manageable for Riders
Using the pedal assist, cyclists receive an extra push. It makes the ride smoother and easier on the joints on inclines, hills, and rocky terrain. Additionally, you may ride with more strength and accuracy than you would on a standard bicycle. Additionally, it encourages people to start cycling who might not have otherwise been able to due to health issues. You can also ride for extended periods of time without experiencing physical fatigue.
Fabulous Substitute for Automobiles
Electric bikes are convenient for short trips, such as getting to and from work or running errands. As with a regular bicycle, you can use sidewalks, bike lanes, and parking shortcuts when using this type of vehicle. Finding a speedier method to your destination than sitting in traffic may be easier than you think. It is better for the environment and the air quality when individuals choose to ride their e-bikes instead of their cars.
Safer and Quicker
Whereas the typical biker travels at a speed of 12 mph, an e-bike may reach speeds of up to 20 mph. You can travel much further and much faster on an e-bike than you could on a traditional bicycle. Electrically assisted bicycles provide no additional risk to riders. The dangers associated with each are simply unique. More often than not, e-bikes are safer than traditional bicycles because of the rider's ability to accelerate and so avoid danger more quickly, as well as to travel at higher speeds, keeping up with traffic.
8. Selecting Your Bike: Choosing the Right Style and Size for You
There are three main types of e-bikes: peddles, Throttle on demand, and hub motors. Peddles are the most popular type of e-bike, and they provide power assistance while you pedal. Throttle-on-demand bikes have a hand throttle that you can use to get power assistance without pedaling, and hub motorbikes have a motor in the hub of the rear wheel that provides power assistance.
Size is important when choosing an e-bike because if it's too big or small, it will be difficult to ride and control. A good rule of thumb is to choose a bike that is about the same size as your regular bicycle. If you're unsure, ask a salesperson at the bike shop for help.
When it comes to style, there are two main types of e-bikes: step-through and diamond frame. Step-through frames are lower to the ground and make it easy to get on and off the bike. They're also ideal if you'll be wearing skirts or dresses while riding. Diamond frames are traditional bicycle frames, and they're a good choice if you'll be doing any serious biking (e.g., touring, commuting).
If you're still not sure which type or size of an e-bike is right for you, ask a salesperson at the bike shop for help. They should be able to point you in the right direction.
9. Electrical Components: How the Motor Is Powered
The e-bike's motor is powered by a battery, which can be recharged using a charger connected to a standard electrical outlet. To maximize the range of your travels, it is recommended to charge the battery regularly and refrain from powering the motor while not in use. Additionally, Pedal Power Plus offers an innovative solar charging panel that can be used to recharge the battery while you are on the go!
Now that you know about the different types of e-bikes, here are some things to keep in mind when making your purchase: budget, intended use, and features. With so many options on the market, it's important to do your research and find the right bike for you.
10. Other Important Details to Consider: Weight Capacity, Safety Gear
When choosing an e-bike, it's important to consider the weight capacity and safety gear. Most e-bikes have a weight capacity of 250 pounds, but some can accommodate riders up to 300 pounds. It's also important to choose a bike with strong brakes and good visibility. Safety gear such as helmets and reflective clothing can help you be seen by drivers and stay safe on the road.
As controversial as the question of battery capacity is in the realm of e-bikes, it is nonetheless crucial. Large capacity batteries are common on E-MTBs due to their heavy weight, the frequent use required on steep and rugged terrain, and the fact that you won't be able to exceed the legal speed limit of 25 kilometers per hour when riding. Both the Shimano Steps and the Bosch Performance Line are examples of motor systems with increased battery capacity.
You should also think about where you will keep your electric bike and how you will charge it. Some bicycle batteries are detachable and may be charged at a charging station external to the bicycle, saving considerable storage space.
However, you should definitely take stated distances with a pinch of salt because numerous factors will affect your range. Some examples are temperature, rider weight, wind resistance, tire pressure, height, and so on. Once you've determined which system will enhance your cycling experience the most, you can find out how far your system will transport you by keeping track of your rides and other important data, such as the temperature and the power mode you utilize. Knowing how far your e-bike will travel is a matter of trial and error, and nothing can replace that.
Another crucial factor is the bike's resistance, or how easy it is to pedal if you go beyond the legal speed limit of 25 kilometers per hour. An e-road bike with "frictionless" pedaling is considerably more like a traditional bicycle.
11. FAQs about E-bikes
- What are the Pros of E-bikes?
- How do E-bikes work?
- What types of E-bikes are there?
- How much do E-bikes cost?
- Where can I buy an e-bike?
12. Conclusion
There are many benefits to e-bikes that make them a great option for those looking for an alternative to traditional bicycles. E-bikes are less difficult to ride, take less effort, and may be utilized in a wider range of contexts than traditional bicycles. They also provide a great workout and can be a fun way to explore your surroundings. If you're thinking about getting an e-bike, we hope this article has helped you learn more about the many benefits they offer.
