What is an e-bike?

An electric bike or e-bike is a type of bicycle with a battery and a small electric motor for propulsion. A huge range of bikes fit that description and they come in a wide range of styles, shapes and sizes but "pedal assist" or "pedelec" e-bikes are most common.

The motor makes pedaling easier or in some cases not required at all which allows you to ride up hills or into the wind more easily. Although the motor gives you a slight power boost, overall an e-bike is very similar to a standard bike.

The motor on an e-bike allows you to go faster and more easily while still allowing you to pedal like you would on a traditional bike. The motor can either kick in when you pedal to give you an extra boost or on some models it can be controlled using a throttle on the handlebars that removes the need to pedal entirely. Through the use of drive modes, usually chosen via a little computer located on the handlebars, you can regulate how much assistance the motor provides. Similar to a magic button, it can provide you with additional power when you need it.

The motor is powered by a battery, which requires charging just like a phone or tablet does (yes, something new to add to the ever expanding list of "things I need to charge each night". Like you would your phone, you charge it by plugging it into an outlet at home. Some models have fixed batteries which means that the bike has to be within reach of a power outlet to charge whereas others have removable batteries which can be taken to an outlet for charging.

One thing to note is that because of the battery and motor, picking up an e-bike comes with a shock factor the first time you do it. They are generally substantially heavier than traditional bicycles, most weighing between 40-60 pounds. You need some strength to get them up onto a bike rack on a car or carry them up stairs.

Everyone can ride e-bikes including children, the elderly, people with physical limitations, and healthy adults who just want an easier ride.

Environmental Benefits

E-bikes are fantastic for the environment which is one of their many benefits. You are not using as much fuel as you would if you were driving a car since you are using a small amount of power to charge a battery which then assists you in pedaling. As a result, there is less pollution, which is beneficial for the planet.

E-bikes are also a lot of fun, another plus! Compared to riding a standard bike, you can travel further and faster while taking in more of your surroundings. Many people now use e-bikes to commute to work or school rather than driving or taking public transport. It's much less expensive than driving a car and a great way to get some exercise and fresh air.

E-bike Summary

An e-bike is a great way to stay in shape, get outside in the fresh air, save money, solve the transportation requirement of getting from point A to point B and help the planet with the added bonus of being great fun to ride.