An ebike (or electric bike) is a regular bicycle that incorporates an electric motor to assist with pedaling. E-bikes are growing in popularity as people look for ways to cut down on car trips and get a little extra help on hills or when they just need a break from all that sweating.
In a recent survey, we found that ebike owners are replacing 46 percent of their car commutes and 30 percent of driving errands with a bike. And it’s not hard to see why. E-bikes let you hum along at a comfortable pace without burning your legs out, and they’re great for long rides and commutes because you can still keep up with traffic (I shaved about three minutes off my five-mile trip).
E-bikes come in many styles and price points. For example, you can get a cruiser e-bike with wide or fat tires and an upright design that’s perfect for leisurely rides on flat terrain or paved roads. Or you can get a mountain e-bike with suspension and high handlebars that make it easy to ride off-road trails.
You’ll also find a wide range of motors, from hub to crank. Some e-bikes have the motor located on the rear wheel, where it provides power by spinning the axle to create the sensation of being ‘pulled.’ Others have the motor on the crank, where it senses how much effort you’re putting into the pedals and responds proportionally to give you an extra boost. The crank motor offers a more authentic bike experience, while the hub motor is more efficient and can be easier to use on flat or hilly terrain.
Another thing to consider is how far you’ll be able to go on a single charge of the battery. A good way to figure this out is by logging your rides on Strava and noting how long you went and how many watts were used. Then, you can start to compare your results and determine which e-bike is right for you.
As with any new type of bike, you’ll need to take some time getting familiar with the controls. You’ll also want to practice your mounting and dismounting skills in a safe place before riding on heavily trafficked streets. Once you’ve got the hang of it, though, you’ll be flying along with confidence and feeling like an e-bike pro in no time!
As with any bike, it’s important to maintain your e-bike to extend its lifespan. This includes regularly cleaning and inspecting your bike and ensuring that the battery is charged and stored properly to prevent damage and prolong its life. It’s also a good idea to have a repair kit on hand, so you can fix minor issues that might arise while out on a ride.