Are Electric Bikes Worth It?

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Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:11 PM

Key Takeaways:

  • Electric bikes have caught on in a big way throughout recent years.
  • Modern eBikes are a great way to get started on a physical fitness plan or to just have fun outside.
  • Electric bicycles can also help consumers save money on transportation bills.

Electric bikes, otherwise known as eBikes, have become a legitimate phenomenon, leaving some consumers to wonder exactly why so many people are jumping aboard the hype train.

Are Electric Bikes Worth It?

Generally speaking, the best electric bicycles are worth it to a large segment of consumers throughout the world. To figure out if an eBike is worth it for your individual lifestyle, you may need to learn the benefits of riding one.

A Guide to the Benefits of eBikes

There are a number of benefits to purchasing and riding an electric bike that go above and beyond what can typically be found with a traditional bicycle.

Improve Physical Health

It is important to note the difference between an electric bike and a personal scooter. These electric bikes still demand physical input from the rider, just like a traditional bike. The technology comes into play when considering the pedal-assist feature, which offers assistance to the rider to get over hills or when they are tired out. Electric bikes can be great for those who aren’t ready for the grueling intensity of traditional bicycles and want a little bit of assistance as they ride. In other words, these items are great for increased physical health.

Warning: These electric bikes still demand physical input from the rider, just like a traditional bike

Save Money

Being as how electric bikes receive power from a power outlet, and not gasoline, you should be able to save some money on your transportation bills. The savings will be even starker if you regularly use public transportation and switch over to an electric bike. Though the initial cost can be high when it comes to purchasing a brand new electric bike, there are cheaper options available, such as electric bike conversion kits. These kits simply affix to a traditional bike, increasing its feature set considerably.

Tip: Being as how electric bikes receive power from a power outlet, and not gasoline, you should be able to save some money on your transportation bills

Warning: Though the initial cost can be high when it comes to purchasing a brand new electric bike, there are cheaper options available, such as electric bike conversion kits​

More Fun

Though many electric bikes operate via a pedal-assist feature that merely helps a rider get over steep hills or resist winds, some include an actual throttle mechanism. What does this mean? You can ride the bike without any input whatsoever, just like any other transportation vehicle. Both throttle and pedal-assist can be a whole lot of fun, turning daily errands into something to look forward to and opening up the possibilities of the great outdoors. The fun factor involved with eBikes also makes it easy to tempt friends and family to get in on the action. As a warning, be sure to wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet.

Tip: You can ride the bike without any input whatsoever, just like any other transportation vehicle

Warning: ​As a warning, be sure to wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet

STAT:

A study undertaken in Boulder, Colorado found that when riding an e-bike for at least 40 minutes per ride, participant’s heart rates averaged around 75% of their maximum. (Source)

​​Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedelec

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle_laws

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1361920915000140

*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9tFoV6j3m8

Are Electric Bikes Worth It FAQ

What e-bikes are good for new riders?

We would recommend an electric bike that has been purpose-built for new riders, with plenty of safety features and ease-of-use enhancements.

Do e-bikes have drawbacks?

Like any piece of technology, there are some drawbacks inherent to electric bikes. They tend to be heavier than traditional bicycles, and usually cost more.

Are e-bikes faster than regular bikes?

Not necessarily. An electric bike’s top speed is regulated by its motor system, but also any local laws and regulations in place.

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