As with conventional bicycles, there are several types of e-bikes, each with a special purpose, whether it’s riding mountain or forest trails, taking long rides on the open road, or cruising around at a leisurely pace near home. Some conventional cycling purists knock electric bikes because of the greater ease of pedaling, but some converts have told us they love them.
The extra boost from a battery and an electric motor has also opened up cycling to people who might not otherwise have been able to ride. Sarah Johnson, the Omaha cycling advocate, says she faced having to give up cycling when medical problems made it difficult for her to pedal a conventional bicycle.
“I used to be an e-bike hater, but when I realized that it was e-bike or no riding, I realized how great they are,” she says. “I’m feeling better, but I don’t think I’ll ever get rid of my e-bike.”
Performance Road Bikes
The defining characteristics of a road bike are usually a lightweight frame, skinny tires, and drop-down handlebars that help the rider maintain an aerodynamic riding position. It’s not unusual to see a cluster of bright-shirted cyclists pedaling furiously down a bike trail or along the side of the road on lightweight speed machines.
Like their pedal-powered counterparts, electric road bikes feature slimmer, lighter components and require an aerodynamic riding position, both meant to increase efficiency over long distances. The assistance offered by an electric motor makes it possible to cover longer distances and handle steep grades with less of the fatigue associated with conventional bicycles.
Even though they’re fast and relatively light, performance bikes still aren’t for everyone, because the aggressive riding position can be uncomfortable for some riders.
Mountain Bikes
With beefier frames, bigger tires, and sometimes long-travel suspension components, mountain bikes are built to handle trails, large rocks, logs, and other rough terrain and obstacles. A spin through mountain bike racing videos on the internet reveals that their riders sometimes expect the bikes to handle much more than that—big air jumps and rough terrain, among other demands.
Of course, the fun part is the faster, more effortless downhill portion. Getting there usually involves a demanding pedal up steep grades on loose terrain. Adding an electric motor to a mountain bike makes a lot of sense for someone who wants to experience the thrill of downhill riding but may not have the fitness to handle the grueling uphill slog.
The e-bike segment makes bikes with larger tires—which are more difficult to pedal using leg power alone because of the increased weight and rolling resistance that comes with their beefy wheels and tires—more appealing, and also makes it possible to do more riding in a day because of reduced fatigue. Electric mountain bikes aren’t permitted on some trails, so be sure to check state and local regulations. Also, as CR’s testers found, it’s important to buy an electric mountain bike with brakes that can handle the extra weight of the battery and electric motor.
Hybrids and Cruisers
Hybrids offer a combination of road bike efficiency and the more upright riding position preferred by mountain bikers and commuters. They usually have straight handlebars. This type of bicycle can be a good all-around setup for those who seek the best of both worlds.
Cruisers offer a relaxed, comfortable upright seating position, and often a softer ride because of bigger tires and cushier seats. Look for swooping handlebars that keep a rider’s arms a relaxed distance from the body. The addition of an electric motor to either of these configurations makes it possible to use a thicker frame and wider tires to soak up bumps in the road. Volkers, the Maryland commuter, bought this type of e-bike because he can ride it on light off-road trails and paved roads with ease.
So you’re thinking about buying an electric bike? Great choice! Because if you’re looking for a way to get around without the hassle of gas or motorbike costs, an electric bike could be the perfect solution. So here are seven of the best reasons why you should make the switch and get your own electric bike.
If you find yourself always on the go, then an electric bike is a perfect option for you. Here’s why:
Electric bikes are one of the most environmentally friendly forms of transportation. They are a great choice for those looking for an eco-friendly transportation option. Unlike gas-powered bikes, they produce zero emissions, which is great news for the planet. In fact, they also have a smaller carbon footprint than other forms of transportation.
Electric bikes are a great way to save money on gas. Not only do they help you avoid having to purchase gasoline, but they also allow you to travel farther and faster than you would on a traditional bike. This means you’ll be able to cover more ground in less time.
E-bikes are becoming increasingly popular as a way to improve one’s health and fitness. They provide an easy and efficient means of transportation, allowing people to get exercise without having to spend an additional amount of time working out. Additionally, e-bikes can help reduce stress levels by providing a fun and active outlet.
Reasons why electric bikes are a great way to get around town:
Electric bikes are perfect for vacations. Not only do they make getting around town a breeze, but they’re also incredibly versatile – perfect for exploring new parts of the country or world. So whether you’re looking to take your bike on a weekend getaway or plan a longer trip with multiple stops, an electric bike is a perfect way to get around. Plus, with prices ranging from just under $1,000 to well over $5,000, there’s an electric bike to fit any budget. So why wait? Start planning your next vacation today and take advantage of the easy-to-use and versatile benefits of electric bikes.
Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular as a means of transportation. They are not only eco-friendly and easy to use, but also affordable. In fact, many people choose to buy electric bikes because they are cheaper than traditional bicycles and they do not require registration or insurance. And aside from transportation, they can even be used for recreation and exercise.
Electric bikes are a great option for people of all ages and abilities. So whether you need to get around town quickly or want to take your bike on the go for an extended trip, an electric bike is a perfect choice. Plus, they make biking around town much more fun and convenient.
With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that more people are buying electric bikes nowadays. So if you’re considering making the switch, get in touch with us at ElectroBike and we would love to hear from you!