Pros and Cons of Electric Bikes

Electric bikes are very similar to traditional bikes in that they are designed with two wheels, a rider pushes the pedal by using a foot, and the bike relies on the balance of the rider to move forward. Although there are similarities, there are five elements that make E-bikes different from traditional bikes, including the motor, sensor, battery, controls, and display.

This article is not really about the difference between traditional bikes and E-bikes, just thought we’d give you some details about the two so you can have a clear idea of what an e-bike is. Just in case this is your first time coming this way.

Otherwise, today is all about discussing the benefits of having an e-bike instead of a traditional bicycle and we’ll also look at some of the (very) few cons that come with owning one.

Pros and Cons of Electric Bikes

An electric bike or e-bike is a bicycle with an electric motor that helps the rider when pedaling. The motor will get its power from a rechargeable battery seated on the bike and it’s designed to help the rider push forward so they don’t have to propel it forward themselves.

But with anything, e-bikes have their pros and cons which we’ll explore in depth below.

Electric Bikes Pros

• You don't need to worry about having a license

The first pro of riding an electric bike is that it gives you the freedom to zip through city traffic and rugged terrain without the burden of a license. That’s because, in most states, you don’t need a license to ride an e-bike as long as it weighs less than 40 kg and does not exceed a continuous 250w power level, and has pedals to push forward. In most countries, e-bikes are treated like regular bicycles which is why you do not need a license.

You can go pretty much anywhere and make deliveries on time, faster than you would in a car. As long as you stay on the safe side of the road, you are good to go.

• They keep you fit

Cycling is one of the most fun ways to exercise. It can help to strengthen your heart muscles, lower your resting pulse, and also reduce blood fat levels.

The best part? You’ll enjoy all of these benefits without making any extra effort. Whether you’re making deliveries, running errands, or cycling for fun, your e-bike will keep you fit and healthy.

• It’s an excellent source of transportation

E-bikes are a reliable and efficient mode of transport no matter where you’re commuting to. Most e-bikes also offer electric assistance for a pedaling distance of up to 20 mph. Of course, the point at which electric assistance kicks in will depend on the e-bike class you’re dealing with.

This is a great advantage for e-bike riders because you don’t have to worry about sweating up hilly terrain or getting as tired as you would in a traditional bicycle.

Although cars are faster than e-bikes, most delivery drivers prefer e-bikes today because they’re terrific for dodging rush hour on the road. E-bikes are also very flexible on the road, they always get you to your destination on time, and they make journeys that are uncomfortable on a normal bicycle easier. What’s more, e-bikes are safer compared to other means of transportation, granted you keep to the right side of the road.

• Electric bikes are easy to use

People spend months at driving school trying to master all there is to know about cars, and if you fail the test, you won't be given a license.

E-bikes, on the other hand, are very simple to use. Anyone can master the way they function in no time without putting any money, time, or effort into it.

Now, the most important thing you need to know when learning to use an e-bike is how to balance it first. When you’ve mastered the balance, it’s very easy to start using the pedals, and within a week a newbie can easily use an e-bike without any problems.

• They’re economically effective

E-bikes generally don’t consume a lot of electricity and you don’t have to spend any money on fuel or services, as these processes can be easily taken care of without spending any extra money. In fact, you can get access to the most powerful e-bike in NYE plus complimentary service for just $159 per month with a Whizz e-bike subscription.

Electric Bike Cons

• Not everyone can afford them

While e-bikes usually cost more than regular bicycles, they’re still more accessible to the average person than a car. Nevertheless, the starting price range for a good quality electric bike can be $1,500 -$2,500. That’s why Whizz’s rent-to-own program is so valuable, as it makes e-bike ownership accessible to everyone. It’s certainly a fantastic investment for delivery drivers and the $179 monthly payments could soon pay for themselves.

• Extreme weather can be challenging

You might need to take extra precautions with your e-bike during the rainy season, and extremely cold weather can make it nearly impossible to ride your bike. Wind or snow can make it difficult for car drivers to see you unless you wear high-visibility clothing, and you have to constantly keep an eye on your e-bike battery to make sure it doesn’t freeze over.

• Not all e-bikes are made equal

Unfortunately, some e-bikes are more reliable than others and there have been instances of screws falling and parts breaking. That’s why it’s important to invest in a good quality e-bike that’s made to last. What’s more, applying too much pressure to your e-bike while climbing a hill or accelerating can also cause screws to fall off in certain models, putting the rider’s life in danger. So, make sure to wear your safety helmet and inspect your e-bike for any loose screws before you go out into rough terrain.

• They’re heavier than regular bicycles

E-bikes aren’t as light as normal bicycles. A regular commuter-style e-bike with a decent-sized battery weighs around 23 kg while electric cargo bikes typically weigh around 30kg. Their heaviness can make it difficult for riders to maintain control when climbing up hills or accelerating upwards. However, e-bikes are far more lightweight than motorbikes and more convenient besides.

• They don’t accommodate all sizes

Another issue about e-bikes is the fact that there are currently no e-bike sizes for children, which can be an issue when your ten-year-old sees you enjoying one. Luckily, they won’t have to wait too long as children are allowed to ride an e-bike once they reach the age of 14 years.

While most e-bikes are beautiful and well-designed they’re not really designed for everyone. The elderly often find them challenging to ride and control on the road as well, and the seats are often too narrow for larger riders.

To Wrap Up

Let’s face it; an e-bike can really make your life easier and it’s an ideal investment for anyone looking to enjoy an exciting ride through the city or wilderness. They’re definitely fun and economical as you don’t have to worry about rising gas costs. You’ll also save on maintenance and because they’re so fast and nimble; being late for work will no longer be an issue.

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Read more:

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• How Far Can You Go on an Electric Bike?
• How Fast Is an Electric Bike?
• How to Lock an Electric Bike
• How to Ride an Electric Bike
• How to Use Gears on E-Bike: Everything You Need to Know
• Pros and Cons of Electric Bikes
• The Cultural Impact of Electric Bikes
• The Environmental Benefits of Electric Bikes
• The History of Electric Bikes
• What Is a Hybrid Electric Bike?
• What Is an E-Bike?
• Whizz or Zoomo?
• Why an Electric Bike?