E-bikes have exploded in popularity in recent years. In 2020, Americans bought nearly 300,000 electric cars and over 600,000 electric bikes. Around the world, a quiet revolution is taking place in bike lanes as people are drawn to e-bikes for their speed, hill climbing assistance, and sleek design.
But are e-bikes just a passing fad or do they live up to the hype? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at the pros and cons of e-bikes to help you decide if investing in one is right for you.
Contents
What Exactly Are E-Bikes?
Before diving into the pros and cons, let’s start with a quick overview of what e-bikes are and how they work.
E-bikes are bicycles with an integrated electric motor that provides pedal assistance. The motor kicks in as you pedal, giving you an extra boost of power to help you ride faster and tackle hills with less effort.
There are different classes of e-bikes:
- Class 1: The motor provides assistance only when you’re pedaling. It stops assisting at 20 mph.
- Class 2: The motor can provide assistance without pedaling up to 20 mph.
- Class 3: The motor assists up to 28 mph.
The motor is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery that can provide 20-100+ miles of range depending on the model. Batteries can be charged at home in 2-6 hours depending on capacity.
The amount of pedal assist can usually be adjusted via settings on the handlebars or a smartphone app. Some bikes have throttles to provide motor power on demand without pedaling.
Now that you know the basics, let’s look at some of the key advantages and disadvantages of e-bikes.
The Pros of E-Bikes
1. Increased Speed and Range
One of the best things about e-bikes is they allow you to ride faster and farther with less effort. The electric assist means you can maintain higher speeds, around 15-28 mph depending on the bike and assist level.
This makes e-bikes ideal for longer commutes or rides that would be very strenuous on a regular bike. The battery will let you travel 20-100+ miles before needing a recharge. No more showing up to work dripping in sweat!
2. Conquer Hills and Headwinds
Hills and headwinds are no problem for e-bikes. The electric motor provides power to help you ascend steep hills without slowing to a crawl or overexerting yourself.
It’s incredibly satisfying to breeze up hills that would leave you winded on a traditional bike. The pedal assist also helps counteract strong headwinds that can impede your progress on windy days.
3. Less Physical Effort
You’ll expend less energy and arrive feeling fresher when riding an e-bike compared to a regular bike. The electric assist reduces the effort needed to ride at any given speed.
This makes e-bikes accessible for a wide variety of riders, including commuters who don’t want to work up a sweat, seniors, and those with limited mobility or stamina. The pedal assist allows you to go just as far as you desire.
4. Improved Health and Fitness
While e-bikes require less effort than regular bikes, you still get an excellent workout. Studies have found riding an e-bike for 40 minutes 3-5x a week provides significant cardiovascular and strength benefits.
The pedal assist means you’ll likely ride more often and farther than a traditional bike since hills and headwinds are no longer barriers. This increases your overall exercise, helping improve cardiovascular health.
Plus, you’ll build leg strength by pedaling – the motor doesn’t do all the work for you. E-bikes make it easy to squeeze in more active time in your day.
5. Fun Factor
Zipping up hills, maintaining higher speeds, and covering longer distances is simply a blast on an e-bike. The riding experience feels remarkably close to normal cycling, just with a bit of electric superpower.
Many riders are surprised by how natural and fun it feels to ride an e-bike. The intuitive pedal assist makes accelerating, climbing, and rolling at 20mph+ exhilarating.
6. Convenience
E-bikes offer considerable convenience advantages over regular bikes:
- Arrive fresh without needing to shower afterwards
- No need to change clothes or shoes when commuting
- Built-in lights allow riding at night
- Carry cargo more easily with the electric boost
- Removable batteries make charging simple
They require very little maintenance beyond occasional brake pad or tire changes. You won’t have greasy chains to lube or gears to adjust. Just hop on and ride!
7. Excellent Value
When you consider an e-bike can potentially replace car trips for commuting or errands, they offer outstanding value. There’s no gas, insurance, maintenance or parking costs.
E-bikes provide all the transportation benefits of bikes with the added speed and range to feasibly replace driving for many people. The savings add up fast when you ditch the car.
Plus, many e-bike batteries can be charged 1000+ times over several years before needing replacement. The long-term cost is pennies per mile.
8. Environmentally Friendly
E-bikes are a green transportation option. They produce zero emissions while being ridden and use a very small amount of electricity. E-bikes charged on renewable energy have an extremely minimal environmental footprint.
Widespread e-bike adoption could meaningfully reduce car traffic and emissions in cities. For short trips under 5 miles, e-bikes are often the cleanest and most sustainable option.
The Cons of E-Bikes
Now let’s look at some of the downsides and limitations of e-bikes to consider:
1. High Upfront Cost
The main drawback of e-bikes is their steep purchase price, typically $1000 to $5000. Converting an existing bike to electric also costs over $1000 in most cases.
While e-bikes can save you money long-term by reducing driving costs, the high upfront investment is prohibitive for many buyers. Regular non-electric bikes can be purchased for as little as $300.
However, more affordable e-bike models under $1500 are becoming available. Prices will likely drop further as technology improves and e-bikes become mainstream.
2. Heavy and Cumbersome
E-bikes weigh 15-30+ lbs more than regular bikes, typically 45-75 lbs. This makes them more difficult to carry up and down stairs, lift onto bike racks, or maneuver in tight spaces. Their bulk can also make them trickier to balance at low speeds.
The weight and size likely won’t be an issue for most riders. But it’s something to consider if your storage space is limited or you need to regularly carry the bike for any reason.
3. Short Electric Range
Most e-bike batteries provide 20-50 miles of electric assist. Runs up to 100 miles are possible with large batteries. This is sufficient for most commuting and urban transportation needs.
But the limited range does mean e-bikes aren’t well suited for long road trips or rural riding. You’ll need to remember to recharge frequently, which isn’t always convenient when travelling. Carrying an extra battery can help but adds weight.
4. Long Recharge Times
It takes 2-6 hours to fully recharge most e-bike batteries from empty. This lengthy downtime makes it difficult to quickly top up your battery if it dies mid-ride.
Having a backup charger helps – keep one at home and one at the office. But you’ll need to plan your trips carefully to avoid getting stranded without juice. Range anxiety can be an issue until you learn your bike’s limits.
5. Motor Noise
Some e-bike motors make faint humming or whirring noises when providing assistance. This can detract from the serene nature of bike riding and possibly annoy other cyclists on group rides.
Not all motors make noise, and manufacturers are improving the stealthiness of motors. But be aware this could be an annoyance depending on the model. Test ride any bike you’re considering to hear the motor sound.
6. Technical Problems
As with any electronic device, e-bike systems can suffer technical glitches or failures. Components like the battery, motor, display and controls can malfunction.
Problems are infrequent if you purchase a quality e-bike from a reputable brand. But there’s more that can go wrong than on a traditional bike. Make sure any e-bike you buy has a solid warranty to cover defects.
7. Weather Vulnerabilities
The electrical components on e-bikes – battery, motor, display, controls – don’t react well to extreme cold, heat or moisture. Storing and riding in temperature extremes can damage the electronics and shorten their lifespan.
Riding in very wet conditions can cause electrical malfunctions or short circuiting issues. E-bikes require a bit more weatherproofing care than regular bikes.
8. Higher Theft Risk
Due to their high value, e-bikes are an attractive target for bike thieves. The removable batteries can also be easily stolen. Always use a high-quality U-lock or chain lock when leaving your e-bike unattended, even for a few minutes.
Locking the rear wheel/battery to the frame when parked is wise. And register your e-bike with local police databases that help recover stolen bikes. Theft protection for your e-bike is a must.
9. Safety Concerns
The higher speeds of e-bikes have raised some safety concerns, especially around potential conflicts with pedestrians and slower cyclists on shared paths.
Most e-bike models max out at 20mph. But inattentive riding at even moderately high speeds can lead to serious crashes. E-bike riders should take care to ride defensively and avoid distractions.
Helmet use and general bike safety skills are especially critical. Be sure to learn the handling dynamics of an e-bike before aggressive riding.
10. Environmental Impact of Batteries
While e-bikes are clean to ride, manufacturing their lithium batteries has environmental impacts. The mining of battery materials like cobalt and lithium can damage local ecosystems if not done responsibly.
Look for e-bikes using batteries from suppliers with ethical mining practices when possible. Recycling batteries properly is also important. Overall though, e-bikes are far greener than driving for transportation.
Are E-Bikes Worth the Investment?
After weighing the pros and cons, are e-bikes worth buying or converting your existing bike?
For most riders living within 10 miles of work, the grocery store, or other frequent destinations, an e-bike can absolutely be worthwhile. The electric pedal assist will remove many of the obstacles that make commuting or running errands by traditional bike frustrating – hills, headwinds, showing up sweaty, etc.
If you are able to substitute an e-bike for some car trips, the savings in gas and maintenance costs often offset the higher purchase price fairly quickly. Less driving reduces environmental impact as well.
E-bikes shine for moderate distance transportation, exercise, and recreation. The added speed and range open up possibilities not feasible on regular bikes.
But for very long rides of 50+ miles or touring where you need to cover serious ground, traditional road/touring bikes may still be preferable since you won’t be as limited by battery range.
For casual short trips around town at lower speeds, regular bikes likely make more economic sense since e-bikes are overkill. Evaluate your specific transportation needs.
In summary, e-bikes are most practical for riders who:
- Regularly commute moderate distances (5-20 miles)
- Need to minimize sweating/exertion on the way to work
- Want to drive less for environmental reasons
- Would benefit from the speed and range boost vs. a regular bike
- Value convenience and versatility
- Live in hilly areas
- Want cycling to be more comfortable and accessible
The world is clearly moving toward electric transportation. E-bikes make cycle commuting feasible for more people by removing many of the physical barriers.
If current trends continue, e-bikes could outsell regular bicycles in the coming years. Improving technology and economies of scale will likely make them more affordable long-term as well.
So don’t be surprised if your next bike has a bit of electric kick. E-bikes deliver an unmatched combination of efficiency, exercise, enjoyment, and environmental benefits that add up to a true transportation revolution.
E-Bike Buying Considerations
If you’ve decided an e-bike could be right for your needs, here are some key factors to consider while shopping:
Motor Type
There are two main types of e-bike motors:
Hub Drive
A motor inside the wheel hub powers the wheel directly. Most affordable e-bikes have hub drive motors.
Pros
- Simple, tidy design
- Even power distribution
Cons
- Slightly less torque and hill climbing power
- More weight in wheel can handle poorly
Mid Drive
The motor sits at the bike’s crankset and powers the chain. Mid drives provide more natural riding feel and balanced weight distribution. Many premium e-bikes have mid drive motors.
Pros
- Great hill climbing traction and torque
- Balanced weight distribution
- Natural pedal-assist feel
Cons
- Slightly more complex design
- Marginally less efficient
Both types work very well. Hub drive e-bikes tend to be cheaper while mid-drives have performance advantages. Consider your budget and needs.
Battery Capacity
The battery capacity determines how far you can ride before recharging:
- 300-500 Wh = 15-35 mile range
- 500-700 Wh = 35-50 mile range
- 700-1000 Wh = 50-90+ mile range
Larger batteries allow longer rides but cost more and add weight. Choose the smallest battery that meets your range needs to save money and keep the bike light.
Pedal Assist Modes
Most e-bikes have multiple pedal assist modes that provide different levels of power boost:
- Low – Small amount of extra help, up to about 50% boost over your pedaling input. Great for flat terrain or when you want light exercise.
- Medium – Reasonable boost, around 100-150% extra power. Ideal for gentle hills and everyday riding.
- High – Maximum assist, often 200%+ extra power. Makes easy work of steep hills. Drains the battery faster.
- Turbo – Some bikes have an ultra-high mode for super steep terrain. Quickly depletes battery.
The more assist you use, the fewer miles you’ll get per charge. Try to use lower assist modes whenever feasible to maximize range.
Class Rating
E-bike classes dictate the maximum motor power and speeds:
- Class 1 – Motor cuts off at 20 mph, fastest on flat ground
- Class 2 – Throttle propels to 20 mph without pedaling
- Class 3 – 28 mph top speed
Higher classes are speedier but less versatile. Class 1 or 2 works best for general riding and commuting. Class 3 is best for experienced cyclists.
Brakes
High-quality brakes are crucial for safe stopping at e-bike speeds:
- Disc brakes – More power and better in wet weather
- Hydraulic disc brakes – Best performance
- Caliper brakes – Only recommended for very casual, low-speed riding
Discs are strongly advised for commuting and frequent riding. Pay extra for hydraulic discs if riding in hilly or wet areas.
Suspension
Suspension soaks up bumps and vibration from rough roads:
- Front suspension fork – Absorbs bumps for a smoother ride quality
- Full suspension – Suspension in the front and rear; ideal for very rough terrain
- No suspension – Lower cost but rougher ride
Consider your route and road/trail conditions. Suspension adds comfort but also weight. It’s not essential for paved riding. Prioritize wider tires and saddle comfort instead.
Bike Style
E-bikes come in all the same styles as regular bikes:
- Commuter – Versatile; ideal for transportation
- Cruiser – Upright riding position; excellent for casual riding
- Mountain – Rugged; great for trails
- Folding – Compact; good for multi-modal commuting
- Cargo – Haul kids or gear; heavy duty
Consider how you’ll use the bike most (commuting, exercise, hauling cargo, trail riding, etc). Let your needs guide the bike style.
Budget
E-bike prices currently range from about $1000-$5000:
- $800-$1500 – Basic e-bikes with hub motors and low-end components.
- $1500-$2500 – Quality mid-drive motor bikes for commuting and daily transportation.
- $2500-$5000 – High-end e-bikes with premium parts and performance.
Spend the most you can afford for better quality, reliability, and durability. Look for sales too – older models often go on clearance when new versions arrive.
Ensure Proper Fit
An e-bike needs to fit your body just like a regular bike:
- Standover height – Around 1-3 inches of clearance between your crotch and the top tube when straddling the bike. Prevents groin injuries from falls.
- Saddle height – With pedal at 6 o’clock, your leg should be almost fully extended with just a slight bend at the bottom. Optimizes pedaling power and knee health.
- Reach – In riding position, you should only need a slight forward lean to grip the handlebars. Prevents sore back and overreached shoulders.
- Handlebar height – et high enough to not cause back strain. Height varies by bike style – mountain bikes have higher bars vs. road bikes. You want a comfortable position where your back is neutral, not hunched or stretched.
Similarly, the handlebar width should match your shoulder width so your arms and wrists feel natural while riding. Grips that are too narrow or wide lead to discomfort and steering issues.
Don’t ignore seemingly small fit issues like saddle tilt, handlebar angles, and stem length. Minor tweaks can make a big difference in ride quality and comfort over time. You want a fit that feels natural right away with no obvious pressure points.
Schedule a professional bike fitting if you are unsure about adjusting the fit yourself. Proper alignment is especially critical the more time you’ll spend riding your e-bike. Poor fit causes injury and strain.
E-Bike Accessories
Accessorize your e-bike to enhance comfort, safety, security, and functionality:
- Helmet – Provides essential impact protection. Go with MIPS technology for added safety.
- Lights – Headlight and taillight allow riding at night and improve visibility.
- Fenders – Keep water and debris off you when riding in the wet. Full coverage is best.
- Rear rack – Allows carrying panniers, bags and other cargo on the back.
- Basket – Front basket enables carrying smaller items easily. Very handy for errands.
- Phone mount – Safely displays your phone on the handlebars for navigation and tunes.
- Kickstand – Keeps your bike upright when parked so it doesn’t fall over.
- Bell/horn – Alerts others of your presence. Friendlier than shouting.
- Mirror – Improves visibility of traffic from behind. Models mount to helmets or handlebars.
- Panniers – Hard case bags attach to rear rack to hold your stuff while riding. Waterproof ones keep items dry.
- U-lock – Deter theft by locking frame and rear wheel/battery together when parked.
- GPS tracker – Tracks location if bike gets stolen. Good for high-risk parking areas.
- Phone charger – Some e-bikes allow charging devices from the battery. Very convenient.
- Tires – Wider tires provide more shock absorption and grip. Great for bumpy roads.
- Saddle – Extra gel padding makes long rides more comfortable. Consider a suspension seatpost too.
- Gloves – Padded cycling gloves reduce hand numbness and vibration. Full finger models offer warmth.
Prioritize lights, a bell/horn, U-lock, helmet and possibly fenders to start. Add panniers, phone mounts or other accessories later as needed.
Maintaining Your E-Bike
E-bikes require very little routine maintenance:
- Clean the bike – Use a damp cloth to wipe the frame, handlebars, battery, motor and chain. Hose off mud if needed. Avoid pressure washing.
- Lubricate the chain – Regular lubrication prevents wear and rust. Do this anytime the chain looks dry.
- Check tire pressure – Inflate tires to the pressure listed on the sidewalls. Use a hand pump with gauge.
- Inspect the brakes – Confirm brakes are functioning properly. Replace worn out pads when needed.
- Check connections – Ensure all cables and connectors are intact so the electrical system works properly.
- Update software – New firmware updates may be available for your e-bike computer and motor. Keep things current.
- Check for loose parts – Screws and bolts can rattle loose over time. Tighten anything that seems loose.
- Wash the battery – If removing the battery, occasionally wash dirt and debris off the case. Avoid submerging in water.
- Store properly – Keep your e-bike protected from weather extremes. Don’t leave the battery completely depleted.
- Replace consumables – Tires, brake pads, grips and batteries degrade over time. Swap for new parts occasionally.
Overall, e-bikes need far less tuning and adjustments than traditional bikes. But regular inspections and cleaning keeps things operating safely. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.
E-Bike Safety Tips
Safely enjoy your new e-bike by keeping these tips in mind:
- Always wear a helmet – it’s your most important safety precaution.
- Ride defensively and use extra caution at intersections. Assume drivers don’t see you.
- Brake earlier than a regular bike since you’re riding faster. Leave ample stopping distance.
- Be mindful of pedestrians and slower cyclists on paths. Use your bell and don’t startle them with your higher speed.
- Keep your speed under control in bike lanes and congested areas.
- Use common sense gear – wear bright clothing at night, use reflectors and lights.
- Learn the power delivery of the motor so you don’t lose control. Start off using lower assist modes.
- Don’t disable speed limiters to go dangerously fast. The bike wasn’t designed for it.
- Stay focused on riding – avoid distractions from electronics. Stop to use your phone.
- Maintain your brakes, tires, lights and other safety gear to keep them effective.
- Register your e-bike with police databases to aid recovery if stolen. Use quality locks.
Focus on being a courteous and prudent rider. With sound judgement, e-bikes can be ridden just as safely as regular bikes. Use the electric boost wisely.
Go Electric and Amp Up Your Rides
E-bikes make cycling more accessible, convenient, eco-friendly, and fun. They remove many of the physical challenges of riding a traditional bike for transportation or exercise.
While not cheap upfront, electric bikes often pay for themselves over time by reducing car dependence. Maintenance costs are far lower as well.
Carefully consider your riding needs and local terrain as you shop for the ideal e-bike. Choose a quality model with battery range, motor power, and accessories suited to your situation.
Take time to learn safe riding skills and properly fit your e-bike. Aggressively maintain the bike and battery to maximize lifespan.
Done right, stepping up to an e-bike can transform your commuting experience and open up new riding possibilities. Ditch gasoline and go electric! Just be prepared for e-bike envy from fellow cyclists when cruising by them up hills.
