Riding a regular bike has been the norm for decades. It did not matter whether you traveled short or long distances as bicycles were the most affordable and convenient means of transport. However, technological advancement is slowly making regular bikes redundant and replacing them with electric bikes.
Compared to regular bikes, e-bikes are much faster. And it’s no wonder to see e-bikes completely replacing regular bikes. If you too are among the increasing number of people looking to switch from a regular bike to an E-bike, this article explores various factors you must consider.
Factors to Consider When Switching to E-Bike From a Regular Bike
It’s not easy to distinguish between a regular bike and an e-bike as they both have the same function and appearance, with varying modes of operation. So if you are shopping for a new bike, this list will help you make an informed purchase.
1. E-Bike Mechanics
E-bikes are regular bikes with an electric motor attached to them. Many people assume that e-bikes are similar to scooters but they are actually entirely different. With an e-bike, you have to pedal for the motor to pick up, thus acting as the propeller. On the other hand, a scooter is powered by fuel.
If you don’t know what you are looking for, you will be unable to differentiate between a regular bike and an e-bike as their body frame, pedaling, and geometry is similar. The electric motor that helps propel the bike is the only difference.
2. Speed Variation
The other main difference between an e-bike and a regular bike is the speed. With traditional bikes, your speed is determined by how fast you can pedal, and it’s possible to ride at a speed of 20 – 25 miles per hour, especially for experienced cyclers. On the other hand, the speed limit of an e-bike is set at 20 miles per hour.
That said, no rider can maintain a speed limit of or above 20 miles per hour for an extended period as it will directly lead to cramped legs and perhaps more serious injuries. So, don’t stress too much. However, you can easily maintain the maximum speed of an e-bike as you don’t have to pedal too much as the bike is propelled forward by the motor. Thus, if you plan on traveling long distances, an e-bike is the ultimate choice.
3. Time Saved
With an e-bike, you can maintain a speed limit of approximately 20 miles per hour for long distances. This is because you don’t need to pedal as much as a regular bike, especially when going uphill. This makes an e-bike the best for commuting to work as you won’t be sweaty, and the high-speed limit will ensure you get to work on time.
You will also notice that many riders who deliver parcels and other items prefer to use e-bikes rather than regular bikes as they are faster. And since they are motorized, your load doesn’t affect the rider much.
4. E-Bike Maintenance
E-bikes’ similarity with standard bikes makes it easy to carry out maintenance because you will have to check the brakes, gears, chain, handles, lubrication, and tires. However, if there’s an electrical fault with the motor, it’s best to take it to a specialist, as attempting to fix it might make it worse.
Most electric bike components come with a warranty, which allows you to replace them for free if the warranty has not expired.
5. Pedal Assist
Bikes have different levels of pedal assist. This helps you preserve your battery’s motor power and gain more speed.
When the motor is attached to the pedals, it makes for an easy ride as the moment you pedal, the motor picks, propelling the bike forward, meaning you have little to do. However, you will have to continue pedaling but not with as much effort. This makes an e-bike the best for people with physical disabilities or the elderly or those who don’t want to get exhausted from a long commute among others.
6. Battery Charge
When switching to an e-bike, you must consider how long the battery in your desired e-bike will last.
Most electric bike batteries last from three to five hours when fully charged. If you plan to ride long distances, ensure that you take extra batteries or chargers. There are fast chargers that will ensure your e-bike batteries get charged as fast as possible.
7. Number of Batteries
You can also consider the batteries required to propel your bike—some bikes use one and others two batteries. The best part about having your bike run on two batteries is if one dies down, the second battery acts as a backup. And make sure to replace your batteries once you notice their lifespan is shortening.
8. Location of the Motor
There are two types of motors used with an electric bike. These include:
- A mini-drive motor. This is attached to the place where the pedals are. When they are attached here, it’s pretty easy to pedal as the motor picks up faster. And it’s centralized location makes it easy to maintain your bike’s balance and stability.
- The hub-drive motor is attached to the rear wheel, and some bikes have it attached to the front wheel. When they are attached to the rear wheel, the pedal power is delivered to the rear wheel, which makes you feel like you are being pushed forward, making riding easy and fun, especially on an incline.
9. Budget
E-bikes are an advanced version of regular bikes, so expect them to be pricier. And the electric motor is the reason behind the added cost. It would also be best to note the added cost is partly due to the different materials used to make electric bikes, making them heavy yet comfortable to ride.
A good quality mountain bike will cost you around $700, and if you want an electric bike, be ready to part with about $1,500 and even as high as $3,000.
Final Thoughts
Despite their similarities, regular bikes and e-bikes have stark differences, such as the motor and the speed. Irrespective of that, they offer you the same benefits: you get to conserve the environment, stay fit, and reap all the health benefits of cycling.
But, since e-bikes are so superior in terms of speed and convenience, it’s wise to make the switch from a regular bike to an e-bike (such as a Mihogo Elecrtic Bike).
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Related Categories: electronic bike, Excercise, Reviews
