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Even prior to the pandemic, electric bike sales were increasing as consumers sought more efficient and eco-friendly modes of transportation. However, the demand for electric bikes has skyrocketed since the pandemic as people look for new ways to get around without relying on cars or public transportation. While there was a slight levelling off of sales in 2021, electric bike sales have rebounded strongly, and it’s easy to see why: electric bikes are versatile and attractive options.
So why are people buying electric bikes? There are numerous reasons, including commuting, recreation, and light cargo hauling. With health concerns heightened during the pandemic, bikes have also become a popular transportation option for urban and suburban commuters seeking to avoid public transit. Additionally, e-bikes are great for exercise and recreation, even with the help of an electric motor.
Interestingly, there is no specific demographic that rides e-bikes. It could be young people who prefer not to own a car, older people who require some assistance while biking, or commuters who want to avoid getting too sweaty on their way to work.
According to the Department of Transportation, more than half of all trips people take are 3 miles or less. Unfortunately, over 72 per cent of these trips are made by car, with less than 2 per cent made on bicycles. However, e-bikes are a feasible option for covering that distance and could significantly impact reducing car usage.
Health Benefits
The popularity of road and mountain biking as recreational activities has grown even more with the addition of electric motors. Despite being less intense than conventional bikes, e-bikes still offer exercise benefits, as confirmed by multiple studies. A 2021 study published in Translational Journal found that e-bikes, compared to regular bicycles, resulted in lower metabolic, cardiovascular, and perceived effort for a simulated 3-mile commute while still meeting the recommended intensity level for healthy physical activity by the World Health Organization and the American College of Sports Medicine, which recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate cardiovascular exercise.
Just like regular bicycles, e-bikes come in various types designed for specific purposes, such as riding mountain or forest trails, going on long rides, or leisurely cruising around the neighbourhood. While some traditional cycling enthusiasts may criticize e-bikes for their easier pedalling, others have embraced them.
The battery-powered assistance from the electric motor has made cycling accessible to individuals who would not have been able to ride otherwise.
Electric Performance Road Bikes
Road bikes are designed to be lightweight, with skinny tires and drop-down handlebars that promote an aerodynamic riding position. You may see a group of brightly-dressed riders on speedy bikes pedalling down a bike trail or along the road. Electric road bikes are similar in design to traditional road bikes but feature slimmer, lighter components that enable an aerodynamic riding position for increased efficiency over long distances. With the assistance of an electric motor, riders can cover greater distances and climb steeper hills with less fatigue than conventional bikes.
However, despite their speed and relatively lightweight, performance road bikes may not be suitable for everyone, as the aggressive riding position may be uncomfortable for some riders.
Mountain Bikes
Mountain bikes are designed for rough terrain and obstacles, with bigger tires, beefier frames, and long-travel suspension components. Mountain bikers push their bikes to the limit, expecting them to handle steep hills, big rocks, and even jumps. While the thrill of downhill riding is the fun part, the challenging uphill climb can be gruelling. Electric mountain bikes allow riders to enjoy the downhill thrill without the intense effort of uphill pedalling. With the assistance of an electric motor, riders can cover more ground and tackle tougher terrain, making e-bikes an excellent option for those seeking adventure in the mountains. The added benefit of reduced fatigue also makes riding longer and exploring more trails possible.
Trekking Bikes
Trekking bikes offer a combination of efficiency and comfort, with a riding position that is more upright than a road bike but still offers the speed and agility of a mountain bike. With straight handlebars, they are a versatile option for those who want a bike that can handle a variety of terrains. On the other hand, cruisers are designed for a more relaxed and comfortable ride, with larger tires and cushioned seats that provide a smoother experience. They usually come with swooping handlebars that allow the rider to maintain a relaxed posture. When combined with an electric motor, both trekking and cruiser bikes can feature thicker frames and wider tires, making it easier to navigate rough terrain and absorb bumps on the road. This is why many commuters choose trekking e-bikes for their versatility and ease of use on both off-road trails and paved roads.
Electric Cargo Bikes
Cargo electric bikes are specifically designed to carry heavy loads and extra passengers. With sturdy frames, wider tires, and durable components, they are the workhorses of the cycling world. Pedal-powered cargo bikes have been used for some time, with options such as rear-mounted seats or cargo racks and front-end cargo boxes supported by one or two wheels. This category can also include bicycle taxis, which are popular for urban deliveries and transportation of children.
Adding electric power to a bike designed to carry heavy loads offers obvious advantages. Carrying more weight can be difficult, but electric propulsion can be a game-changer for those looking to use a bicycle instead of a car, such as running errands, transporting groceries or packages, or carrying passengers. However, not necessarily heavy-duty cargo type, E-bikes are also popular among urban food delivery riders who wish to avoid traffic and double-parking.
Folding Bikes
Folding electric bikes are essentially the same as their non-electric counterparts, but with the added benefit of electric power. They feature smaller wheels, long handlebar stems, and hinged frames that allow them to be folded into a more compact shape, making them ideal for those who need to transport their bike in a car trunk or on public transportation or have limited storage space at home. In addition, the electric motor boosts the rider, making it easier to tackle hills and cover longer distances. This type of bike is perfect for commuters who want the convenience of a folding bike combined with the added benefits of electric power.
At Electric Bike Sales, we stock every type of eBike, and our trained technicians are on hand to help you find your perfect ride. You’re never too far away with stores in Oxford, Cambridge, Bristol and York, and a great website, www.electricbikesales.co.uk.
