10 E-bike Myths Debunked

10 E-bike Myths Debunked

Riding and commuting by e-bike is awesome! The popularity has continued to soar over the last few years, and as active methods of transport become more prominent, that doesn’t look to be stopping any time soon. However, while e-bikes are of course, different to a traditional bike, they’ve managed to pick up some myths along the way.

Evolution Convertible Backpack can be worn five different waysPhoto by Michael Higgins

An e-bike is a whole new experience in urban mobility. Dare we say the next evolution to commuting? We designed the Urban Explorer Bag with the commuter in mind. Designed for the active, urban minimalist, it will easily transition you from the office—to the farmers market—to exploring your favorite city. A durable bag constructed from factory fabric scraps is a highly functional convertible day pack that can be worn five different ways. Just the right size to hold your daily essentials without any extra bulk, it’s intelligently designed and sustainably made. Truly your everyday go-to bag—wherever you go.

In some bike circles, you might hear, Aren’t they cheating?, or Isn’t an e-bike basically just a moped?. So, while some e-bike stereotypes are inevitable, particularly for cycling purists, it’s time to set the record straight and debunk the common e-bike myths circulating. 

Myth #1 -  E-bikes require more maintenance

Maintaining an e-bike does cost more than a traditional bike because of its electric components but doesn’t require more regular maintenance. Additionally, compared to a car, the costs and regularity of care are far lower, meaning less upkeep. E-bikes actually rarely need maintenance and typically have long-lasting battery life. The more traditional components, such as brakes and gears, can be serviced by your local bike mechanic. 

Myth #2 -  E-bikes make you lazy and take away the exercise benefit

Despite the electric assistance, you still need to pedal when riding an e-bike. Meaning it is still a workout. E-bikes are not fully electric and aren’t a free ride. The purpose of the electric component is to assist your pedaling rather than replace it. Less intense effort is therefore required to ride an e-bike compared to a traditional bike, but it does mean an e-bike can enable someone to go further.

Additionally, most e-bikes can also work great without pedal-assistance, so you can choose how much extra boost you want or when you need it. Assisted pedaling doesn’t mean you’re lazy. But it might mean you get to work without being covered in sweat, or you finally get up a hill that’s a bit steeper than you’d have liked.  

Myth #3 - E-bikes are really overpriced

Compared to a traditional, entry-level bike, they are generally more expensive, although fully carbon bikes can cost much more than e-bikes. However, compared to cars, trains, and motorcycles, then e-bikes present excellent value for money. There are plenty of mid-range e-bike options that provide quality and won’t break the bank. Additionally, think of the savings you’ll make overall - gas, train tickets, car insurance, parking costs, and more. A fully charged e-bike battery costs barely anything and can take you up to 100 miles per charge. 

Bike commuting in the city
Photo by Michael Higgins

Myth #4 - E-bikes are limited by battery life and distance

E-bikes are restricted in speed but not in distance. Most batteries on an e-bike are designed to be charged overnight and then used throughout the day. An e-bike can take you up to 100 miles each day and can also be remotely charged at any power outlet if needed. 

Myth #5 - E-bikes are not environmentally friendly

Sustainability is something we are really passionate about, and excessive consumption is unsustainable for the planet. E-bikes are a far more environmentally friendly travel option than most other methods of transport. They don’t create unhealthy gasses, toxins or vapors, and the batteries can be recycled. Using an e-bike instead of a car actually helps the environment!

Bike on the street
Photo by Fred Pixlab 

Myth #6 - E-bikes are cheating—they are too fast

If you enter a race, then yes, using an e-bike would be cheating. But if you want to enjoy the great outdoors and unlock the freedom of cycling, then e-bikes are a smart choice. E-bikes actually offer a more accessible method of active travel for most people. They are restricted in speed so they’ll never go too fast, and they are a smoother and comfortable ride. So using them for racing isn’t allowed, but riding an e-bike generally isn’t cheating. It’s just different. 

Myth #7 - E-bikes are the same as mopeds

Although some people believe e-bikes are just another type of moped, e-bikes are not classed as a vehicle and can be used on cycle paths. As they are limited by speed, they are classed as a type of bike. Additionally, because you still need to pedal an e-bike, the exercise factor is a big difference between an e-bike and a moped. Although different from mopeds, e-bikes are still highly regulated and must meet strict standards to be on the road. That makes them equally safe to use as a traditional bike. But you must still obey the normal rules of the road as a cyclist. 

Myth #8 - E-bikes are complicated

E-bikes have an electric element but are no more complicated than a traditional bike. They still have wheels, they still have pedals, they still need to be ridden properly, and they still have gears. Riding an e-bike is actually really simple.

Myth #9 - E-bikes are only for old people

Again, because they are simple to ride and get the assisted pedaling, a common myth is that e-bikes are created for old people. However, every level of cyclist and age can use an e-bike. At the very essence of its creation, e-bikes are designed to empower people to get outside and bike rather than hinder them. While non-cyclists can benefit by enjoying greater pedal-assistance, keen cyclists can turn the assistance down. For those who are new to cycling, e-bikes open up the cycling world. You’ll suddenly be able to cycle for longer while building a base fitness level. 

Myth #10 - E-bikes are only for commuting

E-bikes are understandably popular method of transport for commuters. Who wants to turn up to work really sweaty after all? However, given the range they can travel, they are also great for exploring outdoors and day trips away. You can cycle further without running out of energy. We love a nice long ride, but it requires being extra prepared for whatever the day throws your way. Just grab one of our Tour de Fierce Cycling Cases for longer adventures to securely hold your valuables. It’s super lightweight, and designed with commuters in mind. So go forth and adventure!

E-bikes, in reality, are an excellent choice for both regular and beginner cyclists

Despite these common myths, e-bikes are a great choice for every level of cyclist. Especially as they are here to stay - more manufacturers are jumping on the e-bike popularity and creating more options. 

Not only are e-bikes perfect to lower the barriers to entry, making cycling more accessible to all, but they are also great for anyone who wants to more effectively commute to work, travel further, or improve overall fitness with less stress on the body. 

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