It’s easy to dislike new things, especially when those new things tend to be more expensive, heavier, and dumber looking than the old, treasured things. I am referring, of course, to electric bicycles. As an avid cyclist since my diaper days, I’ve been hooked on the feeling of riding a bike for as long as I can remember.
When electric bikes started coming into my realm about ten years ago, I didn’t pay much attention to them at first. After all, e-bikes are an incredibly green alternative to motor vehicles, and living in a congested city like Seattle, I’m up for anything that reduces urban car culture.
But then the number of e-bikes began to grow, and soon everyone from lank-haired pre-teens to gray-haired retirees began passing me at simulated speeds: the bike racks were filled with bulky, unsightly e-bikes, as were the popular bike paths. . And, just like that, my attitude went from that of an open-minded, fresh-faced college student to that of a cantankerous recluse, ready to wave my proverbial cane at every passing cyclist.
But that was the old me. People can change. Lately I have adopted a motor assisted lifestyle. In fact, I’m considering upgrading to one of the best electric bikes soon. Here are seven reasons why I’m finally an electric bike believer.
1. You can still exercise… if you want to
The old me scoffed at cyclists zipping by while I huffed and puffed up steep inclines. “Get a real bike!” He would scream in my head. But now I know not to judge. Sure can Cruise on an electric bike with minimal physical excursion. That doesn’t mean you have to.
I find that for longer trips in particular it is often necessary to conserve battery power for the rear when I am In fact tired. When using the entry-level Trek Verve 2 Disc, for example, I like to keep the electronic assist at its lowest setting for all but the steepest hills, which happens to be how I finish most rides (I live on a hill). . This means I’m still selling a lot and raising my heart rate decently.
So, yes, you can definitely still get a solid workout on an e-bike. On a recent 15.6-mile ride, for example, I burned 878 calories, according to the Garmin Forerunner 165. My average heart rate for that ride, 146 bpm, also wasn’t much different than my average for similar rides on a standard bike.
2. Prices are falling
It’s easy to assume that electric bikes cost quite a bit of money. But the entry-level market, which I classify as any bike under $1000, has really started to flourish. The Trek Verve 2 Disc mentioned above, for example, has a surprisingly solid build and decent range for just $700.
A quick trip to our buying guide for the best electric bikes reveals other great options under $1k, including the Ride1Up Roadster V2 and the Ride1Up Turris. The Juiced Ripracer, which I would love to try, costs a little more at $1,200 and looks like a lot of fun to drive.
3. Autonomy is adequate, even at the basic level
Speaking of entry-level, battery life on bikes like the Roadster V2 and Verve 2 is respectable. Both get between 20 and 30 miles per charge, depending on how much electronic assistance you use. High-end options, like the $1,700 Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus Sport Batteries with range up to 55 miles and more.
Most basic electric bikes do not offer interchangeable batteries; You may have to shell out extra money for that feature. Fortunately…
4. Batteries recharge quickly
I was impressed to find that I can fully charge the Trek Verve Disc’s internal battery to 100% in about two hours. The Roadster V2 takes a little longer, between two and four hours.
Still, this means that if I run out of power while on a cycling adventure, I can go to the nearest cafe or pub, have a drink or two while my bike charges, and be on my merry way.
5. They are heavy but not too heavy
Weight and bulk are the main reasons I have been hesitant to own an electric bike. Living in an apartment with several flights of stairs to climb isn’t exactly like owning a 77-pound bicycle.
However, there are a surprising number of lightweight electric bikes, especially entry-level ones. Of course, you’ll find lighter options in carbon fiber, but those models start at several thousand dollars. Don’t worry, the Roadster V2 weighs only 33 pounds and the Verve 2 Disc weighs only 30 pounds. While both weigh much more than my standard commuter bike, the weight is manageable.
6. Faster than a car in congested cities
In congested urban environments, e-bikes offer an entertaining and environmentally friendly alternative to commuting by car. They can also get you from point A to point B, assuming your city has adequate bicycle infrastructure, often faster than motor vehicles.
In Seattle, I can easily avoid the crushing agony of rush-hour traffic thanks to well-located bike lanes and trails. Destinations that would otherwise take me 45 minutes to reach by car take me 15 or 20 minutes.
7. They are pure fun
Ultimately, the reason I started cycling is because it’s fun. Who would have thought that adding a small motor to a bike could make it even more fun? But surely it is so.
Beyond the thrill of zipping around the city like a bat out of hell, electric bikes also have the benefit of unlocking new adventures. Destinations I had previously avoided cycling to due to distance or incline are suddenly within reach.
Bottom line: I’m a believer in electric bikes
This marks just the beginning of my e-bike journey. And I can’t wait to see where it takes me – I mentioned buying an electric bike in the intro and I’m eager to explore all the options available.
I’ll be sure to keep you posted as I try different models and get an idea of which brands and styles are best. Until then, happy riding!
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