Electric bikes, also called eBikes, assist riders using power provided by an integrated motor and battery. Compared to traditional bikes, eBikes provide faster, easier commutes, near-zero emissions, and an enjoyable ride. When compared to traditional bikes, eBikes allow riders to travel longer distances in a shorter amount of time. The added range and electric-assisted pedaling can help replace car trips, ease commutes to work or school, and bridge the gap between public transit and home or your next destination.
Cost Range
€1,300 - €4,000
About the technology
How it works: Electric bikes, also called eBikes, assist riders using power provided by an integrated electric motor and battery. When compared to traditional bikes, eBikes allow riders to travel longer distances in a shorter amount of time through added range and electric-assisted pedaling. Powerful eBikes have a throttle and can run without pedaling while battery power lasts.
Types of eBikes: Various different styles of eBikes are on the market, including city/commuter, cargo, folding, and even three-wheeled bikes. The most popular ones are low powered with limited range and largely treated as bicycles. The more powerful ones with larger battery and range are usually treated as a moped and need to be registered.
Special Requirements: The battery of the eBike needs to be charged from time to time. This can be done by removing the battery if possible and taking it to a standard electrical outlet. If not, the eBike needs to be taken near the outlet to charge. Other than this road safety requirements, speed limits and age limits for riding different types of eBikes need to be adhered to.
Economics: eBikes vary widely in costs based on sizes, specs and capabilities. The prices can be double that of a similar traditional bike or even 10 times higher.
Maintenance: In addition to traditional bicycle maintenance in an eBike there are a few other things to do. The electric motors are usually very robust and rarely need maintenance. However, the battery will lose some of its capacity over time and may eventually need to be replaced. Battery replacement may be needed every 5-10 years.
Environment: An eBike is the most efficient form of transportation known to humans in terms of energy consumed per mile or km. It is more efficient than walking or riding a traditional bike even when charged with dirty grid electricity. If car trips are replaced the environmental advantages are huge. If charged with renewable electricity, it can have almost zero impact on the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between a standard bike and an eBike?
Electric bikes, also called eBikes, assist riders using power provided by an integrated motor and battery. Compared to traditional bikes, eBikes provide faster, easier commutes, near-zero emissions, and an enjoyable ride. When compared to traditional bikes, eBikes allow riders to travel longer distances in a shorter amount of time. The added range and electric-assisted pedaling can help replace car trips, ease commutes to work or school, and bridge the gap between public transit and home or your next destination.
2. How do I charge an eBike?
Charging times will vary based on the size of the battery, but, generally, it will take 1-3 hours to fully charge an eBike battery using a standard 230-volt outlet typical in most homes and businesses. The charger is supplied with the bike and sometimes the battery can be detached and charged without having to carry the whole bike indoors. Charging with the help of an extension cord is also fine.
3. What will happen if I run out of charge?
An eBike usually operates in a pedal-assist mode, where the motor provides an extra boost while the rider pedals. Some eBikes have a throttle that can be used for operation in fully electric mode, without pedaling. A third option is fully manual mode, where the motor is not used at all. In case the battery charge is depleted, the bike can be operated in manual mode, just like a standard pedal bike
4. How far can I travel with an eBike?
On flat terrain with a low assist level, many eBikes can travel for more than 80 km on a single charge. However, 50-80 km is a reliable average. Some models also accept an extra battery for added range. It’s recommended that new owners test battery life on shorter rides to better gauge an eBike’s range.
5. What types of eBikes are available?
Various different styles of eBikes are on the market, including city/commuter, cargo, folding, and even three-wheeled bikes. Step-through bikes, without a top frame tube, can provide easier mounting and dismounting. Specialty road, mountain, and tandem bikes are also available.
Europe recognizes two classes of eBikes: Class L1e-A, Class L1e-B, The differences between these classes include whether power is provided only when pedaling or controlled by the throttle and the top speed at which the motor can assist the rider (25 km/h or 45 km/h). The differences are summarized in the table below.
| Type | Power | Top Speed for Assistance from Motor |
| Class L1e-A | Pedal assisted | 25 km/hr |
| Class L1e-B | Throttle Controlled or Pedal-assisted | 45 km/hr |
In general, L1e-A eBike motors are required to be 250 watts or less. Additionally, riders under the age of 16 are usually required to wear a helmet while riding any eBike, and Class L1e-B bikes can only be legally ridden by those 17 and older. eBikes mostly have 50, 56, or 66 cm wheels. Other uncommon wheel sizes may also be available in the market.
1. How expensive are eBikes?
eBikes vary widely in costs based on sizes, specs and capabilities. The prices can range from €700 – €7000 with the most popular ones coming in around €1300 – €4000.
2. Will I save money with an eBike?
When compared to traditional bikes, eBikes allow riders to travel longer distances in a shorter amount of time. It’s also easier to carry items like groceries etc. If traditional car trips like commutes, grocery shopping, etc. can be replaced by eBikes, then it can save a substantial amount in fuel costs. Due to their relatively low energy usage and small batteries, the cost of charging an eBike is almost negligible. Finally, the increased bike trips, even with some assistance from a motor, can have a positive impact on health and help reduce healthcare costs.
1. What kind of maintenance issues arise?
When compared to traditional bikes, eBikes have a motor, battery, and wiring. As with a traditional bike, minor maintenance is needed for the wheels, brakes, gears, etc. With an eBike, the electric motors are usually very robust and rarely need maintenance. However, the battery will lose some of its capacity over time and may eventually need to be replaced. You might want to check what type of battery warranty comes with an eBike that you’re considering.
1. Is there a greenhouse gas reduction benefit of using an eBike?
If traditional gasoline-powered car trips are replaced by eBikes, there is definitely a reduction in the amount of greenhouse gas emitted. Even when replacing electric vehicle trips that are not powered by carbon-free electricity, there will be a greenhouse gas reduction since eBikes are more efficient than an EV.
1. What security issues can arise from using an eBike?
Because eBikes are more expensive than their non-motorized counterparts, they can be targets for theft. The best strategy is to keep your eBike secured in a locked home, access-controlled building, or bike locker. When this isn’t possible, leave your bike securely locked in a well-trafficked location for as short a time as possible. Invest in a strong U-lock or chain lock that encloses the frame and back wheel. The front wheel can be removed and secured with the same lock, or a second lock can be used.
When possible, remove your battery and take it with you. Finally, consider getting insurance for your bike in the event it is stolen and make sure to record your serial number in case it is recovered.
2. What are the safety protocols for an eBike?
If you haven’t ridden a bike very often on public roads, the first step is to become familiar with the basics of signaling turns, navigating intersections, and passing other riders. Among the important differences for new eBike riders is the eBike’s speed and weight. Although road cyclists often travel at 30 km/h or more, casual riders usually do not. Therefore, it’s important to understand that you may have less time to react than you are used to, and traffic may not expect you to be traveling at these higher speeds. In addition, eBikes usually weigh about 13 kg. more than a traditional bike, so the process of mounting and dismounting will be somewhat different, and braking may take longer despite having stronger disk-style brakes.
3. Can I take my eBike with me on mass transit?
Many local transit authorities allow eBikes to use the on-board bike racks. However, keep in mind that eBikes often weigh in excess of 30 kg and will need to be lifted by the rider. eBikes are also welcome in many trains. However, some transit authorities may prohibit them and have restrictions on weight and tire size.
As eBikes become more common, transit agencies around the country are updating their policies. Check with your local transit authority to understand where and how eBikes can be used on buses, ferries, and trains.
4. What are the rules of riding eBikes on trails and in parks?
Generally, Class L1e-A and Class L1e-B eBikes are allowed on all types of paved trails, including Class L1e-A (paved, separated) bike paths. Riders should remember that the speed limit on all Class L1e-A trails is 25 km/h.
In most state parks, Class L1e-A and Class L1e-B eBikes are allowed on paved and unpaved trails where traditional bicycles are allowed, but riders should consult park rules before visiting.
In national parks, eBikes are treated like motorized vehicles and are allowed in the same areas and on the same trails used by motorized vehicles. There are many kilometers of trails that are open to both classes of eBikes.
1. What types of incentives are available?
Utilities, counties, local governments, etc. sometimes offer rebates of various types on electric bikes.