What Are E-Bikes (Electric Bicycles)?
An e-bike might sound like an electric scooter or motorcycle, but they actually look like your average bicycle. However, they’re outfitted with several tech add-ons, like a motor, battery, and controller. These items help power the bike and make an e-bike what it is.
How Do Electric Bikes Work?
Electric bikes still allow you to pedal like a regular bike, but they’re also outfitted with a motor and other accessories to help you go farther and faster. They’re not meant to be completely like a motorcycle where the user doesn’t need to pedal at all, but rather like a bike with the extra power to help take you farther. When you push the pedals, the motor will engage and give you a boost to help you get up steep hills and easily ride over rough terrain.
How do You Choose the Right E-bike?
Buying an e-bike can be an investment in your fitness and lifestyle and can also help you with your commute. But before purchasing one, there are a few features that you should consider, such as:
- The battery power
- Make and model of both the bike and the battery
- Size of the bike
- Max supported weight
- Electric bike cost
- If it’s a portable e-bike
- Range
There are many benefits of an e-bike, and when you look for the right features, you can reap all those benefits and enjoy your bike rides like never before!
What Are the Benefits of an E-Bike?
E-bikes have several benefits as compared to owning a manual bike. Firstly, e-bikes provide good workout options for those who enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, they allow you to travel farther as they have a motor attached, therefore letting you discover more on your outings and allowing you to use it as a method for commuting.
Do I Need a License to Ride an E-Bike?
As of now, e-bikes are still relatively new, meaning not a lot of concrete laws have been made across the United States. Federal law currently views them the same as regular bikes as long as they don’t go over 20 miles per hour and the motor power is no more than 750w.
Because of this, you don’t need a license to ride an e-bike, nor do you need to register or get a license for it. However, if any of those conditions are breached, it can be viewed and treated as a vehicle, and it’s important to look up the specific laws per the state that you live in.
How Long Can You Ride on an Electric Bike?
The length you can ride an electric bike will depend on the battery power and how much manual pedaling you want. You can go as far as 22-50 miles on a single charge for most major e-bike brands with relaxed pedaling. This can vary depending on the make, battery, and environmental conditions.
Can I Leave My E-bike Plugged in Overnight?
Yes, you can leave your e-bike plugged in overnight to charge. All quality e-bikes have battery management systems that ensure the battery doesn’t overheat or drain when plugged in for long periods.
Can You Ride an Electric Bike in the Rain?
Yes, you can ride your e-bike in the rain. E-bikes are built to be able to use in a variety of weather conditions. You’ll want to ensure that your e-bike has been tested for riding in the rain and that you avoid puddles or standing in water with your bike. However, a few brands of e-bikes are not meant to get wet, so it’s important to read all the details of your bike before purchasing.
What is the Lifespan of an E-bike Battery?
Having an e-bike is great, but it comes with a battery, which means you’ll need to charge the battery from time to continue to use your e-bike fully. The lifespan of your e-bike battery will depend on the make and how well you take care of your battery.
Find the Best E-Bikes Today
An e-bike is a great investment for people who want to go farther distances with their bike, love exploring the outdoors, or need a better way to commute around the city.
Rack to Door has a variety of e-bikes at affordable prices manufactured by reputable brands. Start reaping the benefits of an e-bike and explore your city today!