Are Electric Bikes Worth It?

Lawrence Bonk Profile image

Written by:

Updated March 2, 2023

Generally speaking, the best electric bicycles are worth it to a large segment of consumers throughout the world. To figure out if an eBike is worth it for your individual lifestyle, you may need to learn the benefits of riding one, especially if you’re using an electric cruiser.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Electric bikes have caught on in a big way throughout recent years.
  • Modern eBikes are a great way to get started on a physical fitness plan or to just have fun outside.
  • Electric bicycles can also help consumers save money on transportation bills.

Electric bikes, otherwise known as eBikes, have become a legitimate phenomenon, leaving some consumers to wonder exactly why so many people are jumping aboard the hype train. So if, after reading this article, you are curious about joining the e-bike revolution, we have a few reviews you can read. If you are looking for a smaller, compact electric bike, check out the Swagtron EB7 folding electric bike. However, if you want a bike that is designed more for going on trails and such, there is the Biktrik Juggernaut Classic HD. Lastly, if you want a bike that is better suited for some cargo, like grabbing a few items from the store, check out the Rad Power Bikes RadRunner.

A Guide to the Benefits of eBikes

There are a number of benefits to purchasing and riding an electric bike that goes above and beyond what can typically be found with a traditional bicycle. In addition to greater speed, convenience, and overall performance, e-bikes also offer increased security due to the top ebikes locks available to buy.

Improve Physical Health

It is important to note the difference between an electric bike and a personal scooter. These electric bikes still demand physical input from the rider, just like a traditional bike. The technology comes into play when considering the pedal-assist feature, which offers assistance to the rider to get over hills or when they are tired out. Electric bikes can be great for those who aren’t ready for the grueling intensity of traditional bicycles and want a little bit of assistance as they ride. This can also help you go further as the electric bike range can add many more miles onto a ride than just pedaling. In other words, these items are great for increased physical health. E-bike users can get the same form of exercise as those that use a conventional bike, but it will depend on the levels of assist the rider uses.

Warning

  • These electric bikes still demand physical input from the rider, just like a traditional bike

Save Money

Being as how electric bikes receive power from a power outlet, and not gasoline, you should be able to save some money on your transportation bills. These bikes will include lithium-ion battery technology, where you can charge the electric bike battery like you would your phone, by plugging it in. There are two types of batteries, an integrated battery, and a removable e-bike battery. If you like long-distance trips, it may be smart to get an ebike with a removable battery pack so that you can carry backup batteries with you to extend your range. The savings will be even starker if you regularly use public transportation and switch over to an electric bike. Though the initial investment can be high when it comes to purchasing a brand new electric bike, there are cheaper options available, such as electric bike conversion kits. These kits simply affix to a traditional bike, increasing its feature set considerably. Alternatively, you can buy a used e-bike to save some money as well.

Insider Tip

Being as how electric bikes receive power from a power outlet, and not gasoline, you should be able to save some money on your transportation bills

Warning

  • Though the initial cost can be high when it comes to purchasing a brand new electric bike, there are cheaper options available, such as electric bike conversion kits​

More Fun

STAT: A study undertaken in Boulder, Colorado found that when riding an e-bike for at least 40 minutes per ride, participants’ heart rates averaged around 75% of their maximum. (Source)

Though many electric bikes operate via a pedal-assist feature that merely helps a rider get over steep hills or resist winds, some include an actual throttle mechanism. For an example of one, read our Grace MX review. What does this mean? You can ride the bike without any input whatsoever, just like any other transportation vehicle. Both throttle and pedal assist can be a whole lot of fun, turning daily errands into something to look forward to and opening up the possibilities of the great outdoors. The fun factor involved with eBikes also makes it easy to tempt friends and family to get in on the action. As a warning, be sure to wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet. This is especially important with ebikes because the electric motor can reach speeds much higher than the average person using regular bikes.

Moreover, if you’re going to get the bike in our Micargi Cyclone review, you’ll need a helmet, as this brand puts safety last.

Insider Tip

You can ride the bike without any input whatsoever, just like any other transportation vehicle

Warning

  • ​As a warning, be sure to wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet

​​Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedelec
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle_laws
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1361920915000140

*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9tFoV6j3m8

Are Electric Bikes Worth It FAQ

What e-bikes are good for new riders?

We would recommend an electric bike that has been purpose-built for new riders, with plenty of safety features and ease-of-use enhancements.

Do e-bikes have drawbacks?

Like any piece of technology, there are some drawbacks inherent to electric bikes. They tend to be heavier than traditional bicycles, and usually cost more.

Are e-bikes faster than regular bikes?

Not necessarily. An electric bike’s top speed is regulated by its motor system, but also any local laws and regulations in place.
Lawrence Bonk Profile image