Many people are turning to electric bikes these days. It is a step towards a greener, more sustainable world that would be beneficial to each one of us. These bikes are powered by rechargeable batteries that will take you to your desired location faster without harming the environment.
But the million-dollar question is, are electric bikes worth it and how far can you go on an electric bike?
How Far Can You Go On an Electric Bike?
This is one of the most important questions to consider when buying an electric bike. It is only natural that you would want to know how far can you go on an electric bike. But the answer to the question depends on several variables.
Some of these include:
- Power (watts)
- Battery (Ah)
- Type of tires
- Powering system
- If you are carrying additional luggage on the bike
- If you are taking breaks in between and the duration of the breaks
- Weather conditions
- Your size
Though most people tend to include the bike’s power and battery in their estimation of the bike’s range, they tend to ignore the importance of tires. If the tires are heavy duty, resistance can sometimes come in the way and consume some of the energy.
Another decisive factor is whether you use a pedal or a throttle without pedaling. When human power gets combined with pedal power, of course, the range is going to increase.
Based on these factors, a single charge can take the range of electric bikes to 20-50 miles when you are simply pedaling without any rush. However, it also varies from brand to brand and bike type (there is a lot of variety) and sometimes, a single charge can take your bike to 80 miles.
Motor Wattage: The Truth
Sometimes people recommend going for a high wattage motor for extra power, but that is not necessary. Anything around 500 watts is enough to carry you around comfortably and in good time. The key thing that makes a big difference is the gearing of the bike and the way your electric bike has been designed.
How to Make the Most of an Electric Bike?
Certain tips and tricks can help you make the most of your electric bike and even increase its range.
- Avoid carrying very heavyweights on your bike, if you can avoid it. This can be done for small distances within the city. It would certainly make your commute faster.
- Maximum assistance at all times will drain the battery faster. If you don’t have to rush or reach somewhere super soon, you can go for a combination of pedaling and assistance.
- Be thorough in your research and go for a bike that meets most of your needs. There are plenty of options available and this would not be a problem.
People Also Ask
Though the range of the electric bike is one of the most important and frequently asked questions, there are some others that tend to cross a lot of people’s minds. We have curated a few of them just for you.
Is There an Exact Range of an E-bike?
No one can give you an exact figure and you will have to go by average estimations. Mid-range bikes mostly have a range of around 56 miles and that is considered good.
How Heavy Are Electric Bikes?
Sometimes electric bikes can be heavy duty i.e. they may be heavy to lift, but they are not heavy to ride. You won’t feel any pressure and heaviness and most people who ride electric bikes swear by how breezy they are. This is the reason many people go biking on the hills using an electric bike.
Sometimes you may need to lift the bike up and in such scenarios, only the weight comes into the picture. However, this is also the reason e-bikes are favored over electric scooters that weigh much more and are heavier and thereby difficult to lift.
Can I Use an E-bike Without Using the Assistance Levels?
Well, you can most certainly use an e-bike without using the assistance levels. However, what’s the point then of buying one? People buy e-bikes because of the added assistance and the other features it offers. So, at a prudent level, it would be advisable to use some degree of assistance while riding an e-bike.
How Long Does It Take to Charge an E-bike Battery?
A fully discharged lithium-ion battery can take anywhere between 4-6 hours to charge. If the battery is not fully depleted, it may take less time to recharge. Besides, the last hour of charging is usually focused on recharging the cells so it does not make a difference to the overall process.
Most bikes can be charged up to 90% in 2-2.5 hours. However, you should always check the specifics with the manufacturer because there is a difference between models and manufacturers.
How Long Does a Single Charge Last?
A single charge can take you anywhere between 22-50 miles when you are pedaling in a relaxing manner. Again, don’t take it as an absolute as there are bound to be variations between brands and models.
Can I Take My E-bike Out in Rains?
E-bikes are constructed in a manner that they keep the battery and motor preserved and sealed at all times. So, rains should not be a major problem. If you are riding your bike in a rainforest, you may want to keep it in your car, just in case, as a precautionary measure.
When Will I Have to Replace the Battery of My E-bike?
E-bikes powered by lithium-ion batteries are adept at offering 500 full charged cycles. Some premium ones can go up to 1,200 cycles. Please note if you only charge 50% of your e-bike’s battery at a time, you should count it as half cycle.
On average, you can expect to go anywhere between 10,000 to 30,000 miles without having to replace your battery.
What Are the Servicing Needs of an E-bike?
E-bikes consist of both electrical and mechanical parts and the servicing will have to cater to each differently. Most bikes (including non-electric ones) contain mechanical parts and therefore, can be serviced anywhere.
The electric parts, on the other hand, do not have major servicing needs. All you need to do is to ensure that you maintain the bike well and keep it charged at all times.
If there is an issue with any electric part of your e-bike, you will have to get it fixed at a shop specializing in e-bikes or reach your bike’s manufacturer.
Benefits of Switching to Electric Bikes
Now that you know that how far you can go on an electric bike, you should also be aware of the many other benefits it offers and why should you make the switch. Here are a few benefits for your consideration:
- It Is Fast
In addition to putting little effort, electric bikes also take you to your desired location faster. They are going to cut your commute time and make you reach your location in lesser time than you would usually.
- It Is the Future
Vehicles emitting smoke and tar are going to be history soon. If not, they are going to make indelible damage to the environment and we will be collectively responsible for the damage and also be at the receiving end of the consequences.
Electric bikes are the transport of the future and the sooner we switch to these, the better it would be.
- There Is Something for Everyone
Electric bikes come in several designs and colors and that just makes them a viable option for several people. There is something for everyone and for those who like their vehicles trendy, there are plenty of pretty options available.
- It Would Keep You Fit
This is one of the biggest advantages of switching to electric bikes. Though assistance is available, it still counts as exercise. Besides, if you are too much into fitness, you can explore several tailor-made options to put more focus on the exercise element.
- It Would Help You Save Money
Think petrol and diesel prices for a moment and then consider switching to electric bikes. The batteries in the electric bikes are affordable and are anyway going to save you a lot of money over petrol and diesel in the long run.
- It Is Good for the Environment
Lastly and most importantly, switching to electric bikes is great for the environment. They save energy and are way better than cars that run on petrol and diesel. Human beings have polluted the environment to an unbelievable level and we should come together to do whatever it takes to salvage the situation.
Parting Words
An electric bike is a good investment for the future. Not only will it keep you fit but would also help the environment. There are several bikes available in the market today and you must consider the many aspects of an electric bike to make your final choice.