The Truth About E-bikes: Puncturing 8 Common Myths

The Truth About E-bikes: Puncturing 8 Common Myths

In 2023, almost 10% of all bicycles sold in the UK were e-bikes – a figure that skyrocketed from less than 1% in 2015.

Opening the door to easier eco-friendly commutes, leisurely weekend meanders, and even adrenaline-filled off-road adventures, it’s little surprise that electric bike sales have risen so sharply.

But despite their growing potential and popularity, common misconceptions about electric bikes stick. In this blog post, we’re going to debunk some of the most widespread myths in 2024.

8 Common E-bike Myths (and the Truth!)

Myth #1: “Using an e-bike is cheating”

It’s a common misconception that riding an e-bike doesn’t require any effort. E-bikes are not solely powered by their motor; the user still needs to pedal. An electric bike motor simply provides a little assistance when needed. What’s more, some e-bike riders would be unable to make regular use of a traditional bicycle. Therefore, e-biking should be classified as a hobby of its own, not simply a ‘watered down’ version of traditional cycling. It’s not an ‘easy option’, either; with adjustable power assistance, e-bike riders can alter the intensity of their ride to suit their personal goals.

Myth #2: “Electric bikes are unsafe”

Modern electric bikes have a plethora of excellent, tried-and-tested safety features. For example, sensitive hydraulic disc brakes can allow for lightning quick braking (even on steep gradients), LED lights make for safer rides in dark or gloomy UK conditions, and puncture-resistant tyres and high-tech suspensions make for a smoother, safer experience both on and off the road. What’s more, e-bikes must meet the electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC) regulations to be used on UK roads. This limits the motor power of roadworthy e-bikes to 250W, and stipulates that electrical assistance must cut off when the electric bike reaches 15.5mph.

Myth #3: “Riding an e-bike won’t improve your fitness”

Comparing the results of 17 studies, a 2018 review concluded that e-biking provided physical activity of at least moderate intensity (lower intensity than traditional cycling, but higher intensity than walking). The same review found evidence that e-biking can improve cardiovascular fitness in individuals who were previously physically inactive. Interestingly, a further study in 2019 found that e-bike physical activity gains were not that different from the physical benefits of traditional cycling. This was because the e-bikers travelled further than the traditional cyclists on average.

Myth #4: “An e-bike battery charge doesn’t last long”

E-bike batteries are reliable, resilient and long-lasting. Many e-bikes can now comfortably travel 50+ miles (80+km) on a single charge. Some models with great batteries include the Neomouv Adonis hybrid step through e-bike (630Wh model), which offers an impressive 65-75 miles per charge, and the Neomouv Enara 2 TK hybrid (630Wh model), which offers 100-120km per single charge.

Myth #5: “Electric bikes are only for older people”

It’s true that an e-bike can be a great alternative to traditional cycling for older adults and those with health conditions that make riding a pushbike more difficult. But in 2024, the e-bike market is vast and varied, and there’s a model to suit every type of rider. For instance, models with powerful 500W+ motors – like the E-movement Aries electric mountain bike - can reach high speeds and navigate difficult terrain. This makes them perfect for those seeking exhilarating off-road experiences.

Myth #6: “E-bikes are heavy and complicated to use”

Electric bikes are more lightweight, transportable, and user-friendly than ever before. E-bikes often have fewer gears to navigate than traditional bicycles, and their lower centre of gravity can make them more stable and responsive than their traditional counterparts. Contemporary features like suspension forks, hydraulic disc brakes, and comfortable saddles make for an all-round smoother ride, too.

Many e-bike models are easily transportable, with lightweight and even foldable designs perfect for commuting and carrying on public transport. The Neomouv Efolding electric bike is a perfect example of how compact, moveable, and light (yet sturdy) an e-bike can be. Impressively, this model can be folded to 76x45x67cm in a mere ten seconds.

Myth #7: “You need insurance, tax and a license to ride an e-bike"

As long as you’re over 14 and your e-bike is officially classified as an electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC), you do not need to register it, tax it, or have a driving license to use it. Find out the specific EAPC criteria here, or read our article on potential future changes to these guidelines here.

Myth #8: “E-bikes are expensive”

A great electric bike might set you back by £1000+ initially, but this really is a drop in the ocean when compared to the initial and ongoing costs associated with running a car. E-bike services are available for well under £100, and it costs a mere 5-10p on average to fully charge an e-bike from empty.

As we covered in the previous point, you don’t need insurance, tax, or a driving license to ride an electric bike on the roads, either (as long as it’s an EAPC). So, if you completely switch your car for an e-bike, these savings alone could cover the initial cost of your bike within a year. Even switching a few car rides per week for an electric bike could lead to great savings on everything from fuel and parking to car maintenance.

Visit E-Bikes Express to Find Your Electric Bike

At E-Bikes Express, we're proud to offer carefully selected e-bike models suitable for a wide range of riders. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist and thrill seeker looking for a high-powered fat tyre mountain bike, or a city centre commuter wanting a sleek and lightweight foldable design, we’ve got the e-bike for you.

Get in touch for professional assistance in finding the right electric bike for your lifestyle.

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