You may have seen them already – from a distance, they cut the figure of a motorcycle complete with a motor, until it draws closer and you realize the rider is the one pedaling away. Electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, are here to stay and proving to be a popular, eco-friendly transportation solution for commuters, college students and cardio lovers alike.
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The popularity of electric bikes accelerated in 2019 and was continued to grow in popularity during 2020 as commuters sought alternatives to jam-packed, condensed public transportation. Since then, e-bikes are poised to overtake electric cars as the most popular EV of the 2020s. In fact, during 2021, e-bikes outsold electric cars and plug-in hybrids combined, according to data from the Light Electric Vehicle Association trade group.
If you’re curious about purchasing an e-bike to understand the hype for yourself, or if you’re still unconvinced to make the switch from your good old-fashioned bicycle, I’m busting common myths about these EVs with nothing but the facts:
MYTH: E-bikes are difficult to charge.
No, you don’t have to plug the entire bike in at a charging station. Unlike electric cars, the battery of an e-bike can be removed from the frame and charged independently at an outlet. You also don’t need to charge your bike every ride – Mavric Electric Cycles’ bikes last anywhere from 40-75 miles per charge. If your e-bike runs out of charge during a ride, the pedals function just as efficiently as any other bicycle. Charge or no charge, your e-bike is mobile.
MYTH: E-bikes don’t deliver as effective a workout as their manual counterpart.
An e-bike’s motor and pedal assist exist to supplement the rider’s pedaling and exertion. The bike is still very much human-powered but can be a game changer for getting its rider out of situations above their skill level (such as incredibly steep hills, precarious terrain or strong, punishing headwinds.) Pedal assist can be adjusted to suit your experience, compensating for as little or as much power as the rider desires. Your experience on an e-bike is up to you – tailor your ride to be as relaxing or as heart-pumping as you desire. Just adjust at the push of a button (or twist of a throttle.)
MYTH: E-bikes are electric scooters.
E-bikes aren’t scooters, and despite the hulking frames of some, they aren’t motorcycles, either. An e-bike’s motor is powered by the pedaling of its rider and kicks in to help bear the rider’s load, while riding a scooter requires little exertion beyond maintaining a standing position. E-bike motors also hit an average max speed of up to 28 miles per hour.
MYTH: E-bikes are difficult to maintain.
E-bikes can be serviced at your local bike shop, as it is still a bicycle with the added attachment of a motor (I recommend personally calling ahead to confirm that your bike is serviceable.) Mavric bikes are constructed of American-made components, meaning that they do not need to be shipped overseas to be serviced. Additionally, e-bikes can be stored without issue in your garage away from the elements, like any other bicycle, or in the case of Mavric’s foldable models, can be stored in cabinets or even a closet indoors. The e-bike components require little to no maintenance. Keep the chain oiled like you would any other bike, keep it away from moisture, and your bike should last you countless rides.
Author: Mavric Electric Cycles was founded by Ryan Schultze in 2020, specializing in the design of high-end electric motor bikes with best-in-class bike components. Check out mavricbikes.com for a full e-bike catalog or to find a retail location near you.
