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More Answers About E-Bikes

The “e” in eBike could also stand for “equalizer” – you stand up better to tougher terrain, to longer distances, and even against other riders. Hailed as the most significant innovation in bicycles since the mountain bike, the eBike makes cycling easier for all types of riders. The benefits are applicable to three types of cycling:

  • Exercise – the eBike is still very much a bicycle, but you choose how far and how hard you want to ride, and how you approach different types of terrain – the eBike flattens hills and carries you home against a stiff wind;
  • Social – if you ride in a group and find the pace uncomfortable, you can let the eBike do the extra work to keep up – you only have to pedal as hard as you want to; and
  • Transportation Alternative – you can travel further and faster with an eBike than on a bicycle. You can also carry a greater ‘payload’, which makes the eBike an ideal, alternate vehicle – without such automobile-related headaches as parking.  Many of our seasonal visitors use their e-bike for a second vehicle.
  • Q: What is an eBike and how does it work?

    A: An eBike is a bicycle with an electric motor that assists with pedaling. The motor is usually mounted midway in the frame (connected to the crankset), or on the rear wheel hub – both are typically powered by a lithium ion battery.  Some models have throttles and even with those, you still have to pedal.  Better models have software in the motor that measures speed, torque (force), pedal rotations and even terrain slope to provide the proper amount of assistance.

    Q: How many types of eBikes are there?

    A: All types of bicycles are represented in the eBike category, from mountain bikes and road bikes to comfort bikes and trikes.

    Q: Can I ride an eBike as a regular bike – without the electric power assist?

    A: Yes, and switching back and forth is simple – especially if you want to conserve power for going up hills, or against the wind.

    Q: How much are eBikes and how much does it cost to charge them?

    A: The prices range from $900 to over $10,000, but the average range is between $1100 and $4000. Tri-A-Bike’s eBikes come from major bicycle manufacturers. Assuming a rate of $0.16 kwh it will cost you between $0.06 & $0.09 per charge. 

    Q: How much heavier are eBikes?

    A: A typical eBike motor and battery add 30 pounds to the weight of the bicycle, which is why eBikes are favored over electric scooters which weigh about 150 pounds.