Contrary to popular belief, e-bikes are not modern inventions. They have been around for more than 100 years, as the first models were invented in the late 19th century. Even with their recent rise in popularity, many people still hold misconceptions about e-bikes and their benefits. So, in today’s blog, let’s dig into the facts behind the 5 most common e-bike myths.
Myth one: you can't get fit on an e-bike
Let's start with the most common myth: you don't get exercise on an e-bike. Yes, e-bikes give battery-powered assistance, but you still need to spin those legs. Just as with traditional cycling, riding an e-bike elevates our oxygen intake, and helps to reduce the risk of many diseases. E-bike riders spend less energy on pedaling, but that is not a bad thing. For many who would otherwise be unable to ride regular bikes, e-bikes offer a great way to exercise. Another beauty of e-bikes is this: you can customize your workout plan with ease. As you get fitter, simply reduce the PAS level and you will get more exercise.
Myth two: riding an e-bike is cheating
Yes, riding an e-bike is cheating - only if you are doing it at La Tour de France, or the UCI Road World Championship. Otherwise, no one should be pointing a finger at those enjoying a bit of pedal assist. Most people use e-bikes to cut down commuting time or to have some fun. Unless there is a podium at the end of every bicycle lane, there is no reason to imagine city roads as racing tracks.
Myth three: e-bikes are too fast, and unsafe
E-bikes are no more capable of reaching high speed than regular bikes. By design, the pedal-assist will only help to reach a regulated speed cap. After that, it will be 100% up to your leg power, just as with regular bikes. In fact, many avid cyclists can ride faster than the speed cap of e-bikes with ease. For this reason, most countries allow e-bikes to share the same lane as normal bikes.
Myth four: e-bikes are overpriced
E-bikes are more expensive than regular bikes, but they are not necessarily overpriced. E-bikes have higher prices mostly because they feature costlier components, like the battery and the motor. Many people consider e-bikes as a decent alternative to private cars, because of the advantages the motor assist brings. Though the purchasing cost of an e-bike is higher, it can take you to places where regular bikes cannot easily do so. With soaring oil prices, riding an e-bike is indeed a cost-effective option. The cost of recharging an e-bike is tiny compared to refilling the gas in a private car.
Myth five: you are stuck if the battery runs flat
Sure, e-bikes are heavier, because of the added battery and motor. Yet, when the battery is empty, it does not necessarily mean that you will have to push a behemoth up the slopes. Nowadays, many well-designed electric road and commuter bikes are not much heavier than regular bikes. For example, the TENWAYS CGO600 e-city bike uses an aerospace-grade aluminum frame and weighs only 15kg. If you do decide to turn the power off, you can still enjoy it as a decent urban bike. If that sounds like your kind of e-bike, click here and check out our CGO600.
This one is not a myth: e-bikes are fun!
Cycling is one of the healthiest ways to move around, and e-bikes have made it more accessible than ever. If you are already an avid cyclist, you may ask: "Why should I consider e-bikes?" Well, the answer is, they really are a lot of fun. Take one for a spin, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised!
TENWAYS is keen to share your attitude and lifestyle, and accompany you on your way to work, friends and families on your e-bikes. Please check out TENWAYS on our YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. We are looking forward to exploring a fun journey with you!
