Electric bikes - also commonly referred to as e-bikes
- are all the rage at the moment. E-bikes are an ideal option for
cyclists wanting a little help on hill climbs and for commuters looking
for an economical, sweat-free mode of transport. Lately I've seen
curious passersby stop at the cycling store just to check these beauties
out. So just how do electric bikes work?
How do Electric Bicycles work?
Firstly,
electric bikes use a rechargeable battery that powers a small electric
engine to provide some "go" when you need it. Some models have a pedal
sensor that determine how much help you need depending on the effort you
use. Other types have a motorcycle-like throttle on the handlebars that
let you decide how much power to use.
This is all fantastic if
you intend to carry some groceries up a hill occasionally or need to
arrive at your destination without being drenched in sweat!
Since,
e-bikes are in fact bicycles, they are limited to a top speed of 15mph
with it's motor running and an average power of 200W.
Here are some factors in to consider in choosing your electric bike.
Electric bike reports
Electric Bicycle Weight
The
motor, frame and battery are the heaviest parts of an electric bike.
Cheaper e-bikes will tend to have heavier motors and batteries. This
might be alright for more petite Chinese commuters who weigh around
50-60kg but not so great for the average 70-90 kg Western adult. After
all, the heavier the electric bike is, the harder it is to pedal
unassisted.
Electric Bicycle Motors
Motor
power will determine how fast the bike will go. Speed varies according
to the rider's weight and the wheel size. The latter is a factor as the
same motor attached to a 20" wheel has to turn faster when attached to a
24" wheel to reach the same speed.
Electric Cycle Batteries
The
battery supplies power to the electric motor. A fully charged average
battery's range is normally between 12 to 30 miles with gentle pedaling,
the actual distance varying according to weight and size of rider and
the terrain being ridden. Smooth, dry pavement, for example, will give a
much higher range than wet grass or loose dirt.