Though the concept of electric mobility is more than 100 years old, the e-bike as we know it is only about 20 years old – and the electric bike is only now really starting to become a trending transportation solution. There are many reasons for this increase in popularity, many of which we covered in our previous blog post, “5 Fantastic Reasons to buy a Folding Bike.” Now, we’re following up that post by taking a look at some of the key benefits of e-bikes and why they’re only likely to continue trending upwards. Here’s a closer look at why:
So here’s our Top 5…
1. They’re Compact and Portable
With a folding electric bike, you don’t need to install a bike rack or purchase a vehicle that’s large enough to transport it from Point A to Point B – all you need to do is simply fold it up. Folding e-bikes are great because they’re compact, portable and versatile. They go literally wherever you do, and they can nicely tuck into virtually all types of vehicles, whether it’s a car, boat, commuter rail, etc. They even neatly fold to fit underneath your desk at the office. Whether you’re looking to bring your e-bike to the trail or just ride it the few miles to your office each day, the versatility and convenience of an e-bike cannot be topped. Simply put, the e-bike can go wherever you do.
2. They’re Easy to Ride and Easy to Fold
To piggyback off the above benefit of versatility and portability, folding electric bikes are also extremely easy to both ride and fold. Contrary to what many people believe, riding an e-bike is basically the same thing as riding any type of bike – there’s no additional skill level you need to reach. In fact, the pedal assist features of electronic bikes actually make them easier to ride than conventional bicycles. Furthermore, e-bikes are incredibly easy to fold and store. In fact, most e-bikes can be folded and unfolded in less than one minute.
3. You Can Ride Further and Explore More
According to a study from the Transport Research Laboratory and reported via Cyclist, it’s estimated that a majority of people who own conventional bicycles only ride them a total of 25 times per year, with less than half of all bike owners reporting that they ride at least once per week. Conversely, the same study found that people who own e-bikes are more likely to use them on a daily and weekly basis. According to the study’s finding, about one-third of all electric bike owners ride them at least once a day and more than 80 percent report riding them at least once per week. In addition to many of the benefits that you’ll find on this list, a big reason people with e-bikes tend to ride more is because the pedal assist modes empower them to do so. Some even come with throttle modes to provide that extra oomph. Commute to the office without dripping in sweat once you arrive. Conquer that steep hill or elevated trail with greater ease. And cut through gusty winds along the coast without beating yourself up. Simply put, e-bikes allow riders to do more.
4. Conquer the Hills and Winds
Eyes watering, legs churning, heart pounding. Whether you’re running, walking or cycling uphill or into the wind, we’ve all been there before at some point in our lives – and we’re not speaking metaphorically. The struggle is real when pedaling uphill or into the wind, especially on a bike. In some cases, a windy day even prevents people from getting the bike out of the garage at all. With an electric bike, you don’t have to let hills or wind intimidate you any longer. Thanks to pedal assist modes, all you have to do is kick up the throttle to power through wind gusts or up hills with much greater ease.
5. They’re Great for Exercise
Just because an e-bike offers pedal assist doesn’t mean that you can’t still get a great workout from riding one on the regular. We already noted how studies show that people with e-bikes tend to ride them more compared to people with conventional bikes. This increase in riding equates to an increase in exercise, regardless of where you’re riding your bike. Bike riding is a low impact cardiovascular exercise ideal for people of all ages – and an electric bike can make getting a workout all the more convenient and enjoyable.
As you can see, there are plenty of good reasons to purchase a folding e-bike. Not only do they offer the same fitness benefits of a conventional bike, but they allow riders to do more and ride further thanks to pedal assist features.
** Note that due to the addition of a powered motor there are state regulations. Read the “related article” below for a better understanding of e-bike classes before you make your awesome purchase.
Related Articles:
The 3 Electric Bicycle Classes (and Why They’re Important to an E-Bike Rider)
