collage of ebike components

Ebike Myths BUSTED! ⚡️ Everything You Need to Know

Written by: Joe Borrelli

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Published on

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Time to read 10 min

Ebikes are just like regular bicycles – only better. Ebikes are easier to ride than regular bikes. Their electric pedal assist feels like a magic hand gently pushing you forward. It brings the joys and conveniences of biking to more people. Ebikes are very inclusive. People of more ages and fitness levels can use them. They let riders go further with less effort. Ebikes are revolutionizing commuting, running errands, and exploring new nooks and crannies of our town. They can access routes and trails that cars can't. However, new tech always has critics. Potential buyers often have questions and concerns. Some critics lump electric bicycles with more powerful motorcycles and scooters. This blog post will address four common Ebike myths: they’re unsafe, too expensive, hard to maintain and don’t have enough range. EbikeCityZen will provide info and solutions to help you decide if the myths are true or not.

Range anxiety: How far can I really go?

Newcomers to Ebikes often fear running out of battery power before reaching their destination. This is known as range anxiety. Let's look at the factors that affect Ebike range. Then, we'll give tips to maximize your riding distance.

Factors affecting Ebike range:

Battery capacity: The average bike offered by EbikeCityZen.com has a 40-60 mile range. Some have the option to add range with a dual-battery setup.

Terrain: Climbing hills and rough terrain uses more battery than flat, paved surfaces.

Riding mode: Ebikes offer multiple pedal-assistance levels (PAS). Higher PAS levels provide more power but drain the battery faster.

Rider and cargo: Carrying extra weight requires more energy, reducing range.

Tire pressure and type: Low tire pressure and wider tires reduce efficiency.

Weather: Extreme temperatures can reduce battery performance.


Why you shouldn’t worry:

Most Ebike trips are well within range: Unless you plan a long tour over 50 miles in one ride, you won't run out of battery on your daily Ebike use.

Map your route: Mapping apps now have bike routes built in, and there are additional biking apps to help. Using bike lanes and off-street trails for routes reduces stops. It cuts the power needed to re-accelerate.

Use pedal assist wisely: Choose the lowest level of pedal assistance that is comfortable for the conditions. Ebikes are not meant to eliminate pedaling. They are meant to make it easier. You can adjust PAS on the fly. Climbing hills or starting from a stop is a great time to raise the level. Just lower it when it's not needed. On downhill slopes or level ground, you can turn off PAS to save battery power.

Carry only what you need: Avoid carrying unnecessary cargo. Be assured that you can rely on your Ebike to help you carry more than you would on a traditional bike.

Proper tire pressure: Check your tire pressure often. Inflate them to the recommended level.

Maintain your battery: Don't fully deplete it. Charge it when it is low. Remove your battery from the Ebike and bring it indoors for charging to top it off for your next ride. Ebike battery chargers are like laptop chargers. They plug into any standard outlet, so no special setup is required.

More Tips:

Consider a spare battery: For longer rides, a spare battery can provide peace of mind. If equipped, many EbikeCityZen models can have dual or triple batteries.

Plan charging stops: Ebike battery chargers are like laptop chargers. Most Ebike batteries are removable. Just bring your charger and battery. Plug them into any outlet during breaks on long treks. Or if you’re a commuter, just bring your battery into the office and charge it before you ride home.

Use a mapping app: Many mapping apps offer distance calculators to estimate your ride. You’ll likely find that even multiple trips added together are well within your battery range.

You still have pedal power: Unlike an electric car, an Ebike will never leave you stranded. Even with no power, Ebikes have pedals. You can ride them without any electrical assistance. The pedaling would require the same effort as a traditional bike of the same weight.

Cost: Are Ebikes worth the investment?

The investment in an Ebike can be higher than a traditional bike. However, many quality Ebikes cost less than premium traditional bicycles. Consider the long-term benefits and savings of an Ebike Lifestyle.

Price considerations:

Initial Price: Ebikes have a motor, battery and electronics, which adds to the cost over a traditional bicycle. There are a range of prices from budget friendly basics to high end luxury brands. If you have the means, a certain sports car brand offers a fully carbon frame Ebike for over $15,000 that you can order custom painted to match your car! After ordering delivery is only a 15 week wait (LOL)

Realistic Pricing: Expect to invest in the neighborhood of $1000 to $1700 for a good quality feature packed Ebike from EbikeCityZen.com. Lower priced Ebikes are great for the occasional rider, and higher priced Ebikes are available for those who are looking for the lightest weight and most capability.

Maintenance costs: Ebikes need similar maintenance to traditional bikes. But, some parts, like the lithium-ion battery, may need replacement years later.

Accessories: Accessorize your Ebike to fit your needs. Consider cargo racks, baskets, and phone mounts. EbikeCityZen also highly recommends a helmet and a good quality bike lock.

Insurance: It's not mandatory. But you may want to insure your Ebike against theft or accidents.

EbikeCityZen offers: Our lowest price guarantee ensures that nobody sells the same Ebike as us for less!




How Ebikes can save you money in the long run:

Savings over cars: Ebikes can replace cars for short to medium-distance trips and errands. You save on gas, parking, tolls, and vehicle maintenance fees. Here at EbikeCityZen, we still own a car, but we use our car much less frequently. On gasoline alone we used to go through a tank a week, now it’s maybe a tank per month.

Time savings: Studies show, and our rides at EbikeCityZen prove, Ebikes are often faster for trips up to six miles in city traffic. This accounts for traffic, parking and walking from the parking lot to the destination. Ebikes can use bike lanes. Many city areas have paths and trails that bypass regular roads. Also, we ride straight to our destination, lock the bike, and avoid circling around for a nearby open parking.

Multimodal transport: Your Ebike Lifestyle might let you skip car ownership. This may not suit everyone. But, combining Ebike rides with urban and regional trains, trams, and buses may meet all your transport needs. Some households with multiple cars may find that they can add Ebikes and cut down to one car. Talk about cost savings!

Health benefits: Ebikes are easier to ride than traditional bikes, but you still pedal. Ebike rides are a low-impact exercise that can improve fitness and reduce healthcare costs in the long run. Plus, you’re incorporating this exercise into your regular daily trips. You can count Ebike trips as your daily cardio. Instead of reserving time on the treadmill, focus your gym time to other forms of fitness. Instead of tracking your steps, track your pedals!

Environmental benefits: Ebikes produce zero emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment. Plus, if you’re not using a car, you’re reducing the overall pollution levels of your city. These cost savings may not directly benefit you. A cleaner environment and less traffic will make our towns more livable for us and future generations.

Financing options: EbikeCityZen offers payment plans via "ShopPay" to help with your Ebike purchase.

An Ebike Lifestyle saves money on daily transport. It also invests in your health, the environment, and your quality of life. Consider the long-term benefits and potential cost savings compared to the upfront cost.

Maintenance: Is it expensive to maintain an Ebike?

Ebikes need regular maintenance, like traditional bicycles. Compared to cars, the maintenance costs are tiny. There are a few more considerations:

Basic Ebike maintenance:

Clean and lubricate: Keep your Ebike clean and lubricate the chain regularly.

Check tire pressure: Maintain proper tire pressure for optimal performance and safety.

Inspect brakes and gears: Ensure your brakes and gears are functioning correctly.

Check battery health: Monitor your battery's health and charge it properly.

Store your Ebike properly: Store your Ebike in a dry, sheltered location when possible. Remove your Ebike battery to charge and store it indoors when not in use.

Ebike-specific maintenance:

Motor and controller: If you have a malfunction, a qualified technician should inspect your motor and controller.

Battery: Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for battery care and storage.

Electronics: Keep the electronics clean and dry to prevent damage. Riding in light rain will not harm your Ebike so long as all electrical connections are secure.

Water: Your Ebike must not go through water that is deeper than the bottom bracket, where the pedals meet the frame. Riding in light rain or snow is fine. Towel dry your Ebike after your ride.

Maintenance tips:

Basic repairs: Know how to check tire pressure, fix a flat, and make minor adjustments. These simple tasks will keep your Ebike out of the shop for most minor concerns.

Use a reputable bike mechanic: Most regular bike techs also work on Ebikes. EbikeCityZen is here to help you if you need a referral. Besides the motor and a few extra electronics, an Ebike functions just like a regular bike.

Follow the manufacturer's advice: Your new Ebike from EbikeCityZen has an owner's manual. We recommend you read the operating and safety instructions. We are here to help with any questions.



Regular maintenance will keep your Ebike at its best. It will last longer and provide a safe, enjoyable ride.

Safety: Are Ebikes Safe?

Ebikes are a convenient, easy way to travel. Just like a car, or any other vehicle, going too fast for conditions and not paying attention to the rules of the road can cause accidents. But we must prioritize safety when sharing the road with cars, other cyclists, and pedestrians. People often mis-categorize more powerful electric motorcycles, scooters and other electric personal transport devices as Ebikes. These other vehicles are not Ebikes! It is important to know that Ebikes are legally defined into three classes of “low-speed electric bicycles” and are just like regular bikes with pedals when it comes to traffic laws. Click here to learn more about Ebike Classifications. Ebikes stop giving pedal assistance once they reach the legal speed. Every electric bicycle sold by EbikeCityZen.com meets these legal requirements. Most municipalities treat Ebikes like regular bicycles. So, they can be ridden anywhere a traditional bike can. EbikeCityZen urges all cyclists to learn and use proper bike etiquette. It promotes a good cycling culture.



What is an Ebike pictogram

E-Bike safety musts:

Wear a Helmet: Always wear a properly fitted helmet, even on short rides.

Follow all traffic laws: Obey all traffic signals, signs, and road rules. Most states have DMV or Secretary of State resources. They explain the rules of the road. EbikeCityZen encourages safe and law-abiding Ebike rides.

Never ride on sidewalks: If you must use one, walk your bike.

Be visible: Use lights and reflectors, especially at night or in low-light conditions.

Use proper signaling: Signal your intentions clearly and avoid sudden maneuvers.

Maintain a safe speed: Ride at a speed appropriate for the conditions and your skill level. Never ride faster than is appropriate. Slow down when approaching intersections or where pedestrians are present.

Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and anticipate potential hazards.

Use bike lanes when available: Ride in them whenever possible. Use side streets with less cars. Use resources to find the 30,000+ miles of paved, car-free trails and paths throughout the country. At EbikeCityZen, we found dozens of new routes to our regular destinations. Routes that don't require riding on roads shared with cars, less-busy streets, and streets with protected bike lanes.

Additional safety considerations:

Take a bike safety course: Consider taking a course to learn safe riding techniques and traffic laws.

Get familiar with your Ebike: Practice riding it on a safe, car-free bike path before using shared roads.

Adjust your riding style: The easy pedaling of your Ebike may let you gain speed easier than a traditional bike. But always check your speed for the conditions.


Follow these safety tips. Be a responsible rider. You can then enjoy Ebikes' benefits while reducing risks. You will also contribute to a healthy cycling culture. We know some vehicle operators ignore traffic laws, even bicyclists. As a responsible Ebike owner, EbikeCityZen urges you to help. Make our transportation system safer and more inclusive for all.

Conclusion

Ebikes are a great way to boost your mobility, health, and eco-friendliness. They are easy to ride. So, they are an inclusive form of transport. They have opened the joy of cycling to more people than ever. Concerns about range, cost, maintenance, and safety are valid. But, knowing the facts and taking action can help you. You can then embrace the Ebike Lifestyle.

At EbikeCityZen.com, we sell high-quality Ebikes. We also offer expert advice to help you find the perfect electric bike for your needs. Check out our Ebikes and accessories. Find the joy of effortless cycling and your new Ebike Lifestyle!