The increasing popularity of bikes and ebikes has hit a new high as people seek exercise and transportation that allows for social distancing. But what’s better: a traditional or ebike? In Vancouver, we have many bike-friendly features good for both types. However, which is right for you may depend on how you plan to use it.
Here, we will compare the features of both traditional and ebikes in Vancouver to help you decide which is right for you.
Exercise
One of the big advantages of ebikes is that they allow you to go further and faster with less effort. The electric pedal assist function that makes an ebike an ebike will let you go up hills with greater ease and reduce strain on your legs throughout your ride.
Will you still get a workout on ebikes? In Vancouver, like most areas, there is a variety of terrain. Your ebike will make it easier to pedal up hills and other areas, but that does not mean you won’t have to work at all. You will still burn calories and work the same muscles you would on a traditional bike, but will likely find yourself enjoying an even longer ride.
Comfort
While you may want to work up a sweat on a long weekend ride, you may feel differently if you are using your bike for a work commute. Opting for a traditional bike because it seems like a better workout will be far less appealing when you arrive to work with a sweat-drenched shirt.
Ebikes in Vancouver will allow you to cycle comfortably to work through more of the year. In summer, turn on the pedal-assist to make sure you can make your commute with minimal effort and sweat. In winter, the pedal-assist will allow you to go faster, making the commute bearable even when the weather turns cold.
Versatility
Most importantly when considering exercise on ebikes vs regular bikes, remember you can always turn off the pedal assist. If you feel you are not getting enough of a workout on your ebike, you can pedal manually. Conversely, if your traditional bike is too hard to pedal, there is little you can do about it.
Cost
You really cannot have a discussion about electric bikes without cost coming into the conversation. People often shy away from e-bikes specifically because of perceived costliness. But are ebikes really that much more expensive than traditional bikes? Yes and no. When contemplating ebikes vs regular bikes in terms of cost, consider these factors about why you should buy an ebike:
Ebike Costs are Reducing
Unlike many other products, ebikes are hitting a boom. As e-bikes become more popular, manufacturers are able to produce more bikes for less and pass on the savings.
Ebikes Can Save you Money
While both traditional and ebikes can be used as transportation, an ebike’s ability to go further with less effort will allow you to use it for more tasks. When you combine an ebike with seat bags, you can easily use it for grocery shopping and other errands. A traditional bike may prove too difficult to take for a round trip to the store, especially with added weight.
Traditional Bikes Are Not Always Cheaper
The truth is, there is a wide range of prices for both traditional and electric bikes. A high-end mountain bike can easily compare in cost to a similar quality ebike.
What you pay will be determined by the features you want. Instead of choosing between ebikes vs regular bikes based on cost, consider what you want to use your bike for. If, for example, you want a bike exclusively for exercise and you are already in shape and/or a competent cyclist, a traditional bike may be for you.
However, if you want the versatility of being able to use your bike for transportation or you are not accustomed to cycling, an ebike will give you better options. Whatever money you might save on a traditional bike will not be worth it if it ends up sitting unused because it cannot meet your needs.
Ebikes as Personal Protection Equipment
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to cause spikes in cases around the world, people are looking for socially distanced modes of travel. Bikes fit the bill perfectly. While traditional bikes are also included here, they do not allow for the same versatility as an ebike and will not let you avoid other transportation as easily.
Speed
Speed between ebikes vs regular bikes is less of a differentiating factor than you might assume. While there are ebikes that are much faster than a traditional bike, these are not really ebikes and are subject to different regulations.
To be considered as ebikes in Vancouver and be allowed on public roads, your bike will require pedals. Additionally, electrical assistance is only provided when you are pedalling. In other words, it cannot function like a motorcycle where the bike can operate without you pedalling.
Most ebikes will not provide electrical assistance once you reach around 30KPH. Because of this, you may personally be able to ride your ebike faster than you would your traditional bike but it will still be within a similar range as a traditional bike.
Consider your Personal Ability
One of the other advantages of ebikes that is often pointed to is that ebikes make cycling possible for more people. Since they reduce the amount of effort it takes to pedal, those who are older or have certain injuries can still enjoy the benefits of cycling without pain.
Similarly, if you have never been a cyclist or have not ridden a bike of any kind in many years, an ebike may be ideal. Trying to start a cycling routine when you are not used to that kind of exercise can easily become discouraging.
Many new riders find themselves giving up on cycling the first time they have to struggle up a hill without pedal assistance. With an ebike, you can start out with pedal-assist to get yourself acclimated then turn it off once you need a challenge.
Why You Should Buy an Ebike
An ebike can provide exercise, an environmentally friendly alternative to other modes of transportation and can help keep you motivated to workout. However, the main reason why you should buy an ebike is that it suits your needs
Though cost is often considered first, that factor is becoming less relevant. Ebike prices are falling, making them similar in price to traditional bikes. They can also help reduce your other transportation costs and provide a safe, alternative mode of transportation. This makes ebikes a sound financial and health purchase for many riders.
Where to Purchase Ebikes in Vancouver
When purchasing an ebike, buying local can be a huge advantage. This will make repairs and buying accessories easier. Also, you will have quick access to local experts. At Epic Cycles, we are committed to matching riders with the best ebikes for their needs and providing ongoing support. Shop our online catalogue or come visit us at our Vancouver location.
