On this page:

• Types of electric bikes
• What is an electric trike (e-trike)?
• Buying an e-trike online (Progear E-Free E-trike)
• Buying an e-trike from a bike shop (Eunorau New Trike)
• Is an e-trike more stable than an e-bike?

Three wheels may deliver better balance to those who struggle to ride a regular bicycle at low speeds, but our tester and bike-fitting professional both say that an e-trike is actually more prone to tipping over unless you’re going dead straight, on flat terrain or at walking or jogging pace.

The e-trikes we tested were not very easy to handle and often exhibited too much imbalance on turns and uneven ground. While they may be easier to sit on and manoeuvre at low speeds, they’re not suitable for the elderly or the frail without a lot of guidance and practice.

Types of electric bikes

E-bikes come in many different sizes and shapes, from mountain e-bikes for cross country adventure riding to hybrid e-bikes for a bit of off-roading and commuting.

Cargo bikes also have some ardent fans and are a popular choice for those looking for a car-replacement option, with loads of storage in the front or rear storage box, trailer and/or pannier mounts. Some may even be able to carry a couple of small children in compatible child seats.

However, all these e-bikes require a certain level of balance and control and they may not be suitable for those who are either not confident or capable in guiding a two-wheeler through traffic or a bike path. ÌÇÐÄVlog experts have tested over 30 electric bikes in our labs and on the road to help you find the best performers that suit your budget. We consider factors such as ride comfort, handling, turning and low-speed performance and battery use (view full electric bike reviews).

What is an electric trike (e-trike)?

Promoted as a stable solution for people who aren’t able to ride a regular e-bike, an e-trike has three-wheels for added stability as well as the option for storage.

Pros:

• Three wheels allow the rider to sit comfortably on the bike when stationary without having to balance.
• Manoeuvrability at low speeds or turning when starting out is very easy with the ability to almost turn a full circle.
• Very good storage options with most e-trikes including a large rear cargo area which is ideal for grocery shopping.

Cons:

• The three-wheel setup isn’t as stable as an e-bike at speed or when dealing with bumps and rough terrain.
• Locking up the e-trike when travelling is difficult and most are not really compatible with public bike racks (they take up three bike spots).
• New users or those who have not ridden a bike for a long period may find it difficult to use an e-trike without some guidance.

Electric trikes are of course available to buy both instore and online. ÌÇÐÄVlog experts advise against purchasing one online if you don’t have a bike professional to help you assemble the bike at home. This is because assembling an e-trike can be much more complex than assembling an e-bike.Ìý

We put a couple of e-trikes to the test and assessed their performance on the road, as well as looking into a couple of different purchasing options to investigate whether you should get some proper guidance before putting your pedal to the metal.

Buying an e-trike online (Progear E-Free E-trike)

The first e-trike we rode was a product from a brand called Progear, which was ordered through an online marketplace. However, the same model (Progear E-Free E-Trike) can be easily found and purchased on other marketplace stores, at Bunnings or the Progear online store.

This e-trike arrived in a few pieces and we had to put it together ourselves; this included attaching the frame (it was in two pieces), the handlebars, saddle, pedals, wheels, brakes, electrical components, mudguards, and front reflector. Putting it together took a lot of effort and required two people to reduce frustration and stress.

The Progear E-Trike is a relatively inexpensive product aimed at those looking for a bargain. However, the product proved to be too cheap to be good value, with very low-end components.

After our tester Elias assembled the e-trike according to the supplied instructions – as well as referring to supplemental instructions online – we had the trike assessed by a qualified bicycle mechanic, a luxury not available to most people ordering this product online.

Unfortunately, the verdict from the professional bike mechanic was that the Progear e-trike was not safe enough to ride. Due to a design flaw, only one rear wheel propels the e-trike when pedalling, so it always felt like it was pulling towards one direction, and it was the same when braking as it made the trike head offline when slowing down.

Buying an e-trike from a bike shop (Eunorau New Trike)

The most important benefit of buying any e-bike from a local store is that you can approach a real person if, or when, something goes wrong soon after purchase. There is also peace of mind in knowing you have someone to deal with over the life of your e-bike ownership.

We bought the Eunorau New Trike fully assembled from a bike shop (check out au.eunoroau-ebike.com for a local dealer), and this trike was a better product and more closely delivered what we expected from an electric trike. The e-trike felt more comfortable thanks to its thicker wheels and wider seat and back rest. The braking was better thanks to having two rear brakes and all disc brakes. Our on-site bike professional confirmed that it was an overall better quality in terms of its build as well as the general setup for brakes and wheels

However, as with the Progear bike, we experienced the same sensations of veering to one side along straight stretches of road, and tipping while taking corners. But in this case, the smaller, but fatter 20-inch wheels helped provide a more stable ride overall compared to the Progear e-trike, which has thinner 24-inch wheels.

The bottom line is, e-trikes are not something we can recommend for those who have mobility or balance issues without guidance from bike professionals and a caveat that they should only be used on flat terrain and at low speeds. We especially don’t recommend buying one online from a marketplace, which then has to be assembled by the user. If you are going to buy an e-trike, then you should buy from a reputable bike shop and make sure the staff properly explain how to get the best use out of it.

Is an e-trike more stable than an e-bike?

The adage ‘just like riding a bike’ generally holds true when it comes to  e-bikes. But for those who have never ridden a tricycle (battery assisted or otherwise), some guidance by an experienced trike rider on steering, how to deal with unstable terrain and braking suddenly would be recommended.

In general, e-trikes are more stable at low speeds, while e-bikes are more stable at high speeds or on uneven terrain. Here’s a breakdown on which is the most stable option in different riding situations.

• Sitting on the bike in a stationary position (waiting at a traffic light or simply having a rest on the bike) – e-trike
• Riding slowly (around 10–15km) on a straight or gently turning bike path – e-trike
• Riding at the higher speeds available with assistance (25km or faster) when going downhill or pedalling hard – e-bike
• Turning suddenly at any speed above a fast walk or on unstable terrain – e-bike
• Riding in a busy area or an area where there is limited width for traffic on the road or a bike path – e-bike

The post Considering an e-trike? We look at how they compare to electric bikes appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

It’s not just about the money though: cars can cramp your style in other ways. There’s the hassle of finding parking, sitting in traffic during peak hour and, for some people, concerns about the environmental impact of their car.

An electric bike can free you from these woes: you can sail straight past banked-up traffic, parking is a cinch, running costs are significantly cheaper, and your carbon footprint will be much smaller.

Whether you’re e-bike curious or already a dedicated e-cycler, you might be wondering if you could ditch your car completely and just stick to your electric treadly.

Can you replace your car with an electric bike?

From personal experience, yes.

I sold my car and bought a long-tail cargo e-bike back in 2018, and I can tell you that it is definitely possible – but it’s admittedly not for everyone.Ìý

It works for my lifestyle: I work from home, the supermarket is close by, I’m a confident rider, and I hate the gym so it’s a great way to get some exercise.Ìý

I’m lucky to live in an area with plenty of public transport and several GoGet cars within a block or two for those days I can’t ride, and my child is still small enough that I can easily make it up hills with her on the back.

But some things are changing, and lately I’ve been wondering whether I should buy a car again.Ìý

My daughter now goes to school a few suburbs away so I have to hire a GoGet several times a week, which is adding up, and she’s nearly 10 and growing like a weed so it won’t be long until those hills start feeling like mountains. Plus, we’re planning some camping and road trips this year, so we’ll need a car for those.

Is continuing my car-free existence sustainable? Maybe, but there’s a lot to consider.

If you’re thinking of breaking up with your car and taking up with an e-bike, here are the positives and negatives that I’ve experienced over the years. Plus, some tips on the types of lifestyles that may be suited to a car-free existence – and which ones aren’t.

Pros of replacing your car with an e-bike:

• The savings: no more costs for petrol, parking or rego, and cheaper purchase, insurance, repayment and servicing costs.
• Even if you need to pay for a car share subscription or occasional car hire, it usually ends up being far cheaper than owning your own car.
• It can be faster to get where you’re going – you can avoid congestion by taking bike paths.
• You won’t have to worry about finding a parking spot, and you can generally ride right up to your destination instead of having to walk from where you’ve parked.
• Exercise and fresh air while you’re travelling.
• You’ll significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
• You don’t need a license to ride an e-bike.
• No more stressful, boring car commutes in peak hour.

Cons of replacing your car with an e-bike:

• You’re at the mercy of the weather.
• It can be unsafe riding on the road.
• It’s not always glamorous: think helmet hair and arriving sweaty and out of breath at your destination.
• Due to their high value and movability, e-bikes are often targeted by bike thieves – you’ll need somewhere safe and secure to store it and lock it up, and potentially take out insurance to cover it in the case of theft.
• If you have a physical disability, chronic pain or other health condition (or if you develop one after getting rid of your car), riding may be too difficult.
• If you have children you want to carry on your bike, you may need to invest in a cargo bike and other accessories such as a child seat.
• As your children get bigger, it can get harder to transport them on the bike.
• You generally can’t carry large, very heavy items on your bike.
• If you anticipate needing a vehicle here and there, you’ll probably need to pay for car-sharing membership or similar.
• Some cities don’t have great cycling infrastructure.
• You’ll need to hire or borrow a car for road trips.
• Flat tyres can be difficult to replace, depending on your bike.

Will replacing your car with an e-bike work for you?

For some people, an e-bike can easily replace their car for most things – and will probably save a lot of hassle and money. But for others, it’s not likely to be a realistic solution.

Here are the lifestyles for which a car-free existence could work – and the ones that definitely don’t.

Some factors that can make a car-free life feasible:

• You live in an urban area where public transport is easily accessible.
• You don’t have to travel far to work, or you work from home.
• The area you live in has good bike lanes and bike paths to travel on.
• You don’t have children to transport around, or if you do, they’re still small enough that you can carry them on your bike.
• You don’t go on road trips very often.
• There are easy-to-access car sharing options near you.
• You either don’t need to buy large quantities of groceries, or you can easily have them delivered.

Some reasons you might not be able to ditch your car for an e-bike:

• You have a long commute.
• There aren’t many public transport or carshare options in your area.
• You live in either a particularly cold and wet or very hot climate.
• You’re not a confident cyclist
• There aren’t many bike lanes or paths near you
• Physical limitations that can make riding difficult
• You’re buying groceries for a large household or you buy in bulk
• You regularly go on road trips or long drives in your city
• Your kids (or pets!) are too big for you to carry them on a bike

Try before you buy

When we’ve tested e-bikes in our labs, we’ve found that they can really vary in terms of how easy and comfortable they are to ride – they’re not like riding a regular bike.

There are so many different options for motors, configurations, accessories and, of course, price that you really want to make sure you’re choosing exactly the right set-up, especially if you’re planning for it to replace your car.

The best way to decide whether a particular e-bike is right for you is to visit a bike shop and take a few different bikes for a ride.Ìý

The company I bought my bike from offered a very generous two-week trial, which gave me the opportunity to assess whether I could realistically get rid of my car and just live with the bike. (I didn’t use my car once during those two weeks, which was a pretty clear sign!)

And if you’re still not sure you’re ready to trade in your seatbelt for a helmet, you could try an e-bike subscription service such as Lug+Carrie. These subscriptions often cover bike rental, servicing, insurance and roadside assistance, so you can trial e-bike life before committing to it full-time.

Can you go car-free?

If your lifestyle and motivations align with a bike-only existence, then I say go for it! You’ll still need to use a car for some activities, but you might find the slight inconvenience of having to hire a car or book a share car is worth it for the savings and improved wellbeing.

It is a big adjustment, though, so it’s not a decision to be made lightly. There’s also no reason why you can’t purchase an e-bike, try it out for a few months while you still own a car, then ditch four wheels in favour of two permanently.Ìý 

The post Can an electric bike replace your car? appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• How we choose what we test
• How we test e-bikes
• Test criteria explained

There are a wide variety of models and types to consider, from commuter bikes and folding bikes through to off-road mountain bikes that can go virtually anywhere. Our testers not only put a range of e-bikes through testing for ease of use, charging the battery and portability when storing the bike, they also take the e-bikes out on the road to see how they perform under different bike riding scenarios.

How we choose what we test

Why do we choose one e-bike over another? There are a number of reasons, but our priority is to test what the average consumer (or ÌÇÐÄVlog member) is most likely to consider for commuting, exercise or recreation. That means sometimes we might not cover the one brand that has one model that’s only sold 100 samples in Australia, and instead focus on the big brand models that you’re most likely to see in shops.

How do we know what’s in shops? We ask manufacturers and check current market figures to see what’s selling well. We’ll also include models that you’ve requested – if a lot of members want it, we’re going to test it.

When we know what you want, our buyers go out and purchase e-bikes from a variety of retailers if possible, then bring them in as-is. This means we get what you’d get, so we can be sure the results are what you’ll find (and the e-bikes haven’t been ‘tweaked’ in any way for better performance).

How we test e-bikes

Pedal assistance: How well does the motor assist with speed when pedalling? The testers consider aspects such as how suddenly the motor kicks in when moving the pedal (providing a smooth transition or a sudden burst).Ìý

They also look at how natural the motor assistance is when moving through the gears. Our testers will also note if an e-bike provides assistance over 25km/h, which is currently the legal limit in most of Australia.

Braking: How quickly does the e-bike respond to the cyclist’s braking action?

Turning and low speed performance: The testers assess how well the bike performs when riding uphill and slow riding where accuracy in turning and handlebar response is important.

Ride comfort: Our testers assess the comfort of the bike when riding over rough terrain such as off road and bumps.

Handling: The testers look at ease of mounting, dismounting, off-bike handling (walking the bike), safety and comfort.

Controls: All the menu controls are looked at for intuitiveness and ease of access.

Battery use (on-bike): The testers consider ease of charging aspects when the battery is left on the bike, including how easy it is to see the charging level and also ease of access for the charging cable.

Battery use (off-bike): This is an assessment of the battery when taken off the bike, for use when the bike may not be stored near a power point.

Display: Our testers look at the quality of the screen and menu items.

Test criteria explained

The ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating, our overall score that determines which products we recommend, is a combination of the comfort, ease of use and accuracy scores. Weightings are in brackets.

• Pedal assistance score (15%)
• Braking score (15%)
• Turning and low speed score (10%)
• Ride comfort score (10%)
• Handling score (10%)
• Controls score (10%)
• Battery use (on-bike) score (10%)
• Battery use (off-bike) score (10%)*
• Display score (10%)

* Some models (like the Orbea Vibe H30) have a non-removable battery, so do not receive a score for the battery use (off-bike) test. This does not affect the product’s ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating as the user will generally know about this before buying.

The post How we test electric bikes appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• Should you buy an electric bike?
• What to look for in an electric bike
• Electric bikes: The pros
• Electric bikes: The cons

Sick of soul-sucking car commutes? Sore from struggling up hills on your treadly? Dreaming of being a cyclist but not sure you’re up to the challenge?

Electric bikes can make cycling faster, easier and more accessible – and could help your body, your wallet and your carbon footprint.

But they don’t come cheap: you’re looking at thousands of dollars for a good one. So are these bikes worth the bucks?

Full disclosure: I own an electric bike and love it – it’s changed my life for the better. So while I am biased, I’ve also experienced the positives and negatives first-hand.

I’ll share some of my perspectives plus expert advice from our testers to explain the drawcards, drawbacks and things to consider about electric bikes to help you decide whether an e-bike is the right choice for you.

Should you buy an electric bike?

So are electric bikes worth it? Our experts say yes, depending on your situation.Ìý

“I think they are, especially if you’re doing a lot of riding in areas that have a lot of hills. The pedal assist really does come in handy,” says ÌÇÐÄVlog test expert Elias Plastiras.

“Personally, I definitely think they’re worth buying,” says Petr Valouch, another test expert who happens to be an electric bike owner.Ìý

“Since I bought my bike six years ago I haven’t looked back. It gives you the freedom to still use it for exercise and it gives you the extra boost when you need it on hills and against the wind.”

“Owning and using an e-bike can become habit forming,” says ÌÇÐÄVlog expert Denis Gallagher.Ìý

“For all those short treks where you’d automatically jump in your car, you’ll quickly start reaching for the helmet rather than the car keys. It’s simply a lot more enjoyable and more of a treat than a chore to get from A to B.”

However, electric bikes are expensive and they’re not suitable for all riders or all situations, so your best bet is to do lots of research and take a test ride or hire one before you commit.Ìý

What to look for in an electric bike

Our test experts put 21 electric bikes through their paces – literally – to see how they performed. Here’s what Elias recommends you do before buying an electric bike:

“Go to the shop; check them out. Get on the bike and ride it – do a test ride,” he says. “You’ve really got to test the bike out so you know what you’re getting when you actually buy it.”

Petr says it’s also a good idea to see how easy the battery is to use: remove it, charge it and put it back onto the bike. And the features to look for?

“The main things are the comfort of the ride, the pedal assist, the safety features and the practicality,” says Petr.

You’ll need to decide whether to go with a mid-drive or hub drive bike – basically, where the motor is located. There are pros and cons to each, which we explain in our guide to buying the best electric bike.

A throttle can be helpful to get you going faster from a standing start, especially up a hill, but they do drain the battery faster. Bikes with a higher-watt motor will also help you get going faster.

Elias says hydraulic disc brakes are the way to go as they’re very effective, especially when going downhill at speed. Safety features like lights, reflectors and a bell are non-negotiables, obviously.

“And of course the assist level: can you go from a high assist to a low assist quickly?” he says.

Electric bikes: The pros

Fresh air, exercise, a cheaper commute and more: here’s what you’ll love about electric bikes.

Easier riding

Whether you’re already a cyclist or you want to become one but can’t bear the thought of slogging it up hills, you’ll love the ease of riding an electric bike.Ìý

They’re not like a motorbike – you’ll still need to pedal – but the motor essentially boosts your pedal power as you ride, making things faster and easier. Compared to a regular bike, you’ll get far more out of your pedalling, which really helps on hills.

Because they’re less physically demanding than non-electric bikes, they make cycling more accessible for people who wouldn’t usually consider riding: people with physical limitations, commuters whose trip is just a bit too far or too hilly to cycle on a regular bike, and anyone who doesn’t want to arrive at their destination a sweaty mess.

The pedal assist will help you ride faster – up to around 25km/h – and accelerate faster from a standstill than a regular bike, helping you keep up with the traffic. Slow cyclists aren’t very popular during peak hour! 

Most of the e-bikes you buy can go faster than 25km/h and there are bikes available with a motor power rating well above 500 watts. However, current state and national regulations stipulate that an e-bike can’t be ridden on public roads or paths if the pedal assistance provided by the motor is faster than 25km/h.Ìý

This may change in future as Australia has some of the most conservative legislation in the world in this regard, but at the moment there seems to be no movement by the state or national government to lift the current speed assist and power restrictions.

Having an easier ride means you’re more likely to stick with it, too, whereas if you buy a regular bike and find it difficult to ride, you might just abandon the idea altogether.Ìý

The environmental benefits

This is one of the main drawcards of an electric bike. Each time you ride instead of drive, you’re reducing your carbon footprint.Ìý

into the atmosphere each year, but even if you’re only using it for a couple of trips a week that will still make a big difference.

Fewer cars on the road means faster commuting time for drivers, so there’s a flow-on effect too.

Yes, e-bikes do need electricity to charge, but even if your power comes from a coal-fired plant, it’s still producing far fewer emissions than a fossil fuel-powered car. And if you have solar or buy greener energy, you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint even further.Ìý

Making sure you get a good quality e-bike with good components will mean they last longer as well, and a longer lifespan for any product means a better outcome for your bank account in the long run.

No more sitting in traffic

Commuting by car is exhausting, frustrating and feels like a waste of your time. But with an electric bike, you can skip the traffic by either riding around it at red lights or taking the cycleways.Ìý

You’ll also never have to worry about finding parking – a huge win in built-up areas.

For a quick trip to the shops or to meet a friend for coffee, jumping on your e-bike can be much less hassle, and you’ll arrive with a smile on your face and a spring in your step.

It’s a sweet feeling sailing past cars banked up at red lights or riding straight into the heart of a busy location while other people spend 20 minutes finding a park! 

You might be surprised by how quickly you can get around, too. My 7km commute from home to the office takes 20 minutes by car, but on my electric bike, it’s just 18 minutes. The trip home is also around 20 minutes by bike but by car it’s at least 25 in peak hour, or more if there’s a crash or road closure.

They’re not huge time savings, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that riding is actually faster than driving for some trips. Obviously it’s different for every rider and every location, but it still makes for a far quicker and easier ride than a regular bike.

The health benefits

Getting around by bike is fantastic incidental exercise – you’ll get to where you’re going, but you’ll also get a gentle workout on the way.Ìý

They’re a great place to start for people who aren’t fit or who have limited mobility due to joint pain or other issues. Even if you’re riding slowly with the power turned all the way up, you’re still moving your body and building up strength.Ìý

If you’d like a bit more of a challenge you can dial down the pedal assist. I set my bike at about half power so I’m still working hard but the hills aren’t a killer (it’s quite hilly near ÌÇÐÄVlog HQ!).Ìý

Electric bikes are heavier than regular bikes, so depending on how you like to ride, you may even be getting as much of a workout as you would on a non-electric bike.Ìý

My bike weighs a hefty 35kg, so I figure that even with the pedal assist I’m still working about as hard as I would on a lighter non-electric bike – and with my child or a load of groceries on board, probably even harder.Ìý

(However, only two of the bikes in our test are over 30kg, ranging in weight from a diminutive 16kg all the way up to 36kg.)

It’s also a great mental health boost: you’re out in the fresh air and sunshine, getting those lovely endorphins flowing, and feeling good about reducing your carbon footprint. Plus, you’re skipping the stress and boredom of commuting by car which would normally be a drain on your time, energy and happiness.Ìý

The financial benefits

Even with the upfront cost, electric bikes come out well ahead of cars in terms of the toll they take on your bank account.Ìý

Think about how much you pay to run your car: there’s the petrol, rego, insurance, servicing, tyres, tolls and car repayments if you have a loan. Depending on the type of car you drive and the distances you travel, that can really add up. All for something that sits idle most of the time!

When I bought my electric bike, I sold my car, which was a huge life adjustment but also a huge adjustment to my budget. With the savings I was making, I could easily justify the cost of the occasional Uber or taxi, and hiring a car or van as needed.Ìý

Even if you were to buy an electric bike in addition to your car, every time you ride instead of drive you’re saving money – and reducing the wear and tear on your car.

If you’re not sure about dropping thousands of dollars in one go, some companies rent bikes, which is a good way to try out e-biking to see if it suits your life before you commit.Ìý

Most bike shops will also let you trial a bike before you buy. I was able to do a two-week trial before buying my bike – long enough to figure out whether it was something I could sustain, and to decide what add-ons I’d need.

Electric bikes: The cons

E-biking isn’t all rainbows and sunshine. Besides helmet hair, there are some very real drawbacks to electric bikes that you’ll need to consider.Ìý

The cost

Buying an electric bike isn’t a cheap proposition: the ones we’ve tested ranged in price from $1325 to $5299, but there are more expensive bikes on the market, especially if you’re looking at a long-tail cargo bike or a box bike to cart the kids, dogs or groceries (or all three!) around.Ìý

Depending on how you plan to use your bike, there’s also the cost of accessories and potential modifications, plus safety gear like a helmet, good-quality lock, gloves and highly visible riding gear. And don’t forget to account for higher servicing and maintenance costs than for a standard bike.

It’s also a good idea to take out specialist bicycle insurance to cover you for third-party liability and theft. Some insurers also offer cover for injury and loss of income.Ìý

Safety

Ride safety

There’s no denying that you’re more vulnerable on a bike than in a car, even if you’re sticking to cycleways and footpaths. Stacking it on concrete can be painful at best and bone-breaking at worst, even on a non-electric bike.

And the faster you ride, the harder you fall, so an e-bike’s quicker pace can mean more serious injuries.

Riding on the road is riskier again. You’re not only relying on your riding ability and situational awareness, you’re also depending on car drivers to actually check their blind spots or see you coming. (You’d be surprised how many drivers fail to spot my gigantic bike.)

Being hit by a car can end your bike-riding days – or your life. The human body doesn’t stand much of a chance against a huge metal object travelling at speed. Even a car travelling at low speed can do significant damage that could affect you for the rest of your life.

Regardless of where you ride, the risk of injury is real and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Unlike in some European countries, where cycling is more common, Australian drivers often aren’t used to bikes being on the road, so aren’t familiar with how to drive safely around bikes.Ìý

Road rage

Then there’s the very real and unpleasant fact of copping abuse from drivers who don’t think bikes should be allowed on the road.

It’s not only frustrating, but can be quite scary when you’re the target of an aggressive driver – especially if you have a child on board.

Battery safety

The heart of an electric bike is the lithium-ion battery, but they do come with risks. If you use or charge them the wrong way, they can overheat, catch fire or even explode.

When charging your battery, use the original charging cords and plugs that came with the bike, unplug it as soon as it’s fully charged, and be careful about where you charge it: keep it away from flammable materials.

Limited range

While a non-electric bike is only limited by how long your legs can keep turning, the benefits of an e-bike will only last as far as the battery lasts. After that, you’ll be pedalling a bike that’s much heavier than a normal bike.Ìý

The distance your bike will cover depends on a number of factors including the size of the battery, how you ride and the power level you use, but it could be anywhere between 30 and 100km.Ìý

Most manufacturers will only give a ballpark figure because the range is affected by so many variables but, regardless, it’s important to take into account. For some bikes, you can opt for a bigger battery if you need a longer range.Ìý

Our testing has found that companies generally underestimate on the claim to ensure that you don’t get any nasty surprises when you head out on your first long ride.

Like with any battery, e-bike batteries will decline over time so you may find that the range decreases the longer you have it. You can expect the batteries to last for about 500 full charges and replacements cost between $350 and $1000.Ìý

Theft

Electric bikes are gaining popularity not only with commuters, but also with bike thieves due to their value.Ìý

It’s worth investing in a good-quality lock if you want your bike to stay where you put it. You’ll need something that’s hard to remove even with a portable angle grinder, which is a favoured tool among bike thieves.Ìý

A U-lock style is a good option, as is a built-in wheel lock, which immobilises the back wheel, making it impossible to wheel away if a thief does manage to get through your other lock.Ìý

One lock is good, but two is better – anything you can do to make it harder for bike thieves is well worth the money. None of them are foolproof, but locks are designed to slow down would-be thieves and the more locks, the less likely they are to select your bike to steal.

The weight

Even small e-bikes are far heavier than their non-electric counterparts, by virtue of their design.Ìý

They can be tricky to manoeuvre if you need to lift your bike (for example to carry it up stairs or mount it on a roof rack), or hard to push along when you dismount – or if the electric battery runs out unexpectedly.Ìý

If you’re buying a bike rack for your car, take the extra weight into account.

Specialised maintenance

Electric bikes may cost less to run than cars, but you’ll still need to pay for maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Not every bike mechanic has the know-how to service an e-bike, so finding an electric bike mechanic is vital.

That specialised service will cost you more than a regular bike service, and replacement parts for e-bike specific components will be more expensive too.

Repairs that are straightforward on a regular bike can be far more complicated on an electric bike. Changing a flat tyre, for instance, can be quite the process if your bike has a rear hub motor. And the bike’s electrics mean there are more things that can go wrong than with a regular bike.Ìý

You should also regularly give your bike a basic service at home. Read how to maintain your electric bike.Ìý

The weather

No matter how committed a rider you are, you’re very much at the mercy of the elements on a bike. Heat, cold, rain and strong winds can make cycling unpleasant and sometimes even dangerous.Ìý

With the right gear, riding in the cold or wet is doable in all but the most extreme weather, but even in light rain the road can become slippery and if you live somewhere especially chilly you might have to deal with icy roads.Ìý

If you’ve decided to go car-free, you’ll need to have a backup plan for days that you can’t ride. I use a carshare service and there are plenty of public transport options in my area, but depending on where you live, a rainy day could quash your plans to ride.

The post Should you buy an electric bike? appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

There I was, on the aforementioned bike, at a pedestrian crossing in Sydney’s North Strathfield. The man was friendly at first, jovial almost. He asked about my bike – which I was testing for ÌÇÐÄVlog – how much it cost, how it was to ride, et cetera.

Then, without a millisecond’s warning, his face crumpled into a deep, molten rage. A rapid, mind-boggling tonal shift .Ìý

“DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE FOR THAT THING?” He screamed. “YOU PEOPLE ARE GONNA KILL SOMEONE. THREE TIMES I’VE NEARLY BEEN HIT.”

I was bewildered, shocked, confused.Ìý

I made the mistake of responding, telling him to mind his own business. And that’s when it happened. That’s when I was almost assaulted by a man with a shopping trolley.Ìý 

“YOU’LL BE WEARING THIS SHOPPING TROLLEY IN A SECOND!”

Thankfully, the little green man appeared, to the rescue. I zipped off as fast as I could, leaving a fist-shaking foe in my rearview mirror.Ìý

Turns out some people really, really hate electric bikes.

Not me though, I love them.

Electric boogaloo

For the past couple of months ÌÇÐÄVlog has been reviewing electric bikes. If you’re not sure what an electric bike is, you’re not alone. Until last week, I considered them akin to mini motorcycles, but no. Electric bikes are more like normal bikes that – thanks to the magic of battery-powered assistance – are easier to pedal, particularly uphill. In practice it feels a little like putting your mountain bike in a higher gear, but without sacrificing speed.

I wanted to give one a try. So, for the last couple of weeks I’ve been integrating an electric bike into my everyday life. It’s been a joy. It’s been rewarding, surprising even. It’s allowed me to explore crevices of Sydney I never knew existed. If you have the means and the time, I highly recommend getting one.

I wanted to try an electric bike because I’m sick of driving cars.Ìý

A recent job switch forced me into the unenviable situation of driving to the city and, to be frank, it sucks. Tolls, traffic and soaring petrol prices are hitting my wallet and stress levels for six.Ìý

And it made me wonder: what if I just… cycled to work every day?

I live in a nice leafy suburb in Greater Western Sydney, 26km from the CBD. Depending on traffic, it can take anywhere between 35 and 45 minutes to get to our office in Sydney’s Inner West. For laughs I’d already checked how long it would take to cycle, despite not owning an adult-sized bike. Two hours. Damn. That’s a long time. But then I thought, two hours? I can handle that. Bugger it. Why not?

Magical mystery ride

I hauled my lazy self out of bed at 6.30am, hopped on the bike, and began my journey.

The main reason I was keen for a two-hour cycle at an ungodly time in the morning was the route. I knew it would be glorious.

Google Maps had me cycling down Windsor Road to the Parramatta River, then free wheeling all the way to Rhodes. After a brief tour through North Strathfield it would be parks and riverside jaunts all the way to the ÌÇÐÄVlog office.Ìý

I thought it would be magical, and I was right.

Parramatta River is a gloriously wide body of sparkling water, broad and deep enough to be a ferry route, that carries tourists and commuters all the way from Parra to Circular Quay, where Sydney Harbour meets the CBD. Despite being a damp Tuesday morning, cycling on the riverside – with incredible views that stretched into the vanishing point – was a complete dream worth waking up for. I’d replaced a nerve-shredding drive into the M4 motorway hellscape for a life-affirming cycle in paradise. Friends, I was living.

But it was far from perfect. It’s mind-boggling to me that electric bikes don’t have a slot for mobile phones. Perhaps it’s a legal or regulation issue, but when I wasn’t sure where to go, I had to fumble in my pocket for my phone, clumsily unlock it and somehow navigate to Google Maps without crashing. It sure would have been convenient – and probably safer – to have easy access to Google Maps while cycling.

It also took me a while to figure out exactly how to maximise assisted pedalling. At first I assumed the assistance would be constant, but it wasn’t. The bike I was using assisted me to a point, until around 25 km/h, then I noticed that the bike didn’t just stop assisting me, but seemed to actively create resistance which forced me to slow down. A little frustrating, but fine. I kept things at a steady 20–25 km/h and enjoyed the ride.

Butt pain and apex predators

My butt cheeks didn’t enjoy the ride.Ìý

They are in turmoil. They have been permanently altered and I’m uncertain they’ll ever recover.Ìý

Without those Lycra shorts with the comfy little butt cushions, I endured a decent amount of pain. Understandable. I spent four hours on the bike that day. It got so bad I had to get really super creative, placing different parts of my meaty cheeks on the seat during the cycle home. I was still feeling it days later.

I also came under attack from Australia’s apex predator – the magpie. As someone who arrived in Australia late in life, I thought the stories of magpies swooping in from the skies to attack cyclists were just children’s tales. I couldn’t have been more wrong. I was terrified, shaken to my core, to discover magpie attacks are a very real thing. In the magpie, I’ve uncovered an enemy for life.

My legs hurt a lot less than I thought they would. Having never really cycled since I was a teenager, I thought it’d take me days to recover from four hours on a bike. That wasn’t really the case. Assisted pedalling really took the bite out of hills. The journey felt like exercise, but light exercise. The best type of exercise.Ìý

It was a beautiful start to the working day. My legs were a teensy bit wobbly, but nothing I couldn’t handle. High on endorphins, I had a great day, and looked forward to the cycle home.

Game changer, for shorter trips

But as enjoyable as my cycle to work was, it didn’t feel sustainable. As a parent of two kids drowning in “activities”, devoting four waking hours to work travel would be impossible, regardless of how fun it was.

But I’ve found a sweet spot. Those little trips to the shop – those “too far to walk” trips – are perfect for an electric bike. I suspect an electric bike would also be perfect for folks who live closer to the city. If it’s a choice between a 15-minute train and a 30-minute cycle, I’m taking the bike every time.

Despite apex predators swooping from the skies and permanently altered butt cheeks, I find it impossible not to recommend an electric bike. If you’ve got the means and your life circumstances align, they can be a game changer.

Just watch out for enemies of the e-bike armed with shopping trolleys.Ìý

The post I tried an electric bike for a month and fell in love appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• Assembling the ebike
• Foldable aspect
• Using the ebike
• What's it like to ride?
• How long does the battery last?

There aren’t too many electric bikes available for under $1000, so when we saw one at Aldi it was cause for both alarm and excitement. Could Aldi have cracked the code? A foldable electric bicycle that’s more accessible to those with a lower budget?

As seems to be the case with most big-ticket items sold cheaper by major retailers, for all the pros there are certainly cons.

The bike’s smaller 270Wh battery means the charge will last for a shorter period of time before requiring recharging – depending on the riding environment – and this will deplete the lithium-ion technology quicker as a result.

Aldi also isn’t known for keeping a stock of replacement parts, which makes us think this will be a short-lived disposable electric bike, so it isn’t the most sustainable choice. And forget the bike if you’re over 100kg as this is the specified maximum weight limit.

Assembling the ebike

Aldi’s folding electric bike comes in one big box that’s quite heavy, so make sure you’ve got two people to carry it home. When you open it, it seems quite complex but actually just folds out into a small number of pieces – the main (already folded) bike, the handlebars, and the seat. It also comes with the all-important Allen key and a wrench for attaching the pedals.

The box and instructions basically tell you that you need a skilled bicycle mechanic to put the bike together, or a “competent person”. We assume this “competent person” is a definition known only to Aldi, as it’s not in the instruction manual. However, given our tester’s experience with servicing bicycles and putting them together, we figured we met the definition.Ìý

If you aren’t across servicing or assembling a bicycle and the tools involved, budget an extra $120–150 for a bike service person to put it together.

Taking off all the packaging that protects the bicycle pieces is laborious, so set aside a chunk of time to do this. Each step is complicated by the labelling on the bike itself being black on black, which makes it a little awkward to read.

Unfortunately there’s a step missing in the manual which is quite annoying, as it took us a few minutes to figure out how to split the handlebars so we could tighten the mechanism to keep the handlebars from coming out of their aligned position. Aside from that, attaching the seat post, handlebars and pedals was relatively painless.

As the bike is delivered with partial charging, it only took three hours for it to get up to maximum. Around 80% is the recommended charge, but with no percentages on the readouts, how are you supposed to determine that?

Foldable aspect

Fully charged and ready to go, we thought we should see how it folds, which took three quick releases and some awkward handling due to the weight of the bike (which is about 24kg). The instructions seem to be missing a crucial step here as well – a small button needs to be pushed in to release both the handlebar stem and the main fold.

This won’t be an issue if you’ve put the bike together yourself as you would’ve experienced that frustration already, but if you’ve had a professional put it together, it might take a little while to puzzle it out.

You’ll need to practise this a few times to get used to the awkwardness in case you’re rushing to get on a train or head off to work. It’s not exactly a neat folded position, but it stays upright so it’s handy if you’re travelling by train and need to put it somewhere. It’s very awkwardly portable, but given the price range this isn’t unexpected.

Using the ebike

So you’ve got your ebike assembled and you’re ready to go, but if you’re used to any other electric bike, you’re likely to notice some missing features. For example, the ebike claims it’ll reach 20–25km/hr, but there’s no way to know as there’s no speedometer on the bike, which is a common feature on many other electric bikes.

The battery indicator is pretty basic, with three LEDs on the right handlebar to indicate how empty it is as you ride. Normally a more expensive ebike would give you more gradations to assess how close to empty you are. There’s an indicator on the battery itself which is marginally better, but still not as precise as we might like.

The bike doesn’t come with any personal safety gear, so you’ll need your own bike helmet (conveniently – and opportunistically – Aldi was selling them at the same time) and any other safety gear like bright or reflective clothing so you stand out in traffic. It does come with front and rear lights that are easily activated with a button on the left handlebar, just below the button for a horn sound that is very good at attracting attention.

Adjust both the seat height and handlebar height dependent on your height – again, a professional installer should do this for you.

You’ll also need to grab (or buy) a pump, as the tyres are very low to begin with. If you’ve had it put together by a professional, they should do this for you, but you’ll need one anyway for future top-ups or tyre repairs.

What’s it like to ride?

Riding Aldi’s folding electric bike is OK. There isn’t a lot of shock absorption, so be prepared to be a little achy from rides unless you live in an area with absolutely level roads. The pedal assist is reasonably smooth and equivalent to other electric bikes.

Foldable bikes tend to have small wheels, so if you’re used to a regular sized bike it might take some getting used to as you reduce your revolutions per minute. It’s a single speed bike, which means less complexity, but more reliance on the electric pedal assist which works seamlessly.

Speaking of pedal assist, if this is your first time on an electric bike, you’re going to want to take a look at riding it in a non-trafficked area to get up to speed on how electric bikes work – our electric bikes buying guide can help.

The throttle, which makes the electric bike go without pedal assist, is great for helping you push a rather heavy bike reasonably easily, but the instruction manual specifies you shouldn’t use the throttle while on the bike – a little bit like showing chocolate to a toddler then telling them not to eat it.

The good thing about throttle is that if you start off on a hill it allows you to get up to speed so you can use the pedal assist, but throttle can be a little surprising because of the mild jump it has when you activate it (by twisting the handlebar), so we can understand why Aldi have put this exclusion in the manual.

How long does the battery last?

We put the electric bike through its paces (using a lot of hills) and managed to get to around 30km before the battery pack was in the red, at which point it’s advisable to recharge (Aldi recommends maintaining the charge between 20–80%).Ìý

This isn’t a great range but would be suitable for someone just doing local trips. The power and range is reflected in its specifications, at 7.8Ah and 36V, or 270Wh. This means it has a little difficulty getting up steep hills, which plays out practically, and the range is shorter than many other electric bikes on the market.

On level ground and a full battery you might get substantially more kilometres out of this bicycle than we found. But everybody’s road will be different, which is why manufacturers and retailers are reluctant to put max travel distances on bikes (or why they include them with a good deal of caveats).

ÌÇÐÄVlog tip: Like many chargers recommend, don’t leave the ebike to charge unattended or overnight with no one to monitor it.Ìý

Ultimately for a cheap electric folding bicycle, it’s a nice looking bike, even if it’s a bit annoying to put together (it’s worth saving yourself the trouble and getting it done professionally if you’ve never assembled a bicycle before). It doesn’t sit neatly folded like a Brompton, but it also doesn’t cost several thousand dollars and has an electric motor.

The post Is the Aldi folding electric bike worth it? appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

Service and maintenance are essential to keeping your e-bike running smoothly and preventing breakdowns, accidents and costly repairs.Ìý

And it’s not just a matter of keeping the frame, chain, tyres and brakes in good working order, as you would with a regular bike – you’ll also need to make sure you’re taking care of the electrical components, including the motor, display, battery and cables.Ìý

So here’s how to keep your e-bike running smoothly.

Doing a basic home service 

If you ride your bike frequently, you should give it a simple home service roughly every month, working through the general maintenance list below.Ìý

Frame

To clean your e-bike frame:

1. Remove the battery and display (if you can) and cover the battery holder, motor and any electrical connections with a tarp or towel to keep them dry.Ìý

2. Gently rinse down the frame, taking care to avoid the battery, motor and controls. Never use a high-pressure hose as this could damage the electrical components.

3. Use a cloth to scrub down the frame with some bike wash (or car wash detergent). Pay special attention to the brake pads, as dirt build-up can make them less effective, as well as sweaty areas such as the handlebars and the seat.Ìý 

4. Rinse with plain water and then dry the entire frame, using a dry cloth to prevent rust.Ìý

5. Wait a few hours to make sure the battery holder is completely dry before reattaching the display and battery.

Drive train (chain and gears)

Clean

Apply a bicycle degreaser or chain-cleaning product to the chains and gears, making sure you reach all the nooks and crannies.Ìý Use a thin brush or a metal implement to remove any excess mud stuck in the gears, derailleurs or cassette.

Lubricate

Once the degreaser has fully dried, apply a bike lubricant to the chain and run the chain through all the gears. Turn your pedals backwards (or if the chain doesn’t move backwards, turn the pedals forwards by mounting the bike or placing it on its stand so the wheel comes off the ground) and apply your lubricant where the chain runs freely, avoiding contact with the brake discs, calipers or brake pad. Remove excess lubricant from the chain with a rag or cloth.

Nuts and bolts

The nuts and bolts holding your bike together will loosen over time and need to be tightened. Check your pedals, cranks, axels, steering column and handlebars, and tighten any loose nuts or bolts with an allen key or spanner.

Tyres   

Keeping your tyres pumped up prevents punctures and helps you get more range out of your battery (underinflated tyres can reduce the lifespan of your battery by as much as 40%).Ìý

Give your tyres a quick check before every ride. If they feel too soft, use a pump with a pressure gauge to get them back in the range recommended by the manufacturer, which should be embossed on the side wall of the tyre.Ìý

Brakes

Clear any dirt or debris from your brake pads and always test your brakes before setting off for a ride.

Cables

There’s not much you can do to maintain your electrical cables except keep an eye on them (if they’re not enclosed). If you do spot a damaged cable, take it in for a professional repair.Ìý

Motor

Never meddle with your motor – not only can this be dangerous, but it can also void your warranty. If your motor is playing up, try removing the battery and putting it back in again, as this should “reset” the motor. If this doesn’t work, you’ll need to take it to a professional.Ìý

Tips to make your e-bike battery last longer

Your battery is the most valuable component of your e-bike, so it’s worth getting into some good habits to extend its lifespan:

Charge the battery after every ride 

Don’t wait until the battery gets very low or empty.

Keep the battery dry and out of direct sunlight

The battery will charge and perform best at a temperature of 10-20℃.

Use the lowest assistance level you need when cycling

When you’re riding on the flat or downhill, turn down the assistance to prevent draining your battery.

Remove the battery for long-term storage

If you aren’t going to be using it for a while, store the battery in a cool dry place with a charge of 30-60%.Top up the charge every month or so to stop it going flat.Ìý

Keep your bike well-maintained

Underinflated tyres or rubbing brakes can drain the battery faster.

Never take apart the battery yourself

This could cause electric shock – and will void your warranty.

How often should you have your e-bike serviced?

Melbourne Electric Bicycles and Perth Electric Bike Centre co-owner Nathan Reizer says that doing some simple general maintenance should keep your e-bike running smoothly – but that you’ll also need to have it professionally serviced from time to time, depending on how much you use it.Ìý

“Just like your car mechanic, we usually program your e-bike system to remind you that a service is due every 12 months or 2000km – whichever comes first,” he says.

A service will involve a thorough examination for any mechanical issues and a general tune-up of the mechanics. The mechanic will also plug in a diagnostic tool that will pick up any electrical problems and install any available software updates.

What’s included in a standard e-bike service?

A  service at one of Reizer’s shops is fairly typical of what a standard e-bike service includes:

• Tighten all axle nuts, including quick-release hubs.
• Tighten all nuts and bolts, including cranks, pedals, handlebars, brake levers, gear levers, stem bolts, headset, kickstand, rear rack and any others, as required.
• Check the frame for any stress fractures or cracks.
• Check the wheels are true.
• Adjust the brakes and gears.
• Check the chain and cassette for wear.
• Inflate tyres to their correct pressure.
• Check the lights.
• Degrease the chain and lubricate it.
• Wipe the bike down.
• Check that all electrics are working and update the software.

How much does an e-bike service cost?

Prices for a standard service can range from about $100 to $300, depending on what’s included.

Repairs

Here are some of the common repairs your e-bike may need during its lifespan:

Mechanical repairs

An e-bike has the same mechanics as a regular bike, so the most common mechanical repairs will be similar. Reizer says the frequency with which your bike will need repairs depends on the quality of the bike, how often you ride it, and what types of ride you go on.

“Frequent use, hill riding and a heavy rider can all put extra strain on the mechanics,” he says.Ìý

He adds that the most common mechanical repairs for an e-bike are:

Brake-pad replacement

Parts cost: $50-60, depending on the type of brakes. Labour cost: $50.Ìý

Chain replacement

Parts cost: $20-30 for single-speed (internal gears) and $30-$80 for external gears. Labour cost: $20-25.

Cassette replacement

Parts cost: Range from $35-140, depending on the model. Labour cost: $30.

Gear-cable replacement

Parts cost: $12-15. Labour cost $20.

Tyres

Parts cost: $15 for a tube replacement (if the tyre is punctured). $45-90 for a replacement tyre (if it’s worn out). Labour cost $25-30.

Electrical repairs

The electrics on your e-bike are some of their most expensive components. But, according to Reizer, issues with the motor are rare on good-quality models and other electrical issues can often be fixed easily.

“These bikes are well-designed so that when something goes wrong, we can easily diagnose it, isolate the faulty component and replace it, which is actually the most cost-effective solution,” he says.

Reizer says the most common electric issues/repairs for an e-bike are:

Battery replacement

Common cause: Leaving your bike in storage without recharging the battery frequently enough.

Cost: $950-1,500. No labour cost.

Remote/display replacement

Common cause: Dropping your bike.

Cost: Depends on the brand. For a Bosch remote $75-100. For a Bosch display $195-500. Labour cost $30-50.

Connection issues 

(e.g. An electric component is not connecting, preventing the bike from turning on.)

Common cause 1: Moisture or corrosion between the terminals.

Cost: $60–120 to diagnose and isolate the issue and have the terminals cleaned (battery, display and motor).

Common cause 2: Battery inside the display loses its capacity and turns itself off.

Cost: $60–120 to diagnose and isolate the issue, and the fix is free: just plug your display into a micro-USB charger overnight.

Magnet detached or incorrectly aimed at the sensor on the bike frame

(E-bikes usually have a magnet on the back spokes, which needs to be in place for the bike to work.)

Cost: Free to reposition the magnet. $20 to replace the magnet.

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