Many friends who frequently ride bicycles or those who plan to ride may have heard about electric bicycles. Electric bicycles, also known as ebikes, are bicycles equipped with an electric motor that assists in pedaling.
So, between electric bicycles and regular bicycles, which one should we choose? To answer this question, we first need to understand the unique features of electric bicycles.
Electric Bike Motor
The electric bike motor is responsible for providing additional power to your pedaling. However, you have full control over the assistance provided by the motor through the available modes that can be switched using the controls. Electric bike motors can be mounted in three different positions: front-mounted, center-mounted (also known as crank-driven), or rear-mounted.
Electric Bike Sensor
There are two types of sensors used in electric bikes: cadence sensors and torque sensors. The sensor plays a crucial role in informing the motor that you are pedaling and need assistance. If your electric bike is equipped with a cadence sensor, it detects the rotation of the pedals and applies a predetermined level of assistance based on your controls. On the other hand, if your bike has a torque sensor, it measures the amount of force applied to the pedals and adjusts the power output accordingly to achieve the desired level of assistance, resulting in a more natural riding experience.
Electric Bike Batteries
Electric bike batteries come in different capacities, which, along with other factors, determine the range of your electric bike on a single charge. The battery is mounted to the frame in some way and is often either removable, which makes it a simple process to charge the battery: unlock it using the provided keys, detach it from your bike, and plug it into a standard mains socket for charging. The charging time varies depending on the battery size and charger, typically taking between 3 and 6 hours. However, most batteries reach around 50% charge within 1.5-2.5 hours.
Electric Bike Controls
Electric bike controls may sometimes be integrated into the display, but typically they consist of small buttons located on the handlebars. These buttons allow you to switch between the available assistance levels on your bike.
Electric Bike Display
The display on your electric bike provides various information, such as battery level, range, speed, trip distance, and the selected assistance mode. The specific information displayed depends on the type of electric bike system you choose, as each system is usually associated with a particular display type.
This following part aims to detail the advantages of electric bicycles through eleven aspects to help readers better understand electric bikes. We believe that after reading this article, you should have your own answer as to whether to choose an electric bike or a regular bike.
1. Ebikes enable efficient long-distance travel
Both electric bikes and traditional bicycles serve the purpose of transportation, allowing you to reach various destinations such as work, the gym, or your friend's house. However, opting for an ebike significantly reduces travel time. Electric bikes offer swift and efficient journeys, ensuring you can reach your desired locations promptly. This convenience encourages frequent usage, as you no longer have to worry about time constraints when embarking on trips with your ebike.
2. Reduce the damage to the body
- Reduced muscle strain
Having additional assistance can alleviate the strain on your muscles and joints, especially during uphill climbs and when accelerating, which typically require more effort. As a result, you will require less recovery time and feel more refreshed for subsequent rides. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who may not have fully developed the necessary cycling muscles and skills.
- Decreased cardiac stress
Riding an electric bike places less stress on your heart compared to riding a regular bicycle. The motor assists in smoothing out the periods of intense exertion, while still allowing for an aerobic workout. This assertion is supported by evidence from a scientific paper conducted in Norway.
- Improved mental well-being
Engaging in any form of cycling or exercise has significant positive effects on mental health. According to British Cycling, cycling offers various mental health benefits, including reduced anxiety and stress, as well as increased happiness. Exercising outdoors tends to enhance these benefits even further compared to indoor gym workouts. Additionally, cycling can contribute to better quality sleep due to its anxiety-reducing effects, combined with the physical activity and exposure to fresh air.
3. Ebikes assist you in keeping up with your companions.
One of the key advantages of electric bikes, according to their users, is their ability to match the speed of faster riders. This enhances the enjoyment of riding in a group, as less physically fit riders no longer feel like they are slowing down more capable riders. Additionally, electric bikes are well-suited for family rides, where individuals may have varying levels of riding abilities.
Furthermore, electric bikes promote social interaction during exercise, allowing riders to engage in conversations with their friends while cycling together.
4. Efficient commuting with Ebikes
Commute via a regular bike may appear appealing initially, but the reality might not align with expectations. Traditional bikes often result in a prolonged commute due to limited speed capabilities. Additionally, they require physical exertion, leading to sweating before reaching your workplace, which is typically undesirable. On the contrary, electric bikes make the journey to work effortless. You can say goodbye to tardiness and arrive on time without excessive physical strain. Riding an ebike to work becomes an enjoyable experience, free of sweat-induced discomfort. Once commuting on an ebike becomes part of your daily routine, you'll wonder why you didn't adopt it earlier.
5. A great assistant to save energy
Electric bikes enable riders to conquer steep hills effortlessly, eliminating the frustration of reaching halfway only to realize that continuing on a regular bike is impossible. With their powerful motors, electric bikes provide an extra boost to easily navigate uphill terrains. They effortlessly carry riders to the desired height, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable riding experience.
6. Handle windy days with ease
Riding against strong winds can be a major challenge for cyclists, putting a damper on their biking adventures. However, electric bikes come to the rescue in such situations. When faced with windy conditions, riders can rely on the assistance of their ebikes to overcome the resistance. This not only makes it easier to pedal through the wind but also enhances safety by reducing the risk of being knocked over by gusts from different directions.
7. Expand your travel radius
Electric bikes open up a world of possibilities for exploration, both within and beyond the confines of one's city or town. While attempting to discover new places on a regular bike may prove arduous and time-consuming, electric bikes provide the opportunity for extended rides. Whether it's traversing vast parks or embarking on long nature trails, ebikes offer the means to effortlessly explore diverse landscapes and enjoy captivating sights along the way.
8. Help you form new social connections
The ebike community is currently experiencing rapid growth and expansion. Similar to other cutting-edge technological products, electric bicycles simplify transportation. Every day, more individuals are embracing electric mountain bikes as an investment.
When you decide to join this community, you will quickly establish new social connections within the ebike community. You will come across fellow ebike riders in your city or town, allowing opportunities for engaging conversations. In no time, you might even find compatible riding partners. Having an ebike will undoubtedly bring you joy, as it opens doors to new friendships, unlike simply sticking with a regular bike for an extended period.
9. Future innovative features and experience
Recent advancements in automation have made controlling and operating ebikes a breeze. Currently, it is possible to attach a smartphone or portable GPS device to the handlebars, enabling navigation assistance and route planning to explore your local area. Anticipate that ebikes will continue to evolve, similar to modern electric vehicles, with the potential for remote upgrade capabilities. This will allow for OTA (Over-The-Air) upgrades, providing access to new scientific and technological features. The ability to experience such rapid enhancements is truly remarkable and sets ebikes apart from traditional bicycles.
10. Multiple modes to suit different needs
Whether you are commuting to work or embarking on an off-road adventure, ebikes offer reliability and durability. There are various ebike styles available, each designed for specific uses and terrains. The most common ebike styles include:
- Cruiser: Perfect for recreational riders who prioritize comfort. Cruisers are designed for flat terrains like paved roads and bike paths. They typically feature wide or fat tires, a suspension system, and high handlebars to ensure an upright riding position.
- Commuter: Ideal for running errands or everyday commuting. Commuter ebikes usually have large, narrow tires, comfortable seats, and an upright design.
- Mountain: Similar to regular mountain bikes, these ebikes are well-suited for off-road trails and steep hills. They often feature fat tires and low handlebars to facilitate navigation on rough terrains.
- Road: Comparable to cruisers, road ebikes are perfect for commuting and recreational rides on paved roads and bike paths. They are equipped with narrow tires and drop handlebars to enable faster riding. Road bikes are typically lightweight, enhancing speed capabilities.
11. Better anti-theft function
Ebikes are generally considered to be more difficult to steal compared to traditional bikes due to several reasons. Firstly, many ebikes are equipped with advanced locking systems that require a key to operate, adding an additional layer of security. This makes it harder for potential thieves to simply ride away on an ebike without having the necessary key. Secondly, ebikes are usually heavier than traditional bikes due to the added weight of the electric motor and battery. This makes it more challenging for thieves to physically move and transport the stolen bike without drawing attention. The combination of these factors makes ebikes a less attractive target for thieves and provides owners with a greater sense of security.
Discover the best Lacros electric bike for you
Lacros ebike is equipped with a 48V 20Ah battery, a powerful 750W motor, and dual suspension. The 750W motor ensures robust acceleration on various terrains. The 48V 20Ah battery provides an extended range of 60-80 miles, making it ideal for long journeys. The dual suspension enhances the overall riding comfort, absorbing bumps and shocks.
The Lacros Cyclone is equipped with 20-inch tires. What sets it apart is its step-thru style, allowing riders to mount and dismount effortlessly, making it well-suited for those seeking comfort and accessibility. This combination makes it an excellent choice for riders looking for an enjoyable riding experience.
If you're looking to conquer rougher terrains, the Lacros Thunder is your ideal choice, which combines the advantages of 26-inch tires. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride on various terrains. It is also an eco-friendly choice for optimizing your riding experience.
Lacros has always been committed to providing top-notch electric bicycles of exceptional quality. By opting for Lacros ebikes, riders can conquer challenging landscapes, venture into picturesque trails, or simply relish the exhilaration of cycling amidst nature's embrace.