E-bike boom – the quiet revolution
Sales of electric bikes have soared over the past 12 months, rekindling a love of riding for many and bringing the wide-ranging benefits of cycling back to the masses.
Here we take a closer look at why e-bikes are attracting so many new fans and what to consider if you’re thinking about investing in one.
The cycling sector has been growing for some time now but the Covid-19 pandemic has put e-bikes very much in the spotlight, not only as a practical, convenient and cost-efficient mode of transport but also as a fun and exhilarating way to get outside and enjoy the countryside. For many, an electric bike provides a realistic alternative to public transport, offering an easy way to stay socially distanced without the expense of buying and maintaining a car. For others, it offers an accessible and exciting new leisure activity.
Cycling is a great way to boost your physical health and electric bikes provide that extra helping hand as and when you need it, meaning you don’t have to be fit already to enjoy the benefits. Whether it’s flattening that steep hill or riding further than you might manage on a traditional bicycle, you can let the electric motor take the strain either all the time or just when you fancy a breather.
The mental health benefits of getting outside and cycling are also widely recognised, reducing stress levels and providing a sense of freedom and achievement. Cycling has boomed during the recent lockdowns, with many of us exploring new routes and valuing the opportunity to spend time outdoors.
Government investment has helped to make e-biking more accessible too, funding improvements to cycling infrastructure across the country and investing in initiatives such as the cycle to work and bike repair schemes. The Green Agenda and a renewed focus on improving the nation’s health mean that cycling is likely to remain a funding priority for the foreseeable future.
Improvements to the look and functionality of e-bikes have played a significant part in their ever-increasing popularity. Many look very similar to traditional bikes these days, with much smaller but more efficient batteries that can last for up to 100 miles from a single charge. Meanwhile, technological advances mean the price of a new e-bike has dropped. Nowadays you can get your hands on a good quality e-bike from around £749, with prices of up to £10,000 for a top spec model.
In short, there’s never been a better time to take up e-cycling! It’s exciting, good for your health and you’ll be doing your bit for the environment by swapping four wheels for two!
If you’re thinking about buying an e-bike, there are numerous things to consider. E-Bikes Direct has been trading for over 15 years and is the UK’s largest independent supplier of electric bikes, so they’re well placed to provide all the advice you need.
Their recommendation is to think first about how you plan to use the bike and the style you’re after – for instance, a classic style step-through, crossbar, folding or mountain bike. Then consider the distance you want to be able to cover on it, as this will influence battery size. The next step is to talk through your requirements with a specialist like E-Bikes Direct, as they have a broad enough knowledge of the market to help you identify models that will suit your needs and budget.
A final word of advice from the pros at E-Bikes Direct is to start looking into your options sooner rather than later to ensure you have the widest choice available. Their sales were up 400% during the first lockdown and are still twice what they were this time last year. Due to this unprecedented demand, some retailers are finding bike supplies running short, and with further demand likely when the sun comes out, you’ll need to get ahead of the crowds if you want to get e-biking soon!
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