All about e-bikes
Are electric bikes easy to ride
E-bikes have recently gained popularity because delivery services need efficient and clean transportation. Still, many delivery riders wonder whether e-bikes are easy to ride or not, especially when compared with conventional bikes we’re used to.
It’s true that electric bikes have some particularities riders might be surprised to learn about.
This, combined with the cost of e-bikes, is one of the main reasons why some people are having second thoughts about getting one for their food delivery career.
Fear not, as Whizz is here to help you. Here is all you need to know about riding an electric bike and how easy it truly is.
What makes an electric bike different from a regular bicycle?
The key components of an electric bicycle include a motor, a battery, and a system that provides pedal assist or independent throttle control.
In a pedal-assist system, there is a function that automatically assists the pedaling of the rider in such a way that he can travel at a decent speed with much less effort.
The throttle, on the other hand, allows the biker to gain speed without pedaling, just like a motorcycle.
Handling is a bit different, with e-bikes much heavier than regular bikes because of the added weight of a motor and a battery.
That makes a difference in balance and maneuverability.
Electric bikes are fairly easy for new riders, especially if you’re familiar with riding traditional bikes. Still, there is a learning curve to be noticed.
While the pedal assist does make the ride less physically demanding, new riders may take some time to get used to the power delivery, which can sometimes come as a big surprise.
Acceleration usually comes on about a tad quicker compared to a normal bicycle, and this takes some getting used to developing a sense of control over the throttle or assist level.
Braking can also be very different since most e-bikes have disc brakes to manage faster speeds and additional weight.
These may be much more sensitive, and the new rider will likely have to adjust to applying them smoothly.
The bike's weight may also take some time to get accustomed to, mainly while stopping or making a hard right or left turn.
Here are a few tips for new riders that can make the transition more comfortable:
Also, avoid riding your e-bike in the rain until you are fully used to controlling it. Everything can seem to be ten times harder in bad weather.
Why riding an e-bike is easier than riding a traditional bike
Many delivery riders consider the e-bike easier to ride than a regular bicycle.
The foremost advantage of such bikes is the pedal-assist feature, which decreases the physical effort needed to peddle it, especially on inclined or long stretches.
It helps the rider maintain a speed without overexerting themselves, which is really helpful for delivery riders who need to be in many places as fast as possible.
The throttle function is the other point that extends the ease of riding an e-bike.
Riders can accelerate smoothly from a standstill or when navigating through traffic by providing a power boost at the push of a button or twist of a handle.
Further, e-bikes are often fitted with modern gearing and braking systems, such as hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes, which provide greater stopping power and control.
These, along with the added momentum that a motor delivers, create a more stable and efficient ride. Consistent speeds, requiring minimal effort, are their guarantee, and this in turn brings a notable advantage in handling delivery routes.
Comfort is another aspect that has to be mentioned. The designs of most e-bikes have focused on offering more comfort. This includes seats and handlebars that are easily adjustable to each person's liking.
This can make even longer rides very comfortable and less of a strain on the human body.
While there are many other advantages to using e-bikes in delivery, there are some riding challenges you need to be aware of.
Dealing with heavy flow and city street congestion is a major issue. Riders would have to be very attentive while on the road since the higher speed of e-bikes, similar to motorbikes, makes it more difficult to maneuver between vehicles safely.
Such spurts of acceleration may necessitate revising the method of handling narrow spaces.
Fortunately, you can ride e-bikes on bike lanes in most states. The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) has a legislative primer with more information about this that you can check out.
Weather conditions are also an issue. E-bikes must be ridden cautiously in rain or snow due to losing traction on wet and icy roads.
The heavier frames of an e-bike affect the manner in which it handles such conditions, and sharp turns or severe braking can result in accidents.
Another problem is the quality of the roads. The delivery riders ride anything from well-maintained smooth asphalt to patchy pavement and pothole-filled streets every day.
The e-bikes are created to handle such variability with ease. However, the additional weight raises the bar for riders to anticipate bumps.
Battery management is one consideration that remains constant throughout a long delivery shift.
Depending on factors like assist level, rider weight, and terrain, a typical e-bike battery can last anywhere from 20 to 70 miles on a single charge.
Delivery riders who take on extensive routes religiously monitor their battery levels and plan for stops to recharge.
Running out of battery mid-shift means having to pedal a heavy, unassisted bike, which is more challenging than using a regular bike.
Fortunately, if you get a proper e-bike for delivery riders, such as Storm-2, you can expect to get better-quality batteries. This will result in a more extensive range.
For example, with Storm-2, you can ride up to 85 miles per single charge! This is more than enough for even the longest of shifts.
So can we say that electric bikes are easy to ride?
Well, it's important to understand this greatly depends on the functionality of an e-bike you buy or rent.
The better the e-bike, the easier and more comfortable it is to ride. This is why it’s a good idea to invest in high-quality products from a reputable company.
Whizz is a company that designs and sells e-bikes with delivery riders in mind.
This means their bikes are perfect for people looking for a transportation method that will help them complete deliveries.
With our e-bikes, you don’t have to worry about your riding experience.
Their sturdy frame and ease of use make them a perfect choice for people who are just starting out their delivery rider careers.
By using the code "WOW," you’ll get a $20 discount on your first subscription month, lowering your initial expenses.
Reduce your worries – ride comfortably with Whizz.
Read also: Replacing your car with an electric bike
