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E-bikes are the coolest things to hit the streets since…well, EVs and here’s why.

Electronic vehicles are slowly and steadily replacing traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines. While this is an important step towards the global effort to reduce carbon emissions, an alternative mode of transport seeks to augment this solution: e-bikes.

(Also read: Resolutions Humans Can Make For Earth’s Sake)

When it comes to greener transportation, bikes beat cars, hands down, but e-bikes have just made your typical, traditional, and analog bicycles a lot more exciting. 

As a general rule, what differentiates e-bikes from motorcycles is that e-bikes have pedals. E-bikes are bicycles with a little extra power and a little extra oomph. Typically, e-bikes have a top speed of 20 miles per hour (though some can go up to 28 miles per hour). 

E-bikes are just beginning to get popular in the U.S. as an alternative mode of transport. Micromobility has become the buzzword for those who have made the switch to e-bikes. Many are choosing portability, greater ease in navigating road traffic, and increased access points—all made possible by riding an e-bike. It’s a way better option versus being stuck in gridlock traffic behind the wheel of a vehicle. 

CB Insights, a business analytics company says that Americans lose 99 hours a year due to traffic congestion. This comes from data gathered by INRIX National Traffic Scorecard. It’s no wonder that more people are choosing to make the switch from EVs to e-bikes, especially when traveling short to mid-range distances such as from their homes to their places of work, or for simply running errands. People are making smarter choices and realizing one doesn’t necessarily need a car to get where one needs to. 

E-bikes offer greater mobility, and one doesn’t need a license or permit to own or ride one. In the United States though, e-bikes are grouped into three classes, with each class determining the type of electric motor it has, and where the bikes are allowed to go. 

E-bike regulations vary from state to state, especially with Class 3 bikes. While most states allow Class 3 bikes onto special bike lanes on roads, these are not allowed in parks. It’s always best to check with one’s local government concerning these regulations to be on the safe side. 

A safer, hipper way to travel

New Yorkers are getting hip to the concept of cargo e-bikes, a trend that has captured Europe and is now crossing over to the States. Cargo e-bikes have longer frames for carrying gear or more passengers. Some cargo e-bikes have front boxes, while some have longtails. It depends on the rider’s needs and preferences on which type of cargo e-bike to get.

Urban dwellers love the cargo e-bike because of the extra storage and passenger capability. Families with young children find it practical and safe for bringing their kids to and from school. As the trend picked up and more city dwellers started purchasing cargo e-bikes, options for more affordable units started emerging in the market. 

The coolest cargo e-bikes in the market

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4

$1,899

Families with young children love this model. It can fit two kids easily (one in front, and one in back) plus the main rider. Its compact body is perfect for busy city streets while being able to handle considerable heft for backpacks and other gear. The Radwagon is one of the more affordable cargo e-bikes options in the market today.

Bike Friday Haul-A-Day

$1,995

One of the smallest and lightest models out on the market, this is great for solo riders who need an e-bike to help them carry their stuff around the city. This model is great for shorter riders (as short as 4’6”) as its frame may be adjusted for a more comfortable ride.

Cero One

$3,799

One of the spendier models is also one of the sleekest. Resembling classic Japanese bicycles, the Cero One has a large back wheel, and a smaller front wheel, and is highly maneuverable. 

Yuba Spicy Curry

$4,999

Many reviewers say that when it comes to carrying heavier loads, the Yuba Spicy Curry does it best. It can handle a payload of 440 lbs without it ever feeling unstable or unbalanced. It is equipped with “Steady Stay Technology”, allowing the e-bike to corner well even while carrying a heavy load.

Surly Big Easy

$5,249 

This cargo e-bike is perfect for those who own a mountain bike. A more rugged and outdoorsy counterpart to previous models mentioned here, the Big Easy is reliable, smooth, and works wonderfully during off-road rides. 

Why get an e-bike?

Super-charge your typical biking experience with an e-bike. Cyclists say that e-bikes are great, especially for beginners who are just getting started with their cycling journey. The e-bike’s motor assists the rider on steeper inclines so that it’s easier to navigate. 

They also say that because riding an e-bike is so enjoyable, more cyclists stay on their e-bikes longer than conventional bikes. The exercise factor is still there, as one still needs to pedal, but there is greater ease especially on more challenging routes. 

E-bike owners find that traveling this way is more efficient, healthier, and contributes to less vehicle traffic on highways. Because it’s open-air travel, it’s safer to use especially in this post COVID period. E-bike owners and users get to their destinations faster without the hassle of traffic, and they have fun while doing it, too!

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