An e-bike (electric bicycle) is a bicycle with an integrated electric motor that is used to assist propulsion. The electric motor assists the rider’s pedal-power up to 25 km/h and makes riding, climbing hills and carrying loads easy. Power is provided by a rechargeable battery.
E-bikes can open up cycling to many in the community who don’t currently ride a bike. They can also be used without the electric motor.
An e-bike can provide active transport to replace many car trips, including:
- Supermarket shopping trips, carrying 60+kg
- School drop offs and pick ups using a child seat.
- Local trips to gyms, coffee shops and social visits.
- Recreational rides with family and friends
Cycling is a fun and healthy activity and every trip on a bike is one less car on our busy roads.
Every 1000km travelled on an e-bike can save up to 100 litres of petrol (depending on the vehicle) which translates to 230 kg of CO2 emissions avoided.
Travelling 5,000km on an e-bike can save 500 litres of fuel, $1000 and 1150kg of CO2 emissions.
No licence is required to ride one but the bike must comply with Australian standards.
Merri-bek (formerly Moreland) has the excellent ride and stride initiative to increase use of cargo bikes. BBUG would like something like this in Boroondara
Tips
- Don’t buy a cheap e-bike, the motor may not be repairable in Australia and there are safety concerns with some cheap batteries. Bosch motors are serviced locally. Expect to pay AUD $2,800+
- Use a good lock to secure the bike and look for secure parking locations.
- Some bikes can be easily adjusted to suit different riders – the seat and handlebar heights can be varied quickly.
