HOW DO E-BIKES WORK
An electrically-assisted bike or e-bike can be used anywhere that you can take a conventional bike, but with the option of a little extra power at your fingertips, they are opening up the joys of cycling to many more people.
There is still an element of exercise involved as you have to pedal in order for the motor to run, making them ideal for people like commuters who want to get around without getting sweaty or for those who have an injury that prevents them from using a conventional bike. That extra boost of power saves the slog, particularly up hills – meaning you won’t get hot and bothered and can ascend at a steady, safe and consistent speed.
With a small, integrated electric motor engaged by pedalling, e-bikes have a maximum uphill speed of 15mph and riders can choose from different levels of power to assist them. If you stop pedalling, your motor will instantly cut out. Power is delivered via a rechargeable lithium ion battery pack that delivers smooth, controllable power that can be tailored to your preference using the control unit on the handlebars. A remote switch sits next to your handlebar grip putting the controls within easy reach.
POWER
Your power controller also doubles up as a regular bike computer giving a selection of functions including an odometer showing accumulated mileage; trip distance; average speed; maximum speed; clock; an estimated range; and power mode showing the various levels of assistance.
Torque sensors within the motor unit constantly measure the pressure put through the cranks and calculate a projected mileage for whichever power mode you have selected – for example, if your chosen mode is low, the assistance level drops meaning you must put in more effort, but the range will sharply increase. As you select a higher mode, the range drops considerably while the level of assistance provided increases massively. On good quality drive systems, the mileage displayed on a full charge can range between 30 miles at maximum assistance and around 100 miles with the minimum assistance.
Most e-bike systems now use lithium ion batteries which are lightweight and extremely reliable and most only take three hours to fully recharge once depleted. The batteries used by the market leaders offer up to 1000 full charges, on average this equates to roughly a 10 year lifespan. After this point, the battery does not simply die, it will continue to run but its capacity will begin to diminish, so for shorter rides it may stay useable for some time beyond this time.
The better batteries on the market have a clever management system that prevents them from deep discharge - when the range finder drops to 0 miles, the motor will cut out and the battery will drop into sleep mode. At this point, the battery still carries a charge but will not deliver power so protecting the power cells from damage and meaning that, even if they are left unused for a period of time, they can still pick up a charge again. This ensures a long lifespan and protects the system against poor maintenance.
There’s no doubt that e-bike technology has come a long way over the last ten years – now featuring strong and light construction, sophisticated batteries and attractive designs, they really are a great option, providing a great balance between exercise and convenience.
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BOSCH
Bosch motors are available in three different models, all with 250W of power and delivering 50/60/75Nm of torque (remember, torque determines how much power you will get from the motor). Bosch batteries are 300-500W/h and all use Bosch's Intuvia display and controller.
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YAMAHA
Yamaha motors offer similar performance and configuration to Bosch units, with 70Nm of torque powering the cranks and an easy to use LCD controller.
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SHIMANO STEPS
Shimano, the world's leading cycle component manufacturer, produces the 'Steps' e-bike motor system, with 418W/h capacity.
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TRANZ-X
Selected Raleigh and Ebco bikes come with Tranz-X motors and batteries. These drive the front wheel with a 36V, 240W motor and offer great value for money.
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Browse Electric Mountain BikesMTB HARDTAIL E-BIKE
This is a versatile off road bike, performing well in all terrain whether woodland, bridle paths or green lanes. With its solid frame and front suspension fork, a hardtail e-bike will be equally at home in less challenging conditions such as towpaths and railway paths. It is a great option if you want a multi-use bike with a quick change of tyres making it suitable for a commuting and on road use.
MTB FULL SUSPENSION E-BIKE
This bike comes into its own in really challenging off road conditions such as tough trail centre routes and more demanding bridal paths. Built for hard terrain, a full suspension e-bike will enhance your speed, comfort and control and is ideal for a rider looking for thrills who really wants to push himself – and his bike -to the limits.
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Browse Hybrid/Leisure BikesELECTRIC HYBRID/LEISURE BIKES
Practical and robust, hybrid e-bikes are perfect for commuting, offering a comfortable, fairly upright position while also being able to cope with rougher tracks.
These bikes are primarily aimed at the enthusiast who wants the option of both off and on road cycling. Most models will be fitted with short travel suspension forks which are designed for general comfort rather than their large bump eating ability.
Generally, hybrids will accept full length mudguards, kickstands and pannier racks. Many higher end models will come with these ready fitted, and some many also have light sets hard wired into the bike’s battery. -
Browse electric bikes for commutingELECTRIC BIKES FOR COMMUTING
Usually town e-bikes are less performance oriented, but are instead aimed at the rider who is most comfortable cycling in a relaxed, upright position.
Built for the rider who is in no hurry and enjoys their surroundings as much as the ride itself, most town e-bikes are fitted with a lower torque motor delivering less rapid acceleration.
Many town models offer a step through frame design making them easy to mount even for someone in a long dress or who lacks the flexibility to swing their leg over the saddle. Most will be fitted with hub gears for quiet running, simplicity and longevity.
HOW DOES AN E-BIKE WORK?
An electrically-assisted bike or e-bike can be used anywhere that you can take a conventional bike, but with the option of a little extra power at your fingertips, they are opening up the joys of cycling to many more people.
There is still an element of exercise involved as you have to pedal in order for the motor to run, making them ideal for people like commuters who want to get around without getting sweaty or for those who have an injury that prevents them from using a conventional bike. That extra boost of power saves the slog, particularly up hills – meaning you won’t get hot and bothered and can ascend at a steady, safe and consistent speed.