Thinking of buying an electric bike (e-bike)? You're not alone. Their popularity is soaring in Australia - annual sales rose from 9,000 in 2017 to more than 100,000 in 2022.
They're a cheap and sustainable way to get around. But the e-bike advantage goes much further.
Read on to answer all your e-bike questions.
How does an e-bike work?
E-bikes handle just like regular pushbikes. They look similar too, except for the battery pack that clips onto the bike. It charges a built-in motor that can be switched on to provide a boost of power when you need it. Most e-bikes have several power levels. Turn it off altogether or keep it low when cycling on the flat. It'll feel like you're riding with a helpful tail wind. Boost the power to pick up pace from a standstill or to head up a hill.
Why would I want an e-bike?
Let us count the reasons…
- Keep yourself active: E-bikes let everyone ride further and with less effort than a pushbike. But you're still pedalling and exercising. Riders with mobility or health issues can keep up with others on an e-bike and enjoy a leisurely ride together.
- Save money: An e-bike will pay for itself quickly if you use it to replace trips you'd normally take by car or public transport.
- Beat the traffic: Many households are replacing their second car with an e-bike. Use it on both roads and shared paths for the quickest route and an easy ride when you don't need a car. Opt for an e-cargo bike to carry up to 2 children.
- Hit the hills: Boroondara is hillier than many parts of Melbourne. Tackle sloping terrain with ease as the motor kicks in and powers you to the top. No need to catch your breath.
- No sweat: E-bikes make it easier to commute to work or study without breaking much of a sweat. You can boost the power level on your way in for a serene ride, then turn it down for a workout on the way home.
- Go off-road: Are you keen to explore Melbourne's bike trails or country Victoria's rail trails but aren't sure if you have the stamina? On an e-bike you can pump up the power to go the extra distance or sail up any hills with confidence.
- You'll be helping the planet: Australia has one of the highest rates of car ownership in the world. By 2030, our transport emissions are projected to be our biggest contributor to climate change. Make a difference by taking an e-bike instead of a car.
How do I charge an e-bike?
You can take the battery pack off the bike and charge it from a regular power socket at home. It'll generally take 4 or 5 hours to recharge fully and can give you a range of around 50 km, depending what power level you use when riding.
How much do they cost?
E-bikes range in price from about $750 right up to $14,000. Spending $2,000 will buy you a very good e-bike, but you can also lease one for as little as $15 a week. They come in different types including road bikes, mountain bikes, cargo bikes and folding bikes.
What are the road rules related to e-bikes?
E-bikes must have a maximum rated power of 250 watts. Power assistance must cut out at the top speed of 25 km/h. You can ride faster than that but only by pedal power. The road rules for pushbikes also apply to e-bikes. You don't need a licence to ride an e-bike.
Test-ride an e-bike
Find out if an e-bike's right for you at our workshop on Sunday 12 January. Chat to an expert and try an e-bike for yourself. You'll also go into a draw to win a free one-week e-bike trial. Register on our All about e-bikes event page.
