Bicycles, Electric

Benefits

A number of key barriers to cycling are reduced or eliminated by an electric bike, while many of the benefits of cycling are maintained. Typical barriers created by hilly terrain or lack of fitness are minimized as the rider is required to exert less effort for the same output compared to a pedal bicycle. Less effort also reduces the need to wear cycling-specific clothing or shower at the end of a trip, removing further disincentives. Mode shift options provide significant benefits. People who shift trips from cars to electric bikes report economic savings, reduced gas and parking costs, release from peak travel time traffic congestion, as well as environmental benefits related to reduced private car trips. People who shift from public transport to electric bike, particularly for their commute, report relief from crowded or unreliable services and a sense of freedom and independence.

Significant increases in cycling participation can be achieved with electric bikes as the power assist extends the opportunity to cycle beyond the physically fit. Arguably, the greatest gain is for people for whom riding a conventional bicycle is no longer viable. People who have health conditions that preclude cycling are able to enjoy riding on an electric bike, as are people recovering from injury, surgery, or illness.

Riding sooner and with reduced physical exertion can also help people to benefit from the low-impact exercise and achieve the rehabilitative benefits of cycling. Further, when people actually do pedal their electric bike, there is some level of physical health benefit to be gained. People who are overweight or unfit are able to begin their cycling experience at a gentler pace that may enable them to eventually use a pedal bicycle.

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