On balance, I still am not a fan of e-bikes (previously known as ‘I just don’t get E bikes’)
- Thread starter 2manyoranges
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You asked and he provided back up for his point. Can’t say fairer than that.
I’m guessing you are of the age discussed and also ride a ebike. It doesn’t mean that it’a a personal attack. It’s just other folks opinions and data from the web
As mentioned e-bikes are great if used correctly.
Retrorockit
Old School Hero
Reply to D8moks question.
It's not about illegal speeds. the 28mph limit is actually reasonable, and riding faster reduces range immensely. But a little more can come in handy during rush hour since 30mph is the speed limit on most small connecting roads. You will still get passed by just about everybody. But the likley hood of a collison and the severity of the injuries increases with the difference in speed. You can get brushed by a vehicle going a few mph faster or crushed by one going twice your speed. Taking your place in line going into a traffi cicrcle ia another example. Making people pass you when there are other thigs going on is not a good idea. I often take the sidewalk around those. Which would draw attention in a licensed vehicle.
The extra power is used most often when crossing busy 8 lane intersections. It's nice to be able to not get passed (on both sides) in the middle of the intersection when taking off from traffic lights. The extra Watts are much more useful there than burning up the battery at high speeds. Also if you can hug the bumper of the car in front of you oncoming traffic turning left can't pick you off by turning into the "empty spot" behind the leading car (because you're in the RH side of the lane and invisible)
It's not about illegal speeds. the 28mph limit is actually reasonable, and riding faster reduces range immensely. But a little more can come in handy during rush hour since 30mph is the speed limit on most small connecting roads. You will still get passed by just about everybody. But the likley hood of a collison and the severity of the injuries increases with the difference in speed. You can get brushed by a vehicle going a few mph faster or crushed by one going twice your speed. Taking your place in line going into a traffi cicrcle ia another example. Making people pass you when there are other thigs going on is not a good idea. I often take the sidewalk around those. Which would draw attention in a licensed vehicle.
The extra power is used most often when crossing busy 8 lane intersections. It's nice to be able to not get passed (on both sides) in the middle of the intersection when taking off from traffic lights. The extra Watts are much more useful there than burning up the battery at high speeds. Also if you can hug the bumper of the car in front of you oncoming traffic turning left can't pick you off by turning into the "empty spot" behind the leading car (because you're in the RH side of the lane and invisible)
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This I wholeheartedly agree with and I know many people who are in their advancing years that have tremendous joy from ebikes and they ride them safely, because they've taken time to learn it. No hate from here towards anyone on a bike, but as ebikes become more accessible there are of course things to consider and discourse is great
I’m guessing you aren’t UK based ?
Sounds like you use it as an alternative to a motorbike/moped rather than as a fitness / enjoyment toy?
Here in the UK they are used as you say but are usually a menace ridden by idiots. I’ve seen 1 proper road registered one but all others are unplated.
Is it legal for where you live in its current form?
Retrorockit
Old School Hero
Bicycles here are not really an accepted form of transportation. They aren't really expected or respected on the roads or sidewalks here. Many consider them childrens toys. I also own a old XC Softtail MTB with slicks which is enjoyable for rides up to about 20 miles in good weather. But the climate here can approach 100*F. and is also humid. there is a limit to what is actually reasonable. This also means pedestrians are almost non existent on the sidewalks in most places. Low impact, and aerobic has it's benefits. How much exericise one gets is up to the rider. Turn down the assist, shift up a gear or ride faster are all options. Most of my riding is at the lowest assist. next level up for road use or headwinds (15-20mph is not unusual here). beyond that it's usually throttle on demand which is the only time the limits are exceeded for short bursts. It has saved my life.
My bike would pass a casual inspection by it's markings. I could even set a 28mph limit and hardly notice.
Technically it shouldn't have a throttle at 28mph. But by definition a throttle doesn't increase speed it only reduces it. Our legislator seem to copy European classification limits to some extent. Probably because they don't have a clue otherwise. Or they listen to Bicycle Experts who have a vested interest in slowing down the compettition.
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