Cars have long overtaken bikes’ reputation as the primary mode of transportation, and it is the same case almost all over the world. However, rapidly rising temperature across the entire globe and increased awareness regarding individual responsibility towards the environment has resulted in the resurrection of all kinds of bicycles, especially the electric bicycles, that are at the forefront of the fight against climate change and reduced congestion on the roads. In fact, ebikes have become so convenient & pocket-friendly that many have started asking or considering whether or not they can replace their car with an ebike?
This article ponders this query, which can especially be very helpful for someone conscious about the environment or someone who just wants to reduce his expenses.
Overview: Can an Electric Bike Replace a Car?
If someone would have asked this question nearly a decade ago, then people would have laughed at him or would have altogether dismissed this hypothesis. But such people would themselves be considering this very notion today as electric bikes have come a long way since then and they are ready to take on cars as far as shorter commutes are concerned.
So the answer to the aforementioned question is a definite yes, albeit, with a major condition that ebikes can only be a great alternative to cars on light grocery runs or for any such light-duty task. Ebike benefits mentioned below further make a solid case in favor of ebikes.
What are the Pros of an Electric Bike Over a Car?
Traditional bicycles already have several pros when compared to cars, especially gasoline or diesel-powered cars, but ebikes, have literally taken the bike vs car battle to the next level due to their compact but energy-dense and efficient power delivery system. Therefore, it is pertinent to mention the added advantages that ebikes have to offer, though, needless to say, some of the best electric bikes will have an upper hand over affordable & mainstream ebikes available in the market.
1) Save Money:
Electric bicycles, just like a hybrid or an electric car, might seem like a pricey investment in the beginning, but their low maintenance cost makes them worthy in the near & distant future. Thus, an ebike’s cost will eventually be paid off when compared to a car that runs on fossil fuel, even if the price of gas remains somewhat affordable.
2) Improve Your Health:
Bicycles have always been a great mode of physical & mental wellbeing and ebikes are no different in this regard. It is only the pedal assistance & the limited availability of pedal-free drive mode that makes them different, which kind of increases their convenience and at the same time decreases strain on your muscles. Electric mountain bikes can also traverse through some of the most challenging terrains which can also be a great way to challenge your physical limits.
3) Eco-Friendly:
The eco-friendly nature of ebikes has always been at the center of bike vs car debate, and rightly so, since cars consume considerably more gas/fuel in shorter stop & go commutes compared to longer non-stop routes where they are somewhat more efficient. Electric cars are also less efficient than ebikes as their batteries and motors have to propel a much heavier body which, naturally, is incomparable to an electric bike. Ebikes, on the other hand, excel when it comes to shorter commutes and their carbon footprint is negligible even if the electricity isn’t coming from a renewable resource.
4) No More Traffic Jams:
Traffic jams are undoubtedly one of the worst experiences one has to encounter in a car, thankfully, traffic jam is a concept that is alien to ebike riders as they can easily sweep past a street jam-packed with cars. This is especially true in areas that have a separate ebike lane as such lanes also ensure the safety of pedestrians. Hence, an ebike not only saves time but also allows you to remain fresh & cheerful till the end of your ride.
What are the Cons of an Ebike?
Ebikes, though beneficial for several reasons, aren’t perfect, which is basically true for anything present on Earth. There are some cons related to ebikes, that may or may not be a big deal for many potential buyers, but it is worth knowing them so you can make an informed decision.
1) Expensive Compared to Traditional Bikes:
It is a fact that the price of an electric bike astonishes many people, especially when compared to a traditional bicycle. But the price is justifiable when you factor in lesser maintenance cost, and a compact yet highly efficient motor, and the battery. Nevertheless, it is important to know that ebikes are pricier compared to bicycles, especially some specialized ones like fat tire electric bikes or an electric mountain bike.
2) Heavier than Bicycles:
Electric bikes aren’t exactly lightweight even though most of them are either built with magnesium or aluminum alloy. The main culprit is either the battery or the motor which is also the main reason why EVs are significantly heavier than gasoline cars. The bulky nature of ebikes makes it harder to carry them around, but foldable ebikes are the best solution as they are relatively easier to carry around.
3) Require Charging on a Daily Basis:
It is somewhat obvious that an ebike would need to be charged on a regular basis, but for some, it can be a frustrating task especially if they rely too much on pedal assistance or if their commute is long. But it won’t be problematic for a vast majority of users as ebikes’ batteries are smaller and can be charged in a relatively shorter span of time, also, you can charge them overnight, so they are ready to be used in the morning.
4) Different Laws & Regulations:
Cars have been around us for so long that their laws & regulations have become pretty clear by now, however, it is a different story when it comes to ebikes. Not only are ebike laws somewhat ambiguous but they also differ from state to state in the U.S. Therefore, it is important to go through the local laws before purchasing or riding an electric bicycle.
Ebike vs Car, Cost Breakdown:
The complete cost breakdown of purchasing & maintaining an ebike and a car has been listed below, remember these estimates are only valid for mainstream cars & ebikes. Nevertheless, ebikes' price & running cost is significantly lesser than the cars, which, again makes for a solid case in favor of ebikes.
Choosing the right electric bike can be a confusing task for many, especially for newcomers. Best electric bikes not only have a lesser running cost, but they also are very comfortable & intuitive, but if you really want to stand out from the crowd, then an electric mountain bike is the best choice. Fortunately, Sdream’s Ebikes are packed with all the creature comforts & features one expects from a good ebike, and that too at a great price point. So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Sdream to choose an ebike that best suits your needs and start experiencing a thrilling world of ebikes that is free from any kind of carbon emissions.
Commentaires