“In a systematic comparison of energy flow, a network-charged battery driven by an electric motor will provide mechanical energy approximately ten times more efficiently than a human who eats a typical diet. For personal trips between 5 and 30 miles per day, the electric bicycle offers lower environmental and personal monetary cost, generally without increasing urban travel time ”
From energy flow analysis of energy, global warming, and electric bikes with an emphasis on personal transportation
1. Climbing
That may sound obvious, but it is the main advantage. A good electric bike effectively flattens the hills, increasing its average speed and eliminating the ‘moan’ factor when viewing a gradient. As long as you provide a reasonable amount of effort, you can expect to climb 1 in 10 (10%) hills on an electric bike with ease, and clear a maximum gradient of 1 in 7 (14%), or much more. In a mountainous country, the effect is miraculous.
2. security
Sounds unlikely, doesn’t it? But the math is compelling. Think of a steep, busy highway, with cars going 30 mph. If you previously went up the hill at 6 mph, but you can tackle the same gradient at 12 mph with an electric bike, you’ll see 33% fewer cars, and will outpace it at 18 mph instead of 24 mph. Or at least, we think it is correct.
Regardless of the numbers, there is no doubt that an electric bike helps keep you out of harm’s way. The same general principle applies to road crossings: the faster your acceleration, the sooner you can get out of trouble. And without the need to rush down the hills, you won’t be tempted to descend at breakneck speed … another useful safety feature.
3. Personal fitness
Surely a conventional bicycle will keep you in shape? That, of course, depends on how much, if any, you use it. Research (b) has found that 46% of conventional bikes are used only once or twice a week, and an additional 30% are used once every fortnight or even less. Conversely, a recent survey of fat tire mini bike for sale owners reveals that a third party rides their bike at least once a day and 81% ride the bike at least once a week (c).
The figures confirm our experience that an electric bicycle is generally used at least twice as often as a conventional machine.
Because riding an electric bicycle is much more enjoyable in a mountainous country, with strong winds or when carrying heavy loads, users tend to use them better. The motor provides up to half the effort, but more regular use means more exercise for the driver.
4. Without sweat!
Sweat may not be a serious problem when you go for a leisurely walk, but it is more important if you bike to work. Although some employers dubiously offer showers and other facilities for cyclists, the vast majority do not intend to do so. An electric bicycle eliminates the problem at the source. In hot climates, it is possible to maintain a normal schedule by transferring a little more charge to the electric motor. In colder climates, or if you need exercise, simply accelerate or turn off the engine.
5. Clean and green
Electric bikes obviously consume energy, where conventional bikes do not (provided we ignore the environmental cost of growing and processing food, see below). However, the amount of energy used is very small compared to a moped, motorcycle, or car. In addition to fuel, the only consumables are batteries, which can normally be recycled when they expire.
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