In honor of World EV Day on September 9, 2024, Cycle Trader salutes all electric vehicles, including the one that is probably the least understood—the electric bike. To give the new electric bikes on the market the credit and respect they truly deserve, we have created the following guide for those who are interested in joining the electric bike revolution but may not be sure where to start.
Browse new and used electric motorcycles for sale online.
What Exactly Is An Electric Bike?
People may wonder if an electric bike is just a lighter version of a scooter or moped. The answer is a definite “no” because electric bikes, for the most part, do require some actual effort from the rider. The motor does not kick in until pedal assist is engaged, which means when the rider actually starts pedaling.
There is one exception, though, which brings us to the different classes of electric bikes. There are currently three different classes of electric bikes recognized in most states in the U.S., especially when it comes to where they can be safely ridden:
- A Class 1 electric bike is equipped with an electric motor with no throttle and has a maximum speed capability of 20 miles per hour. After 20 m.p.h., the electric assist cuts off.
- A Class 2 electric bike is equipped with an electric motor and does have a throttle that can be used by the rider to provide power without pedal assist. The maximum speed capability is 20 miles per hour on throttle, but Class 2s can go up to 28 miles per hour with pedal assist.
- A Class 3 electric bike is the same as a Class 1, with the exception of being able to reach higher speeds, not to exceed 28 miles per hour before the assist cuts off.
It’s important to decide which class of bike you want based on how you plan to use it and your local rules and regulations. Class 1 and Class 2 electric bikes can generally be used anywhere, including bike lanes, bike paths, and on the road. Class 3 bikes are sometimes restricted from certain bike trails and paths.
Going Electric
The question remains: Why would you want to own an electric bike? There are a number of advantages, especially if you plan to use the bike for commuting or recreation:
- Beat The Backup. An electric bike is especially useful for people who want a bike for commuting to work to help the environment and avoid traffic jams. If you live in a municipality that provides bike lanes along commuter routes, you can get in a workout, avoid sitting in traffic, and not be completely worn out by the time you get to the office (or back home).
- Avoid The Pump. Electric bikes are zero-emission vehicles, which means you’re not only helping to keep pollutants out of the air, but you are also saving money by not fueling up at the gas station. Sure, you do need to recharge the battery, but a full charge will provide you with approximately 40 miles of travel at a total cost of about 12 cents for the charging.
- Cover More Ground. If you plan to use your electric bike for recreational purposes, you’ll be able to cover more ground with less effort. So, if you’re planning a 20-mile trip that offers great views along the way but you’re not in Tour de France shape, the electric bike will help you enjoy the ride without wearing you out.
Terrain Trekking
In addition to road and commuter electric bikes, there are other classifications that include comfort bikes, folding bikes, fat tire bikes for beach riding, hunting bikes, and electric mountain bikes for off-road adventures. Before buying an electric bike, think about what you will primarily use it for.
A good-quality electric bike, when purchased new, will most likely cost from $1,000 to $3,500, not counting safety and riding gear. There are less expensive bikes available, but you’ll get what you pay for. If you plan to use the bike regularly, you can expect a good five to seven years of service, so the cost per year isn’t too bad when broken down that way.
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Getting Started
New manufacturers are always joining the electric bike market, so you might want to do a web search to see what people are recommending for the various types of bike models, especially as new ones are hitting the market.
It shouldn’t be too long before we start seeing more pre-owned bikes listings as people start to trade up to more expensive models. Either way, we’ll make it easy to find your first electric bike. Make sure to check out our nationwide inventory of new and used motorcycles on Cycle Trader.
