New California Bike Safety Buffer LawJune 15, 2023 by Average Joe Cyclist Leave a CommentShareTweetPinShareIn an effort to make bicyclists safer on California roads, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1909 into law in September 2022 and it went into effect on January 1, 2023. This law requires motor vehicles to give bicyclists a larger safety buffer when passing them on the street, which in turn will ostensibly reduce the number of collisions between motor vehicles and bicyclists. Let’s take a deeper look at this law.Bill 1909 requires motor vehicles to give bicyclists a larger safety buffer when passing them on the streetBill 1909 requires motor vehicles to give bicyclists a larger safety buffer when passing them on the streetPrevious LawFor almost 10 years, the bike safety law in California stated that motorists were required to give at least three feet of distance between them and a bicyclist when passing them. This is the standard in many states and has been considered “safe enough” for bicyclists in most situations. In fact, this three-feet law or safe passing law as it is sometimes called, was first enacted in Wisconsin in 1973. Since then, 35 states have instituted the three-feet buffer zone for passing cyclists.Some states, such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota have laws that expand this buffer to four feet or six feet in some cases in South Dakota. Six states, Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Washington, require motorists to completely change lanes to pass a cyclist if there is more than one lane going in the same direction and if road conditions are safe enough for the motorist to change lanes.New LawAs of January 1, 2023, California has joined ranks with the six states that require motorists to change lanes when passing a cyclist, becoming the seventh state to expand bike safety on its roads. The reason behind this change is to give both the motor vehicle and the cyclist more room in case one of them makes a mistake to reduce the chance of a collision and a serious injury. Drivers of motor vehicles only need to change lanes if there is a second lane in which to change to and if the road conditions allow a safe lane change.Each county in California can set a fine for an infraction of this law, but at a minimum, a driver will incur a $238 fine for violating the bike safety law. If a collision between a motor vehicle and a cyclist occurs because the driver failed to change lanes and was able to safely do so, and the cyclist is injured, the driver faces at least $982 in fines. Additionally, the cyclist may pursue a personal injury claim against the driver as well.Reasons for the ChangePrimarily, the law was changed to give bicyclists more room on the roads because three feet didn’t allow for mistakes. Additionally, it was difficult for drivers to estimate a three-foot distance between them and the cyclists. Now, there is no guesswork involved. If there is a lane available to move over into and the road conditions are safe, the motorist doesn’t have to worry about how many feet are between them and the cyclist. They simply change lanes and pass them safely.According to Attorney George Karpouzis, an injury lawyer in Fullerton California, “Most drivers have trouble estimating the distance of three feet. Hopefully, now more drivers will make a simple lane change, helping keep more cyclists safe.”ConclusionOverall, the new bike safety buffer law is designed to make the roads more accessible for everyone. The government hopes this will give more people incentive to ride their bikes instead of drive their cars since they know they will be safer now than they were before.

6 Common Causes of Cycling AccidentsNovember 7, 2023 by Average Joe Cyclist Leave a CommentShareTweetPinShareStatistics indicate that almost 1,000 bicyclists lose their lives, and more than 130,000 are injured in accidents that happen on roads in America yearly. Bicycle-related injuries vary in severity based on how serious the crash is. While some bicycle accidents are avoidable, others are beyond your control. Discussed below are six common causes of bicycle accidents.Image by Alexa from PixabayImage by Alexa from PixabayCause # 1. Distracted drivingDistracted driving is among the top causes of bicycle accidents. It includes any activities that divert a driver’s focus away from driving. These driving distractions may include:Visual distractions: These are tasks that result in the driver’s eyes wandering off the road, like admiring views and looking for things on the car’s floorManual distractions: They’re activities that make the driver take their hand/ hands off the steering wheel, including eating and textingCognitive distractions: These cause the driver’s mind to shift from driving, such as being under the influence of drugs/ alcohol or daydreamingIf you’re injured or suffer losses in a bicycle accident that was due to distracted driving, you’re entitled to compensation. Hiring a Bicycle Accident Lawyer can help you get the highest possible settlement for your losses/ injuries.Bafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the worldBafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the worldCause # 2. Unsafe/ improper lane changesAccidents resulting from improper/ unsafe lane changes can lead to severe injuries or even death. These changes may happen when bicyclists or vehicle drivers don’t check for other bicyclists/ drivers before shifting to a different lane. Drivers not signaling during lane changes may confuse bicycle riders who aren’t aware of the driver’s intent to cross over. A driver misjudging a cyclist’s speed/ distance can lead to a crash when changing lanes. In such accidents, bicyclists are often at a higher risk because they don’t have as much protection as motorists, making them more susceptible to injuries.Cause # 3. DooringsDooring accidents happen when drivers/ passengers open their doors to moving cyclists. In some instances, a bicyclist may get out of the way in an attempt to avoid the door and be hit by a different vehicle. These accidents are common where drivers/ passengers don’t look out for oncoming bicyclists when opening doors or exiting their cars on the street. Checking mirrors and looking over shoulders before opening vehicle doors can help drivers and passengers avoid dooring accidents. Exiting cars on the sidewalk rather than on the street can also help.Cause # 4. Over speedingWhen a driver goes beyond the speed limit, they’re left with little time to respond to unforeseen situations, including a bicycle rider crossing a street. An overspeeding driver may also not be able to stop their car fast enough, raising a collision risk with a bicyclist. A speeding cyclist can also drive into a moving vehicle, causing a severe accident. Driving and riding at reasonable speeds can help avoid such accidents.Cause # 5. Not yieldingFailing to yield happens when a driver doesn’t stop/ slow down at intersections, crosswalks, and other parts where yielding to oncoming traffic is required. Some motorists may argue that they failed to yield the bicyclist’s right of way because they didn’t see them on the road, resulting in failure-to-yield accidents.Cause # 6. Poor visibilityBicycle riders can be difficult to see, particularly in low-light situations, raising the risk of an accident. Areas with poor visibility, like blind curves, may lead to a collision between a motor vehicle and a bicyclist.Check out the Bargain Price on this elegant Nakto Cruiser E-Bike by clicking here.Check out the Bargain Price on this elegant Nakto Cruiser E-Bike by clicking here.EndnoteBicycle accidents are common and happen due to various reasons. Learn the common causes of bicycle accidents and how you can lower the risk of their occurrence.

8 Tips for Choosing Your First E-BikeJanuary 24, 2024 by Average Joe Cyclist 1 CommentShareTweetPinShareE-bikes are swiftly becoming a popular choice for a range of riders, from urban commuters to weekend adventurers. Offering the perfect blend of physical exercise and assisted travel, e-bikes make cycling accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.Photo by Heybike on UnsplashThis guide is designed to help first-time buyers navigate the diverse world of e-bikes. From understanding your riding needs to choosing the right battery and motor, we’ve got you covered with practical tips to make an informed decision. So, let’s gear up and find the perfect e-bike for your lifestyle.Tip # 1. Understand Motor TypesThe motor is what sets an e-bike apart from a traditional bicycle, providing that extra push when you need it. E-bike motors come in two main types: hub motors and mid-drive motors. Hub motors, located in the front or rear wheel, are often more affordable and provide a balanced ride. They work well for casual riders or urban commuting. Mid-drive motors, on the other hand, are mounted near the bike’s cranks, offering better weight distribution and efficiency. They’re ideal for hilly terrains and provide a more natural riding experience.Bafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the worldBafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the worldConsider your typical routes and how much assistance you need when deciding between these motor types.Tip # 2. Assess Your Riding NeedsAre you looking for a quick way to commute through city streets, an off-road companion for mountain trails, or a leisurely ride for weekend escapades? Your primary use case significantly influences the type of e-bike that suits you best. For instance, urban commuters might find a folding ebike extremely handy for combining cycling with public transport, while off-road enthusiasts would be better served by a robust mountain e-bike.Take some time to think about where and how often you’ll ride, as this will guide your decision-making process.Tip # 3. Battery Life and RangeThe heart of an e-bike is its battery, dictating how far you can go on a single charge. When selecting your e-bike, pay close attention to the battery’s capacity, usually measured in watt-hours (Wh). A higher Wh rating typically means a longer range, but also consider your riding style and terrain, as frequent hill climbs or higher power settings can drain the battery quicker.It’s also worth noting that battery life diminishes over time, so factor in the ease of replacement and the potential cost of a new battery in the future.Check out the Bargain Price on this elegant Nakto Cruiser E-Bike by clicking here.Check out the Bargain Price on this elegant Nakto Cruiser E-Bike by clicking here.Tip # 4. Frame Material and BuildThe material and build of an e-bike’s frame play a crucial role in its overall weight, durability, and ride quality. Common materials include aluminum, which is lightweight and reasonably priced, and carbon fiber, known for its strength and lighter weight but at a higher cost.Prices of 7 of the Best Budget E-BikesPlease click here to see the current best price of Ancheer Mountain Ebike on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Nakto Cruiser-Style Ebike on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Ecotric Fat Tire Mountain Ebike on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the TotGuard Electric Bike for Adults on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Ecotric Folding Fat Tire Ebike on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Oraimo Electric Mountain Bike, 26", on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Nakto City Ebike on AmazonThe design of the frame also matters, especially for comfort and handling. For example, step-through frames are great for those who want an easy mount and dismount, while traditional frames might offer more rigidity. Your choice here will depend on personal preference, budget, and the type of riding you’ll be doing.Tip # 5. Brakes and Suspension SystemsWhen it comes to safety and comfort, the brakes and suspension system of your e-bike are paramount. For brakes, you generally have two choices: rim brakes, which are lightweight and effective in dry conditions, and disc brakes, which perform better in diverse weather conditions and offer more consistent stopping power. Disc brakes, though slightly heavier and more expensive, are often worth the investment for added safety, especially for high-speed e-bikes.As for suspension, the choice depends on where you plan to ride. For smooth city roads, a rigid fork might be sufficient and can keep costs down. However, if you’re tackling rough terrain or cobblestone streets, a front suspension or even a full suspension e-bike can significantly increase comfort and control. Remember, more suspension usually means more weight and maintenance, so balance your need for comfort with the practicality of the bike’s weight and upkeep.7 of the best budget e-bikesTip # 6. Comfort and AdjustabilityThe best e-bike in the world won’t be enjoyable if it’s not comfortable. Adjustable features like handlebars and seats can make a huge difference. Look for an e-bike with an adjustable stem to change the height and angle of the handlebars, ensuring a comfortable grip and riding position. Similarly, a seat that can be easily adjusted for height and tilt can help avoid soreness on longer rides.Don’t overlook the importance of a test ride to gauge comfort and adjustability. A bike that feels good for a few minutes in the store might feel different on a longer ride. Pay attention to how your body feels on the bike and whether you can easily reach all the controls.Tip # 7. Consider Additional FeaturesE-bikes come with a variety of additional features that can enhance your riding experience. Integrated lighting systems are essential for safety if you plan to ride at night or in low-light conditions. Some e-bikes also come with built-in GPS for navigation, cargo racks for carrying groceries or gear, or even regenerative braking systems that help recharge the battery as you ride.While these features might add to the cost, they could offer significant benefits depending on your needs. Weigh the utility of these features against your budget and riding habits.Tip # 8. Set a BudgetE-bikes range from relatively affordable to quite expensive, so setting a realistic budget is crucial. Remember to account not just for the upfront cost of the bike but also for ongoing expenses like maintenance, battery replacement, and potential upgrades. Higher-end e-bikes might offer better performance and durability, but mid-range models can still provide a great riding experience.ConclusionBy considering your riding needs, understanding the importance of battery life and motor type, selecting the right frame, brakes, and suspension, and ensuring comfort and adjustability, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect e-bike. Don’t forget to factor in additional features and set a realistic budget, including potential long-term costs. Take your time, do your research, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Your ideal e-bike is out there waiting to transform your travel experience and bring a new level of joy to your journeys, whether they’re for commuting, exploring, or simply enjoying the great outdoors.Did you like this post or find it useful? If so, please support us and our blog:average-joe-cyclist-mug-shot copyPlease consider clicking through to one of our reputable affiliates for your online shopping needs. We are proudly affiliated with Amazon, which sells pretty much everything except puppies - and has outstanding, free return policies. When you buy from our affiliates we make a small commission, and this is the only way we earn some income for the many hours of work we put into our reviews and posts. Plus, it costs you nothing at all - a real win/win situation!

Types of Electric Motors for Electric BikesApril 24, 2024 by Average Joe Cyclist 2 CommentsShareTweetPinShareThinking of buying an electric bike? Great idea – but spend some time thinking about what type of electric motor you want for your electric bike. There are several different types of electric motors for electric bikes, and you want to make sure you get the one that best fits your needs.Related Post: 7 of the Best Budget EbikesCrank Drive MotorsCrank drive motors were the first advanced electric bike motors, and were developed in Japan in the early 1990s by Panasonic and Yamaha. As the name clearly indicates, they are situated in the crank (the crank set being the round thing that cleverly converts the energy from your legs into energy that moves the chain and therefore moves the bike). These motors drive additional power (over and above your own leg power) through the rear gear system.Haibike Xduro Trekking Pro - Bosch Performance Motor - a truly great crank-drive motor - read the full review hereHaibike Xduro Trekking Pro – Bosch Performance Motor – a truly great crank-drive motor – read the full review herePersonally I have experienced how amazingly effective this set up is with my crank drive Panasonic motor in a BH Emotion Race Bike. The motor is a modest 250 W, the bike only has seven gears, and the bike fully loaded with motor and battery weighs in at just 34 pounds. Yet I get up massive hills on this bike without breaking a sweat. And speed! I have to control myself not to go too fast at times, because I don’t want to endanger myself and others. Read the full review here.Bafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the worldBafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the world Related Post: Hub Motor vs Crank Drive Motor – Which is Better for an Electric Bike?I found an even more impressive combination of gears and electric power in my Haibike Xduro Trekking Pro, which has 27 gears combined with a 350 W crankdrive motor, and gets me up incredibly long, steep hills. Read the full review of my Haibike Xduro Trekking Pro here.The weight of the battery and motor is low and centered on the Haibike Xduro Trekking ProI found an even more impressive combination of gears and electric power in my Haibike Xduro Trekking Pro, which has 27 gears combined with a 350 W crankdrive motor, and gets me up incredibly long, steep hillsCrank drive motors can be adjusted to suit different environments, and are widely thought to be the best motors because they allow you to use the bike gears to get up hills, or to haul heavy loads. The general wisdom is that if you know you are going to have to climb very steep hills (more than 17%), you are better off with a crank drive motor.This has certainly been our experience with my wife’s new Cube Elly Ride 400 Hybrid ebike. The motor is just 250 W, but because it is a crank-drive motor, it works synergistically with the 10 Shimano Deore gears, so that she is able to get up the huge hills in our neighborhood.Maggie examining her new Cube Elly Ride 400 Hybrid ebike. The motor is just 250 W, but because it is a crank-drive motor, it works synergistically with the 10 Shimano Deore gears, so that she is able to get up the huge hills in our neighborhood Maggie examining her new Cube Elly Ride 400 Hybrid ebike. The motor is just 250 W, but because it is a crank-drive motor, it works synergistically with the 10 Shimano Deore gears, so that she is able to get up the huge hills in our neighborhood. You can read a review of this bike hereRelated Post: Top Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared, with Detailed Comparison Chart and VideosHub Motors for EbikesTypes of electric motors for electric bikes -Sanyo Eneloop Electric Bike hub nycewheels_2272_18071580.indexedTypes of electric motors for electric bikes – Sanyo Eneloop Electric Bike hubAs the early crank drive motors were so expensive, hub motors were developed as a cheaper alternative. These motors, again as the name indicates, are mounted in the hub (the center part) of the wheel, usually the rear wheel. These are now the most common motors.They basically have only one gear, so although some of them are very powerful, they are not ideal for hilly areas. If you live in a flat city, these are just fine.Check out the Bargain Price on this elegant Nakto Cruiser E-Bike by clicking here.Check out the Bargain Price on this elegant Nakto Cruiser E-Bike by clicking here.That said, many of the large hub drive motors have amazing hill capacity.Prices of 7 of the Best Budget E-BikesPlease click here to see the current best price of Ancheer Mountain Ebike on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Nakto Cruiser-Style Ebike on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Ecotric Fat Tire Mountain Ebike on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the TotGuard Electric Bike for Adults on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Ecotric Folding Fat Tire Ebike on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Oraimo Electric Mountain Bike, 26", on AmazonPlease click here to see the current best price of the Nakto City Ebike on AmazonThe new BionX motors are bigger and stronger than before. This is a Surly Troll with BionX electric bike kit and Dynamo Light SystemThe new BionX motors are bigger and stronger than before. This is a Surly Troll with BionX electric bike kit and Dynamo Light SystemActually, BionX kits exert so much torque that I managed to break a bike frame. However, that is rare, and it must be admitted that it happened when I was still pretty chubby … huge hills, chubby guy, maximum torque … you do the math.Similarly, the 350 W BH Easy Motion Neo City (reviewed here) will take you up enormous hills too, even though the motor is in the hub. And this bike comes with 27 gears!Types of electric motors for electric bikes - Emotion-Neo-City7 of the best budget e-bikesBrushed and Brushless Motorstypes of electric motors for electric bikes - eflowEflow Electric BikeMotors for electric bikes may be brushed, or they may be brushless DC motors (BLDC motors).The industry default has become brushless motors, because generally they are quieter, smaller, and lighter, and they don’t need to be serviced.However, there are some knowledgeable people in the industry who support brushed motors, maintaining that they are more robust and reliable, that they are a relatively cheap way (in terms of cost and power) to gain hill-climbing ability, and that they are cheap and simple to service and don’t have to be serviced often (some only at intervals of 8,000 miles). Moreover, once they are serviced, they are as good as new. Finally, brushed motors are very robust, and offer hill climbing capacity at a lower price point.Since the introduction of Sensorless or Permanent Magnet BLDC (brushless DC) motors, the case in favor of brushed motors has been considerably weakened. This is because Sensorless BLDC motors have the same reliability as well made brushed motors – but without the noise and weight of brushed motors.The average user does not have to think about the issue of brushed vs brushless motors, as most electric bikes are sold with brushless motors, due to the fact that they are more efficient at producing power, and therefore the battery lasts longer.Sensorless or Permanent Magnet BLDC MotorsThis is a new innovation, and promises to make BLDC (brushless DC) motors more reliable. These motors do not require sensors as the position of the armature is detected using magnetic field detection.This reduces the notoriously large amount of electronics required on the motor, resulting in higher reliability.Again, this is an issue that the average user does not have to think about. If sensorless BLDC motors live up to their early promise, they will simply become the industry norm, and will be the default engine on whatever bike you are considering.Friction Drive Motorstypes of electric motors for electric bikes - ecobike-vatavio-electric-folding-bicycle-6Ecobike Vatavio Electric Folding BicycleThese are simple, light motors, that basically work by spinning a roller that is pressed against the bicycle’s tire. There is a limit to how much power can be put through a friction drive, because the acceleration is dependent on the roller maintaining solid contact with a small patch of the tire.These engines have their proponents, but they are very much in the minority. I would say that friction motors are better suited to techie people who like to assemble engines themselves, using parts from model airplanes.Note that with these systems, the roller and/or the tire usually wear out after just a few hundred miles. So although they may seem cheap, they won’t last long, which means they are not usually cheap.So my advice is to avoid friction motors – unless you plan to scarcely use the bike at all (and if this was the case, you probably would not be taking the trouble to read this).This entire post is excerpted from my book that tells you everything you need to know to buy the best electric bike to fit your own unique needs. It includes reviews of many of the best electric bikes.Did you like this post or find it useful? If so, please support us and our blog:average-joe-cyclist-mug-shot copyPlease consider clicking through to one of our reputable affiliates for your online shopping needs. We are proudly affiliated with Amazon, which sells pretty much everything except puppies - and has outstanding, free return policies. When you buy from our affiliates we make a small commission, and this is the only way we earn some income for the many hours of work we put into our reviews and posts. Plus, it costs you nothing at all - a real win/win situation!

How Many Calories can you Burn on an Electric Bike?April 25, 2024 by Average Joe Cyclist 4 CommentsShareTweetPinShareSome people seem to think that riding an e-bike is much like surfing a couch. The implication is that riding an electric bike requires expending no energy and burning no calories. Anyone who has tackled tough commutes on an electric bike knows how wrong that is! This post shows the surprising number of calories you can burn on an electric bike.Here's the excellent Bosch crank drive motor on my Haibike. How Many Calories can you Burn on an Electric BikeThe excellent Bosch crank drive motor on my Haibike does a lot of the work on my commute – but my legs do a lot of work too! That engine does not even get started without my pedaling.Related Post: 7 of the Best Budget EbikesI am exhausted after my 36 mile round trip commute, which includes huge hills and traverses three cities. My regular electric bike rides have definitely help me get healthier, and have caused me to lose 30 pounds so far. After all, most electric bikes (including mine) work on the Pedelec system – that is, they don’t work unless you do too!I sincerely hope and believe that my regular electric bike rides will help me get healthier, and even lose some weight. But am I right? How Many Calories can you Burn on an Electric BikeI sincerely hope and believe that my regular electric bike rides will help me get healthier, and even lose some weight. But am I right?Related Post: Hub Motor vs Crank Drive Motor – Which is Better for an Electric Bike?Riding an E-bike is Real ExerciseI bristle with fury when anyone compares my exhausting commute to sitting on a couch. My body tells me that it is major exercise. Now, I have the proof!Bafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the worldBafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the worldI have a friend, Ron Wensel, who is a brilliant engineer. Ron started designing Pedal Easy electric bikes after suffering four heart attacks. (You can read a review of his Pedal Easy bikes here.) Then he started asking the same question that has bothered many other people:How Many Calories Can You Burn on an Electric Bike?Ron used his engineering smarts to find out. He came up with proof that he could burn almost as many calories on an electric bike as on a regular bike.A Pedal Easy electric bike – calories burned cycling. How Many Calories can you Burn on an Electric BikeHere is one of the Pedal Easy electric bikes Ron Wensel designed and created.Because of his heart constraints, Ron always uses a heart rate monitor while cycling. Here is a post about how to get fit with a heart rate monitor. He can still do group bike rides and even go on long-distance biking vacations with his wife. He just wears his heart rate monitor, pedals the bike like a regular bike – and then uses the electric assistance whenever his heart rate is close to his “danger zone” of 140 beats per minute.Related Post: Top 3 Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared, with Comparison ChartHeart Rate Monitor Records Prove that you Burn almost as Many Calories on an Electric Bike as on a Regular BikeBeing a scientist, Ron did some testing to see how many calories you can burn with an electric bike. He did the same ride two times, once with assistance and once without, and measured all the stats.Graph 1: A one-hour bike ride over moderately hilly terrain, using throttle assist for the tougher parts. How Many Calories can you Burn on an Electric BikeGraph 1: A one-hour bike ride over moderately hilly terrain, using throttle assist for the tougher parts. The blue graph line is Ron’s heart rate.Graph 2: The SAME bike ride over moderately hilly terrain, with NO electric assistance. The blue graph line is Ron's heart rate, occasionally getting into some scary danger zones. How Many Calories can you Burn on an Electric BikeGraph 2: The SAME bike ride over moderately hilly terrain, with NO electric assistance. The blue graph line is Ron’s heart rate, occasionally getting into some scary danger zones.Ron’s heart rate monitor not only measured his heart rate – it also supplied some very interesting information about the calories he burned on the two bike rides. This graph shows both bike rides, with the number of calories burned on both rides.Check out the Bargain Price on this elegant Nakto Cruiser E-Bike by clicking here.Check out the Bargain Price on this elegant Nakto Cruiser E-Bike by clicking here.Graph 3: The number of calories burned on both rides - one with electric assistance, one without. How Many Calories can you Burn on an Electric BikeGraph 3: The number of calories burned on both rides – one with electric assistance, one withoutNotice that when Ron used electric assistance, he burned up 444 calories. When he did the bike ride without electric assistance, he burned up 552 calories. So riding with electrical assistance resulted in burning only 20% less calories. Burning 440 calories in an hour is a big deal – done regularly, this kind of calorie burn could result in significant weight loss.

How to Figure out Electric Bike RangeApril 29, 2024 by Average Joe Cyclist 4 CommentsShareTweetPinShareThe range of an electric bike is how far you can ride it on one charge. A common problem is figuring out how to assess electric bike range. All electric bikes are advertised as having a particular range. However, these advertised ranges are often inaccurate. In fact, sometimes they are downright exaggerated, and may even be four times higher than the reality. Here is a guide to help you figure out the true range of an electric bike.The weight of the battery and motor is low and centered on the Haibike Xduro Trekking ProHaibike electric bikes are excellent bikes with great range and powerFactors to Consider that Impact E-Bike RangeIf you think about it, it is impossible for electric bike range claims to be totally accurate. There are too many factors that make the range different from person to person. These factors include:how much the rider weighs (you will get longer range if you weigh 100 pounds than if you weigh 400 pounds);what level of assistance the rider chooses;the terrain they’re cycling over (you will get less range in the French Alps than you will get in the Sahara Desert);the amount of luggage they’re carrying;how fast they go (1/3 faster = 1/2 the range);how hard they’re pedaling;how many times they stop and start (hill starts in particular will drain power);wind conditions;temperature (they will get about 15% more range from a battery on a warm sunny day than they would in winter);tire pressure (as with regular bikes, soft tires = less efficiency = less distance for power expended);what kind of battery they’re using;how old their battery is (batteries lose power over time);size of their bike motor (big motors are fun, but obviously they drain more battery power); andhow fast they’re going.For example, if you decide to engage no assistance at all because you’re on flat terrain and you’re feeling strong, your electric bike range is as far as you can go before you collapse. For some people this might be 200 miles, and for others it could be 20. On the other hand, if you engage the highest level of assistance constantly, and are in very hilly terrain, you can eat through your battery charge pretty fast.Bafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the worldBafang makes some of the best quality ebike batteries in the worldAnd if for example you have a lithium battery, you’re going to keep going a lot longer than if you have a nickel-cadmium battery, as lithium batteries have a higher energy density. See my post on how to choose the right battery type for your electric bike.Related Post: Top 3 Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared, with Comparison ChartBattery Power vs. Motor PowerBear in mind that your battery size and your electric bike motor have to be well matched in order to get optimal range. As a general rule of thumb, look for a setup in which the battery capacity in watt hrs is equal to the motor capacity in watts. This kind of setup will have the greatest range because the motor will not over-tax the battery. You should be able to get at least one hour at maximum assist with this kind of setup.Related: Review of the latest BionX D-series electric bike kitRelated: Review of the latest BionX D-series electric bike kitAs an example, the top-of-the-range BionX PL 350 HT DT L had a battery with 355 Watt hrs (36 V/9.6 amp hrs). So the motor capacity and battery capacity in watt hrs were almost identical, and the battery was advertised as having an impressive range of 56 miles (90 km). However, the reality is that you would not be able to travel 56 miles in one hour on most electric bikes (unless you were coming down Mt. Everest).Bear in mind that many electric bike motors are capped at 20 miles (32 km) per hour. So that 56 miles would be achieved more likely in about three hours, and definitely not using the full assist the whole time – there would be a whole lot of pedaling going on as well!