Curious about the buzz surrounding electric cycles, commonly known as e-bikes? Let’s dive into the details.
Bicycles have surged in popularity for various reasons. They align with the current demand for eco-friendly transportation, help alleviate road congestion, and promote a healthier lifestyle. Unlike cars and traditional motorised vehicles, which contribute significantly to pollution and traffic issues, bicycles offer a cleaner and health-conscious alternative.
While electric vehicles (EVs) address emission concerns, bicycles uniquely enhance environmental and personal well-being, making them a compelling choice in today’s urban landscape.
Today, the humble bicycle has evolved into its electric counterpart, the e-bike. Unlike traditional fuel-powered vehicles, e-bikes are a bicycle replacement and an upgraded alternative to fuel-powered two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
How Does an Electric Cycle Work?
An electric cycle also called a pedelec (pedal electric cycle), appears indistinguishable from a regular bicycle at first glance. Alongside standard bicycle components, an electric bike features an integrated electrical system comprising a rechargeable battery, a motor, a sensor, and controls with an LED display. It includes a key lock switch to activate the battery, akin to traditional motorised two-wheelers, and a conveniently located battery charging point on the bicycle frame.
Initiating pedalling on an e-bike seamlessly activates the motor, giving the rider a boost. The transition is so smooth that riders often don’t realise when the motor kicks in. Also, many e-bikes offer a throttle option, providing the same power without requiring pedalling. This feature enhances the versatility of e-bikes, catering to various preferences and riding styles.
Let’s take a look into the distinctive features that transform a bicycle into an e-bike, beginning with its motor:
● Motor
Two main types of motors power e-bikes. The hub motor, positioned at the centre of the front or rear wheel, offers a smooth and effortless ride, reducing the need for extensive pedalling. Known for reliability and minimal maintenance, hub motors are ideal for city commuting. Alternatively, mid-drive motors, located between the pedals at the bike’s bottom bracket, enhance efficiency on rough terrain and mountain bikes by synchronising with the bike’s gears.
● Battery
Like other battery-powered devices like mobile phones, electric bikes require charging, typically taking 2-8 hours. The battery is central to the e-bike’s functionality, influencing its range, weight, and overall style. There are primarily two types of batteries utilised in e-bikes. The first is SLA or Sealed Lead Acid, which is known for being economical but comes with the drawbacks of being heavy and bulky, having a limited riding range, and shorter lifespans, typically around 100-300 full cycle charges.
Unlike Sealed Lead Acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes require less maintenance and don’t need immediate charging after use. They are lighter and boast a longer lifespan, approximately 800 charges or around two years of daily use. Premium battery cycles equipped with high-quality cells can extend this lifespan to an impressive 2000 cycles.
● Sensors
Sensors significantly impact the rider’s experience on e-bikes, with two options: torque or cadence, and some models incorporate both. The torque sensor assesses pedal force, measuring how hard the rider is pedalling, while the cadence sensor detects speed or the pedalling rate. This data is crucial in determining the ideal electric assistance, with the torque sensor generally regarded as the superior choice.
● Controls & Display
Controls and the LED display may be a unified unit or two separate components strategically positioned on the handlebar for clear visibility and easy access. The display provides essential information, including the battery power indicator and automatic PAS levels. Control buttons empower the rider to decide the extent of electric assistance required from the motor, enhancing the overall convenience and customisation of the e-bike experience.
Parting Words
An e-bike is a regular bike but with an added touch of coolness. These two-wheeled wonders are a trend and a transformative force, propelling us towards a greener and more exciting way to ride. So, saddle up, hit the streets, and let the electric revolution roll on!
