Electric Bikes - An Overview

Electric bikes, also known as electric cycles, motorized bikes, electric scooters or simply e-bikes, are driven electrically using an electric motor which draws power from an on-board battery. They come in all sizes and shapes and generally have speeds from 16 to 30 miles per hour. Depending on the size, carrying capacity, speed, endurance in miles travelled on full charge etc., the cost varies from as low as $200 and goes up to $1000 or more. In many countries their status is not that of motor vehicles, but almost at par with a bicycle. This is reflected in the laws regarding their production, certification, ownership, driving licenses etc. which are akin to cycles and not like those of motor vehicles. Notwithstanding this, many countries such as China, India and many European countries encourage their use due to some positive effects they have.

They are generically environment friendly since they do not suffer from any toxic emissions like motor vehicles. They also save expenses on petroleum which is becoming costlier every year, thus saving foreign exchange for several countries that are forced to import oil from OPEC countries. They are almost silent and do not cause noise pollution further saving people and environment. They are known to have health benefits for persons with cardiac disorders. They are relatively more secure as they cannot be moved once the electric switch is turned into OFF position. It is therefore, small wonder that many countries such as Australia, Canada, European Union, New Zealand and USA are encouraging their use.

The electric motor, the heart of the electric bike, may be direct drive type or geared motor type of DC motors. There are also basic bicycles with electric assisted power drive, with a chain or belt drive and a hub motor, included in the class of e-bikes. Most commonly used motors are BLDC (Brush Less Direct Current) motors forming an integral part of the hub. The stator of the motor is built into the hub and the rotor magnets rotate along with the wheel. Power rating of the motors varies from 150 to 750 watts. Power is stored in the battery; usually rechargeable type and mounting vary from one design to another. They may be lead-acid type, nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride or lithium ion type, all of which are rechargeable. Relative advantages of these are difficult to compare since all of them are not conforming to same standard. There is an electronic motor control system in most of the e-bikes. Some e-bikes have a feature of pedaling with electric assistance to negotiate climbs and free-wheeling the tool in down slopes to save battery power.

One of the features that distinguish the preferential selection of one model over the next is the 'range' or the total distance that can be tackled on a single charge. This will depend on factors such as motor efficiency, battery capacity, efficiency of the drive chain, gradient capability, use of lights and the total laden weight. Some models have regenerative braking, which is the motor acting as a generator to apply brakes in downhill drives. Such designs will have extended range relative to models without this feature.

In order to locate more of the top electric bikes in Toronto, have a quick trip to Emmo electric bicycle retailer.