Thinking about getting an e-bike but heard they’re “cheating” or “not real cycling”? Let’s clear up the confusion! Discover the truth behind common e-bike myths, learn how they can boost your health, and get practical safety tips from our cycling experts. With just 12% less exertion than traditional cycling but potentially longer, more frequent rides, e-bikes might be the perfect way to revolutionize your commute or rediscover your love of cycling.
E-bikes are booming in popularity, with more riders embracing electric assistance for commuting, training, and leisure cycling. However, myths and misconceptions still surround e-bikes, often leaving potential riders confused about what they actually offer. Let’s set the record straight by debunking some of the most common myths about e-bikes.
Myth 1: E-bikes are just for lazy riders
“You’re cheating!” – heard that one before? One of the biggest misconceptions is that e-bikes are for people who don’t want to put in any effort. The reality is quite different! E-bikes provide pedal assistance, which means you still need to pedal to make the bike move.
A Norwegian study showed that people aged 23-54 were physically exerting themselves 95% of the time, even with the electric assist switched on. In the same tests, e-bike riders exerted 8.5 times more energy than their resting state, compared with 10.9 times for traditional cyclists. That’s just a 12% difference!
Most e-bikes offer multiple levels of assistance too, so you can choose how much of a boost you want – just a little help on the hills, or more power when you’re trying to keep up with faster friends. It’s all about making cycling more accessible and enjoyable.
Myth 2: E-bikes don’t offer a real workout
Think you won’t get fit on an e-bike? Think again! Research has shown that e-bike riders often see real improvements in their aerobic capacity and blood sugar levels.
The secret is that e-bike users typically ride longer distances and more frequently than those on traditional bikes. You might be working a bit less intensely per mile, but you’re likely to ride further and more often – and that adds up to significant fitness benefits. This is especially true for people who might otherwise avoid longer routes or hilly terrain.
Myth 3: E-bikes are only for older or injured riders
While e-bikes have certainly opened up cycling to people who might struggle with traditional bikes due to age or injury, they’re definitely not just for those groups! Many keen cyclists use e-bikes for training, allowing them to maintain endurance on recovery days, keep up with faster riding buddies, or tackle challenging routes without completely exhausting themselves.
E-bikes are also fantastic for commuters who don’t want to arrive at work drenched in sweat, or for new cyclists who are building their confidence. They’re truly for everyone!
Myth 4: E-bikes are too fast and dangerous
Worried that e-bikes are uncontrollably fast? No need! In the UK, road-legal e-bikes have a maximum assisted speed of 15.5 mph (25 km/h), meaning the motor stops helping once you reach this speed. This is actually comparable to the speeds many regular cyclists maintain.
Of course, just like any bike, riding safely is important. But e-bikes aren’t inherently more dangerous – they just require a little adjustment to your riding style.
Myth 5: E-bikes are bad for the environment
Some people argue that because e-bikes need electricity to charge, they’re not environmentally friendly. But when you compare them to other transport options, e-bikes are incredibly green! A single charge typically uses just a tiny fraction of the energy needed for even a short car journey. If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint while still getting around efficiently, an e-bike is one of the best choices you can make.
Myth 6: E-bikes are too expensive
Yes, premium e-bikes can come with a premium price tag. But the market now offers a range of options to suit different budgets, and there are ways to make them more affordable. Cycle-to-work schemes, subsidies, and financing options can all help spread the cost. When you factor in what you’ll save on fuel, public transport fares, and even gym memberships, an e-bike often pays for itself surprisingly quickly. It’s an investment in both transport and your health!
Myth 7: E-bikes are heavy and hard to handle
The early e-bike models were indeed on the heavy side, but things have changed dramatically. Today’s e-bikes use lightweight frames, compact motors, and integrated batteries that make them only slightly heavier than traditional bikes. Most riders find that after just a short adjustment period, handling feels natural and intuitive. Even lifting or transporting your e-bike is much easier than you might expect.
Riding Safely on Your E-bike
At Cadence Performance, we want you to enjoy your e-bike adventures to the fullest, which means putting safety first. Here are some friendly tips to keep you riding confidently:
Getting the Perfect Setup
When you get an e-bike from us, we’ll make sure it fits you just right:
- We’ll adjust your saddle so your legs are happy on those longer rides
- We’ll position your handlebars for comfortable control
- We’ll ensure your brakes are working perfectly
- We’ll set your tire pressure based on your weight and where you plan to ride
Getting to Know Your E-bike’s Safety Features
Giant and Liv e-bikes come with some clever safety features worth knowing about:
- Systems that prevent the battery from overheating
- Motors that stop assisting when you brake
- Speed controls that keep things legal and safe
- Built-in lights to keep you visible to others
Keeping Your E-bike Happy
A little regular TLC goes a long way:
- Give your bike a quick once-over each month to check brakes, tires, and electronics
- Pop in for a professional service every 6-12 months
- If something doesn’t sound or feel right, get it checked out sooner rather than later
- Take care of your battery by following the charging guidelines
Adjusting Your Riding Style
E-bikes pick up speed a bit quicker and weigh a bit more than regular bikes, so:
- Have a practice in a quiet area before hitting busy roads
- Remember you might need a bit more stopping distance, especially in wet weather
- Take corners a little more mindfully, considering the extra weight
- Use the right assistance level for where you’re riding – full power isn’t always needed!
Health Boosters: What Cycling to Work Does for You
Riding your e-bike regularly, especially for commuting, comes with some fantastic benefits:
- Heart Health Hero: Cycling gets your heart pumping, strengthening your cardiovascular system and reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Weight Management Wonder: Regular riding burns calories effectively, helping you maintain or reach your ideal weight.
- Muscle Magic: You’ll build strength in your legs, glutes, and core without the harsh impact of other exercises.
- Joint Friendly: Unlike running, cycling doesn’t pound your joints, making it ideal for long-term fitness without the wear and tear.
- Mood Booster: There’s nothing like a ride to clear your head, reduce stress, and lift your spirits with those feel-good endorphins.
- Breathing Better: Regular cycling can improve your lung capacity and breathing efficiency – especially helpful if you have respiratory issues.
- Stamina Builder: You’ll gradually build endurance that benefits you in all aspects of life, not just on the bike.
- Sleep Supporter: Regular exercise helps regulate your sleep patterns, leading to better quality rest.
- Balance Improver: Cycling naturally enhances your coordination and balance, which becomes increasingly important as we age.
- Planet Protector: Every journey by bike instead of car means less pollution and a healthier environment for everyone.
Why E-bikes Deserve a Place in Your Cycling Life
E-bikes aren’t here to replace traditional cycling; they’re expanding what’s possible on two wheels. They make cycling more accessible, allow you to go further, and support your fitness goals in a flexible way. Whether you’re commuting, training, or just out for fun, e-bikes are proving their worth across all types of cycling.
Ready to experience the e-bike difference for yourself? At Cadence Performance, we’ve got a fantastic range of Giant and Liv e-bikes, and our friendly team is here to help you find your perfect match. Pop in for a chat or book a test ride – we’d love to get you rolling!
To learn more about cycle-to-work schemes or explore our membership perks, check out our blogs here and here.
Cadence Performance is on your local high street
- Cadence|Giant Crystal Palace, 2a Anerley Hill, London SE19 2AA
- Cadence|Giant Paddock Wood, 62-62a Maidstone Rd, Paddock Wood, TN12 6AF
- Cadence|Giant Shoreham, Little High St, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 5JF
- Cadence|Giant St Paul’s, 200 Aldersgate St, London EC1A 4HD
- Cadence|Giant St Albans, N Orbital Rd, St Albans AL2 1DL
- Cadence|Giant Twickenham, 111 Heath Rd, Strawberry Hill, Twickenham TW1 4AF
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