In this article, we examine all these use cases to help you figure out which eBike you should buy based on your needs. But first, here’s a quick summary if you’re in a hurry.

Find out which eBike to buy, at a glance

• Commuting: EB7 Plus, EB5 Pro Plus
• Off-roading: EB8 Fat-Tire All-Terrain & EB6 Fat-Tire Off-Road
• Seniors: EB9 Step-Thru
• Teens: swagCYCLE PRO; EB5 Pro Plus; EB6 Off-Road
• Younger Teens: swagCYCLE Classic, swagCYCLE Envy

Let’s take a closer look at each of these options.

Commuting

If you plan to cycle to work or school but don’t live around the block, it’s a good idea to get an eBike that’s comfortable with enough power to cover the distance. Two electric bicycles that fit this need are the EB7 Plus and the EB5 Pro Plus.

The EB7 Plus has three riding modes to pick from for a comfortable and sweat-free ride home: pedal-to-go electric-assist, full throttle, and pedal-only. And it has the benefit of Shimano^®‘s gear speed system, which helps it deliver even more control to your ride.

And if you’re short on space or just need a little more portability, both the EB5 Pro Plus and EB7 Plus are foldable and feature removable batteries. Grab an extra battery and keep it with you and you’ll never be caught off-guard, wishing you had extra juice.

Off-Roading

Off-road eBikes give you a chance to explore your adventurous side in a fun, inexpensive way. In case you get left behind by over-eager friends, you want an eBike with a throttle mode that enables you to catch up quickly. With these considerations in mind, we recommend the SWAGTRON EB8. Powerful 350-watt motor. Extra-wide, deep tread tires. 20-inch wheels. Removable battery. Shimano® gear system. It’s easy to believe how the EB8 can help you cycle confidently over bumpy terrain.

For younger riders—or smaller riders—the EB6 All-Terrain eBike has similar specs as the EB8, but with a slightly smaller frame. We’ll talk more about them in a bit.

Seniors or Anyone with Mobility Concerns

The SWAGTRON EB9 Step-Thru is just right for seniors. Among the biggest concerns for seniors are ease of use and safety, although looks count too. For this reason, the best eBikes for seniors have a step-through frame that makes it easy to get on and off the bike, even with limited mobility and agility.

The frame construction of the SWAGTRON EB9 Step-Thru is a huge plus for seniors, making the eBike simple to manage, even if they have little experience operating one. Its layout is not too different from that of a traditional bike, so the EB9 has a familiar feel to it. Handling is easy because of the ergonomic way the pedals and central bar are positioned. This bike is popular among seniors, whether they’re effortlessly cruising the streets or keeping up with the grandkids. 

Use the adjustable handle to choose a height that suits you and carry your handbag or backpack along on the multifunction rear rack. You never know when you’re going to need to splurge on ice cream.

Teens

Electric bikes are a godsend to teens. A car might be out of their price range, but an eBike is an affordable solution that gives teens the ability to commute to and from school, visit famil and friends, and just get out and enjoy the world around them. Plus, eBikes are a fun, affordable option. Any of the swagCYCLE Pro, EB5 Pro Plus, or EB7 Plus models are great choices for teens for various reasons. And there are even recertified models available that make it even more affordable.

The scooter-like swagCYCLE Pro has a sturdy aluminum frame for durability. It’s pedal-free, which makes it feel more like a seated electric scooter with a bicycle form. The EB5 Pro Plus, in contrast, is a bike through-and-through. It features a 250-watt battery that helps it power up to 15.5 mph on throttle alone—even faster when you engage the pedal assist. Or you can turn off the battery completely and ride it like a traditional bicycle.

Teens who like the off-road experience are likely to prefer our EB6 Fat-Tire All-Terrain eBike.  Powerful, high-torque 350-watt motor. Three riding modes (throttle, pedal-only and pedal-to-go). Removable battery. Shimano® gears and disc brakes. And 4-inch thick, deep tread tires that help you conquer almost any trail. It’s a favorite among teens, who even use the EB6 as a commuter bike.

Younger Teens

If you have younger school-age children, check out the pedal-less eBikes. These types of rideables require little effort or prior experience with eBikes, so the young ones can still have fun while learning to ride. Because they are throttle-only, they feel more like seated eScooters than eBikes, but they have that eBike feel. From the O.G. swagCYCLE Classic to the swagCYCLE Envy. These eBikes tend to have lower top speeds, so many parents feel more comfortable giving these to their younger teens.

Regardless of which eBike type you’re interested in, determining which are the best eBikes to buy comes down to a few basic principles. Look for a well-known brand with a good warranty at a reasonable price. After that, it’s all smooth cruisin’ from there.

1. Use an eBike as Part of Your Daily Commute

If you usually travel to work by car, choosing to ride a commuter electric bike instead not only helps the environment, it helps you stay fit. Unless you’re working from home, in which case an eBike down the stairs is less convenient. 

Still, for all other purposes, eBikes are a great transportation option that lets you keep active while the attached motor gives a bit of help when needed. Riding an eBike also means not working as hard you would a regular bike, so there’s a lot less sweat. (Even better, no head-to-toe Lycra.) Trust us: your colleagues will thank you. 

The EB7 Plus eBike is the perfect option for commuters. With its 7-speed Shimano^® gear system, it delivers a solid riding experience that matches what you’d get with a traditional bike—only with an electric boost when you want it or need it.

2. Replace Your Regular Bike With an eBike

If you use a regular bike as part of your exercise routine, you can immediately switch it with an eBike and still gain the benefits of cycling. You don’t need to use the motor all the time. You can use an eBike to ride along cycle paths (check local laws, though), around the yard or along the street. If you are into street riding, the motor definitely comes in handy while going up steep hills, especially if you are just starting your fitness journey. SWAGTRON’s® EB11 electric cruiser comes with a Shimano^® 7-speed gear system and 26-inch wheels, just the perfect new toy to take Old Faithful’s spot in the garage.

3. Take a Ride With Your Kids

Keeping up with your kids while bike riding is much easier on an eBike. Take it from us — when you hit 35, it’s easy to strain your neck just by getting out of bed. When you have high-speed children, it gets harder to stay ahead of them. Using an eBike, like the SWAGTRON EB9 Step-Through, means you can rely a little more on the motor and not on your own quads to keep moving — and it’s easy to mount! 

4. Track Your Activity

When trying to stay fit, it’s important to track your calorie intake and your physical activity. If you’re at the stage of weighing your food and writing it down, you know how much of a pain it is. Six almonds, anyone?

Components of your physical activity, like your calorie expenditure, your heart rate, oxygen level and effort used, are much, much harder to track. But they’re essential because they can show you the areas you need to focus on, such as improving your breathing or going faster, so you burn more calories. No matter what you need to track, there’s an accessory or app that can do the job. So, strap on your watch or mobile phone, hop on your eBike and start watching those numbers.

SWAG TIP: Most eBikes will have some means of tracking your distance, either through an on-bike display, an app, or both. All of our electric bikes have an on-bike display.

5. Take a Trip to the Grocery Store

More often than not, we simply jump in the car and head to the local store when we need a gallon of milk. You see the chips that are on sale and a few other things, and before you know it, there are a dozen other things in the cart — most of them high caloric; after all, no one suddenly succumbs to a sale on Brussels sprouts.

An eBike makes you really think about whether you need that extra packet of cheese, remember you’re carrying it home. Put your helmet on, grab a backpack and ride to the store. You’ll find that not only will you have gotten in a bit of exercise for the day, but you’ve also enjoyed some fresh air and sun. Fewer groceries = less money spent = healthier choices.

6. Plan a Cycling Tour

Cycling tours are not only a great form of exercise, but they also allow you to see landmarks and nature while traveling unconventionally. Small back-country roads hold no fear when you’re using an eBike instead of a regular bike. You don’t have to dread those slight undulations called hills by all but the most zealous bikers. You can get a lot of help climbing from your battery, although you’re going to need to put forth some effort yourself. And if you’re on flat roads … well … you can simply go further and a little faster. Add a cargo rack, and your eBike can even handle extra luggage. 

Bonus Tip: Don’t Rely on E-Power Alone!

You want to get the most out of any exercise routine. And, when it comes to an eRideable like an eBike or electric scooter, you also want to get the most out of your rideable’s battery. While it’s very tempting to go all-electric and rely solely on the electric throttle, that’s a surefire way to quickly drain the eBike’s battery and burn the absolute minimum calories. Instead, make sure you have an electric bike with pedal assist or some form of pedal-to-go function. That way, you’re putting in some work, reaping the benefits and taking it easy on the battery.

eBikes are fantastic for those wanting to stay fit or those just starting on their fitness journey. If you add the tips above into your daily behavior, you can start getting healthier and have fun doing it.

If you’re new to the electric bike world, you might be wondering how to service your electric bicycle and how it differs from caring for a traditional bicycle. Don’t worry; we have all the info you need right here.

1. Maximize Your Battery Life
2. Find a Trusted Repair Shop for eBike Maintenance
3. The Chain Is Crucial
4. Take Care of the Tires
5. Inspect Your Brakes

Read on to find out how you can service your eBikes properly:

Maximize Your Battery Life

Are you worried about overcharging your battery and making it useless? Don’t sweat it. There’s no chance that you can overcharge your battery, and lithium batteries are made to be charged over and over before they begin to wear down. Your lithium battery should last for about 1,000 charges before it starts to wear out, so if you’re riding twice a week, you’re going to get a lot of use out of your battery before you even have to think about changing it.

You’ll want to only charge the battery in good weather and store it properly when you aren’t charging it. If you leave it out on an excessively hot or cold day, you’ll limit the battery life and won’t get anywhere near the performance that you should. Be sure to find a safe, temperature-controlled place to store your battery; it should stay there whenever your eBike isn’t operating or charging.

PRO-TIP: Do not overcharge the battery. Keep close tabs on it while you’re charging and remove the battery from the charger when it’s topped off. Most batteries take anywhere from three to five hours. So no leaving it plugged in overnight!

Many SWAGTRON electric bikes, such as the EB7 Pro Plus, the EB9 and EB12 (among others), have removable batteries that makes keeping tabs on your battery temperature super easy. And if you find that after a year or two of consistent, daily rides, your battery simply isn’t holding a charge — no worries! You can simply buy a new, replacement battery. No need to spend money on an entirely new electric bicycle!

Find a Trusted Repair Shop for eBike Maintenance

Over time, you’re going to need to make repairs to your electric bike. It’s tempting to try to handle the repairs on your own and save some money, but the reality is that the short-term financial benefit can be offset by the long-term cost of voiding your warranty.

Unless you’re certain your eBike is out of warranty, it’s not a good idea to try to perform repairs on your own. Instead, you should check with your manufacturer’s customer service department and ask them for repair shop recommendations.

If you’ve purchased your bike from SWAGTRON®, you’re in luck. Our live-chat service can help you find an authorized repair dealer in your area within minutes. 

Once you find an approved repair shop that you trust, head there for all but the most basic eBike maintenance needs. Bottom line: If it’s more complicated than lubricating your chain or adding air to your tires, it’s best left to a professional repair shop.

The Chain Is Crucial

Just like with a traditional bike, if you don’t take care of your chain on an eCycle, you’re going to run into a lot of problems in a hurry. Your chain needs to be cleaned and lubricated on a regular basis, and the good news is that it’s a rather easy task.

All you have to do is wipe off your chain with a clean, dry cloth and then add lubricant to each link in the Follow up by wiping off the chain again to ensure that you didn’t add too much lubricant. The right amount of lubricant is vital to your eBike’s health — if you put too much on, you can create a real mess. That’s because all of that lubricant can attract dirt, grime and other roadside particles that you don’t want on your chain.

Because it’s so easy to make a mistake, caring for your chain can be a time-consuming process. That said, it’s well worth it to ensure that your electric bicycle isn’t afflicted with a rusting chain!

Take Care of the Tires

Some cyclists tend to stick to flat, well-paved roads, while others prefer rugged terrain. When it comes to caring for your tires, it doesn’t matter what kind of terrain you prefer; you’ve got to make sure to keep your tires properly inflated and ready to grip the surface.

Regardless of what surface you ride on, your tires will wear down over time just like they do on a car. The easiest way to prevent a flat is to visually inspect your tires each and every time that you ride your electric bicycle. Be sure to press gently on your tire and take note of whether its shape holds or it starts to flatten out. A flat tire yields with gentle pressure, so if your tire has too much give, you need to add air.

One key thing to remember: Just because your tire might be underinflated once doesn’t necessarily mean that the tire is damaged. As temperatures change, so does the PSI inside your tires. So if both tires are a bit underinflated on a cold morning, you probably don’t have much to worry about. But if one tire is continually underinflated while the other one isn’t, it’s probably time to turn eBike maintenance into a tire replacement.

PRO-TIP: Always follow your eBike’s manual for appropriate tire pressure. Do not rely on the PSI/BAR that’s embedded on the tire itself. That number represents the maximum the tire can hold safely. But “maximum” does not mean “optimal.” When in doubt, follow your eBike’s user manual.

Inspect Your Brakes

I’m sure we all agree that being able to stop is much more important than being able to go. And, being able to stop quickly is only possible if your brakes are in top working order. Learn how to inspect your brakes and spot a problem before things get out of hand. SWAGTRON eBikes with manual brakes have a couple ways to adjust them with just your hand or a wrench. But not all electric bikes are built with that same focus on user-friendly design.

As always, if you don’t feel comfortable adjusting your eBike’s brakes, find a local bicycle shop.

To test your brakes, try rocking your electric bicycle back and forth and seeing if you have any unexpected parts that come loose. If anything starts to wiggle, you might have an issue with your brakes, especially if the wiggling comes from the bike’s calipers. You don’t want to end up with your rotors rubbing against the calipers.

Give your wheels a spin to make sure the brake pads aren’t dragging on the rims, and check that the pads aren’t worn down or dirty (a common cause of squealing). Always give both brakes a good squeeze to make sure they’re working before starting out.

As long as you’re taking proper care of your eBike, it’s going to be one of the best purchases that you’ll ever make. Maintenance of eBikes isn’t difficult as long as you take the time to examine your bike regularly. On larger repair issues, always take your eBike to a trusted, warranty-authorized shop. Remember, taking care of small problems early on helps keep them from growing into big headaches later.

• Ecological concerns. As more people and governments adopt cleaner environmental policies, the need for clean transportation grows. eBikes offer an efficient and cost-effective solution. 
• Scarcity of natural resources. Older methods of transportation use valuable natural resources like steel and gas, but these are non-renewable materials that may not be available to future generations. 
• Traffic. Waiting for an hour while emergency vehicles clear up the debris from an accident is an everyday experience, but one most could do without. Also, the resulting smog is a problem that bikes don’t have.

So, what makes eBikes better than traditional bicycles? That depends on who you ask. 

Why Walk When You Can Bike

A standard bike can dramatically increase your ability to cover ground in a hurry. Sure, maybe you only live 5 miles from work, but that still means more than an hour walking, even if you hit a seriously brisk pace. On a bike, you can cover 5 miles in less than half an hour. According to Road Bike Rider, a pace of 13.5 mph is pretty reasonable to expect from a beginner cyclist. 

Of course, if you’ve ever stepped off the treadmill at the gym, certain you were about to make a run for the trashcan, that number might seem a little high. Also, flat ground is a friend to bikers everywhere, but it often seems in short supply when you’re riding. For newbies just starting to get into cycling, hills and challenging terrain can turn even a short ride into an endurance test.

Traditional bikes use a basic pedal system to provide all of the forward momentum. Yes, that means you have to pedal to get anywhere and pedal hard when heading uphill. There’s no motor and no external power source with a traditional bike. Sure, the pedal system and wheels turn less force into more motion, making it quicker to bike than to walk, but you’ll still arrive at work drenched in sweat. 

Work Smarter, Not Harder With an Electric Bike

With an eBike, you get a lot of the same benefits with a lot less work. Riding an eBike is like being on a traditional bike with an extra (probably younger) pair of legs to handle the hills. An eCycle is outfitted with a battery, motor and drive system to turn electricity into a power source that can work with your legs. Whether you’re looking for a senior-friendly transportation option, like the SWAGTRON® EB12 City Road eBike, to cut down on your morning commute without adding to your carbon footprint, electric bicycles might be the way to go.

Are Traditional Bikes Better in Any Category?

Traditional bikes are lighter than the e-powered versions. With a manual bike, you can expect to heft around 17-18 pounds. So, don’t expect to hit the road right after abdominal surgery, but the low weight does make standard bikes fairly maneuverable. 

Electric bikes, on the other hand, typically weigh in at around 45-55 pounds. If that sounds like a lot, just remember that the battery alone might weigh as much as the entire bike frame. Of course, as long as you’re not running out the battery while on the road, the weight of an electric bike doesn’t really matter. It’s not like you plan to carry the bike around. That’s the bike’s job. If you do run out of power with no way to charge the battery, the weight might become a real drag.

Pedaling 50 pounds up a hill takes a lot more effort than handling 20 pounds. Pay attention to the battery life and plan your trips to stay within range. You don’t want to be like the person trudging to a gas station to sheepishly fill up a canister for the car — or the person huffing and puffing home on top of a bike that suddenly weighs a lot more than you’re used to. 

A lightweight, folding eCycle may be your best option if you want a little more portability. SWAGTRON’s EB5 Pro Plus has the power to take you all around town, and, weighing only 37 pounds, it can be toted up to your apartment for safekeeping.

Electric or Manual: What’s Your Preference?

Ultimately, choosing the right bike has a lot to do with personal preference. If you cycle for fun and don’t have a set time or track, a standard bike might work for you. If you want to leave the car in the garage on the regular, an electric bike is faster and less likely to leave you sweaty at work.

The switch from cars to electric bike offers numerous benefits to riders. It serves to improve physical health, reduce carbon footprints and lower transportation costs. 

eBikes: An Essential Transportation Option

Riding a bicycle produces much less pollution than a car, and it’s more physically engaging than sitting in the driver’s seat of a sedan. However, some commutes are long enough for cycling to be impractical, and anyone who’s biked through Los Angeles will know that it’s not for the faint of heart — literally and figuratively. 

What about an electric bike?

At first, you might think that slapping a motor onto a bicycle defeats the whole purpose of a bicycle. That couldn’t be further from the truth! Electric power generation produces pollution, and you can’t be getting much exercise if that motor is doing the work for you. Although these ideas sound sensible, they are factually inaccurate. 

Electric Bicycles Reduce Your Environmental Impact

Electric bikes actually end up being quite environmentally friendly. They run on a combination of horsepower and manpower via their pedal-assist setting, which uses both power sources efficiently. Most of the pollution associated with an eCycle comes from the manufacturing phase, rather than your day-to-day usage. 

The European Cyclist Federation estimates that when you combine manufacturing, energy usage, replacement batteries, and the Chinese takeout you had for lunch, an electric bicycle only produces 21g of carbon per kilometer, over the typical bike’s lifespan. Many automobiles produce 10 times that amount of emissions during operation, even if you don’t count the tons of pollution created to roll a shiny new car out of the factory. Fewer drivers on the roads will also translate to further environmental benefits thanks to decreased congestion and more efficient traffic flow.

Pollution isn’t just about smog and fumes, either. Electric bikes are quiet and don’t produce significant noise pollution. When you make the change from a car to an eCycle, you’re taking an important step towards a greener lifestyle. 

Pedal-Assisted Electric Bike Is a Boost to Health

“Cheating” may be a word you can use to describe eating a slice of chocolate cake when you’re supposed to be dieting. But it doesn’t apply to electric cycling. While an eBike is easier to ride than a traditional bicycle by design, the cyclist still enjoys a healthy bout of aerobic exercise that’s more intense than walking. Studies show that electric bike riders compensate for the lower intensity of exercise compared to analog bikes by making longer journeys. 

While a traditional bike may theoretically be even better for your health, eBikes are a graceful solution to people who can’t rely on unassisted cycling. Maybe you live in an area defined by uneven, hilly ground, maybe you have health issues, or maybe showing up sweaty to your job would be socially unacceptable.  

Compared to commuting by car, the health benefits entailed in riding electric bikes look even more appealing. Driving is not an activity that’s famous for demanding a lot of energy unless you count exercising your patience when another driver cuts you off. Swapping out your car for an electric bike may result in lasting improvements to your cardiovascular health. 

Commute, Run Errands and Exercise Simultaneously

It can be difficult to manage life-work balance, so finding a way to kill two birds with one stone can be life-changing. Trying to fit aerobic exercise into your daily routine can be harder than fitting into the outfit you wore to prom. Using an electric bike instead of your car could be the solution you’re looking for.

You can combine quick, efficient transit with moderate-intensity exercise when you go grocery shopping, go about your day and head to and from work. You’ll spend a bit more time in transit, but you’ll knock out your need for regular exercise and have more time overall to relax and unwind. 

Save Money with Your eBike

Whether you intend to use an eBike to replace an automobile or to complement it, it can offer significant savings in the long term. While gas prices are always changing, you’ll never get the same mileage in your car as an electric bicycle: a full charge will cost you pennies in electricity. Car maintenance is also more expensive than maintaining an electric bicycle, which translates to hidden savings.

While eCycling has a reputation for being expensive, this reputation isn’t entirely accurate. Many affordable bikes don’t compromise on quality. The SWAGTRON® EB-5 Plus folding bicycle retails between $500 and $550 online and serves as a great commuter bike. Furthermore, the savings on transportation alone will cut into a significant portion of eBike expenses over the years. 

And, if you use your eBike for all your transportation needs, you’ll quickly find yourself saving hundreds of dollars each month between gas, car insurance, taxes and more. The costs and difficulty of maintenance pale in comparison to automobiles, which helps make eCycles an attractive option for city dwellers who don’t need a car. 

eBikes Have Something to Offer Everyone

Using an eBike instead of a car may result in tremendous financial savings and improved cardiovascular health and a drastically reduced carbon footprint. But you don’t have to quit your car “cold turkey.” Even choosing an electric bike over your car some of the time is enough to get you rolling in the right direction.

• Cut down on carbon emissions and energy usage
• Zero smog output, minimal noise pollution 
• Reduce congestion in traffic
• Lower automobile-related expenses
• Exercise while you run errands

The U.S. is vast and a lot of cities are spread out. So forgoing a car completely might be out of the question for you. But an electric bike can still be a huge benefit to and enhancement of your daily life. From getting you to the bus station quicker, completing simple errands and quick trips, to just cycling around with friends. You can hop on your eBike and know that you’re saving yourself some coin, getting some exercise, and doing your share for the environment.

The Pros of Electric Bikes

1. Electric Bikes Keep the Environment Healthy

Just like electric cars, electric bike are an eco-friendly alternative for transportation. They’re great for both short and long commutes to work, school or personal errands because unlike traditional bicycles, electric bikes ones don’t rely only on your muscle power. Depending on the city you live in and your lifestyle, the eBikes can completely replace your car.

By reducing how often you need to use your gas-powered vehicle, eBikes help reduce emissions and keep the planet healthy. Furthermore, they reduce noise pollution by offering much of the benefits that motorbikes do without the noise because the electric motors on eBikes run quietly.

2. Getting Started With Electric Bikes Is Easy

Unlike traditional bikes that rely solely on your muscle power, eBikes have motors that can either assist your pedaling or eliminate the need to pedal when you’re in throttle mode. So, you don’t have to worry about showing up at work or school all sweaty like you just ran a 5K at the gym.

eBikes lower the barrier to entry into the cycling lifestyle. Many people who consider getting into cycling hesitate, but an eBike provides these people with a good starting point. You can push yourself as hard or as easy as you want. Over time, you’ll become a better rider with more endurance as you rely less and less on the battery-assisted motor for pedal support, and more on your own legs and feet.

3. Electric Bikes Ride Fast and Far

eBikes quickly get you to where you want to go. If you live in an area with a lot of traffic congestion, an eBike might get you to your destination faster than your car.

A trip of a few blocks may take an unreasonably long time if you get stuck in traffic, which seems to happen more and more. With an eBike, it may only take a few minutes as you can ride to the side of a traffic jam or even take shortcuts.

eBikes also quicken trips that you would have taken with a traditional bike. You can cycle for much longer distances on an eBike than you would on a traditional bike using the same pedaling energy.

And, say good-by to walking your bike up a steep incline. The electric motor on an eBike boosts your torque when you pedal. The throttle mode lets you ride the bike like a scooter, which means minimal effort on your part. Just crank the throttle!

4. Electric Bikes Are Sturdy and Rugged

You can typically carry more weight on eBikes because they’re sturdier than traditional bikes. If you carry rather hefty luggage often (hello, brick-like work laptop), you can get an eBike with a robust frame, thick wheels and a sizable chassis. The bike will not buckle under the combined weight of you and your luggage.

The power and range that eBikes provide also let you explore places otherwise inaccessible to traditional bikes, especially when you cycle off-road. An eBike can venture deep into bike trails and deliver additional torque to bike wheels when you pedal to let you traverse terrain previously unnavigable by traditional bikes.

5. Electric Bikes Are Convenient

An eBike reduces the stress related to using public transport. You can use the bike for both short and relatively long trips without having to worry about the inconveniences of public transport. Most notably, you can commute on your own schedule instead of following preset bus or train routes.

Most SWAGTRON® electric bikes have extra features that help enhance portability. Our foldable eBikes range from the trail-blazing EB8 Fat-Tire eBike to the more campus-friendly EB7 Plus electric bike. So you could ride to the train or bus station and, with enough available space, fold up the eBike and keep it next to you. Or if you’re going to be cruising around a park, you can easily stow a foldable eBike in your trunk until you’re ready to roll.

6. Electric Bikes Cost Less Than Cars and Motorbikes

eBikes are much cheaper to buy and maintain than cars or motorbikes that offer the same level of utility. Furthermore, you don’t need to pay to learn to use an eBike nor do you have to pay insurance to ride your eBike about town — although laws do vary by state, so be sure to check those out before you ride.

Adding an eBike to your options for commuting also reduces your use of your car. As a result, eBikes help car owners save costs related to wear and tear. Many daily trips in America are no more than three miles, a range eBikes cover with ease.

7. Electric Bikes Are Tons of Fun

eBikes offer you all the joys of cycling, including enjoying some personal time to reflect as you commute or take a leisurely ride. A morning ride on your eBike can improve your entire day’s outlook by elevating your mood.

The Cons of Electric Bikes

1. Electric Bikes May Cost More Than Traditional Bicycles

eBikes typically cost more to buy and maintain than traditional bikes. You may need to replace the batteries after some time, for example. But this may be a small price to pay when you’re not paying for the upkeep of a traditional car or truck.

2. Electric Bikes Can Be Hefty

The additional components and sturdier build of many eBikes make them comparatively heavier than traditional bikes. However, many are relatively light and are built on aluminum frames. As we mentioned before, SWAGTRON® carries several models that are foldable and more portable compared to classic-looking eBikes.

3. Electric Bike Riding Rules Aren’t Always Clear

In many regions, the rules for using an eBike on the road are a gray area. eBike classifications tend to vary across individual states and countries. As a result, trying to figure out the rules for riding your eBike can be confusing. It’s a good idea to check your local laws for details on where you can ride your eBike.

4. Electric Bike Batteries Can Be a Hassle

An eBike is practical only if you have reasonably easy access to charging stations. You always have to keep an eye on the battery to avoid the inconvenience that comes with it suddenly running out. The good news is you can use less battery by easily switching riding modes from all-throttle, to pedal-only, to something in-between with pedal assist. Do so gives you more control over how much you rely on your battery.

That said, it’s hard to even consider this a true “con.” You’ll have plenty of options to keep riding the eBike, even without a fully charged battery. And plenty of SWAGTRON® eBikes — like the EB7 Plus, EB6 and EB12 to name just three — have swappable batteries that are easily accessed, lightweight and compact. You can charge these batteries installed in or detached from the eBike itself. That means you can get to the office in the morning, charge up the batteries inconspicuously at your desk, and be full amped and ready to roll by lunchtime! And if you lose track of time on your ride and run out of juice, you’ll have a spare at the ready for power on demand.

So What Are You Waiting For? It’s Time You Got Yourself an eBike!

Overall, eBikes’ benefits far outweigh any drawbacks. Whether you cycle as a necessity of leisure or you’re fairly competitive about your exercise, finding the right eBike can greatly improve your cycling experience. If you’re thinking about adopting the cyclist lifestyle, eBikes are a great place to start.

These are general suggestions, so depending on how long your legs are and how you feel most comfortable sitting on a bike, a larger or smaller size may be more comfortable for you. The same is true if you’re a woman as designs may be different on eBikes that specifically target women.

Calculating Your Measurements

But wait, you say. What if you fall within one of those height ranges, but are worried that the bike size you choose will be too small or too big? Since you’re not Goldilocks and don’t have time to try every available size, you can take it a step further and calculate some basic body measurements to help guide your decision.

• Height 
• Leg length
• Standover height, which is your leg length minus about 1 inch

Measuring Height

If it’s been a good long time since you’ve been properly measured (you’re thinking about those tick marks on the wall at your parents’ house, aren’t you?), find a friend, spouse or child to help with a tape measure and consider this guidance:

• Stand on a hard, flat surface with your back and heels against a wall.
• Have a friend measure your height from the ground to the top of your head.
• Record this value in feet and inches, or just inches if you want.

Leg Length and Standover Height

Standover height is the distance from the ground to the top tube of the frame of the bike just in front of the seat where you straddle it.

Your legs should be long enough to straddle the bike frame with your feet flat on the ground and about an inch of space between the eBike’s frame and the base of your torso. Why? Well, say you need to come to a quick stop and dismount — you need to be able to do that safely without hurting yourself. 

Think about your best-fitting pair of pants. You know the ones. They make your behind look great, and they fit snug but not too snug. The inseam measurement of these pants should give you a good indication of your standover height.

Since your pants don’t sit at the bottom of your feet and you should be wearing shoes when you ride, your stand-over height is likely to be about an inch or two longer than your pant’s inseam.

If you don’t know your pant’s inseam, or it’s already a little shorter than the eBike you have your heart set on, then you may want to take the time to figure out your standover height, which can then also help you figure out leg length.

How to Measure Standover Height

1. Grab a pen, a large book, a tape measure and a friend/child/spouse to help you.

2. Stand flat-footed with your back against the wall, just as you did when you measured your height.

3. Take the large book and place it between your legs. Press it up underneath you like a saddle.

4. Make sure it’s level, and make a small mark on the wall where the book meets it at the top.

5. Use a tape measure to check the distance from the mark to the floor. This measurement is your standover height!

Your leg length can be found by adding an inch or so to this measurement.

So now, you should have three numbers: your actual standing height, your standover height and your leg length. 

Things to Keep in Mind When Taking Measurements

Taking measurements can be as simple as extending the tape measure and taking an accurate reading, but it’s also easy to make mistakes, so keep these things in mind as you measure yourself like a boss:

• Measure yourself twice or even three times to ensure accuracy. 
• If you fall between two sizes of minimum and maximum seat height ranges or eBike frame heights, generally go with the smaller measurement, since a smaller eCycle is generally easier to control.
• Remember that the seat height and angle and handlebar angle can all be adjusted to ensure you feel comfortable when you’re on the bike.

Comparing Leg Length to Min and Max Seat Heights

Ideally, your leg length should fall somewhere within the minimum and maximum seat heights of your eBike to ensure a comfortable fit and to make sure your feet can safely reach the pedals. Having your leg length fall within these values means you should be able to find a comfortable riding position.

If you’ve got long legs, like Taylor Swift or Conan O’Brien, your standover height is likely to be higher than most people’s. But remember on an eBike, you don’t necessarily need full pedal extension. In other words, it’s possible to be comfortable pedaling without getting full extension since the electric motor is going to be helping you out.

Many of the SWAGTRON® folding eBikes and step-through eBikes, like the EB9, have a lower center of gravity, making it easier for riders of various heights to find a comfortable sitting position. If you need help with deciding which eBike is best for your height, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. At SWAGTRON, we’re here to help you make the best buying decision possible, and we know that’s not always easy when you can’t test out the bike in person. Give us a shout online, check out our FAQ, shoot us an email at support@swagtron.com or hit us up on live chat — we’re here to help!

Well . . . theoretically. 

But the truth is – as we’ve mentioned before – that state laws vary greatly when it comes to where you can ride your eBike. And even within those states, some cities will have even different regulations and requirements. We’ll go over a handful of states so you can get an idea of how different states handle their eBike regulations.

But first, let’s go over the classifications of electric bikes.

eBike Categories

As outlined in some of the state laws above, eBikes generally fall into three categories, and this is what laws are often based around. We go into discussions on these three electric bike “classes” here. But let’s go over them briefly again:

• Type/Class 1 is classified as a pedal-assist eBike. You operate it by using the pedals to engage the motor. You can think of it as being just like a conventional bicycle except there’s a motor that detects when you’re pedaling and kicks in to help. The eBike might have a throttle-only option or it might not, depending on the model. This class generally has a max speed of 20 mph.
• Type/Class 2 has a motor controlled by a throttle. This type of eBike doesn’t require pedaling — just crank the motor and away you go! As with the type 1, a type 2 eBike typically has a top speed of 20 mph.
• Type/Class 3 is the fastest eBike available on the market. Its max. speed is faster, at 28 mph. Most states require you to wear a helmet when you operate it; some might even require a special license. It has a throttle, a motor and higher battery capacity.

Arizona

In Arizona, state legislation grants an eBike rider the same rights as the operator of a regular bicycle, which essentially means Arizona eCycle owners can ride in the same places as a typical bicycle.

New York

In New York, Governor Cuomo introduced legislation in January that outlined specific laws pertaining to eBikes. It sets maximum speed limits of 20 mph for Class 1 and 2 eBikes and 25 mph for Class 3. It requires users to be age 16 and over (sorry, preteens), prohibits eBike use on sidewalks to help keep pedestrians upright (instead of scared and swiveling), and mandates the use of helmets while operating your eBike.

Utah

If you live in Utah (go Utes!), you won’t need a driver’s license to operate your eBike as long as the speed doesn’t exceed 20 mph (motor only) or 28 mph (motor and pedaling). You can also generally ride eBikes on trails in Utah, as long as those trails accommodate other motorized equipment, like a four-wheeler or side-by-side. If you’re not sure, check the rules and regulations for your local trail system.

California

California has eBike laws too, not surprisingly, and they generally say eBikers have the same legal rights and restrictions as ordinary bicyclists (yay!). It does set minimum age requirements — you have to be 16 to operate a Class 3 eBike, but Class 1 and Class 2 eCycles don’t have an age restriction.

Also, be prepared to don a helmet if you’re sporting a Class 3, but helmets are only required for Class 1 and 2 eBikes if you’re under 18. Many bike paths in California are classified according to what eBikes are allowed on them, so consult your local trail system to figure out where you can ride yours.

Texas

In Texas, eBikes are allowed on all roadways as far right as is practical except when you’re making a left turn. eBikes are also allowed on bike paths and trails unless signs say otherwise.

eBike Laws at the Federal Level

In August 2019, the National Park Service announced a new eBike policy for national parks. It basically lets people ride eBikes anywhere traditional bicycles are allowed in national parks. The NPS enacted the policy because it believes in expanding recreational opportunities as more Americans use eBikes as a method for exploring the great outdoors.

The organization encourages eBike riders to check the website of the national park they plan to visit to see if bicycle trails are available and where they can ride eBikes.

Many national parks across the country are beginning to relax some COVID-19-related restrictions, such as Pinnacles National Park in central California, which is increasing recreational access. This means more bicycle and foot traffic, and that’s good news for avid eBikers in this region, perhaps looking to stave off the famous “Quarantine Fifteen.” (Go on, save yourself – it’s too late for us!)

How To Find Your State’s eBike Laws

If your state wasn’t listed above, you could scoure the Internet for the information. But we recommend going direct to the source – the government.

1. Check the website of your state’s Bureau/Department of Motor Vehicles first. You might be able to find information there, not only about state laws, but also local municipalities. Larger cities such as NYC and San Fran will also have this info on the city/burrough/neighborhood websites.
2. Next, visit your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) website. You should be able to find the actual laws and ordinances associated with riding an electric bike. Fair warning: the laws will be written in “legalese,” which might was well be ancient runes for most of us.
3. Still no luck? Just ask the local police. It’s better to talk to them now on the phone rather than after they’ve handed you a citation!

Once you’ve determined where you can – and cannot – ride an eBike, browse through our available options to find the eBike that’s right for your lifestyle. It’s time to hit the road!

If you love cycling but, as an older person, you no longer relish the calf-burning climb to the top of the hill, an eBike is perfect for you. Not only can an electric bicycle provide extra power when you need to catch your breath, it can help you sail by your smirking spouse waiting at the summit of the biggest hill in town.

Electric Bikes and Older Riders

For seniors who want to stay active without overexerting themselves, 
electric bike give you the best of both worlds. Research shows that 
eCycles provide a moderate workout that falls somewhere between walking and conventional cycling. So, not is using an electric bike a great a great cheat…you can burn off enough calories to ease your guilt over the extra cookie you ate at lunch.

Even better, you may be able to enjoy an eBike even if you have mobility concerns and health limitations — but don’t forget to clear it with your doc first! 

eBikes for older riders let you work out your cardiovascular system and gain strength. For seniors with heart conditions or problematic joints, eBikes let you pedal when you can and enjoy the ride the rest of the time. 

How Electric Bikes Work

Electric bikes have a battery-powered motor hooked up to the pedaling mechanism. This allows you to get some exercise and control how much effort you’re able — or willing — to put into it. It’s like having a spotter when you lift weights. In other words, you’re Popeye, your electric bike is your spinach. Except instead of ship-sized biceps, you get a mechanical boost for your calf muscles (anchor tattoo optional).

eBikes for older riders have several levels for versatile motorized support. You can amp up the power when you want to get your errands done faster or turn it off on the downhill stretches. 

When engaged, the motor gently pushes — or pulls — you along. (This mostly depends on the placement of the motor. A rear-hub motor feels like a “push”, whereas a front-hub motor feels more like a “pull.”) Depending on your preferences, the motor provides the torque you need to power through a steep climb or sail unflinchingly into strong headwinds.

Most SWAGTRON® eBikes feature an easy-access display that lets you control the “riding modes” — throttle-only, pedal-only, or a mix of the two (a.k.a. “pedal-assist”). It’s this pedal-assist mode that gives you the ability to go farther and faster than normal, thanks to the electric boost you’re getting from the motor.

How eBikes Help Seniors

Putting aside the satisfaction of keeping up with the grandkids on long rides and letting the Joneses eat your dust — figuratively speaking — eBikes have many positive health benefits for older adults. 

Keeps You Healthy

When you exercise regularly, you can decrease your risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, obesity and depression. So, if cycling is your thing, an eBike can keep you cruising, even if you aren’t quite as fast as you used to be. 

Traditional bikes may leave you out of breath and discouraged, and scooters aren’t as easy to handle, but eBikes for older adults may be the magic fix you’ve been waiting for to maintain an active lifestyle.

Improves Your Balance

Even if you are a retired tightrope walker, age may bring balance challenges. Aerobic activity, muscle-strengthening and special exercises can help you maintain your equilibrium, but did you know biking helps too?

Just like a traditional bike, an electric bicycle requires a sense of balance. So, riding regularly may help keep you upright — and it’s not detrimental to your tightrope routine either. 

Low-Impact

Cycling in general, indoor or outdoor, is considered a low-impact exercise, meaning, at least one foot always remains on the equipment (or the ground). Bicycling lets you work up a sweat without the stress of consistent impact on your knees and ankles. And using an eBike to extend your cycling adventure when you need a bit of a breather can help you get the most of your low-impact exercise.

Sustainability

Some ambitious cyclists log 60 miles or more a week commuting to work on a traditional bike. They can reduce their carbon footprint and get some exercise. Since they run on electricity, eBikes won’t pollute the environment. eBikes for seniors let you save some gas money, exercise while running errands and feel good about your eco-friendly transportation.

Safety First

eBikes are fun, and it’s cool to go fast. However, you can avoid rookie mistakes and losing some skin by moderating your speed until you get used to your eBike for older adults. Slow down way ahead of an intersection or stop sign. eBikes are much faster than traditional bicycles, and this takes some getting used to. Giving yourself plenty of time can prevent an embarrassing skid or worse.

And don’t forget to always “gear up” with protective gear. This means knee pads, elbow pads and ATSM-approved helmets. There are also shin guards that can help absorb the impact of a fall.

Top Electric Bikess for Seniors

The EB9 7-Speed Step-through Electric City Bike from SWAGTRON® has the body of a classic cruiser that looks good on the road and allows you to ride in an ergonomic position. The senior-friendly, lightweight aluminum chassis makes it easy to carry, push or lift, and the low-profile design makes it simple to mount. Meanwhile, the Shimano® gear speed system and removable battery give you ultimate flexibility for powerful assistance or traditional mode that relies on your own two legs. 

For something with a bit more excitement, the SWAGTRON EB8 Foldable Fat-Tire All-Terrain eBike presents a lower profile and the option to go off-road. It folds up neatly for travel or storage, so it comes in handy if you need a quick getaway from the grandkids on your next RV adventure. Its 4-inch tire width provides traction and a unique style that will set tongues wagging in the neighborhood. (Bear in mind, as this is an off-road eBike, it’s a lot heavier than something like the EB9 or EB10 step-though eBike.)

So, what are you waiting for? Choose your eBike model and start enjoying all the benefits of two-wheeled travel and exercise without worrying about running out of steam.

One of the sectors that’s weathered the storm the best has been eBike riding. According to a recent Electrek article:

“As government-imposed lockdowns spread around the US in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, small businesses have been suffering. With people stuck at home and tightening their purse strings, many feared that the hardship would be acutely felt by the scores of electric bicycle companies that have popped up over the last few years.

But as it turns out, the opposite is true. In fact, sales of electric bicycles appear to have exploded recently.“

— Here’s why electric bike sales have skyrocketed during the coronavirus lockdown by Toll, Micah, Electrek (website), May 1, 2020.

And as more and more cities loosen their stay-at-home orders, the sales of bicycles in general – and electric bike, specifically – have seen a continues, steadfast uptick. And it’s understandable to see why.

eBikes continue to be a cost-effective way to stay active, keep healthy and enjoy the outdoors in an effort to fend off that quarantine fifteen. Let’s look at a few of the reasons why the e bike industry just keeps on going, and what this sector of the economy is bringing to the world.

Low-Impact Health & Fitness

A big reason the eBike is still going strong is just how efficient a solution for health and fitness it is. You don’t need to be a dedicated Grand Prix cyclist or ultra-fit athlete to enjoy an eCycle. It’s a great way to make the transition into a more active lifestyle because:

• It’s easy on the joints and generally puts less strain on your body than other kinds of exercise
• It offers a great workout for muscles in the lower and upper body
• It’s simple to adjust the intensity of a cycling workout 
• It bolsters heart health (one study found that regular cycling reduced the risk of heart attacks by 15%)

Staying fit can also stave off depression and anxiety and reduce a person’s risk of chronic diseases. eBikes are a major part of a cycling market that puts these benefits within easy reach for people of all ages, but there are still more specific reasons for their growing appeal.

Ideal for Social Distancing

COVID-19 has created major challenges for getting around. The basic guideline to stay 6 feet away from other people makes using public transit and footpaths harder. That’s even more true if you’re in the heart of a city where paths tend to get congested. Bike and vehicle sharing, which were growing models before the pandemic, have fizzled.

eBike riders are enjoying a practical solution to these challenges:

• Riding an eBike gives you greater range for the same amount of physical effort as a standard bike. That makes it easier to get out of crowded areas and enjoy a peaceful and socially distanced solo ride.
• Car traffic is drastically lower than usual, as INRIX notes. Cyclists can feel more secure than ever with fewer cars on the road.
• eBikes are a small business boon. Cycling, in general, is cheaper by far than operating a car, and that goes for eCycles, too. With the eBike’s added advantage of backing up your muscle power with motor support, they become an attractive option for the fast delivery of parcels and food (a small business niche that’s become crucial to keeping people supplied while keeping them off the streets). 

These unique benefits have created a thriving eBike economy. That economy is just getting stronger thanks to high demand, ongoing research and development, and lower costs passed on to the customer.

Strong Demand Means Lower Prices

Surging demand has made it possible for companies to bring down the price of a quality eBike as the competition for customers heats up. Though it’s still possible for eBikes to retail for upwards of $2,000, the price can run to as little as $1,000 even for a top-of-the-line model like the SWAGTRON® EB12 Road eBike. A short commute folding campus eBike like the EB5 Pro Plus might be had for only $499. With a financing plan, you can pay off the initial outlay for a basic eBike for as little as $47 a month. That compares favorably with the cost of a monthly transit pass in most cities.

As demand continues to hold steady, which is to be expected for at least the duration of the COVID-19 crisis if not longer, further reductions in price could be possible. But that’s not the only factor driving down the cost of buying an eBike.

Improving Technology

Strong sales motivate companies to invest in research and development.  That makes for more cost-effective production of components like batteries, disc brakes and motors. Battery prices alone are expected to drop by 50% over the next half-decade according to some forecasts. Just as importantly, technology has revolutionized the retail supply chain, making it easier to ship and track products more efficiently and with less waste. 

With ever-improving technology in play and growing interest from cyclists all over the world, the outlook is good for eBikes to become even more affordable in the years to come. Car and Driver expected worldwide sales of eBikes to hit forty million units annually within a few years, even before we fully understood what a disruptor COVID-19 would become. The real numbers might well end up being higher as eBike riding continues to go strong.