What is an e-bike?
Ever wondered how do electric bikes work? We cover some basics of e-bike safety, including how fast do electric bikes go and how to use an electric bike.
Are you looking to go farther, faster and longer on two wheels? If you currently use a traditional bicycle to commute to work or for leisurely riding, for off-road adventures or for long-distance cycling, you might be intrigued by the electric bike, also known as an e-bike.
How do electric bikes work?
How is an e-bike different from regular bikes? Think of it like a typical bike but with the added assist of a motor to help you with speed or hilly terrain. E-bikes are both practical and entertaining without taking the physical fun out of the ride — you will pedal but get an assist. And if you're not familiar with e-bikes, you will be soon. Domestic demand for e-bikes is growing, with 130 million of them expected to be sold in just three more years.
What are some e-bike riding tips?
Before you hop on an e-bike, there are some must knows on e-bike safety, including an answer to the question, "Do you need insurance on an e-bike?" Here are some ideas on how to use an electric bike and an overview of the different classes, motor types and safety precautions of e-bikes.
E-bikes Bicycle ++ Battery ++ Motor ++ Controls
3 CLASSES OF E-BIKES1
- Pedal-Assist no throttle
- Throttle
- Speed pedal-assist no throttle
PUSH THE PEDAL = engage the motor for propulsion
E-BIKE BATTERY LIFE
25 – 70 MILES: the typical distance that can be traveled between charges.1
YOU USE BATTERY LIFE QUICKLY IF YOU ...
Go uphill
Have low tire pressure
Bike faster
E-BIKE TYPES DIFFER
Type 1 20 mph assisted speed; can be ridden everywhere a traditional bicycle is allowed2
Type 2 20 mph with throttle assistance; can be ridden everywhere a traditional bicycle is allowed2
Type 3 28 mph assisted speed; can be ridden on roads and on road bike lanes2
CHOOSE YOUR E-BIKE MOTOR
HUB-DRIVE MOTORS
•Motor on rear or front hub
•More affordable
•Great for leisure, flat terrain
MID-DRIVE MOTORS
•Motor between pedals
•Efficient
•Improved performance and handling
•Good for off-road, hilly terrain
STAY SAFE ON YOUR E-BIKE3
Wear reflective gear
Always — always — wear a helmet
Obey all traffic signs and rules
Check battery charge before a ride
Use a bike bell, mirror and lights to alert others
Brake sooner than a traditional bicycle
E-BIKE INSURANCE
INSURANCE AND LICENSING REQUIREMENTS VARY BY STATE AND COUNTRY.
Call your State Farm agent to learn more about e-bike and personal mobility insurance (available only in California).
Learn more ways to stay safe on your bicycle and behind the wheel: Statefarm.com/simple-insights
1 As of June 19, 2019, 22 states use the three-class e-bike definitions. https://peopleforbikes.org/blog/22-states-now-follow-the-three-class-ebike-system
2 Restrictions may vary. Check your state and city regulations. New York City and Michigan restrict this class: https://www.bosch-ebike.com/us/everything-about-the-ebike/stories/three-class-ebike-system
3 Laws may vary by state. Check your state and city regulations. State-by-State e-bike laws: https://www.bikeberry.com/blog/electric-bike-laws-a-state-by-state-breakdown
