The Future of Transportation: How E-Bikes Are Changing Urban Mobility
Investing in an Electric Bike is not only a good decision for your health and fitness, but it’s also a great thing for the planet. Committing to cycle rather than driving to work, for instance, will save you a great deal of time spent sitting in traffic, as well as fuel costs, and it will be a greener travel option that reduces pollution and vehicle traffic locally.
E-Bikes are changing the face of urban mobility as they provide a reliable alternative to fossil-fuelled vehicles, and embracing this sustainable method of transport is becoming easier with initiatives to support you in doing so. E-Bikes offer an efficient, flexible way to travel and finding the right model for you can be life-changing. Read on to find out how eBikes are influencing the future of transportation.
E-Bikes as a Positive Force in the World
Making a commitment to sustainability is a great way to feel more positive and take action against the climate crisis. When you’re considering how an eBike could change your life, don’t forget about the impact of your decision on those around you, as you will also encourage them to make greener choices. E-Bikes can make a big difference to issues such as:
- Traffic congestion. Traffic congestion and the pollution it causes is a very real problem in cities, reflected in lower quality air and health concerns for those living in areas of high traffic. Shorter journeys are believed to be among the worst for air pollution, and eBikes are a great solution to this. If you join the eBike revolution, you’ll find yourself among increasing numbers of green citizens doing the same, and this will eventually reduce traffic significantly. As more people choose to cycle and vehicular traffic decreases, public transport may also become more effective for those who cannot cycle and this will reduce travel time and make the commute easier for everyone.
- Health and longevity. There are real concerns over the health of younger generations, particularly since they often do not have as much free access to outdoor spaces as their elders did and spend more time indoors and on screens. Getting out and committing to your fitness by cycling to work or running your errands on an eBike can not only improve your health and fitness but can have a positive impact on the community around you, encouraging others to consider their fitness, too. Cycling is an excellent form of exercise and having a motor doesn’t mean you’re not still working hard! And don’t forget the huge mental health benefits of getting out in the fresh air and reducing your stress levels as you cycle. Making the choice to cycle on a traditional or electric bike is a great commitment to health and longevity both for yourself and for those around you.
- Sustainability. The climate crisis is a very real issue that is facing our world and eBikes are an important way to do your bit to combat it. With more people choosing cycling as their preferred mode of transport, the air in cities will become cleaner and healthier, as well as significantly reducing the carbon footprints of those who make this environmentally friendly choice. An eBike is a zero-emission way to travel, and even the manufacturing process is becoming increasingly green. Recent improvements in battery technology and changes to the materials used mean that eBikes are now more environmentally friendly in terms of their entire life cycle, from their production to their disposal.
- Financial implications. The implications of eBikes becoming a more common form of transport include an impact on the pockets of those who use them and the cities that are becoming increasingly bike-friendly. E-bikes are a very cost-effective form of transport, with low electricity costs to charge them, minimal maintenance costs and low or no fees for accessing parking and public transport. Many incentive schemes reduce the costs associated with owning an electric bike, including subsidies for purchasing your bike and cycle-to-work schemes that accommodate safe storage while you are at work.
- Urban infrastructure and planning. When you consider the number of people embracing the environmental and budget-conscious option and making the move to eBikes, it becomes clear that urban infrastructure is going to have to change to accommodate this. Cities and towns are increasingly finding it necessary to invest in planning initiatives that support cycling in all its forms, including dedicated cycle paths and bike lanes, secure bike parking and facilities for charging electric bikes and cars. This makes cycling a more practical option and increases awareness, making it a safer option, too. The Smart City initiatives of the future are already incorporating eBikes into their planning, making the most of the opportunity to reduce traffic and improve safety as new infrastructure is designed to accommodate the changes.
- Public transport initiatives. Encouraging more people to cycle to work has an effect on local public transport systems, particularly since bikes and eBikes are often used before and/or after the bus or train to make longer journeys possible. This means that investment in public transport is inevitable, and some cities are introducing measures that make eBikes a part of the public transport network, with bikes available to hire for local residents and visitors to the area. This is a factor that has implications for those who are unable to cycle long distances or cannot afford to invest in an eBike by themselves which means that people with disabilities and limited mobility will also be able to access greener and more efficient modes of transport such as eBikes.
There is also the potential for job creation in all industries that support the widespread use of eBikes, including manufacturing and sales of traditional bikes and eBikes, as well as maintenance services. This can only be a positive thing for the local economy and making town and city centres more accessible and reducing pollution will also draw people back into towns and could have a positive effect on local businesses.
Choosing your eBike
If you’ve decided to join the green revolution and get yourself an electric bike, you’ll want to consider the options carefully before you buy. We always recommend trying as many models as you can before making your decision, as the right eBike will make a huge difference in your life.
Factors to consider when you’re buying an eBike include:
- The terrain you will be cycling on. If you’re already a cyclist, you’ll probably have your favourite routes and trails in mind when you are choosing an eBike and you’ll have an idea of what you want. If you’re new to cycling, it’s important to consider where you will be riding and what sort of terrain you are likely to encounter. For hilly trails and rougher terrain, you’ll be looking at full-suspension E-MTBs and hardtail E-MTBs and there are many different options for motor and battery size within these categories.
If you’re likely to be doing a daily commute to work, you will probably be looking at road bikes and considering a lighter battery that will be sufficient on flatter terrain and will make your bike lighter and easier to manoeuvre and store. A hybrid bike may give you the best of both worlds, but it’s important to consider the options carefully to ensure you are not compromising on something essential. - The practicalities. An eBike will be a great asset to your life, helping you to improve your fitness and giving you an efficient mode of transport. However, it is a good idea to consider the practicalities and ensure that the model you choose will not cause you logistical headaches. For instance, how easy is it to charge your chosen model, and how long will it hold charge? Will you be able to charge it at work or will it hold enough power for your return journey? You can also consider various optional extras such as storage and lighting to make life more convenient and ensure that you are safer while you ride.
- Is it comfortable? Finding a comfortable bike is essential, as compromising on this will mean that you don’t want to spend as much time in the saddle! Considering the frame size and geometry of several eBikes will give you a good idea of what you need and you will be able to find out what sort of options will suit your physique and your preferences. At The Edge, you can explore our range of bikes and you won’t have to compromise on comfort or style.
Bikes, eBikes and Accessories at The Edge
Here at The Edge, we aim to make it easier for you to enjoy your outdoor adventures and we specialise in cycling, running, swimming and triathlon. We have a great range of traditional bikes and electric bikes and whether you are looking for a mountain bike or a city bike, our experienced team will be on hand to help you find the best fit for your budget and your lifestyle. We also have a great range of clothing and equipment for outdoor pursuits, including cycling and running clothing for men and women, wetsuits and professional quality trail equipment. We’re always happy to chat about sports and outdoor experiences and we love hearing about your plans! Pop into our store in Cork or visit our website today to see our full range.
