Swapping hiking for an electric bicycle journey is not something I had envisioned for 2024 but it certainly opens doors to a whole new realm of exploration, blending the thrill of outdoor escapades with the ease of technological innovation.
The terms “e-bike” and “e-pedal bike” can sometimes be used interchangeably, but they often refer to different types of electric bicycles. Here’s a breakdown of their differences:
E-Bike (Electric Bike)
An e-bike is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that assists the rider’s pedaling efforts. E-bikes generally fall into three categories:
- Pedal Assist (Pedelec): The motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling. The level of assistance can often be adjusted.
- Throttle: The motor can be engaged without pedaling, similar to a scooter or motorcycle.
- Speed Pedelec: A more powerful version of a pedal-assist bike that can reach higher speeds, usually up to 28 mph (45 km/h).
E-Pedal Bike (Electric Pedal Bike)
An e-pedal bike typically refers specifically to a type of e-bike that uses pedal assist only. This means the motor will only activate when you pedal, and the level of assistance is directly proportional to the effort you put into pedaling. E-pedal bikes do not have a throttle option.
Key Differences
- Motor Activation:
- E-Bike: Can have both pedal assist and throttle options.
- E-Pedal Bike: Only has pedal assist, no throttle.
- Riding Experience:
- E-Bike: Offers flexibility with both assisted pedaling and throttle-based riding.
- E-Pedal Bike: Encourages continuous pedaling for motor assistance.
- Regulations:
- In some regions, throttle-controlled e-bikes might face stricter regulations or different classifications compared to purely pedal-assist bikes.
- Battery Usage:
- E-Bike: Throttle usage can drain the battery faster since it doesn’t require pedaling.
- E-Pedal Bike: Typically more efficient in battery usage since it always involves pedaling.
I have an E-Pedal Bike and still get looked down by gravel riders:) My bike was provided for me by my boss so I didn’t get much say about what type I would prefer. I also live at an elevation of 600m so it would be challenging to switch to normal bike although I’m tempted to get an MBT bike just to test myself 🙂
The Convenience Factor: While both hiking and cycling offer immersion in the great outdoors, e-bikes bring unparalleled convenience. No longer confined by physical limitations, riders can traverse greater distances, climb steeper slopes, and cover diverse terrains without exhaustive effort. To compare I am able to walk up to 6 km within 2 hrs on slight incline but with an e-bike I am able to cover up to 40km… On the other hand unless I make a pit stop I don’t feel the special connection to nature that hiking gives me.
Embracing Accessibility: E-bikes democratize outdoor adventures, inviting enthusiasts of various fitness levels and abilities to partake in the joy of exploration. This inclusivity opens gateways for those previously deterred by the physical demands of traditional hiking, encouraging a broader audience to engage with nature in meaningful ways. All you have to do is set your program and pedal away. However don’t be mistaken. When riding an Pedal Assisted Bike (Pedelec) you will still have to use your legs a lot especially on the incline. I learnt it the hard way by sliding downhill when the bike stalled midway….a very painful lesson indeed.
The engine powers up the back tire so I do not recommend starting your journey on the highest setting until you are more experienced and you need to go up a hill or so.
Preserving the Essence: Despite the shift from hiking boots to e-bike pedals, the essence of the journey remains unchanged as you will still be using your legs mostly. The connection with nature, the awe-inspiring landscapes, and the sense of accomplishment persist, albeit with a new perspective and method of travel. The beauty of the surroundings remains just as breathtaking, offering moments of serenity and awe to those embracing this modern excursion providing you include lots of pit stops to take it all in.
Riding an e-bike, the basics:
Most e-bikes will have 4 levels:
-Eco
-Tour
-Sport
-Turbo
Eco is pretty much reserved for flat terrain or downhills. Tour let’s you go a bit faster on a flat road and very light inclines. For anything else like off roading and hills you will need Sport or Turbo. Of course the last two will drain the battery much faster. Currently I have a second hand bike and I’m able to ride up to 53km on a single charge which equals to like 3 hours.
Now the cost of an e-bike will depend on a type you choose. You can easily buy a second hand one but make sure it’s from a trusted place or you know what to look out for. The most expensive part of the bike will be the akku.
Are there any cons of owning an e-bike? Well except for the obvious ones being hated by almost every other bike rider there are few things to consider.
With an E Pedal bike you will be limited by the capacity of your akku. It’s possible to still ride your bike with the akku off or empty, but it’s not an easy task especially uphill.
E Bikes are much heavier than average MBT or road bike. Mine weighs whooping 25kg and I had to buy dumbbells to train just so I am able to lift my bike.
E Bikes are more expensive and on top of the usual maintenance aka tires, chain and brakes you also have to look after the motor and akku. My motor broke down two months ago when I was about to get on a ferry to Switzerland 🫣. Luckily the shop didn’t charge me for the repair as otherwise the bill would have been rather hefty.
Conclusion: Swapping hiking for an e-bike journey definitely widened my exploration options as I am able to reach further distances in less time. The workout for my legs also finally pays off and I’m able to scoff more doughnuts down without feeling guilty 🙂 I also feel like cycling helps with my focus as I need to stay more alert than I would during my hikes. I am absolutely in love with cycling now but will be incorporating more walks into my adventures for better connection to the nature!
Keep on exploring!
Trekking Sparrow 