Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are becoming an increasingly popular choice for commuters and leisure cyclists due to their affordability and environmental benefits. Costing around 5p per mile to run (excluding depreciation) and emitting just 2g of CO₂ per mile—about 1/100th of a typical car’s emissions—e-bikes present an efficient alternative to traditional transport methods. In the UK, their speed is limited to 15.4 mph, and depending on battery size and terrain, they can travel between 30 to 60 miles on a single charge.

Choosing an E-Bike Motor

One of the key considerations when purchasing an e-bike is the type of motor. There are three main options: front hub, rear hub, and centre drive motors, each with distinct advantages.

• Front Hub Motor: The simplest option, requiring minimal maintenance and offering even weight distribution if the battery is positioned at the rear. However, traction can be an issue, particularly on slippery surfaces, and the altered handling may take some getting used to.
• Rear Hub Motor: Provides a more natural cycling feel, as propulsion comes from behind. This setup offers better traction, making it particularly useful for uphill riding or in wet conditions. However, concentrating both the motor and battery at the rear can create a weight imbalance, which might make handling and maintenance more challenging.
• Centre Drive Motor: The best choice for tackling hilly terrain and maximizing efficiency. By placing the motor at the bike’s centre, weight is evenly distributed, resulting in stable and predictable handling. This system is also highly efficient, as it works with the bike’s gears to optimize power usage. However, centre drive motors tend to be more expensive and can cause additional wear on the drivetrain, requiring more frequent maintenance.

When selecting a motor type, it’s important to consider personal needs and riding conditions. A front hub motor may suffice for flat terrain and budget-conscious buyers, while those seeking a more traditional ride feel might opt for a rear hub. For performance and efficiency, particularly on steep inclines, a centre drive motor is the best option.

Cost of Running an E-Bike

While e-bikes are an economical alternative to cars, the bulk of their running costs come from maintenance and servicing rather than electricity. Routine expenses include brake adjustments, tire replacements, and chain lubrication, with estimated maintenance costs of around £50 per year. For a casual rider covering 1,000 miles annually, this equates to approximately 5p per mile.

Electricity costs are relatively minor. In the UK, electricity is priced at around £0.17 per kWh. A standard 500Wh (0.5kWh) battery costs about £0.085 per full charge and provides an average range of 45 miles. This translates to about 0.19p per mile, making electricity a negligible part of the total running cost.

When combined, maintenance and electricity bring the total cost to about 5.19p per mile making e-bikes an extremely affordable form of transport.

Parking and Congestion

E-bikes also offer significant advantages when it comes to parking, congestion, and noise pollution. Unlike cars, which require designated parking spaces and contribute to traffic jams in cities, e-bikes can be easily stored in small spaces, bike racks, or even indoors. Many urban areas now have dedicated bike lanes, allowing riders to bypass traffic and reach their destinations faster. This not only reduces congestion but also decreases air and noise pollution caused by idling and slow-moving vehicles, making cities quieter and more pleasant places to live.

Environmental Impact: E-Bike vs. Car

E-bikes are a much greener alternative to cars. Although the UK’s electricity grid still produces some emissions, it is becoming more eco-friendly. A typical e-bike battery uses 0.5kWh per full charge, and with a carbon intensity of 200g CO₂ per kWh, this equates to 100g CO₂ per full charge.

Over a 45-mile range, this means an e-bike emits only 2.22g CO₂ per mile. This makes e-biked ultra-ultra low emission.

In comparison, a petrol car emits around 193g CO₂ per mile, making it about 87 times more polluting than an e-bike. This vast difference makes e-bikes an excellent choice for anyone looking to lower their carbon footprint while also cutting transport costs.

E-Bikes as a Smart Transport Choice

E-bikes offer a practical blend of cost savings, environmental benefits, and ease of use, making them an excellent alternative to traditional vehicles. Whether for commuting, exercise, or leisure, they provide an efficient and sustainable transport solution. The choice of motor depends on individual needs, but all e-bikes help reduce travel costs and carbon emissions, making them a smart and eco-friendly option for modern transportation.