Buying an e-bike is a big purchase for many people, so you want to be well informed in advance about how an e-bike works. In this article you will find answers to the 10 most frequently asked questions about e-bikes.
How fast can an e-bike go?
An e-bike is allowed a maximum of 25 km/h, while most e-bikes could actually go faster. The law in the Netherlands stipulates that e-bikes that can go faster than 25 km/h fall under the name ‘speed pedelec’.
Cycling on a speed pedelec has a number of extra rules, such as wearing a helmet, a mirror on your bike and a yellow license plate.
How far can you cycle on a full battery?
The range of an e-bike is the number of kilometers you can cycle on a full battery with pedal assistance. This range differs per e-bike, but most e-bikes have a range between 40 and 80 kilometers.
There are also e-bikes with batteries that last much longer. For example, the Koga PACE B10 has a range of 70 to 150 kilometers so that you can also make longer tours on your e-bike.
How often should I charge the e-bike?
How often you have to charge the e-bike depends on the range described above. Still, it is smart to put the bike on the charger every time you come back from a bike ride, so that you always cycle away with a full battery.
How much maintenance does an e-bike need?
The maintenance of an e-bike depends on a number of things. You have to take good care of your bike yourself and you can opt for an annual maintenance. This also checks the software and the bicycle mechanic checks the condition of your battery.
How long does a battery last?
On average, the battery of an electric bicycle lasts about 5 years. Of course, this also depends on the brand of battery, the use and maintenance that you perform on the bicycle.
You will notice that the battery life is almost at the end if the battery no longer fully charges, or you can cycle less with a full battery.
Can you also cycle with an empty battery?
You can cycle with an empty battery, but keep in mind that the bicycle is heavier in itself and you therefore have to carry more weight. As a result, it can be a little harder to pedal, but this is not so bad with the latest e-bikes.
Can you always cycle on an e-bike?
Yes, you do not need a driver’s license to cycle on an e-bike. You do need this for a speed pedelec (up to 45 km/h).
Do I have to wear a helmet when I cycle on my e-bike?
No, a bicycle helmet is not mandatory on an e-bike. However, more and more people seem to be in favor of a helmet requirement because of the high speed of the e-bikes and the traffic on the road.
What is the best e-bike?
The best e-bike is difficult to determine, there are some electric bicycles that are very good, but also have a high price tag. The Gazelle Paris C7 on the other hand, is an excellent e-bike with a relatively low price and therefore a very popular choice.
What should you pay attention to when buying an e-bike?
When purchasing an e-bike, look at the range, support levels, whether the battery is replaceable, how much power the motor has, what weight the e-bike has and of course how much the bike costs.