Are Trek E-Bikes Waterproof?

July 29, 2021

A Trek electric bike is ideal for heavy riders and commuters who need a little boost and don’t want to sacrifice performance. But they are a substantial investment, so many people want to know if they’ll be able to protect it from the rain, snow, and even during washing.

Trek Bikes doesn’t specifically state that their electric bikes are waterproof. However, they clearly indicate that their batteries are waterproof. And they tell you not to submerge electronic components in the water or you may lose your warranty.

So what does this mean exactly? It means that there are a few more questions that need to be asked in order to protect your expensive electric bike from being damaged by water.

I’m answering them here, so keep reading.

Are Trek E-Bikes Waterproof or Water-Resistant?

It’s not easy to determine if Trek E-bikes are technically waterproof or not.

Trek uses lots of high-quality parts (such as Bosch and Bontrager) and their reputation is staked on providing bikes people love. So, they’ve sealed all of the important parts and typically use better-than-average components to build their bikes.

This ensures that Trek e-bikes are water-resistant and weather-proof.

If you’re concerned that you’ll be riding in a rainy or snowy area, you can be certain that Trek expects your e-bike to get wet. So, you can ride comfortably knowing that you have one of the best electric bikes there is.

You only have to check out the shop on their site and you’ll find any number of waterproof accessories to go along with your e-bike. And there are a number of apparel products to keep you from getting wet (such as waterproof shoe covers and gloves).

If you’re looking to waterproof your bike riding, take a look at these goodies from Amazon… waterproof pannier bags, phone wallets, and apparel (such as waterproof shoe covers and cycling gloves).

I recommend that you shop for waterproof bike accessories on Amazon (and not just because I’m an affiliate). You’ll definitely save money over shopping on an e-bike retailer site and loads of reviews can help you decide exactly what to get.

And then there’s the battery…

Is the battery on a Trek electric bike waterproof?

Trek Bikes claims that each electric bike has a waterproof battery. And, in all of my e-biking research, I haven’t found anything to suggest otherwise.

Trek e-bike batteries charge quickly and have an intelligent battery system that securely locks in all the power while you’re riding. This also suggests that the battery on any Trek bike is waterproof.

Check out all of the high-quality, sleek, & sporty Trek e-bike models like the one below!

Black with red and yellow E-Caliber 9.8 XT electric bike — Super cool Trek E-Caliber 9.8 XT… Love the colors!

Most of their bikes even have batteries sealed in a case which gives me more confidence that they are indeed waterproof. Being enclosed in the frame also helps the battery blend in and looks pretty sleek… definitely a perk!

But, a couple of their least expensive models, the Trek Verve+2 and the Verve+2 Low-Step, don’t have these cases. This doesn’t mean that the batteries aren’t waterproof, however. It just means that they look like batteries attached to your e-bike.

In other words, they’re just like many other electric bike brands on the market who want to offer less expensive bikes by lowering the costs of manufacturing.

Get the tips you need to take care of your e-bike’s battery

Can You Ride a Trek E-Bike in the Rain?

Riding a Trek e-bike in the rain is totally acceptable. High-quality Trek bikes have electric systems built to handle getting wet.

For example, Trek tells you that their bikes, like the Domaine+ models, can handle rain and snow. But it does come with a warning… just make sure you don’t submerge any of the electric components, including the battery, motor, and controller.

Doing so can break your warranty as well as leave you with a rusting electric bike and battery that has non-working electric parts. Every Trek e-bike will have this stipulation, so it’s good to keep in mind.

Purple high-end electric road bike — Trek Domane Electric Road bike

Riding safely in the rain

You’ll also want to make sure you stay safe when you ride your e-bike in the rain. Rain can cause roads to be slippery, especially if you’re riding where cars have left oil and grease in your path.

There are some ways to be cautious, however:

Water certainly won’t hurt the tires and it’s best to lower your tire pressure if you’ll be riding in the rain or snow. This will help your tires have more contact with the ground, thus giving you more grip. Velonews suggests you decrease your tires by 10 psi or so if you’ll be riding a road bike fast.

Of course, this depends on your bike and its tires and inner tubes and inner tubes. I can decrease my own Rad Mini e-bike’s tire pressure from 30 psi to 10 psi and still ride it… but I only do this when riding on bumpy or slippery terrain. This seems like a whole lot but don’t confuse electric bike tires with auto tires (they’re not the same).
Make sure you have a working headlight and brakelight (Amazon)
Be prepared with the waterproof gear you need to stay safe and comfortable. For instance, have a good pair of rain-proof non-slip gloves (Amazon) so you can keep in control of your electric bike.

Black waterproof bike riding gloves — These waterproof gloves by ShowersPass will keep hands warm and dry. And your grip won’t slip, even in the rain (Amazon link)

Concern over riding your Trek electric bike in the rain is as much about keeping you and your bike safe from accidents as it is about being waterproof!

Learn more e-bike safety tips here!

How Do You Wash a Trek E-Bike?

Even though Trek E-Bikes, like most electric bikes, are water-resistant, they require caution when washing.

If you want to wash down your e-bike, the main thing you should know is to avoid using high water pressure. Don’t directly spray any electric parts and only use a light spray on the rest of the bike.

Check your hose nozzle before you point it towards your e-bike. And DON’T wash it with a high-powered hose as in the picture here:

Electric bike being washed with high-pressure pump, which isn't a good idea — Never wash your e-bike like this! High-pressure water can damage the electrical components.

However, the best way to clean your electric bike regularly is without water. Just take a dry or slightly damp rag and wipe down your bike after each ride. Use only light pressure on delicate parts.

As an alternative to hosing down your e-bike, you can just purchase a bike wash that can be easily sprayed (Amazon) on selected areas.

Trek suggests using a chain cleaner and lube (Amazon) instead of washing your chain with water. And find brushes made specifically for bikes so that you don’t scratch or damage your frame or any parts.

cheerful-senior-man-white-beard-hair-washes-his-bicycle — This is the proper and safe way to wash your electric bike: Wipe it down instead of spraying it with a high-pressure hose.

Find out more about taking care of your e-bike in our step by step maintenance guide!

Are Electric Bikes Waterproof?

In general, electric bikes are not considered waterproof. But, like any traditional, non-electric bike, they are weather and water-resistant.

Most e-bikes can withstand moderate rain and light spray thanks to having sealed electric components.

You can be sure this holds true with higher-quality electric bikes, like Trek. But each e-bike is built differently and with variable quality parts. Some are very cheaply made and may not be as durable when getting wet as others.

And even though parts are protected, large amounts of water (such as a splash from a huge puddle) could still damage the electrical system on your bike.

After all, the real concern is about protecting the electric components. There are a few ways you can do this:

Make sure your e-bike is in good working order and that the motor and battery are free of cracks and chips so that no water, or moisture, can enter
Avoid large puddles formed by rain
If you need to use water (such as after you’ve been riding in the sand and salt spray at the beach), wash your e-bike carefully. Do not wash using direct water pressure (instead, follow the instructions on washing your Trek e-bike above).
Dry off your bike immediately afterwards with a soft rag, paying particular attention to the electric components and metal parts, such as the chain

Are Trek e-bikes any good? Even if they’re not waterproof?

Even though Trek e-bikes aren’t really waterproof, they’re built to withstand water-damaging elements, including rain, snow, or small amounts of water during washing.

Trek seals all important parts, including bearings in the bottom bracket and cables.

The benefit of having sealed bearings is they will stay cleaner for longer because there is less dirt and dust getting in them. So your e-bike will be a little easier to maintain too.

The truth is, Trek is a high-quality bike brand, so it’s unlikely you’ll be disappointed getting one, even it’s not completely waterproof!

Choose your Trek e-bike here!

Do I Need Insurance for an Electric Bike? (The Truth Explained)

Lisa Sylvester

July 25, 2021

As electric bikes become more common, the question of whether you need insurance for your electric bike is being heard more and more. And with good reason.

Do you even know if your homeowner’s insurance covers your electric bike if it’s stolen or damaged? Or whether you’re protected if injured while riding?

In general, you need electric bike insurance if the monetary value of your bike is higher than the cost of the insurance plus deductible. And you may want insurance if you won’t be able to buy a new e-bike without the insurance payment.

However, if you’ve ever shopped for insurance, you know how confusing it can be as well as how costly! Read the article to find out what it takes to insure your e-bike, how much it will cost… and if you even really need it.

Plus, is your e-bike already covered by your homeowner’s or renter’s policy?

I’ve answered these questions below, so read on!

Are Electric Bikes Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

A question often asked is whether or not an electric bike will be covered by homeowners insurance in the event that it’s stolen, damaged, or otherwise rendered unusable.

To answer this question, we must first understand a few things about how homeowners insurance typically works:

Homeowners insurance is a policy designed to protect the homeowner and their family from financial disaster
Typically, homeowners insurance policies will cover all sorts of disasters that might happen at home – including theft or damage of property, as well as personal injuries that occur on the premises
Do these same rules apply for electric bikes? Yes and no. In short: it’s complicated!

Bike insurance on a comprehensive homeowners policy

A comprehensive homeowners insurance plan generally provides protection against any type of loss you could incur, including theft or damage of personal belongings such as an electric bike.

However, it’s not that simple.

Many homeowner’s plans have limits on what they will pay out on valuable items. So, if you have a $5000 ebike stolen, your insurance may only cover up to $500. Therefore, you’ll only get compensated for $500 instead of the full $5000.

But many companies allow you to add an insurance rider to your plan that provides higher limits of coverage for your bike. This will increase the cost of your policy and there may be a separate deductible for just the bike.

So, it’s not right to assume that your electric bike will be covered in full automatically. Further, depending on how they rate your electric bike, they may not cover it at all. Most policies only cover electric bikes that are 750W or less. And then they may have additional rules as well.

Finally, if you’re like me and you have a very high insurance deductible ($5000!), your insurance might not even kick in if your e-bike is stolen. In this case, an electric bike would need to be worth $5200 or more before I’d get any payment at all.

And that’d only be if my electric bike is covered in the first place.

Filing a claim for your e-bike on your homeowner’s insurance

Don’t assume that just because your electric bike is covered by your homeowner’s insurance that putting in a claim will pay for it.

Let’s look at an example.

First, as mentioned above, you’ll have to meet your homeowner’s insurance deductible, which is typically $500 to $1000 or more. If you paid $1500 for your e-bike and your deductible is $500, then you’ll have to pay one-third of the cost of a new bike out of your own pocket if it’s stolen or damaged.

Yes, it’ll be nice to have the insurance company pay the other $1000 for a new e-bike. However, it’s possible you may then be penalized for filing a claim.

Some companies will increase your premium going forward. Now they see you as someone who files claims and is more likely to do so again. Yep, you’ve just been dubbed as “higher risk”.

And, if you’ve had other claims on your insurance, there’s even the chance of getting dropped from the policy (because they believe you’ll continue to be a risk).

Bottom line:

Insurance companies are in it for big profits… not because they care about you getting a new electric bike.

Reasons You Need Electric Bike Insurance

In general, if your bike is worth more than $1000, e-bike insurance may be worth the cost (and reduced stress of something happening to it). If it’s worth less than $1000, paying for insurance can be hard to justify.

The first thing to know is that e-bikes insurance is generally not required by any of the 50 states in the US. Nor is e-bike insurance included through your auto policy (this isn’t even an option!).

So, you can legally ride your electric bike without any type of insurance (but what about a license!). However, there are plenty of other laws and rules you need to be aware of.

But just because an e-bike insurance policy isn’t required doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get one. Even though staying safe on our electric bikes is our first priority, accidents do happen.

Are electric bikes really safe? Find out and get important safety tips.

Further, theft of e-bikes is common, especially since they’re worth more than a traditional bike.

So what you really need to do is to determine whether e-bike insurance is worth it for your situation. In order to do this, you need to carefully calculate the costs and benefits before purchasing a bike insurance policy.

Benefits of e-bike insurance

Because homeowner’s coverage on your bike may be limited, buying specialty bike insurance has benefits. These may include:

full replacement cost of the value of your e-bike
theft protection no matter whether it’s at home or away
coverage while your bike while it’s being shipped or in transit
coverage for added accessories and small parts
additional coverage for apparel worn while riding (say if it was damaged in an accident)
coverage for uninsured riders or drivers who injure you or damage your bike (you’re compensated if they don’t have insurance)
liability if you hurt someone or damage property while riding (may be an optional add-on)
coverage for medical payments (limited)
possible roadside assistance (optional)
limited bike rental reimbursement
reimbursement for some competitive event entry fees

Steps to getting ebike insurance

If you’re considering purchasing insurance for your e-bike, just follow the steps I used to get several quotes.

First, contact your current homeowner’s (or Renter’s) insurance.

Ask them whether they are currently covering e-bikes. If not, ask them how to get covered, what the cost would be, and whether there is an additional deductible.

Make sure you are clear about the value of your bike and tell them that it’s an electric bike. The coverage and costs could be quite different than for traditional, non-motorized bikes.
Next, get quotes from a variety of companies online that offer electric bike policies only.

Make sure to:

find out whether it covers your particular electric bike model – insurance companies may limit coverage to e-bike’s with up to 750W motors (like Veloinsurance).
learn what is and is not covered for each policy – does it just cover the bike or does it include liability insurance to protect you, the rider, as well? Some basic policies only cover the bike but offer optional liability coverage (thus, the large difference in price when compared).
inquire about the cost of the deductible – this is what you’ll pay out-of-pocket upfront (or possibly in installments) before getting reimbursed for loss by the insurance company.
ask if they have discounts – such as through AAA or even USA cycling or triathlon memberships.
get a premium quote that’s specific to your location (you’ll need your zipcode) and bike model – find out how much it will cost annually (over per month for one year); the good news is that this should be relatively small when compared to a homeowner’s insurance deductible.
ask how payment can be made – you need a company that works with you to pay premiums affordably… Can you pay per month? Use a credit card (so you can get points on what you spend)? Are you able to make an easy payment online?

3. Read reviews of each company you’ll consider before paying any one company!

By reading reviews on each company, you’ll hear from other bike riders about the coverage and how they handle claims.

Whether they pay claims without a hassle is a super important detail. After paying premiums month after month just in case something goes wrong, you want to make sure that you’ll be covered and taken care of if it does.

Here’s a list of companies that offer the specific electric bike insurance you need:

Cost of Electric Bike Insurance

Insurance costs will vary depending upon the value of your electric bike, its age, accessories added, previous claims, and the coverage you purchase. Basic e-bike policies can start at under $100.

Determining the cost of e-bike insurance is really the same as car insurance. If you buy the latest model Porsche for $80,000 instead of a $20000 Honda, you’re going to pay way more to insure your vehicle simply due to its value and the cost to replace it.

If you have a $9,000 electric bike as opposed to a $1500 one, you’ll pay more for bike insurance. This is because the insurance company will have to cover the much higher cost of your e-bike if it is stolen or destroyed.

Additionally, a higher-priced e-bike has higher-cost parts.

So, even if you just need to replace your motor and rear tire, it’ll end up costing the insurance company more than it would for a cheaper bike with cheaper parts.

How Do I Get Affordable Electric Bike Insurance?

The good news about electric bike insurance is that it’s affordable and readily available. You’ll get the best-priced policy for your situation if you shop around a bit.

It could cost less to buy an electric bike insurance rider with your renters or homeowners policy… but only if you have a very small deductible (which means that you’re paying even more for your insurance in the first place).

Ask about adding an endorsement onto your policy – it may be cheaper than buying standalone coverage. But it might not be the best option for you, as discussed above.

You’ll need some documentation in order to add an insurance “rider” onto your existing policy such as proof of ownership.

If you have an expensive e-bike but don’t want to pay too much for insurance, then look into insuring your bike with a higher deductible ($500 instead of $200, for example).

If you haven’t already purchased an electric bike, this is a good time to find out what brands of electric bikes are the least likely to need repairs or replacement. So, when you get insurance rate quotes, your bike insurance may be cheaper.

Alternatives to Buying E-Bike Insurance

If you decide that getting electric bike insurance isn’t right for you, then there are viable options to protect your bike and yourself.

If you haven’t bought an electric bike yet

If your e-bike comes with an extended warranty or purchase plan, then that will cover any repair needs in case something goes wrong. This is a great alternative to buying separate e-bike insurance.

Ask whether this is offered before you buy your e-bike. You may be at least able to protect your bike from theft or damage. This could be really useful if it’s an expensive model.

Some of the best electric bike companies offer warranties. However, if it doesn’t come with a warranty or you choose not to get coverage from the bike company… take the precautions I discuss below so that your investment stays safe.

If you’ve already purchased an e-bike

Unfortunately, bike theft is the most common claim processed through insurance companies. Fortunately, however, there are many ways to protect your e-bike and yourself before, after, and during your rides.

First, always lock your bike up securely

At home, keep it in a safe, locked-up location without easy access (such as hanging up in your garage). (such as hanging up in your garage).. Don’t just put it in your backyard or throw a tarp over it. Instead, keep it inside your home or garage or lock it up in an outdoor bike shed (Amazon paid link) or locked bike box.

Take a look at the best electric bike storage ideas:

Here are 6 solutions for the best e-bike storage for your home & garage!

If you want to keep it outside (without a locked shed), find a good place to secure it.

Lock it to a heavy metal pole that can’t be removed or cut. A wood or chain link fence won’t do… wire cutters or saws will get right through those.

And never lock it around a tree… thieves will not only take your expensive e-bike, but they’ll also cut down your beautiful tree to do so!

Read more for detailed e-bike storage safety ideas

Second, use the strongest bike locks

Not only do you want to make sure that you secure your bike with strong locks that can’t be easily removed or cut… using more than one at the same time is always a great idea!

Locking up your bike while out in public is a no-brainer, but only certain types of locks will protect your valuable electric bike (cable lock… no way!).

Chain Lock example for an e-bike — Chain style bike lock

Here are some of the most secure locks that can’t be easily held in one hand and cut:

U-lock– This heavy, u-shaped lock from Amazon is made of metal with a non-damaging rubber exterior. It’s wider and thicker than a cable lock. It fits somewhat awkwardly but snugly, so it’s harder to grab and cut.

Some of these locks do come with a cable as well, so at least using both will make it a little harder for a thief to steal your e-bike.
Heavy chain lock (on Amazon)- This is heavy and made with ultra-thick loose chain metal. So, it’s super hard to hold in one hand and cut with the other. It’s also generally long enough to wrap around different parts of your bike frame, which allows some flexibility in how to lock a bike.

I searched for the best-rated chain or u-locks and included them on my recommended gear list (see #6).

Read my 10 tips to prevent your e-bike from getting stolen!

Do I Need Electric Bike Rental Insurance?

If you rent an e-bike, you’ll still be held liable for damage to the bike or injury to others. Therefore, when riding a rental, you should strongly consider insuring it, even if it’s just for the day. That’s because damage to a rental bike might not be covered by the renter and it could lead to you paying for repairs out of pocket.

Some bike insurance companies will offer protection for rentals in limited circumstances. For example, Veloinsurance will provide some coverage but only if you’re riding in an “organized or competitive event more than 50 miles away from home.”

The best option is to inquire about rental coverage directly with the company you are renting from. Bike shops often rent out bikes as well as offer insurance for the day. But, it’s a good idea to check this out before you arrive at your travel destination.

Buying insurance will increase the cost of your e-bike rental substantially, but peace of mind may make it worth it in the end.

Conclusion: Do I Need Insurance for an Electric Bike?

If for no other reason than for your peace of mind, you need some type of insurance coverage on your electric bike (unless it’s a really inexpensive model). Do your research and find out what types of coverage are available in the area you live, as that tends to determine insurance costs.

Or, if you’re not riding very often and only go short distances (and you’ve secured your e-bike at home), then insurance may not be necessary at all.

Just remind yourself why you purchased an electric bike in the first place. You might’ve bought one specifically because it can go faster and a longer distance than traditional bikes. Both speed and distance increase your risk.

So, you may wish to add on extra liability protection from your homeowners or renters insurance provider, if offered.

Or, to be sure you’re fully covered for your priceless electric bike, consider purchasing specialized bike insurance. This will protect you from any accidents or theft outside of your home.

Are Electric Bikes Fun? (What Can You Do With an E-Bike?)

Lisa Sylvester

July 22, 2021

Electric bikes are the future. They are fun to ride, are environmentally friendly, and are good for your health too! Whether you’re looking for a way to commute or just want a fun activity, electric bikes offer something that traditional bicycles don’t.

Electric bikes are fun to ride because they provide many exciting things to do that you couldn’t do on a traditional bike or when walking.

I have used mine for many different purposes but enjoy it first and foremost because it’s fast, easy to ride uphill, convenient to hop on, and helps me burn calories and relieve stress.

But there are other things you can do with an e-bike for fun as well. After all, fun is what riding e-bikes are all about. In this article, you’ll discover all of the things you can do that makes having an electric bike fun!

Go Fast on an Electric Bike (for Fun and Convenience)

There’s nothing more exhilarating than zipping along on your electric bike with the wind in your hair. Truly, this is the number one reason I ride an e-bike. Not only can I get where I want to go fast, riding my e-bike fast is a way to relieve stress, clear my mind, and have fun!

And the reality is that I could never go that fast on a regular bike.

Although I ride a 750W bike that has pedal assist up to 20 mph, I can get the speed up to 25 mph on most straight paths without lots of pedestrians or traffic. My e-bike odometer clocks out at 28, so I can go even faster if I want to. So, you don’t need to ride a 1000W electric bike to go really fast!

And, even a 250 Watt electric bike can take you up to 20 mph with pedaling.

Think about how fast you go through a typical residential area. The typical maximum speed limit of 25 mph can easily be reached on your e-bike! Therefore, you can keep up with the cars.

Ride Up Hills Easily, No Sweat!

With my e-bike, I can now get anywhere I need (or want) to go. Getting out of my hilly neighborhood is a breeze. No major muscle strain and no sweating are involved!

Electric Gears make riding up hills easy on your e-bike

Going uphill is easy because electric bikes have batteries that send electric power to the bike motor to give you assistance when you pedal. As long as you pedal even lightly, you’ll get the assistance you need to tackle almost any hill.

Keep in mind, however, that the battery may not last long when going uphill because it requires more electric power. But you should still be able to go far on a fully charged battery.

Electric pedal assist gears especially come in handy on steep inclines that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to ride up at all. You’d typically get all but one or two pedal strokes up this type of hill without breaking a sweat!

Take advantage of your regular gears

But you can also use your regular gear shifts to get up steep hills. Many e-bikes have 7 speeds or more. So, downshifting (lowering) your regular gear shift (even 2-3 gears) will make it easier to ride uphill, even without electric assistance.

For example, I find that shifting gears when my legs are starting to get tired makes it easier to continue pedaling at a consistent motion without wanting to give up!

Get Groceries or Run Errands on an E-Bike (Fast and Easy)

Are electric bikes fun for running mundane, daily errands? Perhaps surprisingly, you can have fun while picking up groceries and personal items on an e-bike. It might take longer than going in a car, but you’re adding enjoyment and physical activity that you can’t get by driving a car.

Fun to ride all around town picking up what you need

Seriously, you can go to multiple shops and pick up what you need… without getting in your car! You’ll save money on gas, help the environment, get exercise, and have fun!

For example, I broke my reading glasses while working. Since I felt annoyed and couldn’t continue to see my computer, I decided to hop on my e-bike and go to the local drugstore to pick up another pair. I zipped 2 miles there and 2 miles back (after buying my glasses) in under 30 minutes! I got a much-needed break and my new reading glasses.

Easy to Carry

The best thing about running errands on an electric bike is that the items you buy can be easily carried home. Most e-bikes have multiple ways of carrying extra cargo. You can add accessories to your electric bike like a front rack, a rear rack, a front basket, a bag under your seat, or even a small bag tied to your handlebar (I use this option for my phone and credit card).

Once you have a rack, you can opt to tie your purchases down with bungee cords or, for more convenience, add a pannier bag, crate, or basket to it.

Orange electric bike with rear rack to carry groceries and other items.

Check out the recommended electric bike accessories you’ll need for a fun (and safe) ride.

See Points of Interest You’d Never See on a Traditional Bike (or Walking)

Riding an electric bike gives you the opportunity to see things you might never have been able to ride or walk to before… and see more of it!

I love to ride my e-bike on the same trails I can hike on. I get to see things from a different perspective, yet also know exactly where I’m going because it’s a familiar route.

In particular, I like riding my e-bike on trails because I can take in more scenic views or stop at natural areas for picnics or creature watching. And I won’t have worn myself getting there by walking!

Ride Your Electric Bike All Day

With my electric bike, I can now ride out 20 miles and not fear that I won’t have the stamina to get back home.

Riding an e-bike helps you go farther than you ever dreamed of on your regular bike. You can go on long bike paths and trails for perhaps 3-4 times as many miles as you could’ve (or would’ve) on your old bike. And easily 10 times as far as if you walked.

Travel to More Places

Being able to ride farther is a huge advantage while traveling as well. Take your e-bike with you or get an electric bike rental at your destination. You’ll be able to visit more museums, shops, and sites of interest than you ever would on foot, as well as on a traditional bike.

Plus, you’ll be able to avoid traffic in big cities and having to find a parking spot.

What does it cost to rent an electric bike? Find out!

Ride an Electric Bike for Fitness (and Have Fun While Working Out)

You won’t have to do challenging, hot and sweaty work-outs led by young athletes who never tire. Instead, you can have fun exercising at your own pace and level.

Honestly, I get a great workout anytime I want one, but I can also take it a little easier if I need to. After all, even healthy and physically active people have days where they’re unusually tired or recovering from illness or a stressful event.

And, more importantly, research has consistently found that people will ride longer on an electric bike than a regular bike. It can be so much fun riding an e-bike that you don’t even realize you’re exercising. Therefore, you’ll get more exercise than you even planned on.

Improve your cardio

Let’s face it, we know cardio exercise is important to our health. But it isn’t always fun! Well, I should say that it hasn’t always been fun. But now (I’m being serious here), exercising with an electric bike is fun!

And for those of you who don’t like to challenge yourselves physically, you can still improve your cardio functioning just by riding regularly… even if you don’t pedal hard!

Build muscle (and keep it !)

Riding an electric bike for exercise is also fun because you can see results, even though it may be gradual. Building muscle is a huge side benefit of riding an electric bike. And if you do it regularly, muscle gain is happening! This is important no matter what stage of life you’re in.

Read the essential guide to e-bike health and fitness here.

Ride Your E-Bike with Friends

I’ve been taking mental notes on all of my friends who are getting electric bikes. I mean, how fun will it be to ride with a big group of friends?!! I’m imagining a day ride by the coast where we stop for a picnic on the beach and then perhaps for appetizers at a local hotspot at the end of the day.

This is truly something you can do with friends because everyone can keep up with each other. No one gets left behind on an e-bike! And no one needs to get frustrated waiting for others to catch up (although if you’re in a big group, there’s still bound to be one person who leads the pack).

Join an electric bike group

If you don’t have any friends with e-bikes yet (you probably do… just ask and you’ll be surprised), consider joining an electric bike group. These may be limited in your area, but you can always start one.

Go on a bike tour with a group of friends

You’ve heard of cycling tours? Typically, these are for advanced, athletic bike riders that ride hard day after day. However, e-biking tours are generally more suitable for the average rider. And they’re getting more popular because they are less strenuous but still allow tour riders to see so many interesting things along the way.

Fortunately, there are more and more electric bike tours being offered. Check the local area bike shops to see if they offer any that might be more fun in a group.

Or, if traveling to a destination, plan ahead to rent an electric bike or travel with your electric bike. Find out which tours are available and make a reservation. You won’t have any fun if the tours are booked once you get there!

Check out the ultimate guide to traveling with your electric bike!

Get Seniors and People with Disabilities Riding an Electric Bike Too!

Almost anyone can ride an electric bike, which simply isn’t true of a standard bike. E-bikes are perfect for seniors or those with disabilities. Thanks to the electronic pedal assistance, cycling is just easier!

And e-bikes can benefit these groups of people in several ways.

Electric bikes help obese riders, riders with injuries or chronic pain as well as those who have trouble pedaling or have other disabilities that limit their physical activity. And, e-bikes can be used as a means of transportation or exercise, as well as just for recreation and fun.

If you’re concerned about being able to balance on a two-wheel bike, consider riding a 3-wheel electric trike.

It’s helpful to understand that electric bikes give seniors and disabled individuals the flexibility to stay independent. Seniors can ride to visit friends and keep their social lives active. While, for example, those with disabilities can get to work and take care of their own errands.

Senior woman in red dress riding an electric bike for fun.

Discover the pros and cons of seniors and electric bikes.

Electric Bikes are Fun for Athletes Too

Just because seniors and others with physical limitations can ride e-bikes doesn’t mean that they aren’t great for more athletic people as well. If you enjoy getting active or even pushing your limits, then electric bikes can provide the same thrill as other sports or workouts.

If you consider challenging yourself to be fun, then here’s an idea:

Try riding without any electric power assistance (switch your gear off or to its lowest assist level). This is a great way to build muscle and get your heart rate up. Yet, you still have the reassurance that you can increase electronic assistance at any moment.

Because I also like to challenge myself, I often do a multi-purpose ride. Riding my e-bike to get fresh air, relieve stress, get cardio, build muscle, and have fun can literally be accomplished in 45 minutes to an hour, so like many workout classes offered. Even better, however, is that I don’t have to take the time to drive to a class (and wait for it to start) or spend money on gas.

So, as a work-at-home entrepreneur, I hit my “absolutely can’t sit anymore” limit frequently. So, when I feel about to jump out of my skin, I can take a ride that provides many benefits all at once.

This is a great strategy if you spend a lot of time sitting or working behind a computer but are still athletic. Your e-bike is always there for you… and it’s easy (and fun!) to hop on.

Commute to Work or School (Just for Fun!)

Electric bike riding just makes commuting more fun. One reason for this is that you’ll have more energy at work and then again after work thanks to raising your heart rate and getting fresh air (and maybe even time to think).

But you won’t get to work all sweaty (unless you try to by riding super hard or it’s really hot)!

And, not only does it save time by getting there faster but also saves money on gas as well (personally, I think saving money is fun).

What else is fun about commuting on an e-bike? Parking is easy! You won’t have to search for a spot, fight for it, or pay for it. Most office buildings have bike racks in front or nearby. And if you work in a small shop, you may even get permission to bring your bike inside with you.

Just make sure your e-bike doesn’t get stolen by locking it up securely and learn how to stay safe while riding your electric bike through traffic and around pedestrians.

Find out how to stay safe while riding an electric bike.

Are Electric Bikes Fun for Everyone?

After reading this article, I certainly hope your only answer is “yes”! There are so many things you can do with electric bikes that make them fun. They are perfect for exercise, commuting, leisure, running errands, and so much more.

Their versatility is why they’re great for seniors, active adults and teenagers, adults who ride to work or for recreation, and even disabled individuals. The truth is, e-bikes have a greater purpose than a regular bike could ever have.

Make sure to try out several of the fun things you can do with e-bikes that were mentioned above.

For example, join in on group rides or tours with friends (either in person at home or while traveling); challenge yourself to get fit by riding regularly, make a habit of riding your electric bike to get groceries, ride fast when it’s safe to do so, and ride up a steep hill or two (just because you can!).

How Fast Does a 1000W Electric Bike Go? (Wattage Compared!)

Lisa Sylvester

July 17, 2021

Electric bikes are an outstanding way to get around town, get some exercise, and enjoy the fresh air. But not all electric bikes are created equal! Your ride experience, not to mention how fast you can go, is greatly dependent on the power your e-bike is able to generate.

On average, a 1000W (1000 watt) electric bike will go up to 35 mp/h (56.32 km/h) over flat terrain with pedaling. This speed can differ depending on changes in terrain and weather.

Speed depends a lot on wattage! Today I’ll show you how fast 1000W electric bikes go in various situations. These situations will affect the speed of all e-bikes, regardless of their wattage. So if you’ve ever wondered, “How fast does a 1000W electric bike go?”, read on and I’ll tell you what you need to know.

Cyrusher XF650 1000W Electric Bike with yellow tire rims — Cyrusher XF650 1000W Electric Bike

Electric Biking Speed: How Fast Is an E-Bike?

Having an electric bike, or e-bike as they’re also called, can change the game for a lot of people when it comes to exercise, commuting, and recreation. These speedy bikes are great for getting you where you need to go fast, without the slog of having to pedal hard over rough hills or long distances. But how fast do they really go?

Basically, an electric bike can go as fast as you can pedal it. But, depending on its power, you’ll only receive pedal assistance up to 20mph to 28mph for most bikes. At this point, the motor cuts out and you’ll only go faster if you are pedaling hard.

However, while we now know that the top pedal-assisted speed of a 1000W electric bike is 35 mp/h (56.32 km/h) on a level road, there is still the question of how fast can it really go in different situations.

Before we look at how variations in riding will affect your speed, keep in mind that pedaling (versus not pedaling) can make a big difference, too. You can always opt to just use the throttle that is on most high-watt e-bikes. But you will be able to go faster if you pedal as well.

I highly recommend pedaling more often than not. Not only will you get the health benefits, but you’ll also get an extra boost of speed along the way, making your ride faster and more fun!

One thing is for sure, a 1000W pedal assist bike is not for kids of any age.

How does the terrain affect an e-bike’s speed?

First and foremost, the top speed of an electric bike will depend on where you’re riding it! Rough terrain and hills can slow you down. However, it’s important to note that a 1000W e-bike is more than powerful enough to take you just about anywhere fast. So, let’s take a look…

Can electric bikes climb steep hills? (Uphill terrain)

Going uphill (and downhill) can drastically change the speed of your ebike. It’s important to note that uphill rides won’t just be slower, they’ll also drain your battery faster. So even if you’re fine with a slower uphill ride, plan on the battery shortening your trip if you’ll be riding lots of hills.

Even with the added pain of losing some battery charge on the uphill climb, today’s e-bikes are made to tackle these variations in incline. After all, many cities aren’t flat. So, electric bike manufacturers have taken terrain into consideration, making most of them powerful enough to climb even steep hills.

So how fast does a 1000W electric bike actually go uphill?

Electric bike riders have found that when going uphill, without pedaling, a 1000W bike will go between 20-25 mp/h (32-40 km/h) on a small hill and 15-20 mp/h on a steep hill (24-32 km/h).

That’s significantly slower than its maximum speed of 35 mp/h.

Man riding e-bike uphill on rough terrain

Pavement and asphalt speeds will be faster than dirt trails or unpaved roads, but on average, the difference in speed shouldn’t be too large as long as your path is smooth enough for casual biking.

To give yourself some extra oomph on the uphill, consider your riding position. To be more aerodynamic, lean forward as you ride upward.

As we said before, pedaling can increase your speed and battery life while also providing great cardio exercise without the monumental effort of manually pedaling the entire way up.

Read here to find out more about getting exercise on an e-bike.

How fast can an e-bike go downhill? (Downhill terrain)

Where uphill is hard, downhill is where the fun is at. There isn’t anything quite like speeding down a hill with the wind in your hair!

It’s hard to determine how fast a 1000W electric bike can go downhill because you won’t be using the motor. Instead, you’ll be coasting. Therefore your speed will depend on your weight, the weight of the bike, the weight of whatever you are carrying, and your tires. The heavier everything is, the faster you’ll go!

One fun fact is that some types of e-bikes use regenerative braking, which means that the battery will actually charge when going downhill. Not all electric bikes have this feature, but if you’re one of the lucky ones that have a bike with regenerative braking, then the recharge on the downhill can help even out the extra battery drain on the uphill.

Dirt and gravel paths

Whether an electric bike can take you over dirt and gravel quickly will depend first on whether it has the correct tires (like fat tires), and then on your e-bike’s watts. Because your path won’t be smooth, you will surely go slower. And the more bumps and loose dirt or gravel, the slower you’ll be able to go, even with a 1000W bike.

One other thing to consider… make sure your tire pressure is ideal for the terrain you’re conquering. Follow the manufacturer’s suggestion for tire inflation on the road versus on the dirt.

How does weather affect electric bike speed?

The second thing that can really slow down an electric bike is the weather. Rain, snow, heat, and cold all influence e-bikes and their speeds. As much as we wish for perfect riding weather every day, you need to prepare for everything that mother nature may throw at us.

Riding an e-bike in the rain (will it slow you down?)

Unless it’s a torrential downpour, rain won’t affect speed very much. It may surprise some riders to find that their e-bike goes just as fast in the rain, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take some extra precautions.

Waterproofing yourself and your e-bike is always a good first step in responsible ebike ownership. Modern e-bikes are water-resistant and experience no danger or slowdowns when riding in the rain, but there is a limit to how much they can take.

In deep water, not only do you lose speed, but you also risk damaging your bike and its electrical components. A good rule to follow is this: Splashing is fine, submerging is not.

An electric bike that has been submerged but still runs may permanently become slower. So if speed is something that you’re worried about, keep it out of deep water!

How fast can you ride an e-bike in the snow?

Snow can put a major damper on a quick e-bike ride. Even plowed roads and bike paths are destined to slow you down.

In order to get the best speed possible in the snow, good tire pressure and the right type of tires and inner tubes will go far. It may seem silly to buy a set of snow tires for just a few months out of the year. But if you use your e-bike for regular commutes, you’ll thank yourself later.

Studded snow tires not only allow for better speed but also better traction. If you live in a snowy climate and want to keep riding year-round, make the investment in snow tires.

A 1000W ebike is powerful and fast in general. So exercise caution when weaving in and out of traffic or biking through dangerous areas like cliffsides when there is snow on the ground. Don’t let your electric bike’s power and the icy roads get the best of you!

Take a look at how cold weather can harm your e-bike

Can heat impact your electric bike’s speed?

Electric bikes are great for when it’s too hot to be manually biking from place to place since they can do almost all the work for you. But did you know electric bikes can suffer losses in speed, performance, and battery life in extreme heat?

Warm weather is better for electric bikes than cold weather, but once you get above 115° F (46° C) the battery begins to degrade. A drained battery means a slower bike.

Most e-bike owners won’t be riding in heat that high, but there aren’t many things as unpredictable as the weather. If the heat begins to creep over 100° F (37° C), it’s a good idea for you and your bike both to take shelter until it cools down.

How does cold weather reduce an e-bike’s speed?

All batteries perform worse in the cold, and that includes electric bike batteries.

In order to keep your e-bike going as fast as possible, store it, or at least its battery, inside during the cold months.

Charge and store your battery between 50°F and 77°F (10°C and 25°C) indoors. Below this temperature, the battery will degrade. Failure to do so could render your battery useless, or put you in danger!

Take care of your battery with these tips!

Electric bike focusing on the battery in the middle of the bike.

Electric Bike Wattage (Compared!)

1000W electric bikes are unquestionably on the faster side of available electric bikes. If you’re considering whether such a high-power bike is right for you, it might be a good idea to compare the power of a 1000W e-bike with other options on the market.

A comparison of electric bike wattage:

250W: A 250-watt electric bike can go up to 20 mph (32.19 km/h) on flat ground. For many people, this is more than satisfactory to get you where you need to go. However, you will need to pedal harder to get to the top speed. Many lower-priced options can be found directly from Amazon and shipped quickly.

500W: A 500-watt electric bike can go up to 25 mph (40.23 km/h) on flat ground. If you will be using an electric bike for various reasons, including commuting and recreation, a 500W e-bike might be the perfect solution. There are still affordable choices and riding modest hills or over rough terrain won’t be a problem.

750W: A 750-watt electric bike can go up to 45 km/h (28 mph) on flat ground. If you’re willing to pay a little more (and your state allows 750W e-bikes), check out the different brands for your best options.

FYI: I ride a 750W RadMini from Rad Power Bikes and absolutely love it! This is a great recreational bike that can easily tackle hills and dirt paths at a good speed. I must also say that I can’t imagine riding anything faster… so I have no interest in a 1000W bike!

1000W: A 1000-watt electric bike can go up to 35 mph (56.32 km/h) on flat ground. Are you into racing? Or planning to do long-distance road riding? Or want to haul goods and/or a bike trailer? Then a 1000W electric bike could be really helpful for you!
1500W: A 1500-watt electric bike can travel at speeds of roughly 40 mph (64 km/h) over flat ground. Not surprisingly, a bike that can go this fast requires more caution than any other. Make sure you have a good reason for needing an e-bike that is this fast and can easily stay in control of it!

Why you should (or shouldn’t) buy a higher-watt electric bike

Even the lowest-wattage e-bike can go the recommended maximum of 20mph (32km/h). So what reasoning is there to pay more for a higher wattage electric bike?

Simply put, higher-wattage electric bikes are better workhorses. If you want to carry groceries, deliver food, or ride to school with a backpack full of books, that extra wattage is really going to help with the extra weight.

This also applies if your usual riding routes are full of hills. A 1000W electric bike is going to tackle a hilly commute with less effort than one with lower watts.

The most popular reason to purchase a 1000W bike compared to a less powerful one is traffic. If you plan on riding your electric bike on the road, especially highly traversed roads, then a 1000W or even a 1500W electric bike might be your best bet.

These higher-powered e-bikes can stay in line with traffic and keep up with most cars in neighborhoods. Of course, if you plan on riding your bike on the road with other commuters in cars, you’ll need to take more safety precautions.

It’s sometimes safer to ride a faster e-bike on the road than to ride a slower one. When you’re deciding on what wattage bicycle to purchase, carefully consider where you’re going to be riding the most. Then choose the bike that works best for you.

Find out how to choose an electric bike perfect for you!

Dangers Of Riding Your 1000W Electric Bike Too Fast

So now that you know that your electric bike can get some serious speed, even in less-than-ideal conditions, there is another question you have to ask yourself.

Is it safe to ride my e-bike at the maximum speed?

Most states in the US allow e-bikes to go a maximum of 20 mp/h (32 km/h) with electronic assistance. A 1000W electric bike can go faster than this speed and may be illegal to ride.

Even if these powerful e-bikes are allowed in your state and city, take extra caution and slow down around pedestrians and other riders.

Read more about the safety of e-bikes!

Three-tier classification of electric bikes

There are three classes of electric bikes. The first two classes can be ridden almost anywhere you can ride a regular bike, but the third class is mainly for road riding.

Class 1: E-bikes with only pedal-assist and no throttle, with a top-assisted speed of 20 mph.

Class 2: Electric bikes that are throttle-assisted and have a top speed of 20 mph.

Class 3: Pedal-assist only e-bikes with no throttle and a maximum assisted speed of 28 miles per hour.

As you can see, your 1000W bike might go faster than the max assisted speed of 28mph allowed in the 3 classes.

The bad news is that many countries and states (including a majority of states in the US) don’t allow you to ride an electric bike with over 750W… and some won’t allow more than a 250W e-bike! Check the laws in your area before deciding to purchase a high-wattage electric bike. And, ride such a powerful bike with caution, staying aware of your surroundings.

If you want to see how fast your electric bike can really go, stick to areas specifically made for racing. This will eliminate possible pedestrian casualties and other accidents.

In Conclusion

A 1000W electric bike is a powerful motorized bike that will take you far, even in rough terrain or less-than-stellar weather conditions.

These fast electric bikes have long-lasting batteries and durable motors to keep you on the road. But they aren’t really ideal for bike paths full of other cyclists or any other areas with numerous pedestrians. 1000W electric bikes are best for the road.

Check out the electric bike wattage compared section of this article to get a good idea of how fast each type of electric bike can go before you make your purchase. Additionally, consider the laws in your area.

With a maximum speed of 35 mp/h (56.32 km/h), a 1000W electric bike can be exceptionally fast. And with more speed comes more things to consider before each ride.

So if you ever wondered how fast does a 1000W electric bike go, I hope I’ve answered your questions. Have fun out there!

How Much Does it Cost to Ship an Electric Bike? (How to!)

Lisa Sylvester

June 28, 2021

If you’re moving across the country, taking an e-biking vacation, or are a college student who can’t leave your bike behind, then of course you want to know how to safely ship your electric bike. And, naturally, you won’t want to spend a fortune on shipping costs. But if you don’t want to end up with it damaged or lost in the mail, then you need to ship it properly, despite the cost.

On average, it costs a minimum of $100 to $200 to ship an electric bike within the US, depending on its size and weight, packaging, and destination. Shipping the battery will incur an additional cost.

Shipping Option	From	To	One-Way Cost
Bike Flights	Los Angeles, CA	Miami, FL	$143
Ship Bikes	Los Angeles, CA	Portland, OR	$102
Luggage Forward	Los Angeles, CA	Miami, FL	$189
FedEx	Los Angeles, CA	Seattle, WA	$119
Roadie (Gig Driving)	Nyack, NY	New York, NY	$96

These shipping charges don’t include a shipping box, insurance, packing expenses, or added battery fees.

Since there are many different ways to ship or transport your e-bike, and many other factors involved, it can be confusing when trying to figure out how much you’ll have to spend. Plus, there are many added costs including boxing, packing, insurance, and battery shipping.

In this blog post, I’ll point out all of these factors and charges so that you’ll know what it costs to ship an electric bike. No matter what the reason is!

How Much Does It Cost to Ship an Electric Bike?

The cost of shipping an electric bike will be higher than shipping a regular bike. This is because e-bikes generally weigh more and special considerations will be needed for the battery.

If you pack your own electric bike, you’ll pay additional for the weight and size of the package. And you’ll pay separately for packing materials like boxes or bubble wrap. If a store or service does it for you, though, rates for the packing could be reduced and included in the overall shipping.

Further, the shipping company will charge an additional fee for your e bike’s battery (read important details below about shipping “Dangerous Goods”).

Shipping companies and services will be priced differently, as well as offer a variety of services.

Let’s consider the various shipping options to find the best price.

Cost of Traditional Shipping Companies (UPS and FedEx)

You can ship your e-bike just like any package… well sort of. UPS and FedEx will ship it for you and charge you only for shipping if you do the packing yourself.

However, they also have a service that takes care of the packing. Either way, you’ll have to disassemble the bicycle completely yourself.

When you ship your electric bike with FedEx, here’s an example of how much it’ll cost just for shipping (you’ll pay additional for the packing materials or packing service):

Los Angeles > Miami, Florida

For 6 day shipping, you’ll pay around $168. However, to get it there in half the time, your cost will more than double ($472)!

Los Angeles > Seattle

You’ll pay $119 to get your e-bike to Seattle from Los Angles in 5 days, whereas 3 days will cost $287!

Cost to ship e-bike through FedEx — Cost to ship electric bike depends a lot on how quickly you want it to get to its destination.

E-Bike Special Handling Fee

Unfortunately, these high shipping costs are just the beginning. Both FedEx and UPS will add a “special handling fee” of $54 or more for air shipment of your lithium-ion battery since it’s designated as “dangerous goods”.

Plus, you may want to pay for insurance for your expensive electric bike.

Cost of Liability and Insurance

Make sure you understand how liability and insurance for damage to your e-bike is priced.

If you state a “declared value”, you will get covered for damage or loss up to the amount stated. This will be calculated into your total price (and is why you might be surprised to see a higher cost than expected)! When you state a “declared value of $1500, then UPS or FedEx is only liable to repay you for the loss up to that amount.

If you purchase insurance for shipping, you’ll be covered up to your insurance amount. So, if UPS damages your electric bike while in their care, you could be covered up to $5000 if you pre-purchased a policy for that amount.

Do you need e-bike insurance? Find out!

Electric Bike Shipping Services

Bike Flights

This is a good US shipping option that works directly with UPS. I like Bike Flights ease of use and clear costs. Plus, they make it very clear that, if you want to ship your electric bike with the battery “installed”, that you’ll need to get approval (you can contact their support to get information).

They also offer a box made specifically for the size and weight of an e-bike. The cost for the box is steep, however, at $149.

One other thing I like about them is that they offer clear instructions on how to assemble the box and ship your product.

Here’s an example of the shipping costs from Los Angeles to Miami, Florida.

The cost for shipping an electric bike from Los Angeles to Miami

ShipBikes

ShipBikes works with FedEx to get you a packing box that’s perfect for your bike and sends you the shipping label. You can get cardboard, hard plastic, and more, all at various sizes and weight limits (between 60 and 100 lbs).

Once you receive your box and pack your electric bike, you can drop it off at a local FedEx or Kinkos store.

ShipBikes recommends that you have it shipped directly to another FedEx or Kinko’s store because it’s cheaper, safer, and faster. You can purchase their shipping boxes from around $50 to $150 for a box made specifically for larger electric bikes with fat tires.

Shipping example:

Los Angeles > Portland, OR

Receive your electric bike in just 3 days for a cost of $102 (includes declared value protection of $1500).

Luggage Forward

Just as with the other shipping options, you can schedule your bike shipment online. Then they’ll come right to your door to pick it up (you can even leave it for them in a safe place). Or you can drop it off at a shipping location (which might be the safest option for your expensive electric bike).

This is a great option if you’re taking your e-bike roundtrip, for an extended vacation.

You will be expected to pack your bike in a “rigid” container for protection. Luggage Forward doesn’t offer boxes for sale but you can get your shipping container ahead of time from one of the above services or shipping companies.

Unfortunately, they won’t accept your lithium-ion battery. So you’ll still have to find another way to ship it.

However, they’re so sure that they’ll give you the cheapest way to ship your bike that they offer to match any other price you find. And, they’ll offer you $25 toward a future shipment.

You can ship your bike from Los Angeles to Miami over 5 days for $189 — Ship from Los Angeles to Miami in 5 days at a cost of $189 ($378 roundtrip + will need to buy the box separately)

Roadie (an interesting “shipping” option)

I’m just going to throw out another unusual opportunity since it is super easy… Roadie will transport your electric bike from one place to another in the USA.

You really don’t have to do anything but wait for someone to pick up your bike from home. And no expensive box is needed. The driver will put your bike in their car or truck and continue driving where they were going anyways… even if it’s a few states away (although see my NOTE below).

Your e-bike won’t have to go through handling at a variety of shipping locations and you are covered for damage through your declared value. The downside… this seems a little riskier to me when we’re talking about an electric bike, rather than a standard one. Will your electric components be well taken care of? Will they also transport your battery?

NOTE: Look into this thoroughly before you choose this option, especially based on where you are shipping from and to. There seem to be a lot of rules as to how far your shipment can be taken. Each state has its own rules regarding “gig” driving.

For example, California limits the delivery to only 50 miles within the state, whereas other states like New York limit it to 350 miles. Also, you may have to ship your battery separately.

How much does it cost to bring your electric bike on a plane?

If your electric bike weighs under 50 lbs, many airlines will charge you their checked luggage fee of $30-$40. However, if it weighs more than 50 lbs, you’ll typically pay more for the excess weight.

As for any luggage, the excess baggage fee can jump as high as $150 if your bike weighs even 51 lbs (removing the battery will help decrease the weight). Some airlines will allow your bike to be in place of another piece of checked luggage, so it’s possible that you might be able to bring it for free.

If you’re taking your e-bike on a plane with you, you might want to consider the cost before deciding which airline to fly. Some of them charge as much as $75-$100 to carry your electric bike.

Unfortunately, even though you can take your electric bike on an airplane, you can’t bring the battery with you. This is for everyone’s safety. Plan ahead to make sure your bike battery will arrive at your destination by the time you need it.

Check out our E-Bike Travel Guide for more info!

How Much Does it Cost to Ship an E-Bike Battery Separately?

Shipping your bike’s lithium-ion battery separately will incur an extra cost. Your total price will include shipping to it’s destination (with your declared value), the special handling fee for hazardous materials, and optional insurance.

Shipping the battery separately from the bike might be required by your shipper and/or you may have an extra backup battery for your e-bike as well. All lithium-ion batteries (which most e-bikes have) are considered “dangerous goods”. This is because charged batteries can occasionally overheat and start a fire. Clearly, special care is needed.

Here’s an interesting fact: The federal government requires specialized training for all “dangerous goods” shippers, as well as expects them to follow a detailed set of regulations. Not surprisingly then, the cost of training will be passed on to the shipper.

Can you ship an electric bike without the battery?

In many cases, shipping a lithium-ion battery in a separate package is a good idea, and will likely be required. You can’t just throw your e-bike’s battery in a mailer or in your backpack while boarding a plane! No matter how you decide to transport it, it’s still a hazardous material.

Plus, you need to pack it carefully.

To do this, make sure the battery terminals aren’t touching any conductive materials, such as metals and other batteries. If you’re shipping it yourself, you should cover the terminals with something non-conductive like rubber, wood, or plastic (and don’t forget to put it in a sealed, padded package for protection).

Packing and Preparing Your Electric Bike (Cheapest Way!)

Your electric bike is valuable and probably very special to you. So, truly the most important thing about shipping is to make sure it’s well-protected and gets safely to its destination.

But, understandably, packing and shipping it can be costly and there’s no harm in figuring out how to save money doing it.

Save money- Pack it yourself

You can definitely save money by packing your own e-bike. And as long as you do it correctly, then there’s no reason not to.

Disassemble your e-bike

Good news! You don’t have to take apart the entire bike. But what you need to remove will depend upon the box and company you’ll be shipping with.

However, you will probably need to remove, at a minimum, the front wheel, handlebars, pedals, and seat (but you may be able to just lower it, depending on the bike). You can do this with your bike multitool (paid link, Amazon)… or use the tool kit you assembled your e-bike with.

Another option is to ask your local bike shop if they can disassemble it for you. This will likely cost from $50-$75. Hint: They may even be able to ship it for you if they contract with a shipping company.

Find a cheap but sturdy e-bike shipping box

However, if your electric bike is an upscale model or holds sentimental value, then you still might want to pay more for a box from a bike shipping company that you have complete confidence in. The bike company can recommend the right box for your bike… and if they’re shipping it for you, they’ll want it to be well protected!

But here’s another idea that could save you quite a bit of money… ask a local bike shop if they have an extra shipping box. If you’ve shopped there before, or even purchased your electric bike from them, they may be willing to help you out. They might also charge you for it, but it’ll likely be far less than getting a new box.

Choose your bike box depending on weight and size — Most Electric bikes will fit in a box rated up to 95 lbs

Pack it carefully

As with packing anything valuable and/or delicate, you’ll want to do two things:

Secure any loose or moving parts
Wrap the bike to prevent scraping

Shipping your bike will end up costing you much more if you have to repair small scratches or bent parts that aren’t covered by insurance.

So use zip ties to secure parts that move such as the rear tire and wheel crank. Since it’s an electric bike, you should also make sure all of the electric wires are tied to the bike.

Then wrap the bike with bubble wrap or cushioning that’ll keep your metal frame and other delicate parts from scratching the box or each other. Add any extra cushioning needed surrounding it once in the box so that it doesn’t have room to move around.

Zip ties and bubble wrap (paid link, Amazon) will cost you an additional $15-$20 (if you don’t have any lying around!).

How to Ship an Electric Bike Overseas (International Costs)

Shipping an electric bike overseas has the same requirements as shipping locally. But it can easily cost $500 or so more than shipping within the United States.

You’ll pay more to ship internationally due to the distance and because of added duties and taxes. For example, Bike Flights will charge $695 to ship your bike from Los Angeles, CA to the UK. $99 of that includes extra fees, as seen below:

Cost to ship your electric bike internationally

Unless you’re into bike racing or touring, you might even decide that it isn’t worth it to ship your bike that far. If you’re moving overseas, and your e-bike is only worth $800-$1200, you might rather buy a brand new electric bike when you get to your new home.

If you’re traveling, then you can almost certainly rent an e-bike for much cheaper at your destination. Plus, it can be fun to try out different bike models.

Find out how much electric bike rentals cost here!

Conclusion

As you can see, costs to ship your e-bike can vary quite a bit. So, your best bet is to price out your different options well in advance of your need to ship!

I’d recommend finding the perfect box to fit your electric bike, getting an idea of how to pack it, and then deciding how to send it to where it needs to go.

Best Electric Bike Accessories (Travel & Camping Must-Haves)

Lisa Sylvester

June 7, 2021

Man sitting in front of electric bike with view of mountains

Choosing the best electric bike accessories for travel and camping can be a difficult task. It’s important to know what you need before you go so that you don’t have to worry about it when you arrive at your destination.

And, if you’re new to traveling with an electric bike, it’s helpful to recognize that you may require different accessories than you would for a regular bike.

The best electric bike accessories for traveling and camping are those that make your time away from home easier and safer. These include compatible electric equipment, repair tools, packing essentials, safety gear, and personal items.

As is typical with an electric bike, there’s a good chance you’ll be riding faster and longer distances during your travels than you would on a regular bike. I certainly do! You might also find yourself riding off-road or for miles with no service around.

Therefore, it’s important to take along the best accessories to help you truly enjoy your journey.

In this blog post, I’ll point out the essentials for electric bike riders and why they might be preferred (even if they’re not needed for regular bike riders).

Must-Have Electrical Accessories (Only for Electric Bikes!)

Thanks to the electricity running through your e-bike when you pedal, you’ll have power assisting you whenever you need it. But this also means that you’ll spend more money on extra, much-needed, electric accessories. Speaking from experience, it’s worth it to have the parts you need to make your journey stress-free.

Here are the must-have ones that you need before traveling or camping with your electric bike:

Second e-bike battery
Battery charging cable
Electric headlight and brake light
USB phone cable
Extension cord
Additional adapters

An extra bike battery, fully charged

Typically, if you’re reading this article, you’re planning on riding your electric bike for most of your trip, or at least as a major part of your travel or camping experience.

So having an extra, fully-charged battery is likely a necessity. Remember, the more you use the electric assistance, the faster your battery will lose charge. And you can bet that if you’re riding 30-50+ miles per day, that’ll you’ll be using this power.

This is why having an extra battery can come in handy. It’s not a cheap accessory, but having one could save the day! Check with your brand of electric bike to make sure your backup battery (paid link) will work correctly and that you can use your charging cable.

If you’re riding less than 20 miles per day and you are certain you have a place to charge your battery each night (like at your hotel), then an extra battery could be optional. Just make sure it’s fully charged before setting out to travel each day.

Example of what an electric bike battery looks like — Check out the prices for e-bike batteries here!

A charging cable and power adapter

This will typically come with your e-bike or battery purchase. However, it’s super important that you can charge your battery in a hotel room or at your campsite.

So, well in advance of traveling or camping, make certain your destination has a place to charge your battery that fits your power adapter. If you’re traveling in a country different than your home, the outlets provided may be different and will need an additional outlet adapter in order to plug in your battery.

Put this on your trip to-do list!

Electric headlight and brake light

Only electric bikes make having a headlight and brake light (Amazon link) super convenient. However, these are also a must-have for safety reasons. Not only are they useful at night (obviously), they can help you be visible during the day on busy or fast roads.

If your electric bike doesn’t already come with one, contact the shop you purchased from to find out what will fit your bike. Don’t just buy a headlight that has a battery and clips on. With an e-bike, and the right headlight, you’ll be assured of light as long as your bike is in working order and won’t have to worry about replacing a battery.

Headlight and Brake Light Combo for electric bikes — E-Bike Headlight and Brake light combo from Velmia (Amazon)

Phone mount and charging cable

I love that many newer e-bikes have a USB port for your cell phone. So a phone mount (paid link) is truly a must-have! With this feature, you’ll be able to use your phone’s GPS to help you get where you want to go.

And you’ll be able to listen to music or audiobooks, check your stocks, and keep in touch with friends and family back home, at the campsite, or in the hotel.

This doubles as a safety and convenience accessory. And you most likely already have a cell phone and USB cable that’ll work on your e-bike!

However, if you don’t have access to this, make sure to get a GPS so you don’t get lost on your travels.

visnfa Upgraded Bike Phone Mount Anti Shake and Stable 360° Rotation Accessory — Cell Phone Mount by visnfa (Amazon)

Long outdoor extension cord (if camping)

If you’re camping with your electric bike, make sure there’s a place to plug-in your battery charger at your campsite or in a central area of the campground. Ask beforehand whether your camping spot has electric hook-ups.

If your travel location does have electric hookups, make sure you have a long outdoor, weather-proof cord that correctly attaches to your battery and reaches the outlet. If not, make alternative plans for charging your battery (nearby ranger station or Starbucks perhaps?).

Outlet adaptor for battery (if traveling overseas)

Because charging your battery is essential when traveling by electric bike, make sure you have an outlet adaptor if needed.

You can carry a small Universal Power Travel Adaptor with your electric gear. You’ll have to make sure you get the right one for where you are traveling to. Most universal plug adaptors will convert to the USA from Europe, the UK, Australia, and Canada.

Read our complete guide to electric bike travel!

E-Bike Repair and Maintenance Tools for Your Trip

These are your “in case of emergency” items. These are important to bring along on any biking trip. And, because you’re riding an electric bike, you’re even more likely to need them due to the increased number of miles you can easily travel.

By carrying these essential tools, you’ll be more likely to fully enjoy your time riding the trails and backroads. No fear of being left stranded somewhere due to mechanical failure that could have been avoided if you had the right tools handy!

Tire repair kit (including mini air pump)

Can you even imagine what it would be like to push a heavy electric bike 20 miles back to your campground or hotel… on a flat tire?! You don’t even want to go there, I assure you.

My husband got his first flat about 5 miles from home while we were riding together. We were so thankful to have one of our sons sitting at home who could drive to pick us up. But, then we thought about what would’ve happened when we no longer had “adult” kids around to save us. There would’ve been trouble… and we were only 5 miles from home.

So, please get a tire repair kit (Amazon link) and keep it on you while you’re riding. Better yet, don’t just get it, make sure you know how to use it. Watch a video (or two) and read the directions on your kit before travel begins.

Keep in mind that not all repair kits come with an air pump. You need a mini tire pump in your bag during any bike travel or camping trip.

Get all of these tools and tire inflator in one kit from XCH Robots — Bike tire and repair kit in one!(Amazon)

Spare tire tubes

Repairing your tire with a patch might leave you with a good-as-new tire. However, if you’re traveling long-distances and/or over several days, or on rough terrain, a tire tube (Amazon) is a must-have accessory.

Again, watch a video before heading out on your trip and learn how to replace a tire tube so you’re not stuck figuring it out in the middle of a 30-mile trail.

Make certain you have the correct tube for your specific tire! Contact the brand manufacturer or bike shop you purchased from if in doubt. And, don’t think you can just grab one if your tire pops. Some tube sizes are harder to get and may have to be ordered (like my own fat tire tube).

Tire tube example — Zsling tire tube (Amazon)

Bike multi-tool

In general, electric bikes tend to need more maintenance than regular bikes due to the extra electrical equipment. So keep a bike tool kit handy with all of the important tools… or get a bike multi-tool (paid link).

A multi-tool contains all of the tools you might need to maintain or repair your e-bike on the go. It’ll typically include a chain breaker, spoke wrenches, hex keys/allen wrench (multiple sizes from 2mm-8mm), phillips & flathead screwdrivers, and a torx wrench.

This is another bike accessory you should learn how to use before you actually need it.

All the tools included in a bike multitool — Vibrelli Bike Multitool

Extra brake pads

If you’re touring, bike camping, or will be on a several week driving/biking trip, then you should bring extra brake pads (paid link)… and know how to replace the old ones! You’ll be surprised how fast you’ll use them up on an e-bike, as compared to a regular bike.

The extra riding distance alone will create more wear and tear on your brakes, but the added weight of an electric bike can also destroy brake pads quickly. This is especially true if you are using your brakes a lot to lower your speed when riding downhill (this is me!).

image of brake pads — Example of brake pads (Amazon)

Ready to learn more about taking care of your e-bike?

Best Electric Bike Accessories for Packing and Riding

Only you can decide which accessories listed here are best for you during your biking trip. Read to find out why certain ones will work better for your riding lifestyle and travel situation.

Front and/or rear racks

Transport your gear without a big heavy pack on your back. Not only can a backpack slow you down, but it can also get uncomfortable and hot, not to mention make it harder to maintain good balance.

With a gear rack from Amazon (or pannier), you can easily attach sleeping bags and a tent for camping or chairs to rest on at a beautiful waterfall along the bike trail.

A rack will also allow you to take everything you need with you for the day (or on an overnight camping trip), instead of leaving it in your hotel room or campsite unsupervised. If this is something that concerns you as much as it does me, you might like to have both a front and rear rack so you can take more with you.

Racks fit differently and all racks do not work on all bikes. Some bolt on (so your bike needs to have holes ready for bolts in the same place) while some clip onto the seat post (Make sure there is enough room).

Further, if you have an electric brake light attached to the rear of your e-bike, you’ll want to be able to extend and attach it to the back of the rack.

Here’s a tip on using bike racks: Whether using a front or rear rack, or both, make sure they’re padded well to avoid damage from road vibrations.

Example of a bike rack — Rear Bike Rack from Ibera (Amazon)

Take a look at all of the best gifts and e-bike accessories for riders!

Pannier or travel accessory bag

Now that you’ve got a solid rack on your electric bike, attach a waterproof accessory bag to it. There are many different sizes for different needs. You can even get a triple pannier from Amazon if you have lots of gear to take on your ride.

This is a great time to decide what you’ll need during your trip. If you’ll be traveling by car and just taking your bike out of the car for day trips, you might not need as big of a bag as if you’re bike camping. However, if you’re biking a long trail to a swimming hole in the mountains, you might still want a big accessory bag.

Find an affordable hitch mount car bike rack for your travels!

Consider everything you might pack for a day trip:

Extra layers of clothing for elevation changes
Swimsuit and water shoes
A windproof, waterproof jacket for unexpected weather changes
An extra t-shirt to replace your sweaty one
Full change of clothes if you start out in the hot morning and end up riding back in the cool evening
Tire repair accessories discussed above
An extra, fully charged battery for a long day ride (or overnight bike camp trip)
First Aid Kit
Sunscreen, bug spray, and medications
Water (lots of it!) and snacks or meals

As you see, you can fill your accessory bag pretty quickly… and you can easily be out all day when riding an electric bike!

Bike accessory bag — Large Bike Pannier (Amazon)

Bike hauler/trailer (best for overnight camping or traveling)

Although you may have heard complaints about the difficulties of pulling a bike trailer (Amazon) along for your trip, remind yourself that you’re riding an e-bike now! Having a motor to assist you makes a world of difference when pulling extra weight over bumps and debris. And the benefits might actually make your trip a whole lot easier.

Planning a long camping trip or taking your family along? You’ll be very thankful you have a cart to haul all that gear (think bike helmets, bike tool kit, food, cooking pot, tent). A pannier or accessories bag just won’t cut it.

Of course, you can double up by adding a front or rear rack that holds still more gear and essential accessories.

When looking to purchase a travel trailer, decide what type of terrain you’ll be riding on. If you’ll be mostly off-roading and/or want a lighter trailer, consider getting a single-wheel hauler. It can navigate narrow and bumpy roads easier that a two-wheel trailer. Plus, the risks of tipping over are lower.

However, a two-wheeled cart may be able to carry more weight and fit more gear. So, if you’ll be riding mostly on paved road, this could be the perfect accessory for you.

single wheel bike trailer with red accessory bag — MAYA CYCLE Single Wheel Bike Trailer

Where is it legal to ride in the USA when traveling or camping? I’ll tell you!

E-Bike Safety Essentials and Personal Accessories

The best electric bike accessories for travel that we’ve discussed thus far are important for planning any bike travel or camping trip.

The following safety essentials and personal items should be taken with you any time you ride, even if you’re just going on a 5-mile ride to the nearest community bike path. However, they are also must-have gadgets and accessories you absolutely don’t want to forget to take when you travel with your electric bike.

So, use this as a checklist to make sure you have everything you need;

Bike helmet– Preferably one that’s MIPS rated since you’ll be going extra fast on an electric bike
Bike locks– Consider getting a U-lock, which is easy to carry and can’t be cut with bolt cutters like cable locks or chain locks; But it also doesn’t hurt to use a second, heavy-duty chain lock to double-up the security.
Rear-view mirror– Yes, just as with a car, this is essential! You will keep yourself and others safe by knowing who and what is coming up behind you or to your side. This is my fave and the one I use from Amazon: Hanfy Rearview Mirror
Plush bike seat– You might think replacing your bike seat is a luxury. But after you’ve ridden 20+ miles on a gorgeous bike trail but realize you have to travel 20 miles more to get back to your campsite or hotel, you’ll be thankful you upgraded to a high-quality bike seat!

The truth is, most manufacturers include standard (which means “hard”) seats on their ebikes that just won’t cut it for long-distance rides. Check out these ones on Amazon!
First Aid Kit– Take one wherever you ride. Small injuries are more likely to happen on long trail rides!
Water- You probably need way more than you think. If you’re cycling hard, you should have 16 oz per hour… and, in addition, you should take a few big swallows often to stay hydrated.
Laundry bags– If you’re bike camping or traveling where you won’t have access to laundry facilities, you should take a few extra bags to place those dirty, sweaty, or wet clothes in after a long-distance bike ride.
3 other must-have personal items you should accessorize with while traveling or camping with your electric bike– Sunscreen, lip moisturizer, and cycling glasses (Amazon). Wind and sun are your worst enemies while riding fast and furiously on your e-bike. Thank me later!

Check out my safety tips for riding an e-bike!

Conclusion

If you’re planning to travel or camp with your electric bike, make sure that it’s equipped with all of the best accessories. This includes everything from e-bike headlights and locks for safety in unfamiliar territory to a tire repair kit, bike racks, and accessory bags.

With a few smart travel accessories, your journey will be more enjoyable and easier. Planning to go on an adventure soon? Check out the list at the beginning of the article of the best electric bike accessories for travel and camping before you head out!

Have even more fun riding an e-bike with these cool e-bike accessories for adults!

How Much Are Electric Bike Rentals (Cost and How to Rent)

Lisa Sylvester

May 30, 2021

Electric bike purchases are soaring… but so are electric bike rentals! After all, many people want to try one out before making such a big investment. And there are many other reasons you might want to rent one as well.

Renting an electric bike can be slightly more expensive than a regular bicycle rental and can require advanced planning.

Typical electric bike rental rates are $25 per hour or up to $80 per day. The cost of renting an ebike is based on the location and the length of the rental period.

Length of Rental	Price Range	Price for Premium Model (not available in all rental shops)
Per Hour	Call the rental shop to inquire	$30+
Per Day	$60-$70	$120+
Full Day (24 hours)	$75-$100	$150+
1 Week	$200-$300	$300+
1 Month	$375+	Call rental shop to inquire

In this blog post, we’ll look at the cost of electric bike rentals and what you need to know before making a reservation. I’ve compiled prices and information that’ll help make your rental decision easier.

Why Rent an Electric Bike

The reasons to rent an e-bike instead of buying one are numerous. Buying one is a big investment and you’ll have a ton of questions that could be answered if you rent one first. Here’s the list of reasons you should consider an e-bike rental instead of a purchase.

First, you should rent an ebike if you’re trying one out for the first time. This is especially true if you’re not much of a bike rider or it’s been a long time since you’ve ridden one. Or maybe you’re super tall or of small stature (and many things don’t fit right).
You’ll also get a feel for whether buying an electric bike is a good choice for you. Rent different types of e-bikes over several days or months to learn how they are each unique. Once you test out multiple brands with various motors, gears, tires, throttles, and more, you’ll be closer to deciding on the best bike to purchase.
Another reason why you should rent an electric bike is to decide if it’s something you’ll love doing regularly. Then you’ll know whether buying an e-bike is worth the cost.
An ebike rental is also a great way to try out a new form of exercise. If you aren’t physically active already or have an injury or disability, renting one will help you determine if you can physically manage it. This is particularly a good idea if you’re a senior (read: Are E-Bikes Good for Seniors for more info).
Perhaps you just want to ride one occasionally for a different form of recreation or instead of driving to reduce air pollutants. In this case, renting can be a much cheaper option.
Finally, getting an e-bike rental can help you explore your surroundings in-depth, whether it’s your own community or a premier vacation spot! You can get one for just an hour or two at your destination and see ten times as much as compared to if you walked.

Find out more in the Electric Bike Travel Guide!

Continue reading to find out the prices of renting an e-bike and how to rent one.

Cost of Electric Bike Rental

In general, an electric bike can be rented by the hour, day, or even by the week. Typically, you should expect to pay about $10-$20 per hour. Bike rental fees may be substantially higher if you’re in a popular tourist destination.

Be sure to ask about four-hour, all-day, 24-hour, or multi-day rates! Most electric bike rental shop owners will offer discounts if you plan on renting all day or longer than four hours.

As mentioned earlier, plan on paying a bit more when renting an e-bike as compared to renting a non-motorized bike. Electric bike models are more expensive to begin with and maintenance costs the bike rental shop more as well. Therefore, they transfer some of that expense to you.

Hourly electric bike rentals

If you’re looking for a two or three-hour electric bike rental, you’ll probably pay by the hour. Be ready to spend between $15-$20 per hour. Consider that you might benefit from paying for a 4-hour or full-day rental, instead of just 2-3 hours.

Renting an electric bike for a full day

Typically, you get more value out of your e-bike rental the longer you lease it. So for example, the rate for a full-day rental would be only $12-13 per hour for an 8-hour ride (or a total of $96). Whereas if you rented by the hour at $20 per hour, you’ll end up paying $60 for only 3 hours.

Weekly ebike rentals

Naturally, renting for a full week or longer will give you the most value for your money. For a full week, you’ll pay roughly $200-300. Compare this to a daily rental rate and you’re saving a whopping $600 or more (at $96 for 7 days)!

And, even better, this is significantly less money than if you were to rent a car and buy gas while spending 7 days in a top vacation destination.

Monthly electric bike rentals

Now compare your full-week electric bike rental to what you would pay for one month. You’ll spend close to $400… but that’s like getting 2 weeks completely free! In fact, that’s a 50% savings! Naturally, this is the most valuable option if you might want to ride the rental ebike regularly (or for more than 2 weeks).

Premium e-bike rentals

Some rental shops even offer “premium” ebike rates. This could just be a more valuable and expensive model. Or it could be a tandem (two-seater) or stretch bike with lots of room for a child or two on the back. These options are found most often in vacation destinations. Expect to pay an average cost of around $120 per day.

For example, Cal Coast Adventures in Santa Barbara, California offers the Specialized Turbo Levo with a battery range up to 70 miles as a premium rental. In Hawaii, Pedego Electric Bikes offers both tandem and stretch models starting at $30 for one hour.

Take your next California ride in one of these amazing places!

Leasing an electric bike and purchasing discounts

The last thing regarding the cost of an e-bike rental is very important to consider if you’re planning on buying one. You may be able to lease it (rent-to-own) or apply your rental towards your purchase.

For instance, the eBike Store in Portland, Oregon offers up to $198 off of the purchase by applying your rental charge! You’ll only find leases and purchase discounts in select bike shops around the world, however. So be sure to ask if interested!

Given the variation in prices, it really pays (no pun intended) to plan ahead regarding the length of your electric bike rental. If you rent it for one day, but then decide to keep it longer, you might end up paying more.

However, it doesn’t hurt to ask the bike shop if your one-day rental can be attributed to the cost of a full-week rental.

Additional electric bike rental costs

Finally, there may be extras that you’d like to add to your electric bike rental. Rental shops should include a helmet and lock with every rental.

Do you need a special helmet to ride an e-bike? Find out!

However, they may offer a GPS device for an additional amount. Unfortunately, you can be billed as much for including a GPS as for renting a bike for an hour! But, once again, you’ll likely pay less the longer your rental period is. For example, you might be charged $20 for the day but only $5 each day after.

Of course, most people will probably use their phones for GPS navigation. In this case, make sure the electric bike rental shop doesn’t charge you for a GPS!

Man on electric bike using phone as gps navigation

Rental shops might also offer an attachable bike trailer for around $25 per day or a hitch rack for 2-4 bikes for $5-10 a day. And, if you mention that you want to ride a long distance in one day, you’ll most likely be offered an extra battery for about $10.

Depending on the location and shop, you might also be offered water bottles, t-shirts, or trinkets with their logo on them. Of course, you won’t be expected to make these additional purchases. But if you might want a memento of your vacation, plan on spending some extra cash.

How to Rent an Electric Bike

Electric bike rental isn’t hard or stressful. However, it does take some planning, especially if you’ll be doing it on vacation. Keep in mind that electric-powered bikes may not be available from every rental shop.

Man and Woman Having Fun with Electric Bike Rental

What you need to rent an ebike

Typically, you aren’t required to get a license, permit, or any kind of insurance to ride an electric bike. There are some locations around the world, however, where there could be an exception. So, make sure to check the laws in your location or travel destination.

But you will most likely need to show a valid ID along with a credit card or cash. And most locations will expect you to be at least 18 years of age to rent one on your own.

How old your child needs to be to ride will be dependent upon the location, as it differs from state to state and country to country. In general, in the United States, a child will need to be a minimum age of 16 or 17.

Review the age chart in this article to determine whether your kid can legally ride an e-bike.

Questions you should ask the electric bike rental shop

The best thing to do when renting an e-bike is to ask questions of each rental shop owner. You may get different answers from each one you’re considering. So be sure to ask these 12 questions of each:

Do I need a reservation?
How fast will the electric bike go?
How far will it go on one battery charge?
Will my bike include a throttle and how do I use it?
What’s included with my rental fee?
Can I ride with an injury?
How do I prevent injury?
Where are the best places to ride (at your rental location)?
Am I allowed to ride on sidewalks in this city/location?
Do you have a model that’s better for seniors? For short, tall, or heavy people?
Can my child ride an electric bike rental?
How do I keep the bike safe when I’m not using it?
What are the laws about riding an e-bike here?

Where to Rent An E-Bike

So where can you rent an electric bike? Traditional bike shops and bike rental shops are the most likely place. Call your local bike shop to ask about electric bike rentals in your area. Or simply search “bike rentals near me”. Let them know you’d like to ride an electric bike (as opposed to a standard one).

Then proceed to ask the questions listed above. If you are interested in a particular model to try out, you might have to shop around a bit.

If you’re traveling to a popular vacation spot, you’ll likely find smaller bike rental shops at your destination. If you don’t know where one is located contact a hotel concierge for assistance.

I’ve compiled a list of bike rental shops in popular travel destinations (USA) for you to check out:

Rental Shop	Location	Hourly Rental Cost
Mod Bikes	Austin, TX	$20
Cal Coast Adventures	Santa Barbara, CA	$20
Pedego Electric Bikes	Kailua, HI	$16
Wheel Fun Rentals (Bayside)	San Diego, CA	$20
Bike and Roll (Central Park)	New York City, NY	$20

Note: It’s a good idea to call ahead to ask about discount deals and get your questions answered before you book your reservation.

What Types of Electric Bikes Can You Rent?

Most rental places offer popular, sturdy models as rental choices. Many are hybrid models (so they’ll ride on dirt trails and paved roads), but you can also get electric road bikes, mountain bikes, and cruisers in some locations. All of them will have pedal assistance but only some will include a throttle.

Typically, you won’t be renting the cheapest models nor the more expensive ones. For most people, this is quite adequate. If you’re testing out different brands and models before buying, these will mostly be in the average range of $1100-$3500.

Therefore, most people will also look into purchasing some of the same models. If you’re looking to eventually buy, let your local bike shop owner know which e-bike brands or models you’re interested in (if you already have an idea).

Read more about the different types of ebikes you can buy (and how much they cost).

Common electric bike models for rent

Just to give you an idea of the type of electric bike you can get, I’ve put together a list of those that are typically offered as rentals. If you’re particular (and you probably are since you’ve read this far) it’ll benefit you to do some additional research on the type of bike you’d like to check out.

E-Bike	Motor Power	Speed	Range	Price to Buy
Trek’s Electra Townie Go	250W	20mph	up to 100 miles	$1500
Specialized Turbo Como 3.0	250W	20mph	up to 60 miles	$3200
Rad Power Bikes RadExpand Fat Bike	750W	20mph	up to 45 miles	$1500
Rad Power Bikes RadCity	750W	20mph	up to 45 miles	$1600
Raleigh Route IE	350W	20mph	up to 30 miles	$2699

A Rad Mini Folding E-Bike has smaller 20 inch wheels than a standard e-bike — The Rad folding e-bike is perfect for adults whether you’re renting or buying!

Ready to buy instead of rent? Find out the best e-bike brands in the USA!

In Conclusion

I hope I’ve answered your question about how much electric bike rentals cost. Typically, the hourly cost doesn’t differ much between locations so you can plan how much you’re going to spend in advance.

If you’re new to the idea of e-biking or want to try out different types before committing to purchase one, renting one (or several) is a great way to decide what you need. And because you can borrow for a day, week, or month, you’ll have loads of opportunities to see if it’s right for you before buying one.

Figuring out how to rent an electric bike is easy. Just ask the questions I’ve laid out for you in this article beforehand and decide how long you want to keep it. Then contact your rental location or shop to inquire about getting a reservation. This will save you money, and unnecessary grief and help you enjoy your ride!

Best Electric Bike for Your 17-Year-Old: How to Choose One for a Teen

Lisa Sylvester

May 17, 2021

Teens in the USA are now turning to electric bikes. The newest bicycles, powered by electricity, can go up to 20 miles an hour and have a range of 40-50 miles on one charge. It’s no wonder that your 17-year-old teen wants one!

The best electric bike for your 17-year-old teen is a matter of personal preference and budget. Although your 17-year-old girl or boy can typically fit on an adult e-bike, you should consider which features are best suited for a teen lifestyle.

What Are the Benefits of an Electric Bike for a Teen?

There are several primary benefits to getting your teen an e-bike. Generally speaking, you will save money and keep your child safe, while giving them independence at the same time.

1. Cheaper than a car

First of all, they’re way cheaper than cars at $500-$3,000 for most models you’d consider for someone who’s 17. And they’re not just used as toys! Teens are using them to get around town for their daily commute to work or school, visiting friends, or doing chores (like getting groceries).

Riding an e-bike saves them (or you!) on gas, money, and car maintenance.

2. Safer than driving a car

E-Bikes for a 17-year-old have additional benefits such as being safer than driving a car! Now that they’re of driving age, they’ll want to zoom around visiting friends, going to the movies, and picking up some fast food dinners.

And when I say “zoom”, it’s because teens have a tendency to drive too fast, are more easily distracted, and just aren’t as skilled at navigating the road. Further, they won’t get involved in “road rage” or feel the need to overtake another vehicle (since there’s no chance of that happening).

But send them out riding and they can get where they’re going relatively quickly… without you fearing for their safety. Or worrying about your car!

Keep your teen safe with these e-bike safety tips.

3. A 17-year-old can ride just about anywhere

E-bikes can typically go up to 20 miles per hour and have a range of 20-50 miles on one charge. So, your teenage son or daughter can pretty much get anywhere they want to go. And this leads us to benefit number 4…

4. Independence

Another benefit of riding an e-bike for a teen is that they can gain the independence they want and need. Even without a car!

And, with that much-needed freedom, they’ll come back home (at least when they get tired!). Additionally, you won’t have to worry about them not being able to get home (as on a regular bike). They can use motor assistance at any time to get them back home in a timely manner.

If your teen doesn’t know how to ride a bike yet, be sure to read this article!

5. Perfect fitness activity for a teen

Last but not least, electric bikes can help your 17-year-old stay fit. This is a great bonus as it’ll encourage a healthy lifestyle before you send them off to ride an e-bike at college.. Even though these bikes use electric motors and batteries for power, your teen still has to pedal. So e-biking is a great way of getting physical activity!

Plus, e-bikes are actually fun, so your kid is likely to ride more often than on a standard bike!

Read the E-Bike Fitness Guide for more info!

How to Choose the Best Electric Bicycle for Your 17-Year-Old

– Consider the terrain that your teen is riding on.

If they’ll be riding through a lot of dirt roads or up hills, then consider getting them an electric bike with a more powerful motor and battery to ensure that it can handle these types of terrains.

And, if they’re interested in riding mountain trails for sport and/or fitness, you should consider getting them an eMTB (electric mountain bike). Sorry, but you’ll be spending a bit more money on a specialty e-bike with higher torque.

However, riding on flat terrain or paved roads requires less power, so you can consider a more budget-friendly electric bike. Your teen won’t need as powerful of a motor or battery, so don’t get conned into buying a more powerful, more expensive one without a good reason!

-Will your teen ride to school or work?

If your teen is interested in commuting or riding their e-bike to school or work, then you should consider what they’ll have to ride through and over each day. If there are lots of hills, you’ll need to buy a bike with a more powerful motor and battery so that it isn’t such a chore.

You might even want to get the one with a throttle. A throttle will propel the bike forward without even pedaling. This way they can ride over hills or long distances without the hassle of pedaling for hours on end.

– Consider how long your teen wants to ride each day.

If they are only looking at riding occasionally or small distances, then you can certainly consider getting them an e-bike with a smaller battery that’s perfect for shorter rides. And a less powerful battery will save you money!

– Do you want to encourage biking as a mode of transportation?

Look for an affordable e-bike with a lighter-weight frame when your son or daughter will be using it primarily for transportation.

E-bikes are quite a bit heavier than regular bikes in general. So, if they’ll be putting it on buses or trains regularly, they’ll need one they can lift easily… and preferably fold. Lugging a heavy e-bike around can get discouraging quickly.

– What type of power assistance do you want your teen boy or girl to have?

Ultimately, as a parent, you need to feel comfortable with the power you’re giving your teen. With a 17-year-old, you might not be as concerned about this as you would with a 13-year-old.

But let’s face it, all teens (especially teen boys) have higher auto insurance costs for a reason… they tend to drive faster, more recklessly, and are just plain inexperienced.

So, my point is that you might want to offer your 17-year-old son or daughter a lower-powered 250-500 Watt motor if you have concerns. And, did you know that you can actually buy e-bike insurance to cover your bike and personal liability?

Need help choosing a good e-bike? Read this article for beginners!

Which Features Should You Consider When Buying an E-Bike for Your Teen Kid?

Although your 17-year-old is still a teen, he or she is essentially an adult when it comes to buying an electric bike. There are a lot of features to consider but I’ve picked out the ones that will matter most to you as parents of a teen!

Take a look at this list of features to consider before buying an e-bike for someone 17 years of age or younger:

Weight capacity: Most e-bikes have a weight capacity of 220 pounds or more. This means your teen will likely be able to ride most e-bike models. Just make sure that if they want to carry a lot of cargo, they’ll still meet the maximum payload.

Lithium battery life: The longer the lifespan of a battery, the better the battery, generally speaking. If you’re using an electric bike mostly within city limits or close to home then having a shorter lifespan might not matter as much.

Motor assistance and speed: If your teen will be riding a lot in hilly terrain, then it might make sense to get an e-bike with a 500-750-watt motor. It’s more important to consider the power of the motor based on the terrain and riding conditions than on the speed.

Being a parent myself, I honestly can’t think of any reason to buy anything more powerful than this for your 17-year-old. And, personally, I’d choose a 250 to 500-watt motor for a 16-year-old or younger.

Weight of e-bike: The weight of an electric bike can vary from around 25 lbs to around 60-70 lbs, with the majority of reasonably priced ones being on the heavier side. A 17-year-old girl with less natural upper body strength than a boy generally has could have a very hard time lifting her 60+ lb e-bike upstairs or into a train, bus or car.

Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes have the greatest stopping power and are generally the safest for electric bikes. This is in part due to the fact that e-bikes tend to be heavy and take longer to stop. They’re easier to stop with than rim brakes due to less friction when braking.

Throttle: Although a twist-grip style accelerator is somewhat more common now, a thumb throttle, which might be more intuitive for teens to use, is something to consider. And do they need a throttle at all? I’d say “yes” if riding hills or long distances! And perhaps “no” if your 17-year-old loves power a little too much!

Frame: A lightweight frame is always going to be the better option when it comes to e-bikes. It’ll be easier to maneuver for a teen or younger kid. However, you’ll pay more for this feature!

Foldable: Is there any reason your teen needs to fold up their bike? If yes, then look for a small, foldable electric bike. The quality for one of these ranges considerably though, so take a close look at what you’re willing to pay versus how long the e-bike may last.

Learn more about folding electric bikes in this article.

Best Electric Bikes for a 17-Year-Old

The best electric bike for a 17-year-old depends upon your budget and what features your teen needs based upon their reasons for riding one.

Primarily, it depends upon where they’ll be riding to, how far, and how often they’ll ride. Not to mention that your child’s safety is a big concern.

So, the following e-bikes were selected as the best with teen lifestyle and safety in mind. I’ll point out the types of e-bikes that could be right for your teen. These e-bikes are all under $2000 in order to stay in line with both a parent’s and teenager’s budget.

I believe you can get a solid e-bike for a 17-year-old in this price range. After all, teenagers are likely to be harder on their e-bike and less careful overall… so do you really want to spend much more than that?

Best hybrid e-bike: The RadExpand

If you have about $1500 or so budgeted for an e-bike purchase then one of the best options for your teen would be the RadExpand from Rad Power Bikes.

Black Rad Mini Electric Bike from Rad Power Bikes

Not only does it look super cool with its 20-inch wheels and have the ability to fold up, but it’s also an entry-level hybrid e-bike. This means that it can ride on or off-road, in the dirt or on the street! This is perfect when your teen is going to traverse a lot of different terrains, whether it’s to get to school or ride around town.

I’ve ridden one several times and it is a ton of fun!

But I’d have to reserve it for a 17-year-old (or older) as it does have a lot of power with its 750 Watt motor and twist throttle.

I also like my Rad bike because of its integrated safety features which include:

Disc brakes make stopping fast and easy
Integrated front and rear lights for visibility
48V battery that’ll take your kid far (close to 40 miles depending on riding style)…you won’t have to worry about the battery giving out
Puncture-resistant tires

Read our full review of the RadMini Folding E-Bike!

Best commuter/cargo e-bike: NAKTO 26″ Adult Electric Bicycle City

This e-bike is perfect for either a 17-year-old boy or a girl. It sports two different looks… a white, low-step or a black traditional. Either are reasonably priced (around $650) cargo e-bikes with great reviews.

White NAKTO 26" Adult Electric Bicycle City — Image courtesy of Nakto

It has 26-inch wheels, a 250 Watt motor, and a 36-volt battery that lasts around 22-28 miles. So, as a city or commuter e-bike, that’ll get your child where they’re going without any problems. the great thing about a cargo e-bike is that you can use racks to carry your books, food, phone, or laptop, or your small dog..

A couple of additional perks include the front basket and horn. However, reviews indicated that some people got the basket and some didn’t. So, just be prepared to call the company if you don’t get your basket!

Best cruiser e-bike: Tower Beach Bum 2 Electric Cruiser

This may be a perfect e-bike for your teen, especially one who’s old enough to appreciate the quality. And a 17-year-old will likely be better at taking care of an electric bike than even a 15-year-old.

Tower Beach Bum 2 Electric Beach Vintage-looking Cruiser — Image courtesy of Tower Electric Bikes

Despite what you’ve heard, a cruiser is not only good for riding on the beach. Yes, this cruiser’s hefty price tag (around $1999) ensures that you’ll be able to ride the beach for up to 60 miles on its 48 volt Samsung battery. But the high-torque, 500 Watt motor also makes it capable of climbing big hills!

Further, Tower Electric Bikes Claims that even an adult can go up to 30 miles on the throttle alone. Therefore, if your teen is an explorer, or wants to visit friends or relatives out of town, this cruiser can cut it. Plus, it’s pretty darn cool to look at with it’s vintage brown seat and tires.

Best electric mountain bike: ANCHEER Electric Mountain Bike

This electric Mountain Bike (eMTB) has a 350 Watt motor and 26 inch tires, making it a full-size bike for climbing mountains. This makes it perfect for someone who’s age 17 or older.

Ancheer Electric Mountain Bike 350W — Image courtesy of Ancheer

It has a strong front suspension fork and double-walled rims which are necessary to take it on rough mountain trails. Further, it has 21-speed gears, a throttle, and pedal assistance which all provide the ability to get moving!

The best part about this e-bike is that you can begin mountain bike riding at a low price (around $750) yet customer ratings are super high!

One more thing before you buy… Read our Guide to Different Types of E-Bikes & Their Cost

To Sum Things Up

In general, the best electric bike for your 17-year-old teen is really dependent on their wants and needs, as well as yours as a parent. You’ll want to consider the features and benefits of each model. And you’ll have to decide how much you’re willing to pay (or how much is reasonable for your kid to pay).

I hope that this article gave you the answers you need to find the best electric bike for your 17-year-old or other teenage child.

You can find out more about buying e-bikes for children of other ages by reading the article below:

The Parents’ Guide to Buying Electric Bikes for Kids

Electric Bikes are Easy to Steal: 10 Tips for Preventing Theft

Lisa Sylvester

May 16, 2021

Electric Bikes are a hot commodity right now. They have been steadily increasing in popularity for the last few years, and it’s not hard to see why. And they offer many benefits over traditional bikes, such as increased range and speed that make them much more practical for commuters or casual riders.

However, they also come with an increased risk of theft because of their higher overall value! And they’re not any harder to steal than a regular bike.

The best ways to prevent your electric bike from being stolen are: You should invest in high-quality bike locks, be aware of where you park your e-bike, and consider using a bike alarm system or GPS.

In this blog post, I’ll give you 10 essential tips to prevent your e-bike from being stolen. I’ll discuss them in detail so you can enjoy all of the perks of owning one without worrying about someone stealing it. After all, a stolen bike is expensive to replace!

Invest in a High-Quality Bike Lock

There are multiple lock options for your e-bike, but despite which one you chose, be sure to invest in a strong, high-quality one. This might mean a slightly more expensive one, but locks that are too cheap can be broken and manipulated a lot easier.

In general, better quality locks are at least $35 but can be anywhere in the range of $40-$150. You want to make it as difficult as possible to break or cut off a lock, so make sure the material of the lock is plenty tough and solid. Locks that are at least 16mm in thickness are usually the hardest to break with bolt cutters!

Use multiple locks

Additionally, it’s a good idea to have more than one lock on your e-bike, as most thieves aren’t going to spend time lingering around if they intend to steal. Their goal is to find a bike that’s fast and easy to steal. So why would they take the time to go for a bike that has 2, 3, or 4 locks on it?

The better your bike is locked up, the less likely it (or the parts) are to be stolen!

Lock down the most important parts of your e-bike

You can also lock down certain parts of your bike. Specifically, the battery, as this is the most commonly stolen part on an e-bike! Make sure to lock it in a way that goes through the handle of the battery if possible. You can also remove the battery after your ride and keep it with you in your bag.

Additionally, it’s smart to secure your wheels, seat, stem, and handlebars to your bike to prevent the theft of these individual parts. The best bet is to lock down each wheel as it’s easy for a thief to steal the rest of the bike, even if just one wheel is locked down.

What Are the Best Locks for an E-Bike? Get two or three!

There are multiple locks that will work for your e-bike, but how do you determine the best one? Here is a brief description of the types of locks you can choose between.

U-Locks: These are U-shaped locks that wrap around the bike frame and wheel to prevent theft. These are great options for locking up your bike tightly. But they also can make your e-bike more difficult to transport because of the rigid shape. These are the most common and generally toughest locks to keep your e-bike from getting stolen. They’re typically less expensive than the chain locks.

This is what U Lock bike lock looks like — Kryptonite Kryptolok New-U

Chain Locks: These are slightly more portable because you can get them in various weights and sizes. You can also buy the chain and the lock separately. These locks are very strong and can be easily wrapped around your bike due to the different lengths of the chain. They tend to be quite expensive.

Folding Locks: These locks are very transportable because they fold up into compact locks and are easy to use. Their quality will be different depending on the manufacture, so make sure you check reviews and research before buying one.

Folding Bike Lock Example — ABUS Bordo Granit XPlus 6500 Folding Bike Lock

Cable Locks: These are the cheapest options. However, that also means they are the least protective and can be cut easily. I really don’t recommend getting one of these for valuable electric bicycles!

The best brands for e-bike locks

I’ve researched and compiled a list of some of the toughest lock options to keep your e-bike from being stolen. Even so, I recommend using more than one lock, as well as more than one type of lock.

Of course, you can also read the reviews of the lock you are thinking about buying and see how others experienced it first!

Name:	Abus Granit X-Plus 540	Kryptonite Kryptolok New-U	Hiplok Gold Chain	Abus Bordo Granit 6500	Foldylock Compact	Kryptonite New York Standard Heavy Duty Bicycle U Lock
Weight:	3.2 lb	2.9 lb	4.8 lb	3.48 lb	2.2 lb
Thickness:	13mm	12.7mm	10 mm	5.5 mm	5 mm	16 mm
Price:	$121	$32.99	$84	$108	$85	$111
Rating:	4.7/5	4.6/5	4.4/5	4.6/5	4.9/5	4.7/5
Type:	U-Lock	U-lock	Chain Lock	Folding Lock	Folding Lock	U- Lock

Are Electric Bikes Easy to Steal in Crowds?

Some may think that your bike is in more danger on an empty street or shopping center, but oftentimes bike thefts actually happen in large, bustling crowds. This is because there are more distractions going on and people to hide behind. Unfortunately, many bystanders who see a suspicious person jiggling with a bike lock don’t confront the situation and continue walking by.

Your e-bike won’t necessarily be safer on an empty street either. It’s just that bike thieves know that tourist areas with lots of people are prime areas to find e-bikes left unattended.

Make sure to lock your bike up well no matter how populated a street or shopping center is and keep a close eye on it if you can. Otherwise, I’ll say it once again, use multiple locks!

Before you travel with your e-bike, read our e-bike travel guide!

Where Can I Chain My E-Bike?

Along with not letting your guard down in crowded areas, you should pay close attention to where you lock your bike up. Park in well-lit places whenever possible, and try not to leave it unattended outside too long, especially at night.

Chain your e-bike to a solid, hard-to-remove object such as a street light, metal post, concrete barrier, solid metal bike rack, or a parking meter.

Don’t attach your e-bike to a railing or object that looks flimsy or can be easily broken or removed, like wooden fences, flimsy trees, stop signs, or chain-link fences.

Another benefit of locking your e-bike up to an object stronger than its mainframe is that the only way to steal the bike will be to possibly damage it. The good news here is that most thieves don’t want to steal a bike that will end up damaged if they do.

Also, avoid parking in the parts of town that are reported to have more theft and petty crime. You probably know where these areas are within your city or county, so it’s a good idea to steer clear of parking your electric bike in these areas. At times it might be better to park your e-bike somewhere you know is relatively safe and walk the rest of the way to your destination.

And keep an eye out for any strangers who might be closely watching you lock up your bike, as they may be trying to gauge how easy it will be to steal it once you leave.

Store Your E-Bike Inside

This may be a bit complicated to do when out in public as most stores and public places won’t let you bring a large e-bike inside. But I’d certainly try keeping your e-bike with you whenever possible!

Talk to your boss about storing your e-bike indoors if you commute to work on your e-bike, or if you ride your bike to class, ask your professor. Some grocery stores and other establishments will let customers bring it inside as well.

When at home, try and designate an area of the house for your bike. This can be the living room, bedroom, or garage. However, it’s not uncommon to have an e-bike stolen out of a garage, so it’s still a good idea to lock it up in the garage for extra security!

And if you live in an apartment or condo, bring your e-bike indoors with you, as many bike thefts can happen overnight at apartment complexes as well. Consider putting down an extra rug to roll it onto if you’re concerned about damaging the floor.

If you’re struggling to find a place to keep your e-bike indoors, take a wheel off to make it a bit more compact. If you haven’t yet bought an e-bike, consider getting a foldable one so that it’ll fit into tight spaces.

Foldable E-Bike in Back of Car — A foldable e-bike may be easier to protect from thieves since you can fit it in more safe places.

Learn more about foldable e-bikes… read this!

Park Your E-Bike in Different Places

Parking your e-bike in the same place every day may raise the possibility of it getting stolen. If you use it to commute to work, school, or to volunteer somewhere regularly, an advanced bike thief may take notice. They’ll study your routine and find out how many hours the bike is left alone.

Try to find different places to lock it up or park on different sides of the building you are commuting to, as long as you can still safely lock up your bike. Don’t make it easy to steal!

What is an Alarm Lock? Add One to Your Arsenal!

You can also purchase a lock that sets off an alarm if your e-bike is being handled or tampered with. If there are people around, this may alert someone who will stop the thief. If not, the alarm sound will hopefully scare off the thief.

Some quality alarm lock brands and names include the AlarmD Pro, ABUS Bordo Alarm 6000A, ABUS 770A Smart-X, Wsdcam 113dB, and ZiiLock. Bike alarms are generally quite inexpensive, so it’s very likely to be worth getting.

Install a Bike Tracker or GPS Device

You can install a GPS device onto your electric bike so that, if it’s stolen, it can be tracked. And if a thief knows there is a tracking device attached to it, they might avoid it entirely. However, these trackers can still be taken off fairly easily if discovered, so it’s a good idea to try and hide or disguise them.

The company Sherlock offers a way to install a tracking device into the handlebars and can be tracked using an app on your phone, so it is much more difficult to find. Other brands that sell e-bike GPS tracking systems include the Samsung SmartThings Tracker, Tile Sticker, SinoTrack, Spytec GPS, and Invoxia GPS Tracker.

Find out more about GPS trackers!

Create Fake Warning Signs & Get Creative

If you can’t afford to buy an actual alarm or tracking device, a great way to outsmart a bike thief is to create a fake yet authentic-looking warning sign to place on your bike. Thieves will often go for the easiest option. So having even handmade signs (along with multiple locks) might cause them to pass up your bike and take their chances with another one.

Put up a security sign

You can find templates for certain signs, or just type one out yourself. These signs can include a warning label saying that there is a GPS tracker on the bike, or that an alarm will sound if the lock is broken.

If parked outside of your home or workplace, add that they are being watched by security cameras around the perimeter. You can do this even if there are no security cameras. If a thief doubts the authenticity of these signs, they will most likely not want to take their chances.

Camouflage your e-bike

Another creative way to add more security measures to your e-bike is to camouflage it as an older or less important bike.

Many e-bikes are new and shiny-looking, but if you’re willing to sacrifice their appearance for better protection, then this is a viable option! There are some ways you can help make it look much less desirable: Paint fake rust onto its frame and handlebars, place a grocery bag over the seat, get mismatched handlebar grips, add splotches of paint, or stick on little pieces of duct tape.

Camouflaged Bike — Make your shiny e-bike less appealing to thieves (a little extreme, but you get the idea).

Should I Insure My E-Bike? Get insurance if…

Some companies or websites will offer insurance when you buy your bike. So, it’s a good idea to look into the insurance policies of the company you buy your bike from. Be sure to look over all of the specific details, like whether the insurance will cover just your battery being stolen or instead only cover the whole bike.

Typically, e-bike insurance from renters and homeowners policies offer very limited coverage. So pay close attention to every aspect of the insurance you are looking to buy. Some homeowners insurance policies will only cover your e-bike if it is stolen directly from your home. But they won’t cover it if stolen off the street or outside of your work.

Do I need insurance for my e-bike?

So, it may be a good idea to buy e-bike insurance if you have an expensive bike and no other insurance will cover its loss. Some good insurance companies that may cover electric bikes include Progressive, Markel, Velosurance, Sundays Insurance, and SPOKE.

Need more info on the price you should pay for an e-bike?

In conclusion

Are electric bikes easy to steal? They may not be harder than any other bike to steal, but they are much more valuable and expensive to replace.

Therefore, electric bicycle theft prevention is not something to be taken lightly, and cases of theft are spiking in many places. As electric bikes continue to gain in popularity, so does the potential of thieves wanting to scavenge them for their value.

Unfortunately, it’s just too easy to steal one… and quite tempting since they’re generally worth more than an average bike.

Therefore, it’s a great idea to update your anti-theft protocols to better protect your e-bike! Purchasing quality bike locks, using more than one at a time, paying attention to where you park your bike, and using methods like an alarm system or GPS tracker can be very useful ways to protect you from bike theft.

What Is an Electric Trike? How to Ride One

Lisa Sylvester

May 8, 2021

Electric bikes have become a popular alternative to traditional bikes. Now many are wondering what an electric trike is and why they’re being ridden by adults instead of children!

An electric trike is an adult-sized motor-powered bike with three wheels, much like those that small children ride. It’s commonly used by adults with disabilities and seniors who may be unable to ride a two-wheeled bike. An e-tricycle offers motor assistance when the rider pedals and the three wheels remove the need to balance.

Without the concern of balancing, as on a traditional bike, riders can enjoy themselves more and reap the benefits of cycling in general. Like other e-bikes, these three-wheeled electric bikes have become an enjoyable way of getting around without having to worry about hills or headwinds.

How to Ride an Electric Trike

Generally speaking, riding an electric trike is very similar to riding any other bike. The main differences are that it has three wheels to remove the need for balancing and that when you pedal, the electric motor will kick in to help you.

This means that when you approach a hill, or if your legs are tired from cycling, you’ll be able to continue riding by using the electric motor.

Is it Easy?

Riding an electric trike will most likely require a learning curve like any new form of transportation, but it may not take as long to learn as some!

Overall, it is fairly easy to learn how to ride an e-trike, but it is important to be aware of the differences between an electric trike and an electric bike.

Also, please understand that young kids have their own electric bike options and that these are not the same trikes for young children. Be sure to give yourself time to learn and take it slow before taking it out onto the streets.

What is an electric trike? These tricycles have 3 wheels and are made for adults to ride. — Photo courtesy of Zize Trikes

Like an e-bike, electric trikes are motor-powered and include pedal assist, but e-trikes have much more stability and balance. You will be able to cruise up a hill at a more leisurely pace without the fear of falling over.

If you start to feel tired, a third wheel will prevent you from tipping as easily. For example, when stopping at a light or crosswalk, a rider of a two-wheeled bike will have to put their feet down to balance the bike. But riding a trike will provide that balance for you so you don’t have to switch positions and start back up again.

However, you might want to hold on to the brakes tightly so that you don’t roll at all while stopped.

It’s easy to ride an e-trike by following these 12 tips for beginners!

Disadvantages of an E-Bike

Something that may be a bit more of a struggle when riding an e-trike is turning tight corners and avoiding obstacles in the road. Because of the third wheel, the turning radius is wider. So you’ll need to account for extra space and move slower while turning to avoid tipping over. Be careful not to lean too much into the curve, as it’ll actually cause you to lose balance easier. Instead, just use the handlebars to help you turn safely.

Electric Trikes also tend to be larger and take up more space than a two-wheeled bike, so storage can be a problem. Further, getting one into a car can be near impossible!

Want to know more about how an e-bike works? Take a look.

Benefits of Riding an Electric Trike

Riding an e-trike provides essentially the same benefits as riding an electric bike. They may require less balancing effort, but you will still be able to ride in the same places and receive the same workout from pedaling.

Riding an electric trike is great for a number of things:

Mental Health
Cardiovascular Health
Joint Health
Muscle and bone strengthening

Mental health

Getting regular exercise and being out in nature is proven to enhance your mood and release positive endorphins. It can help with depression and anxiety and calm your brain.

Additionally, vitamin D (from being out in the sun) and fresh air can help maintain a more balanced mood and improve cognitive function. And riding an electric trike or bike is a safe, fun way to improve your mental health.

Cardiovascular health: Is riding a tricycle good exercise?

Riding any bicycle on a regular basis can lower the risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, strokes, and age-related issues. This is because it increases your physical activity and works your cardiovascular system.

Riding can also help keep your weight down and burn calories, leading to a healthier body overall. Further, receiving a proper amount of exercise can boost your immune system.

But the absolute greatest thing about riding an electric trike, instead of a regular bike, is that it makes exercise much easier. Thus, you’re more likely to do it and will do it more often, which will improve your overall physical fitness.

Read our E-Bike Fitness and Health Guide here!

Joint health

Riding a bike is a low-impact exercise and puts much less stress on your joints than running or high-impact sports.

And since electric trikes have pedal assist, and often a power throttle, you can take as many breaks as your joints need while still moving forward on the bike. Just increase the level of power assistance to make pedaling easier or use the throttle exclusively without pedaling at all.

Muscle Strengthening

Pedaling an electric trike is a great way to strengthen your bones and work on building up muscle strength, without having to worry about balance. Building muscle will not only help you burn fat, but it’ll also keep you stronger and more capable in other daily activities.

Plus, cycling, in general, will strengthen your bones while increasing muscle.

How Much is an Electric Trike?

Name	Addmotor Motan Electric Trike	Viribus 3 Wheel Electric Bike for Adults	EWheels (EW-29)	Emojo Caddy Pro Fat Tire	Addmotor M-340 Electric Fat Trike
Rating	5 / 5 stars	3.5 / 5 stars	3 / 5 stars	5 / 5 stars	4 / 5 stars
Price	$2,999	$969.99	$1,949	$2,799	$2,999
Carry Weight	Up to 350 lbs	Up to 300 lbs	Up to 400 lbs	Up to 320 lbs	Up to 350 lbs
Colors	White, Apple Green, Orange	Black	White, Apple Green, Orange	White, Grey	Pearl White, Starry Blue, Neptune Blue
Extra Qualities	750W 48V 16AH M360	250W Motor, Bike Tube, Removable 36V 10Ah Lithium Battery, Adult Tricycle with Adjustable Cruiser Bike Seat and Bike Basket, Exercise Bike, up to 15mph	Scoot-Around Pedal or Electric Power 3 Wheel Trike with 3 Year Extended Warranty, up to 15mph, 500-750W	500W 48V, Seat with backrest, Step-through frame	250W 48V, Seat with backrest, Step-through frame

Electric Trike Conversion

You can also buy conversion kits to customize your trike and build on parts to your own non-electric trike. These kits usually cost anywhere between $200-1,000 depending on what it includes and the quality of parts in each kit.

If you don’t want a whole kit, you can buy individual parts as well. If you want a smaller or more comfortable seat, for example, you can buy and replace just the seat. The same goes for the battery, motor, handlebars, and wheels.

Learn more about converting your bike to electric.

Where to Buy an E-Trike

You can buy an e-trike from many online stores, including Amazon. The best way to find them is to do an internet search and look at different brands. If you’d prefer to look at some in person before buying, you may also be able to find them in select Walmarts and a number of bike stores.

Three-wheeled trikes are far less common than e-bikes. But you can look up bicycle shops near you that sell electric bikes and call them to inquire about electric trikes.

Things You Should Know Before Buying a Trike

How fast do e-trikes go?

E-trikes can go up to 30 mph, with most having a motor that maxes out at 20 mph, depending on the brand and model. They can typically ride for 30-40 miles on a single battery charge before dying so you shouldn’t have trouble getting where you need to go.

Are trikes street legal?

Generally, e-trikes can be ridden anywhere that electric bikes can go. Otherwise, they have the same street requirements as any regular bicycle. Since laws and regulations differ, be sure to look up your specific state, county, and city to read their requirements for riding any electric tricycle or bicycle.

Do you need a helmet to ride an electric trike?

In most places, the law does not require an adult cyclist to wear a helmet when riding an electric bike or trike. However, it’s strongly recommended that you wear one anyway. After all, your head is your most valuable body part. A helmet will protect your head in an accident as well as from flying road debris.

How is an electric trike different than a 3 wheel motorcycle?

An electric trike is different from a three-wheeled motorcycle for a couple of reasons. First of all, the motor doesn’t allow it to go nearly as fast as a motorcycle. The average motorcycle can go up to 165 mph, while e-trikes only go up to 30mph at the fastest. E-trikes aren’t meant to be ridden on busy streets or freeways like motorcycles are. Rather, they’re better for riding on bike paths and less populated scenic routes.

Another difference is that riders can use their body to help turn on a motorcycle, whereas on an e-trike you only need to use the handlebars to steer around turns. On a motorcycle, you turn the bike with counter steering, meaning you lean the opposite way of the curve to turn. E-trikes have direct steering.

Get the safety tips you need to ride an electric trike.

In Conclusion

As electric bikes become more widely used, e-trikes are starting to pop up more as well. Like e-bikes, e-trikes provide motor assistance that makes it easier for a rider to pedal and get where they’re going. However, adding a third wheel to an e-trike removes the need for balance and allows more people with disabilities or injuries to get out and ride.

E-BIKING TODAYElectric Bike News & Reviews

Electric Bike Reviews & NewsLIVE YOUR BEST LIFE E-BIKING... TODAY!

Are Trek E-Bikes Waterproof or Water-Resistant?

Is the battery on a Trek electric bike waterproof?

Can You Ride a Trek E-Bike in the Rain?

Riding safely in the rain

How Do You Wash a Trek E-Bike?

Are Electric Bikes Waterproof?

Are Trek e-bikes any good? Even if they’re not waterproof?

Are Electric Bikes Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

Bike insurance on a comprehensive homeowners policy

Filing a claim for your e-bike on your homeowner’s insurance

Reasons You Need Electric Bike Insurance

Benefits of e-bike insurance

Steps to getting ebike insurance

Cost of Electric Bike Insurance

How Do I Get Affordable Electric Bike Insurance?

Alternatives to Buying E-Bike Insurance

If you haven’t bought an electric bike yet

If you’ve already purchased an e-bike

First, always lock your bike up securely

Second, use the strongest bike locks

Do I Need Electric Bike Rental Insurance?

Conclusion: Do I Need Insurance for an Electric Bike?

Go Fast on an Electric Bike (for Fun and Convenience)

Ride Up Hills Easily, No Sweat!

Electric Gears make riding up hills easy on your e-bike

Take advantage of your regular gears

Get Groceries or Run Errands on an E-Bike (Fast and Easy)

Fun to ride all around town picking up what you need

Easy to Carry

See Points of Interest You’d Never See on a Traditional Bike (or Walking)

Ride Your Electric Bike All Day

Travel to More Places

Ride an Electric Bike for Fitness (and Have Fun While Working Out)

Improve your cardio

Build muscle (and keep it !)

Ride Your E-Bike with Friends

Join an electric bike group

Go on a bike tour with a group of friends

Get Seniors and People with Disabilities Riding an Electric Bike Too!

Electric Bikes are Fun for Athletes Too

Commute to Work or School (Just for Fun!)

Are Electric Bikes Fun for Everyone?

Electric Biking Speed: How Fast Is an E-Bike?

How does the terrain affect an e-bike’s speed?

Can electric bikes climb steep hills? (Uphill terrain)

How fast can an e-bike go downhill? (Downhill terrain)

Dirt and gravel paths

How does weather affect electric bike speed?

Riding an e-bike in the rain (will it slow you down?)

How fast can you ride an e-bike in the snow?

Can heat impact your electric bike’s speed?

How does cold weather reduce an e-bike’s speed?

Electric Bike Wattage (Compared!)

A comparison of electric bike wattage:

Why you should (or shouldn’t) buy a higher-watt electric bike

Dangers Of Riding Your 1000W Electric Bike Too Fast

Is it safe to ride my e-bike at the maximum speed?

Three-tier classification of electric bikes

How Much Does It Cost to Ship an Electric Bike?

Cost of Traditional Shipping Companies (UPS and FedEx)

E-Bike Special Handling Fee

Cost of Liability and Insurance

Electric Bike Shipping Services

How much does it cost to bring your electric bike on a plane?

How Much Does it Cost to Ship an E-Bike Battery Separately?

Can you ship an electric bike without the battery?

Packing and Preparing Your Electric Bike (Cheapest Way!)

Save money- Pack it yourself

Disassemble your e-bike

Find a cheap but sturdy e-bike shipping box

Pack it carefully

How to Ship an Electric Bike Overseas (International Costs)

Conclusion

Must-Have Electrical Accessories (Only for Electric Bikes!)

An extra bike battery, fully charged

A charging cable and power adapter

Electric headlight and brake light

Phone mount and charging cable