What modes of transport can we use to replace a car? One option which is gaining popularity are electric bike, also known as ebikes. Surveys suggest that ebikes are a more attractive alternative to diesel and petrol cars than an electric car, electric mopeds, electric motorcycles or electric motor scooters. Ebikes mean you can commute faster, you can park for free, the cost of charging and maintenance is low.

Different types of e bikes

There are lots of different types of ebikes, suitable for single people to families and different types of trips.

Commuter bikes: these ebikes are designed for urban areas. They are light and navigate well through city streets.

Folding bikes: folding ebikes are good for those who are train commuters and live in flats. They are portable and compact.

Electric mountain bikes: these bikes can ride anywhere – offtrack, uphill and difficult ground.

Electric cargo bikes: these bikes are built for hauling and are a good alternative for families and businesses. You can transport children and shopping, and business deliveries on trips.

Adapted cycles: there are ebikes that can be adapted to the individual rider. These include tricycles, handcycles, recumbents, foot restraints, one-hand breaking and adjusted saddles. There are also step through ebikes that help those with limited mobility mount the bike.

Fat tyre bikes: Ebikes with fat tyres make it easy to ride on snow, sand and all types of difficult ground.

The benefits of electric bikes

It is good for your health: cycling is known for reducing chances of getting cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes and arthritis. It has also been shown to reduce chances of depression and improves mood.

It is good for your wallet: there is no tax, free parking and the cost of refuelling is much lower. Cycling 10 miles will only cost you 4p on an electric bike, whilst it would cost £1.50 driving the same distance with a diesel car. The cost of maintaining an ebike is also low compared to a car.

You can use them on all types of trips: there are ebikes for all types of people doing different trips. You can buy ebikes for shopping trips and to carry around children. Also, there are bikes suitable for all different types of storage.

They are good for all types of environments: whether you live in a city or in a rural area, there are different types of ebikes for all types of terrain.