The Engwe L20 is a versatile e-bike that seamlessly blends utility and comfort, making it an excellent choice for daily commuters and leisure riders alike.

This bike stands out with its robust design, which balances practicality and style. Its sturdy frame, complete with a rear rack and wide tires, makes it perfect for carrying loads or cruising comfortably on varied terrains.

The step-through design adds to its ease of use, especially for riders seeking a more accessible and comfortable ride.

One of the highlights of the Engwe L20 is its powerful motor and battery combination. With a top speed of 25 km/h and a range that comfortably covers long city commutes or weekend adventures, this bike provides all the power you need without sacrificing the smooth, controlled ride feel.

Whether you’re navigating traffic or gliding along park paths, the L20 keeps you moving effortlessly.

The pedal assist and throttle options give riders flexibility, making it easy to choose between a light boost or a full-powered ride.

The 7-speed gear system complements this, allowing you to handle hills or flats with ease, giving you that extra bit of control when you need it most.

The L20 is packed with commuter-friendly features. The integrated front and rear lights improve safety, while the suspension system softens bumps, making for a more enjoyable ride.

The rear rack and fenders are particularly useful for carrying bags or groceries, and the fat tires provide excellent stability, even on less-than-perfect roads.

If there’s any drawback, it’s the bike’s weight. The L20 is a bit heavier than some other commuter e-bikes, which could make it challenging for those needing to carry it upstairs or load it into a car. However, this weight contributes to its sturdy, reliable feel on the road.

Overall, the Engwe L20 offers fantastic value for those looking for a well-rounded, dependable e-bike. With its strong motor, practical features, and comfortable design, it’s a great option for both everyday commutes and weekend rides, offering a solid mix of performance and convenience.

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The LANKELEISI X3000 MAX is an absolute powerhouse of a bike, designed to tackle any terrain with ease while offering practical features that make it ideal for everyday use.

If you’re looking for something that’s robust and versatile, this bike should be high on your list.

One of the standout features of the X3000 MAX is its durability. This is an extremely robust bike, built to withstand the rigors of both off-road adventures and urban commuting.

The fat tires are a major asset, allowing the bike to glide over various surfaces—from loose gravel to snow—with remarkable stability and control.

Whether you’re taking it on a mountain trail or navigating through city streets, the X3000 MAX is more than capable of handling the challenge.

Engwe X24 vs LANKELEISI X3000 Max

Having previously tested the Engwe X24, another folding fat bike, I found some interesting comparisons between the two. The LANKELEISI X3000 MAX comes with front splashguards and a rear pannier as standard, which are practical additions that enhance its commuter-friendly design. T

he X24, on the other hand, has larger wheels that give it an edge when riding through deep sand, but they also add to the bike’s overall weight and bulkiness. While the X24 might be better suited for more daring mountain biking,

I find the LANKELEISI to be the better choice for day-to-day use and commuting. It strikes a balance between performance and practicality, making it a more versatile option for most riders.

Folding Fat Bikes

Another key benefit of the X3000 MAX is its folding functionality. If you have a large car boot, you can fold the bike and store it easily, which is a huge advantage if you have multi-modal journeys or if you want to drive somewhere before starting your ride. This feature adds a layer of convenience that’s often overlooked but incredibly useful in real-world scenarios.

In terms of value, the LANKELEISI X3000 MAX is a great deal. It’s packed with features that make it a strong competitor in the folding fat bike category, yet it remains accessible in terms of price. For anyone seeking a reliable, versatile e-bike that can handle a variety of conditions while still being practical for daily commuting, the X3000 MAX is a fantastic choice.

Overall, while the Engwe X24 may have the upper hand in certain extreme conditions, the LANKELEISI X3000 MAX excels as an all-arounder that offers great value, durability, and convenience for everyday use. Whether you’re hitting the trails or simply navigating your way to work, this bike delivers a solid and dependable performance.

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Let’s dive straight in: the Tenways CGO600 Pro truly stands out in the realm of urban e-bikes.

This sleek, minimalist e-bike showcases Tenways’ commitment to designing a bike that doesn’t just excel in performance but also looks stunning. Its refined lines and subtle design make it a visual treat, ideal for city dwellers who value both function and style in equal measure.

What sets the CGO600 Pro apart is how “normal” it feels when compared to other electric bikes.

Riding this bike closely mirrors the experience of riding a traditional, non-electric bicycle. The standout advantage is its ability to maintain a consistent speed of 25 km/h, which proves particularly useful when tackling headwinds or gently sloping terrain.

The motor delivers just enough assistance to smooth out your ride, enhancing the cycling experience without compromising the natural feel of pedaling.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that this model is a single-speed bike. While the motor does an admirable job of assisting you on moderate slopes, steeper inclines could pose a challenge since there are no gears to shift into for extra power.

This might be something to keep in mind if your regular route involves significant hills, but for most urban commutes, it’s perfectly suitable.

The Tenways CGO600 Pro excels as a commuter bike, offering all the essential features for daily use. It comes with front and rear fenders, crucial for staying dry on rainy days, and a built-in front light controlled through the bike’s mini-computer.

The rear clip-on light is a thoughtful touch, boosting your visibility on evening rides. Another highlight is the belt drive, which requires almost no maintenance, meaning the only regular task is ensuring your tires are properly inflated. This makes it an excellent choice for busy city commuters.

If there’s one minor drawback, it would be the handlebar grips. Initially, they felt a bit uncomfortable, but over time I adjusted. Thankfully, this is a small issue easily resolved with a swap to grips that better fit your preferences.

Priced at £1,799, the Tenways CGO600 Pro offers incredible value for what it delivers. It’s a well-balanced e-bike that combines style and performance, making it a solid option for those looking to enhance their commute with a bike that rides as good as it looks.

Whether you’re new to e-bikes or a seasoned rider, this model impresses with its perfect blend of practicality, performance, and aesthetics.

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The rapid growth of electric bikes in the last couple of years has created a bit of a grey area.

In the past, it was a easy to tell the difference between a bicycle and a motorcycle. Essentially: the presence of a motor.

But with electric versions of both now commonplace, the line is becoming less distinct.

In legal terms (in the UK at least) an electric bike is classified as an EAPC (“electrically assisted pedal cycle”) if it meets the following criteria:

• it’s power output doesn’t exceed 250W
• the power doesn’t propel the bike beyond 15.5mph
• shows the power output or manufacturer of the motor
• shows either the battery voltage or maximum speed

If these criteria are met, it’s considered an EAPC and therefore basically treated as a bicycle in the eyes of the law.

But to the naked eye, the difference between electric bicycles and electric motorcycles isn’t so clear.

And the Engwe M20 is an excellent example of this.

This IS an electric bicycle, but it looks an awful lot like an electric motorcycle.

Indeed, among the people I know, this is probably the most talked about e-bike. People who aren’t traditionally big cyclists are very much drawn to this bike. Especially teenagers and people in their 20s.

And it’s not hard to see why…

But I don’t want to sound like I’m coming across judgy. This is a very cool-looking bike – and I think e-bikes like this are good for cycling.

The more people we can get interested in cycling, the better. The Engwe M20, with its motorbike aesthetics and powerful performance, acts as a perfect bridge for those who might not otherwise consider cycling as a mode of transport or recreation.

It appeals to a demographic that might find traditional bikes unappealing or “boring.” The younger crowd, particularly male teenagers, will likely love the sense of power and speed it provides.

However, let’s be clear: riding the M20 is far from a traditional cycling experience. The bike is equipped with a 750W motor that can peak at 1000W, and it’s designed in such a way that you barely need to pedal.

It’s more about controlling the throttle and enjoying the ride, which makes it more akin to riding a low-powered motorbike than a bicycle.

For those who are deeply invested in the cycling culture and appreciate the art of pedaling, the Engwe M20 might seem like a step away from the essence of cycling.

But for someone looking for an easy, fun way to get around or to simply enjoy the outdoors without much physical exertion, this bike is perfect. It’s fast, fun, and, with its dual suspension and fat tires, it’s also incredibly comfortable on a variety of terrains.

One of the standout aspects of the M20 is its value. For its price (normally well under £1500/$1500), you get an e-bike that not only looks great but also performs exceptionally well.

The battery life is impressive, offering a substantial range that makes it practical for longer rides or commutes. The build quality, while not premium, is solid enough to withstand regular use.

In conclusion, the Engwe M20 isn’t just an e-bike; it’s a gateway into the world of cycling for a whole new audience. It’s a bike that could very well ignite a passion for cycling in those who might never have considered it before.

Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or someone just looking to try out the latest e-bike craze, the Engwe M20 offers something unique and exciting. It’s not just a bike; it’s an experience, and it’s one that’s hard to beat for the price.

The post Engwe M20 Review: Is It Really an E-Bike? appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

In the evolving world of electric bikes (e-bikes), selecting the perfect tire type is crucial for optimizing your riding experience. Whether you’re navigating through rugged terrain or cruising down city streets, the choice between fat tires and slim tires can significantly influence your e-bike’s performance, comfort, and safety.

So how to choose between the two types of tires that suits you?

Don’t worry, I’ll break down the differences between the two for you in this article so you can make an informed decision between fat and skinny tires for your e-bike.

Understanding the Basics of E-bike Tires

Before diving into the specifics of fat and slim tires, it’s essential to grasp the foundational aspects of e-bike tires.

E-bike tires are more than just the point of contact with the ground; they’re a sophisticated blend of design, material, and technology crafted to enhance your riding experience.

The tire’s width, tread pattern, and rubber composition play pivotal roles in determining its suitability for various environments and riding styles.

The Allure of Fat Tires

Fat tires are characterized by their wider width, typically ranging from 3.8 to 5 inches or even more. Macfox fat tire e-bike models such as the Macfox X1 and Macfox X2 have tire sizes of 20″*4.0″ and are known for their excellent stability, traction and comfort.

These tires are renowned for their ability to handle various terrains with ease, including sand, snow, mud, and rocky trails. Their increased surface area provides enhanced traction, stability, and shock absorption, making them ideal for off-road adventures and challenging conditions.

One of the primary benefits of fat tires is their ability to float over soft surfaces like sand and snow, thanks to their larger footprint. This feature is particularly advantageous for riders who enjoy exploring diverse landscapes or live in regions with unpredictable weather conditions.

Moreover, the wider tires offer a more comfortable ride by reducing the impact of bumps and vibrations, Macfox X2 is also equipped with front and rear hydraulic disc brakes and a dual suspension system.resulting in a smoother cycling experience.

Enhanced Stability and Traction: The broad footprint of fat tires offers superior grip and stability on loose or slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Shock Absorption: Fat tires act as natural shock absorbers. Their volume allows them to compress over bumps and obstacles, providing a smoother ride even in the roughest conditions.

Versatility: Whether it’s snow-covered trails or sandy beaches, fat tires ensure your e-bike is equipped to tackle a wide range of terrains with ease.

Slim Tires: Exploring the Advantages

On the other hand, slim tires are characterized by their narrower width, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches. These tires are favored for their lightweight design and reduced rolling resistance, which translates to improved speed and efficiency on paved surfaces. Slim tires are commonly found on road bikes and commuter e-bikes, where speed and agility are prioritized over off-road capabilities.

One of the key advantages of slim tires is their superior aerodynamics, allowing riders to achieve higher speeds with less effort. This makes them an excellent choice for urban commuting, fitness cycling, and long-distance rides where covering distance quickly is essential. Additionally, slim tires offer a more responsive handling experience, allowing riders to navigate through traffic or tight corners with precision and control.

Increased Efficiency: The narrow width of slim tires reduces the contact area with the road, which in turn decreases rolling resistance. This leads to a more efficient transfer of power from the rider to the road, perfect for those looking to maximize their speed.

Agility: Slim tires provide a more responsive and nimble riding experience. Their design allows for quicker turns and more precise maneuvering, ideal for city streets and busy cycling lanes.

Lightweight: The reduced material in slim tires makes them lighter than their fat counterparts, contributing to an overall lighter e-bike setup that’s easier to handle and transport.

Personal Preference and Riding Style

Your personal preference and riding style also influence the tire choice for your e-bike. Some riders prioritize comfort and stability, preferring the cushioning effect of fat tires for a more leisurely and relaxed riding experience.

Others prioritize speed and agility, opting for the lightweight and nimble feel of slim tires for quick acceleration and responsive handling. Consider your own riding preferences, comfort level, and intended use of the e-bike when making your decision. As a popular city biker, you can choose the Macfox electric bike as your partner.

Weight and Rolling Resistance

Another factor to consider is the weight and rolling resistance of the tires, as this can affect your overall cycling performance and battery life. Fat tires tend to be heavier due to their larger volume of rubber and additional tread, which may resulSlim tires, on the other hand, are lighter and offer lower rolling resistance, allowing for effortless acceleration and sustained speed on roads and bike paths.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

In conclusion, the decision between fat tires and slim tires ultimately comes down to your individual preferences, riding habits, and intended use of the e-bike. If you enjoy exploring rugged terrain, tackling off-road trails, or riding in adverse weather conditions, fat tires offer unparalleled traction, stability, and comfort. However, if you prioritize speed, agility, and efficiency for urban commuting or recreational cycling, slim tires provide the aerodynamics and responsiveness you need to navigate city streets with ease.

Regardless of your choice, it’s essential to select tires that align with your specific needs and preferences to optimize your riding experience. By considering factors such as terrain, riding conditions, personal preference, and weight, you can make an informed decision that enhances your enjoyment and performance on your e-bike.

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Is the threat of theft stopping you from buying an e-bike?

In recent years, the popularity of e-bikes has soared. Offering an eco-friendly and efficient alternative for commuting and recreational riding, it’s no wonder.

Unfortunately, there are some concerning crime stats. A G4S study conducted in the Netherlands showed that e-bikes are three times more likely to be stolen than their analog counterparts. 

Their high value regrettably makes them a target for thieves, understandably leaving both owners and prospective buyers wary. With the average cost of an electric bike sitting around €2,800, according to Statista, it’s not a sum that many of us can afford to lose.

We take a look at eight things you can do to keep your e-bike secure, helping to protect you from theft and, ultimately, to keep you cycling.

1. Use Two Locks Instead of One

When locking an e-bike, you should always use a minimum of two locks. It doesn’t matter whether you’re just popping into the shops or leaving it for longer. 

Investing in high-quality locks is the first line of defense for your precious pedelec. A combination of a heavy-duty D-lock and a sturdy cable can deter thieves from stealing your bike. 

For the D-Lock, we’d recommend something solid and sturdy, like the angle-grinder-resistant X1 from Litelok, and for a cable, something thick like the HipLok Gold. Using two different locking systems adds additional protection because, usually, you’d need two different sets of tools to break them open. That’s not something your everyday thief will have in their back pocket.

2. Know How To Lock Your Bike

If you don’t use them properly, there’s no point spending your hard-earned cash on decent locks.

The most secure way to lock your bike is to use the D-lock to secure the frame and back wheel to an immovable object, preferably a designated bike rack. With your second lock, thread it through the front wheel, frame, and stand, and if possible, the rear wheel, too. Some locks, like many from the cult classic Kryptonite, have an integrated cable to make it easier for you.

Remember, your bike is only as secure as what you lock it to. If you’re using a rack, ensure it’s properly secured to the ground. If you’re using a post, ensure that a thief can’t just slide your bike over the top. Don’t be surprised by the lengths that criminals will go to, especially regarding an e-bike.

3. Know Where To Lock Your Bike

Did you know that, according to the National Office of Statistics, more than half of reported bike theft occurs at home? 

Half the battle of protecting an e-bike is knowing where to keep it safely when you’re not riding it. 

Thieves are more likely to steal e-bikes from poorly lit locations with low footfall; after all, they want to remain discreet where possible! Unfortunately, your home when you’re not there or a shed in the garden are both prime targets. 

If you’re locking your bike on the street, lock it in a well-lit place where plenty of people can see it. If you’re keeping it at home, lock it as if it were on the street. Don’t get lazy, or you might pay the price.

4. Secure Your Accessories

It isn’t just your entire bicycle that you should consider when locking it up.

It’s extremely important to remove any accessories which aren’t secure. In the case of e-bikes, detachable batteries are an extremely popular target for thieves. After all, they are the most expensive components by far.

It’s so often that you see a quick-release wheel, frame bag, or saddle unattended, but think of it this way: If it wasn’t on a bike, would you just leave it alone on the floor? Of course you wouldn’t, so take it with you or lock it up. 

It’s a minuscule effort to take care of your things, so get in the habit of always doing it.

5. Insure Your E-Bike

Paying for insurance is a pain until you need it. Then, you’ll be glad you have it.

Despite your best efforts, thefts can still occur. Spend time looking for insurance that protects you from theft. This way, you won’t be at a loss if heaven forbid it’s stolen.

Make sure to look deeply into the premium clauses you take out, as some won’t cover it being stolen from a home if you didn’t lock it!

It might sound like a tedious extra step, but when your e-bike is your lifeline, you’ll want to protect against the worst. 

6. Track Your E-Bike

Another great step you can take is to install a GPS tracker or an Airtag. These are small, discreet, and easily concealed. They’re usually connected via an app on a smartphone.

If your bike is stolen, you can usually check the app to pinpoint an exact location without the thief knowing. This can be shown to the police, who are more likely to assist you in recovery, especially since they don’t have to search for it!

You can also put on a sticker informing potential thieves that your bike has a tracker. This can be a huge deterrent, as bike thieves largely don’t want the hassle if they can avoid it.

7. Personalize Your Bicycle

Personalizing an electric bike isn’t just a way to express yourself; it’s a way to make your bike easily identifiable. 

Adding stickers, changing a paint job, or even adorning some distinct accessories can make your bike easier to recognize. While it might draw attention in the first place, which might not work in your favor, thieves don’t generally want to resell bikes that are too distinct in a local area. 

Documenting your bike by taking regular photos is also a good idea. It’s clever to keep a record of it should it be stolen, as you never know where it might pop up.

8. Know What Thieves Look For

Knowing what thieves look for is one of the most important things you can do to prevent your e-bike from being stolen.

While e-bikes are vulnerable, as are regular bikes, knowing how and why they’re being stolen might help you to make yours more secure.

If you know that motors and batteries are a frequent target in your local area, then make sure to remove them when possible. Likewise, if there’s a location known as a hotspot, it’s best to avoid keeping your bike there.

While many of the things you can do to prevent your e-bike from being stolen might seem like common sense, you’d be amazed at how much people start to neglect their bikes, especially once they’re no longer shiny and new.

The key is to create a layer of deterrents and a security system around your bike, making stealing it more hassle than any of its neighbors.

While theft is always a concern, with careful planning and proactive measures, you can enjoy the freedom of riding an e-bike with confidence, knowing that you’ve done everything in your power not only to prevent theft but also to overcome it should it happen.

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If you follow the news or have recently spent time in a city center, you might be concerned about e-bikes.

After all, they’re no joke. With their power, speed, and ready availability, it’s no surprise they’re being labeled as potentially dangerous.

Let’s take a closer look at whether e-bikes should be banned outright or whether they deserve a closer examination.

The Problems

E-bikes have enjoyed an explosion in popularity. According to ecycles, Europe’s e-bike market grew 500% between 2009 and 2018. The UK is no exception, having seen e-bike sales triple between 2017 and 2021, according to ebiketips. 

Since their widespread adoption, we’ve seen some major problems.

First, there have been numerous reports of dodgy batteries, where explosions and fires seem commonplace. According to the London Fire Brigade, the BBC reports that 77% of e-bike-related fires were caused by the battery, with 40% of them being caused by self-installed conversion kits. 

Internal issues aside, they’ve also proven to be a bit of a nuisance. Writing for the Telegraph, Bryony Gordon spoke about her experience with e-bikes being parked irresponsibly and inconsiderately. As she points out, they can present themselves as a hazard to anyone, especially the visually impaired.

But the worst is their speed. High-speed e-motorbikes, the Standard reports, are not only illegal in and of themselves when ridden on the roads but can also be used to commit further crimes. 

Pedestrians become easy targets for assault and theft as these e-bikes become the perfect getaway vehicle in a congested city, frequently being used by so-called ‘e-bike gangs’ in a concerning crime development. 

The Facts

While we seem bombarded with all the negatives of e-bikes, it’s time to separate the facts from the fiction.

No one’s denying that there have been issues with bad batteries and personal e-bike conversion kits, but there is a clear problem: regulation. 

When sold as complete bikes, e-bikes have to follow strict guidelines in most countries, with the EU, UK, and US having their own sets of checks. 

However, these regulations don’t currently extend to conversion kits. In practice, there are few limits to stop you from ordering and assembling a dodgy conversion kit, posing a massive incendiary risk. Tackling this will require both more regulations and better enforcement of trading standards, argues one article by the Financial Times.

On top of this, like all batteries, they require supervision whilst being charged. They also shouldn’t be meddled with, especially by people who don’t know what they’re doing.

When it comes to their speed, there are already measures in place to stop them from going too fast. The UK is on the stricter side of things, where electrical assistance must not exceed 15.5 MPH. In the US, however, some e-bikes are permitted to travel as fast as 28 MPH.

Once again, while e-bikes must be sold to meet these standards, it’s all too easy to remove limiters or modify one to make it capable of much greater speeds. Unfortunately, this is common, considering it is illegal in many countries.

And when it comes to responsible and considerate use, we get it. We’ve all seen piles of e-bikes and e-scooters in places where they shouldn’t be, blocking the way for pedestrians and other road users. But the fact is, in most locations, there just isn’t enough infrastructure.

There is rarely enough on-street parking, and the roads and bike lanes are often woefully unsuitable for these newer, faster micro-mobiles. Cities need to change to adapt to the widespread use of e-bikes, but they also need time.

The Stats

Did you know that of the 3,700 people killed on roads daily, more than half of them are considered vulnerable road users, the UN reports. In fact, road traffic injuries are the leading killer of people aged 5-29.

According to the US Department for Transport, 98% of pedestrian injuries on the road are caused by motor vehicles, with just 2% being caused by bikes and e-bikes.

More alarmingly, over 99% of pedestrian fatalities were caused by a collision with a motor vehicle, which is 150 times the number caused by bikes and e-bikes combined, Bakers Solicitors reports. 

In the UK, the Met Police disclosed that between 2019 and 2022, there was only one reported pedestrian fatality involving a collision with an e-bike in 2021. 

According to Statista, on average, 430 pedestrians are killed on British roads each year, meaning that only 1 of the roughly 1,700 pedestrian deaths was due to an e-bike. 

The same Met report shows that only 10 of the more than 3,800 pedestrian casualties were caused by an e-bike, just 0.26%, as shown by a recent TFL report. 

Living in a car society, we frequently excuse them for their downfalls. But all vehicles on the road should be used responsibly, period. There’s clearly an elephant in the room. When an e-bike is ridden badly, it’s the fault of the vehicle, but when a car is driven badly, it’s the driver’s fault.

There are always bad apples, but that doesn’t mean electric bikes are as dangerous as cars. Considering the additional impact pollution from cars has on pedestrians, it’s not even close.

Understandably, they’ve received a lot of negative publicity, but can you imagine if cars were blamed every time someone was injured or killed by one? It would be hard to justify having them around at all!

The Verdict?

Despite the misleading headlines you’re likely to see, e-bikes can and will play a vital role in the future of our urban environments.

They can not only transform mobility, but have so many advantages over cars. They’re cleaner, quieter, safer, cheaper, and more sustainable, so why would banning them make any sense?

While there will always be anecdotes about poorly parked e-bikes or riders abusing speed limits, the fact remains: we have to change how we live.

To tackle the challenges we face, especially regarding the environment, overpopulation, and health, we must redefine our relationship with cars, and e-bikes are in a prime position to take over some of their responsibilities in urban environments.

Banning them outright would be ludicrous. As with all new technologies, there are still significant developments to be made, but they’re a sustainable, alternative device that offers a potential fix and are here to stay. 

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There’s a revolution in the world of transport.

The electric bike, or e-bike, has exploded in popularity in the ever-evolving urban mobility landscape.

We’re sure that if you don’t have one already, in the next 10 years, you will have at least considered buying one. 

Let’s look closely at seven reasons why you’ll probably own an e-bike in the next decade.

1. E-Bikes Will Help You Save Money

The cost of running a car is becoming astronomical, and for many people, it’s not justifiable anymore. Insurance, fuel, and maintenance: the costs are going through the roof, and money is going out the window.

E-bikes, on the other hand, are comparatively cheap. While they can be a bit pricey upfront, the costs of keeping one pales in comparison to a car. 

Charging an e-bike? It’s as simple as removing the battery and plugging it into the mains like you would your phone. Think about that next time you’re filling your tank.

When it comes to longevity, they’ve also got a pretty decent life span, and your trips to the mechanic are likely to be fairly rare. This isn’t just saving you money, but time as well.

We could all afford to save a bit, and a car is starting to become, for many of us, a luxury that we can’t afford, especially now that there are other options. As more of us realize this, we will start looking at e-bikes as the logical alternative. 

2. There Are Tax Breaks & Subsidies for E-Bike Use

With a global push for sustainable transport, governments and councils are seeing massive potential when it comes to electric vehicles.

All over the world, there are various tax breaks, subsidies, and initiatives designed to facilitate the purchase and use of e-bikes. 

Take France, for instance. Did you know the French Government will actually subsidize the cost of an e-bike by up to €4000 for people who trade in their gas-powered cars?

That’s nothing to scoff at. Bikes and e-bikes bring great benefits to the community both locally and globally. This scheme isn’t the only one, so expect to see one popping up near you in the next few years if you haven’t already.

3. E-Bikes Have Great Range

Almost none of us are quite as fit and healthy as we would like to be, and while we might be able to handle a few kilometers on a regular bike, our range is a bit limited.

But why is this important? In short, e-bikes can help us to travel further. And we’re not talking a few more blocks.

Did you know that many e-bikes have a range of over 100km, some even doubling that?

Distances that the average Joe could only drive can now be covered on two wheels with relative ease. Can you imagine living 50 km away from work and commuting by bike? The fact is, it isn’t some utopian ideal anymore.

Even within cities, e-bikes allow us to live further away from centers while having the freedom to travel at our own rate. Longer commuting distances are evermore practical by bike, and with cycle infrastructure improving simultaneously, it’s a win-win for mobility. Put like this, they just make sense. 

4. E-Bikes Are Breaking Stereotypes

Save for a few major cities and countries, biking carries some preconceptions and stereotypes. Whether it’s the Spandex-laden athlete, the weekend warrior, or the fitness fanatic, they’ve all got one thing in common: it’s seen as a strenuous activity.

While we don’t deny that there’s exercise involved, and that’s a great thing, biking doesn’t have to carry the association of blood, sweat, and gears. Thanks to the e-bike, cycling can be sophisticated, inclusive, and, ultimately, accessible.

They’re quietly graceful. You don’t need special clothes or legs like Chris Hoy to benefit greatly from using one. You can arrive at your destination in your regular outfit, presentable, cool, and collected.

5. E-Bikes Tackle A Health Crisis

It’s no secret that we’re facing several health crises, but did you know that e-bikes are likely to play a big role in the solution?

With more of us living sedentary lifestyles, i.e., sitting and lying down, they make physical exercise accessible! Being and remaining active is a challenge, but electric assistance can make it that little bit more appealing.

Another way of putting it is that it can seem less like exercise, which can be a deterrent. If you cycle to work, you’re living an active lifestyle, even if it’s a short commute. 

Cycling can bring huge health benefits, from an aging population with mobility issues to those tackling obesity. The bottom line is that e-bikes get more people onto bikes, and we all know how great they are for our health.

6. E-Bikes Can Help You Avoid Traffic

Who doesn’t hate traffic?

With roads full of metal boxes on wheels with just one or two people in them, it can be pretty frustrating when you think about it. 

Cars have an enormous footprint, and we don’t just mean in terms of the environment. They take up a lot of space. Compared to almost every other form of transport, it seems obscene.

Of course, bikes take up less room, but they don’t always match up in capabilities. But for inner-city journeys, e-bikes can quickly provide an alternative. They can go the distance with only a little more effort and can usually integrate with other forms of transport, like buses, trams, and trains.

And bikes do not face the same issues with congestion, not even remotely. 

They’re nimble, easy to maneuver through traffic jams, and take up a fraction of the space that a car would. If you’re fed up with traffic, you’ll consider alternatives to driving, and an e-bike is the most viable solution, hands down.

7. E-Bikes Are Cool

Despite what some hardcore analog cyclists might say, e-bikes are pretty cool.

They’re not just a mode of transport; they’re a lifestyle choice. Owning an e-bike is a testament to being a considerate, responsible citizen who cares about the environment and the world they want to live in. It’s the vehicle of the future today!

They are the ultimate innovators, transforming the capabilities of urban environments. They’re a conduit for change, a catalyst for a greener, brighter future. And who doesn’t want to be a pioneer when it comes to that?

While they’re definitely trendy, they’re no fad. The way that we move is changing, and e-bikes are at the forefront of a transport revolution.

We will see many developments over the next 10 years, especially with urban mobility. 

Owning an e-bike won’t just be a niche; it’ll soon become the most efficient way to travel and exercise simultaneously. If you’re living in a city and not seriously considering using one already, you might risk falling to the back of the pack.

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There’s a popular myth that e-bikes are lazy.

Despite all their proven benefits, electric bikes are often victims of slander. One of the first things many people think or say when they see an e-bike is that the rider is somehow cheating, taking the easy way out by avoiding exercise.

We debunk the myth that e-bikes are inherently lazy, looking at five points showing that e-bikes might actually make us more active, healthier citizens.

What’s The Story?

It’s hard to say where the idea comes from. There have been some consistent attacks from the press on electric bikes. Sometimes, they’re dangerous; other times, they’re irresponsible, but almost always, they’re lazy.

The irony is that these comments often come from people who predominantly use a car or public transport to get around when they have the option to cycle.

These drivers are the very people who would benefit most from an e-bike, and not just because they’re healthier. They’re also cheaper, easier to navigate the city, and far cleaner than cars.

Unfortunately, there’s also been snobbery from some cyclists. One Reddit user even had the cheek to refer to them as essentially ‘two-wheeled mobility scooters for those with balance.’ 

Some cyclists also seem to be under the impression that unless you’re blue in the face and sweating through your spandex, you’re not getting a proper ride in, which is nonsensical. In fact, for most people, e-bikes are enabling when it comes to getting more exercise.

Without further ado, let’s look at some of the evidence.

1. E-Bike Users Cycle More

Contrary to popular opinion, e-bike riders use their bikes more than regular cyclists.

According to a report in the Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives Journal, e-bikers take longer trips than cyclists. This might not be the most groundbreaking revelation, as e-bikes offer electrical assistance, but it is interesting that e-bike riders cycle for longer than regular cyclists even when they’re using a regular bike. 

This suggests that using an e-bike makes us more accustomed to cycling generally, helping us to cycle longer. If anything, that makes someone a more rounded, active cyclist, not a lazy one.

2. Physical Activity Gains Are Similar To Regular Cycling

Another myth, largely promoted by cyclists, is that because cycling a non-electric bike is more strenuous, it brings greater physical benefits.

There is some truth to this. For an equivalent distance, a cyclist using a non-electric bike will clearly exert more energy. 

But this doesn’t consider that someone on an e-bike will, on average, cycle a greater distance, essentially compensating for any loss in physical exertion, as shown by one study.

In other words, a cyclist who switches to an e-bike is likely to cover a greater distance, more or less evening out the loss in physical activity. In one study cited by Capri Bikes, this increased distance could be up to 10 km.

If adding a battery and motor to a bike makes us exercise roughly the same amount while covering a greater distance, how could that possibly be considered lazy? After all, most of the time, it’s pedal assistance. It only does some of the work for you.

3. E-Bikers Exercise More Than Drivers

While we’ve been looking at e-bikes versus regular bikes, they’re both forms of active transport.

The greatest benefit comes to those who change from a car to an e-bike. 

The American Heart Association recommends the equivalent of 500 METs per week. METs, or metabolic equivalents, are essentially a scale for how hard your body is working. 

The study by the TRIP Journal showed that drivers who substitute all their car trips with e-bike ones gain 550 MET min/week, with the figure even greater for those who swap from public transport.

Put differently, if you take your car trips by e-bike instead, on average, it provides more than the recommended minimum physical activity per week. 

It’s also worth noting, as the Guardian points out, that e-bikers are likelier than cyclists to ride rather than drive when they’re tired, ultimately because the perceived potential for exhaustion is less. 

That’s to say that we don’t think of them as exercise like regular bikes, even though studies show that they provide the same benefits! What’s not to like about that?

4. They Can Provide Mobility For The Disabled

As the WHO reports, 1 in 6 of us will experience some kind of disability in our lifetimes, but e-bikes could be a part of the solution when it comes to maintaining an active lifestyle even with limitations.

Far from being lazy, e-bikes can make cycling more accessible for individuals with disabilities in several different ways. 

Their electric assistance reduces the physical effort required for pedaling, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to ride.

They also extend the user’s range, making them a potential alternative to a car for those who don’t have the stamina to ride a traditional bike for long periods. 

Lastly, they make it easier to tackle more difficult conditions, such as steep inclines or strong headwinds, which may be more challenging for disabled people. This makes cycling more viable as a transport option, even in adverse environments. Put like this, we can see that e-bikes are enabling physical activity, not discouraging it!

5. E-Bikes Make Us Cycle Later Into Life

E-bikes enable individuals to maintain an active lifestyle well into their later years. The study Effects of E-Biking on Older Adults demonstrates that e-bikes provide older generations with the opportunity to exercise, even as they age. This allows them to enjoy cycling for more years and may extend their lifespan.

Moreover, e-bikes offer low-impact exercise, particularly beneficial for individuals with age-related conditions such as arthritis. Additionally, the benefits of cycling, such as improved mental well-being and social interaction, further contribute to older adults’ overall health and happiness. 

By providing a means for enjoyable and accessible exercise, e-bikes play a crucial role in promoting healthy aging and reducing feelings of isolation. In this regard, they’re the opposite of lazy!

The Verdict

We need to reframe how we talk about e-bikes. 

Whilst it’s shown that they share the benefits of regular bikes, that isn’t what they’re trying to replace. Instead, we should be comparing them to cars.

As an alternative form of transport, they’re considerably cleaner, cheaper, more sustainable, and healthier than their four-wheeled foes, so why do we continue to refer to them as lazy?

Considering the potential they have to transform our society, it’s a shame that some people continue to label them like this. It’s not often that driving is described as lazy, even if half of the journeys done by car are 5km or less, a distance easily covered by an e-bike.

Just because e-bikes are easier to use than regular bikes does not make them lazy. At the end of the day, they’re an active form of transport. They provide countless benefits, from our physical and mental health to protecting our environment, so what good does it do to perpetuate this myth? 

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Electric bikes have enjoyed a major breakthrough over the past couple of years, with around 40 million e-bikes sold around the world in 2023.

We’ve been testing out e-bikes in all shapes and sizes, but recently we got to grips with our first electric mountain bike, the Lankeleisi RV800 Plus.

Below, we’ll run through our experience with this eye-catching bike.

Lankeleisi RV800 Electric Mountain Bike

While Discerning Cyclist has tried out many fat electric bikes before, this was our first go on a dedicated mountain e-bike and the first thing you’ll notice about the RV800 is that it is a thing of real beauty.

It is an inevitably chunky e-bike, but it’s been designed in a way that still looks sleek and streamlined, with the battery built into the bottom frame. It also comes in some bright colours and I couldn’t resist the Discerning Cyclist-esque orange.

Packed with Power

At the core of the RV800 Plus is the Bafang 750W (Peak 1130W) motor, potentially delivering impressive acceleration and a top speed of 52 km/h, although this is limited to 25km/h in EU countries and 25mph in the US.

This power is perfectly suited for challenging terrains, ensuring that steep hills and rugged paths are conquered with ease. The star gear design in the motor amplifies torque and enhances energy efficiency, making every ride exhilarating yet efficient​​.

Battery Life

Equipped with a 48V20ah Samsung lithium battery, the RV800 Plus promises an exceptional range. In pure electric mode, Lankeleise claims to offer 60-70 kilometers, while the assisted mode extends this to a staggering 120-150 kilometers.

But if you’re flying around with full power, you can expect to get about 60% of this range – about 35 to 40km.

Rugged Yet Refined

The RV800 Plus doesn’t just perform well; it looks good doing it. The frame is crafted from lightweight aluminum alloy, offering both strength and agility.

Its large, double shoulder oil spring suspension fork, coupled with 26*4.0 Kenda fat tires, ensures a smooth ride across varied terrains, from city streets to muddy trails.

The bike’s design balances rugged functionality with sleek aesthetics, making it a head-turner wherever it goes​​.

User-Friendly Features

A standout feature is the color smart LCD meter, which offers a wealth of information at a glance, from gear settings to power output. This IP64 waterproof and dustproof meter enhances the RV800 Plus’s user experience, keeping riders informed and in control.

The bike also boasts hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power, a Shimano 7-speed gear system for smooth transitions, and a comfortable sports seat, making long rides more enjoyable​​.

The RV800 also has a nice chunky and bright front light which can be controlled from the user dashboard, although sadly no rear light is included.

Not Just for the Trails

While the RV800 Plus excels in off-road conditions, its versatility makes it an excellent choice for daily commutes or leisurely weekend rides. The bike’s robust construction and powerful motor make it capable of handling urban environments with the same ease as mountain trails.

Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring backcountry roads, the RV800 Plus adapts seamlessly to your needs. Lankeleisi also provide removable mudguards with the bike which is a most welcome addition and one that should come with every bike in my opinion.

Lankeleisi RV800 Plus Review

The Lankeleisi RV800 Plus is a great deal of fun.

Its combination of power, range, and design makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to upgrade their riding experience. While it might be on the heavier side, weighing in at 35.5kg, the trade-off is a bike that’s built to last and perform.

If you’re in the market for an e-bike that can handle both urban commutes and rugged trails with equal aplomb, the RV800 Plus is certainly worth considering. It’s a bike that promises to transform your daily rides into extraordinary journeys.

Oh, and it looks really cool.

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