Spring has finally arrived! With the warmer weather in tow, everyone is itching to get back in the saddle and out exploring by bike. Social media and mainstream press have been hot to promote the wonders of e-bikes, especially for those seeking a healthy, green, fun and affordable alternative to car-dependency, and a mode of cycling which is inclusive to all ages and abilities.
Cycling advocate Megan Ramey of BikAbout - with her comprehensive guide to cycling in North America - recently drafted an informative op-ed for Marketwatch, making the case for switching to an ebike, from not only a regular bike, but also to replace a car or even an EV. You can follow Megan on Twitter @bikabout.
So, now that you are primed to try an ebike, should you buy, convert or subscribe?
To Buy
Megan’s feature article lists excellent considerations when you are thinking about buying. There are ebikes in every price range, however, you get what you pay for. Megan advises that you avoid the inexpensive ones (under $1,000). They will not last, are low on range, safety and function. Ebikes with a higher price-point boast sleeker, lighter frames & have greater range, performance, and longevity. Do your research. Consult user forums and cycling groups. You will be able to find an e-bike to suit your budget and needs. A cool thread from Arleigh Greenwald of @bikeshopgirlcom just popped up, asking riders to post why they chose an ebike. Check out these amazing testimonials.
To Convert
What’s this you say? Conversion? Yes, purchasing a bike conversion kit to “upgrade” your present bike into an ebike is an option. Our friends at Cycling News did some extensive research on the best kits on the market (thanks Cycling News!) which will hopefully steer you through this process. Zygg has summarized their reviews & provided links to the product site:
wattage: 250w
battery included : yes
motor position: swapping front wheel
Best Features: shows battery power & level of assist; detachable battery to avoid theft
Weakest Feature: cadence sensor can be hard to fit
CN Rating * * * * * and full review
wattage: 250w
battery included : yes
motor position: rear tire
Best features: Easy set up / removal, regenerative braking
Weakest feature: motor makes noise on the tire, especially in the rain
CN Rating * * * * and full review
wattage: 250, 500, 750w
battery included : yes
motor position: front wheel
Best features: relatively easy set up, powerful with a great ride quality
Weakest feature: cable management is a challenge
CN Rating * * * * and full review
Bafang Mid-Drive Motor Kit and Battery
wattage: 500w
battery included : yes
motor position: crank
Best features: cheaper price entry point, North American support, good brand
Weakest feature: instructions for installation incomplete
Not CN Rated
wattage: 250w
battery included : yes
motor position: crank
Best features: fits most bikes with threaded bottom bracket, torque-sensing pedal-assist
Weakest feature: expensive, must be fitted by a dealer
Not CN Rated
Tongsheng Mid-Drive Kit with Battery
wattage: 500w
battery included : yes
motor position: crank
Best features: Natural feeling acceleration, torque-sensor-based pedal-assist
Weakest feature: the instructions are not great
Not CN Rated
To Subscribe
No surprise that Zygg is rather fond of our ebike subscription option. As Zygg enters our third successful year in Toronto (with a growing fleet of dynamic ebikes for personal and delivery rider use this season), and, with our expansion into the Vancouver market this Spring, it is undeniable that this is a very attractive way to go.
With both an outright ebike purchase or the purchase of a conversion kit, entry prices may be cost-prohibitive for many. Both purchase and conversion routes also leave you with the added expense and headache of bike maintenance and repairs. Let’s face it, we are all not “MacGyvers” who can flex a bike transformation. Every Zygg Ebike Subscription includes delivery of your very own ebike, with maintenance and support included in one equitable monthly/seasonal fee.
Give it a try - come out for a test ride - and we will make sure to hook you up with an ebike which is just right.