"Common Myths About Electric Bikes: The Truths You Need to Know"

Electric bikes have gained popularity in recent years, but several myths have also emerged, which may discourage potential riders. At Thunder E-bikes, we aim to dispel these misconceptions and provide the truth behind each myth. Below, we break down the most common myths and offer examples and facts that clarify the reality.

Thunder E-bikes

10/4/20244 min read

a couple of people riding bikes through a creek
a couple of people riding bikes through a creek

Myth 1: "Electric bikes are for lazy people"

This is one of the most widespread myths. Many believe that because electric bikes offer motor assistance, they eliminate the need for physical exercise. However, the reality is quite different.

THE TRUTH

Electric bikes allow riders to choose how much assistance they want. While the motor helps during more strenuous moments (like climbing hills), riders can cycle without assistance or use minimal support on flat surfaces. This means you're still getting a workout, just without over-exerting yourself.

Example: Imagine Laura, a 45-year-old cyclist who used to enjoy long bike rides but began avoiding hilly routes due to the challenge. With her Thunder E-bike, she can adjust the assistance level and still tackle those challenging routes without becoming overly tired. She continues to pedal and stay active, but with an extra boost that allows her to enjoy the ride without exhaustion.

a man riding a bike through a forest
a man riding a bike through a forest
a green motorcycle parked on dirt
a green motorcycle parked on dirt

Myth 2: "Electric bikes have limited range"

Many people think that electric bikes can’t travel long distances due to limited battery life. This myth has led to the belief that they aren’t a viable option for long rides or for those who want to explore further afield.

THE TRUTH

Modern electric bikes, such as those from Thunder E-bikes, come with high-capacity batteries that can offer a range of between 30 and 75 miles, depending on usage and terrain. Additionally, with efficient charging and careful use of assistance levels, riders can further extend their bike’s battery life.

Example: Carlos has a 25-mile commute to work, but with his Thunder E-bike, he can comfortably complete the round trip without worrying about running out of battery. By using assistance only when needed (like during uphill sections or when he's in a hurry), his bike can go even further, ensuring he doesn’t need to charge it after every ride.

a man riding a motorcycle down a rural road
a man riding a motorcycle down a rural road
a woman riding a motorcycle in a field
a woman riding a motorcycle in a field

Myth 3: "Electric bikes are too expensive"

It’s commonly believed that electric bikes are far more expensive than traditional bikes, making them unaffordable for many.

THE TRUTH

While it’s true that electric bikes have a higher initial cost than conventional bicycles, it’s important to consider the long-term savings. Electric bikes can replace more costly forms of transport, such as cars or motorbikes, reducing expenses on fuel, parking, and maintenance. Furthermore, at Thunder E-bikes, we offer options for every budget, along with flexible payment plans.

Example: Maria used to spend a significant amount of money on petrol and car maintenance for her daily commute. After switching to an electric bike from Thunder E-bikes, she now saves on fuel costs, avoids parking fees, and finds that maintaining her bike is far cheaper than maintaining a car. In less than a year, she had already recouped her initial investment.

man in black jacket walking on dirt road during daytime
man in black jacket walking on dirt road during daytime
a person riding a bike in the desert
a person riding a bike in the desert

Myth 4: "Electric bikes are too heavy and difficult to handle"

Another common belief is that electric bikes are much heavier than traditional ones, making them hard to handle, especially on inclines or when trying to carry them on public transport.

THE TRUTH

While electric bikes do have batteries and motors that add extra weight, technological advancements have made this weight more manageable. Plus, the electric motor compensates for the additional weight, making it easier to pedal and manoeuvre, even uphill. Thunder E-bikes are designed with a balanced frame to distribute the weight, ensuring a comfortable and agile ride.

Example: Ana lives in a flat without a lift and was worried about carrying her electric bike upstairs. However, she found that her Thunder E-bike was much lighter than she expected. Additionally, when she rides, the motor makes tackling hills and long routes effortless, eliminating the discomfort she anticipated from the extra weight.

a woman riding a bike down a dirt road
a woman riding a bike down a dirt road
a person sitting next to a bicycle
a person sitting next to a bicycle

Myth 5: "Electric bikes are unsafe and more dangerous than regular bikes"

Some people believe that electric bikes are unsafe due to the higher speeds they can reach or the idea that they are more difficult to control.

THE TRUTH

Electric bikes are designed with multiple levels of assistance and control, meaning the rider is always in charge of the speed. Additionally, Thunder E-bikes come equipped with high-quality brakes and advanced safety systems that ensure safe riding at any speed. If you follow traffic laws and wear safety gear, an e-bike is no more dangerous than any other bicycle.

Example: John was concerned about the safety of electric bikes due to the high speeds he’d heard about. However, after trying a Thunder E-bike, he realised he could easily adjust the speed and that the brakes were more than capable of handling quick, safe stops. Today, John confidently uses his e-bike for his urban commutes.

man in black jacket sitting on black bicycle on green grass field during daytime
man in black jacket sitting on black bicycle on green grass field during daytime

Debunking these myths helps people see electric bikes for what they really are: an efficient, economical, and accessible option for all cyclists. At Thunder E-bikes, we take pride in offering high-quality electric bikes that not only dispel these myths but also provide an enhanced and personalised cycling experience.

Conclusion