The complete guide to e-bikes

Electric bicycles, also called electrically assisted bicycles (or VAEs), are made up of a battery powering a motor. For bicycle fans, this is a real revolution in terms of urban mobility. This modern two-wheeler allows you to ride safely on several different types of terrain without compromising your riding comfort. Today, the electric bike is very popular with neophytes and enthusiasts. But what is its success linked to and how to choose it correctly? Weebot tells you more.

What is an electric bike?

An electric bike is a means of transport included in soft mobility. In other words, the electric bicycle is an environmentally friendly means of transport. Indeed, the electric bike reduces the carbon footprint and its use is increasingly recommended in European cities. This two-wheeler works like a classic bicycle with the only exception that it has a battery and a motor.

Riding an e-bike is very controlled. As a cyclist, you must ride on a cycle path if it is nearby. Although electric bikes can be driven without a licence, license plate or even insurance, they are nevertheless limited to a speed of 25 km/h and a power of 250 Watts.

Finally, as with a classic bike, it is still advisable to protect yourself when you ride. Cyclists are therefore invited to wear gloves, a helmet and knee pads.

The different types of electric bike

There are different types of electric bike on the market to match several profiles of cyclists:

• Urban electric bikes
• Sporty electric bikes
• Electric cargo bikes
• Powerful electric bikes
• Electric speed bikes

It is important to find out about the type of bike you are looking for before purchasing one. For example, if you want to take your children with you for a trip, you will have to turn to cargo bikes. The latter are designed to support a heavy load without experiencing a drop in performance.

If you are passionate about speed, then a speed bike may be right for you. These electric bikes allow you to reach a speed of 45 km/H in town provided that they are registered beforehand.

On the other hand, other types of VAE must respect the legislation according to which an engine must be less than 250 Watts. However, this legislation may vary by country and city.

The advantages of the electric bike

If you weren't totally convinced, know that driving an electric bike has many advantages that should not be overlooked! Here are a few:

• The VAE is ecological but also considered as the means of transport of tomorrow by some experts.
• You can get to work quickly, without polluting.
• You can practice a sports activity while carrying out your daily trips.
• The electric bicycle is a means of transport that is perfectly suited to life in the city.

The main components of an electric bicycle

To understand how an electric bike works and the possible failures it could have, it is important to know its main components. A classic electric bike is made up of:

• A frame: this part will influence the behavior and durability of your entire electric bike.
• A gear change system: this allows you to increase the autonomy and speed of their electric bike to be able to face hilly or difficult to pass paths.
• A battery: this part allows you to distribute energy to run the motor of your two wheels as well as the rest of the electronic components of the vehicle.
• An electric motor: this is one of the most important parts of your electric bike. It will create and transmit the assistance needed to move your e-bike forward.

What rules should be followed when riding an electric bike?

Like many other means of transport, the electric bicycle must comply with a number of regulations. In France, an electric bike driver must comply with several regulations, here are some of them:

• A bicycle must not exceed 25 km/h.
• The motor power of an electric bicycle must not exceed 250 Watts.
• The motor assistance must stop when the pilot moves.
• All e-bike batteries must be recyclable.
• Motor assistance must not exceed 25 km/h.
• Be visible by wearing a reflective vest.
• Be audible and hear what's going on around you.

If you do not respect the rules put in place, your electric bike will then be considered a moped. If so, you will need to register it and bring a helmet if you want to drive it without problems.

To prove that your electric bike is in order, you can provide yourself with a manufacturer's certificate or a registration certificate.

Our articles on the subject

On our site, we encourage you to accompany you from the purchase of your electric bike to your daily trips. We have a large number of miscellaneous items to take care of your two wheels. Weebot offers you tips, tests and shopping guides to find the electric bike that suits you: