Le guide complet du vélo électrique

Electric bikes, also called electric-assisted bikes (or EAB), consist of a battery powering a motor. For bike enthusiasts, this is a true revolution in urban mobility. This modern two-wheeler allows you to ride safely on various types of terrain without compromising your riding comfort. Today, the electric bike is very popular among beginners and enthusiasts alike. But what is behind its success and how to choose the right one? 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 bike is an environmentally friendly mode 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 bike with the only exception that it has a battery and a motor.

Riding an electric bike is highly regulated. As a cyclist, you must ride on a bike lane if one is nearby. Although electric bikes can be ridden without a license, registration plate, or 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 recommended to protect yourself when riding. Cyclists are therefore encouraged to wear gloves, a helmet, and knee pads.

The different types of electric bike

There are different types of electric bikes on the market to suit various cyclist profiles:

  • Urban electric bikes
  • Sport electric bikes
  • Cargo electric bikes
  • Powerful electric bikes
  • Speed electric bikes

It is important to research the type of bike you are looking for before making a purchase. For example, if you want to take your children with you for a trip, you will need to opt for cargo bikes. These are designed to carry heavy loads without a drop in performance.

If you are passionate about speed, then a speed bike might suit you. These electric bikes allow you to reach a speed of 45 km/h in the city provided they are registered beforehand.

On the other hand, other types of EAB must comply with legislation stating that a motor must be less than 250 Watts. However, this legislation may vary depending on countries and cities.

Advantages of the electric bike

If you were not fully convinced, know that riding an electric bike has many advantages not to be overlooked! Here are a few:

  • The EAB is ecological and also considered by some experts as the mode of transport of tomorrow.
  • You can get to work quickly without polluting.
  • You can engage in a sporting activity while making your daily trips.
  • The electric bike is a mode of transport perfectly suited for city life.

Main components of an electric bike

To understand how an electric bike works and the possible breakdowns it might have, it is important to know its main components. A classic electric bike consists of:

  • A frame: this part influences the behavior and durability of your entire electric bike.
  • A gear shifting system: this allows you to increase the range and speed of your electric bike to tackle hilly or difficult terrain.
  • A battery: this part supplies energy to power the motor of your two-wheeler as well as the other electronic components of the vehicle.
  • An electric motor: this is one of the most important parts of your electric bike. It creates and transmits the assistance needed to move your electric bike forward.

What rules must be followed when riding an electric bike?

Like many other means of transport, the electric bike must comply with certain regulations. In France, an electric bike rider must adhere to several regulations, here are some:

  • A bike must not exceed 25 km/h.
  • The motor power of an electric bike must not exceed 250 Watts.
  • Motor assistance must stop when the rider moves.
  • All electric 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 is happening around you.

If you do not respect the rules in place, your electric bike will then be considered a moped. If this is the case, you will need to register it and wear a helmet if you want to ride it without problems.

To prove that your electric bike is compliant, you can carry a manufacturer’s certificate or a registration certificate.

Our articles on the subject

On our site, we are committed to supporting you from the purchase of your electric bike to your daily trips. We have a large number of various articles to take care of your two-wheeler. Weebot offers you tips, tests, and buying guides to find the electric bike that suits you:

  • Electric bike buying guide: The electric bike market is very vast, and it is not always easy to make a choice. Our buying guides will help you find the ideal electric bike.
  • Electric bike tests: If you are looking for a particular electric bike, it is normal to want to know more about it. That is why Weebot offers many tests for electric bikes.
  • Electric bike comparison: Some brands offer several models and it is not uncommon to get lost. This category allows you to make a choice between these different models.
  • Electric bike tips: If you are looking for quick and simple tips to take care of your electric bike, then check out this category which will teach you everything you need to know about maintaining your two-wheeler.
  • Electric bike news: When you own a two-wheeler, it is important to know the laws in force. This category allows you to closely follow all the news concerning your electric bike.
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  • The complete guide to the electric scooter
  • The complete guide to the electric bike