Electric Bikes
On the Move - Carbon Free!
Here at Wireless 1, we have electric bikes for sale, and you won't be disappointed with their range and speed. They are proving very handy to many people where a journey is a little too far but not far enough to warrant other transport. So let's take a closer look at ebikes.
Like many other countries, Australia's electric bike market is taking off. With the world coming to the point where we understand that trying not to use fuel when we don't need to means there are more options for ebikes.
The History of Electric Bikes
This may be hard to believe, but the first electric bicycles appeared on the scene in the 19th century!
Patents in the US were issued between 1895 to 1899 to Ogden Bolton, Hosea W. and John Schnepf, all of which had different designs.
While they weren't commonplace in the market, designs were being made and tested. In 1980 one particular design featured a solar charging station and replenished onboard batteries. Way before solar became a household staple here!
It was in the late 90s that we saw models have torque sensors with power controls entering the market.
The first significant impact on the market came in 1997 when the 'Select' bike appeared. It only takes one idea to create many, as 49 different models came out by the turn of the century. Then came the early 2000s when two of Japan's giants, Panasonic and Yamaha, put them into global mass production.
Now we see a steady increase in the use and production of ebikes, plus kids' electric bikes and even an electric dirt bike, so where we go from here, who knows?
How Electric Bikes Work
Sensors on the bike measure torque, speed and cadence and perform hundreds of calculations per second.
Once the ebikes computer/sensors understand the 'need for speed' or at least assistance, the batteries kick in, and power is released from your battery pack.
So today's ebikes don't have the throttle actuating the motor's input; your pedalling input is underlined by the motor. So you get an ultra-smooth peddling ride, somewhat a twist-and-go moped ride but instead with pedals.
The bike has electromagnets that get energised from the battery pack; these spin the shaft, add assistance and do most of the work for you.
Software coding naturally differs from manufacturer to manufacturer, but the basics remain the same (for the time being, of course).
The Benefits of Having an Electric Bike
Emissions. Let's start with the most obvious appeal of electric bikes. They come with no environmentally harmful emissions. Maybe children born in 2023, the only time they may get to see a combustion engine may be in a museum!
That's how the world is moving. People are looking for environmentally friendly transport options, just like they are more nutrition and exercise-conscious than ever.
Even if you consider the cost of recharging the battery on an ebike, it is still way more energy efficient than other transportation methods, including public transport.
Recent statistics show an ebike to be 13-18 times more efficient than an auto or bus with a combustible engine.
Short Journeys. We all get caught up in these journeys that are just that little bit too far to walk, or you don't quite have the time and those where you feel guilty using the car.
Well, not only does an ebike fit that journey just fine, but it'll also make you think you're getting a workout too, but we all know the truth, really!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is important when buying an electric bike?
Here are a few basic points to consider:
- How it looks always counts
- Its range
- Its price
- The motor type (pedal, pedal assist, or fully electric)
- Its maximum supported weight
- Its battery brand, and where to replace them
- Suitability for where you live
What is the lifespan of an electric bike?
An ebike, on average, will last around 10 years. Naturally, this figure will be higher or lower depending on the manufacturer, the series and how you use it. If you are careful and maintain it, it should last you around a decade as it is not a complex machine. You will likely have to replace parts and chains even if you maintain the bike.
How far can an ebike go without charging?
Under relaxed pedalling, you can look between 35-80km on a single charge depending on the model. Some models will go well over the 80km range on a single charge. So those short journeys can be a little longer.
You must consider hills, wind, and body weight; they all impact distance with ebikes.
Electric bikes Australia - Do you need a licence?
To save time for new laws, Australia adopted EU laws with ebikes. You can't ride on the road or bike paths if your engine has a stated power of over 200w, not including pedal assistance or if you have a pedal assist system with 250w.
Driving Licence. So, if you abide by the laws above, you don't need a licence. However, if you can't help but get your tools out and turbocharge it, you'll have to register it as a road vehicle. Then you'll need a licence, insurance and everything else that comes with tinkering with it.
Here at Wireless 1, we have incredible discounts on our electric bikes. So if your looking for an electric bike Australia tested, take a look and shop with us today; you won't be disappointed!