What is an eBike?!

An electric bike (or e-bike) is precisely what it sounds like - a bicycle with electric power to propel it. Ok, so maybe it’s not that simple. According to the Consumer Product Safety Act, an e-bike is a “two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.) that provides propulsion assistance.”

In other words, it’s a bike with a little umph. With increasing popularity across the globe and generations, there are plenty of options for riders:

• Class 1 bikes are pedal-assist. These bikes have motors that only provide assistance when the rider is pedaling.
• Class 2 rides can be used with just a motor - no pedaling needed. 
• Class 3 bikes have motors that kick in for assistance. The pedal assistance tops out after the bike reaches 28 mph.

E-bikes offer a few advantages over their conventional counterparts. Whether that sore knee is from your All-Conference days or the onset of arthritis, a pedal assist bike can help keep you mobile and exercising. Biking is thought by many to be a solid alternative to the punishing practice of running. Keep your quads strong with a little low-impact pedal power.

Tell us how you use your e-bike.