Haven’t bought an electric bike yet? Here’s why there’s never been a better time to buy than now.
Have you thought about purchasing an ebike but still haven’t taken the plunge? Here are some common barriers to purchase. And, help in thinking through those barriers.
Cost:
One of the main factors that may be holding you back from buying an electric bike is the upfront cost. Electric bikes can be expensive, with many costing $5000 or more. However, because the market is currently over-supplied (and take note: This oversupply will end very soon), it’s possible to buy models from reputable brands like MeloYelo starting at under $3000.
Awareness of the benefits:
Many people are still not fully aware of the benefits of electric bikes and how they can improve both mental and physical wellbeing. MeloYelo recently conducted a survey in which we asked customers to describe the positive effects of owning an ebike. Here’s what they told us:
Range Anxiety:
One of the biggest concerns for potential e-bike buyers is range anxiety – in other words, the fear of running out of battery power before reaching their destination.
Batteries come in a variety of different sizes, with their storage capacity typically measured in Watt-hours. Smaller batteries might have 400 watt-hours or less, while larger batteries may be 600 watt-hours or more. The most common battery size found in bike shops is around 500 watt-hours.
MeloYelo ebikes are fitted with 630 watt-hour batteries, with the battery cells supplied by either Samsung or LG, two of the top brands in batteries for electric transportation. 630 watt-hours is sufficient for most older riders to cover 90 kilometres or more when riding on roads, or light off-road trails. On steeper off-road trails with lots of twists and turns, MeloYelo owners are typically able to cover at least 50 kilometres, with many reporting a range of 70 kilometres or even more.
Weight and bulkiness:
Electric bikes tend to be heavier and bulkier than traditional bicycles due to the motor, battery, and additional components. This can be off-putting, particularly to older people whose strength is not what it used to be, and for shorter people who struggle to lift large, heavy items.
While most ebikes weigh around 26-27kg, it is possible to find ebikes weighing 22kg or even less. The MeloYelo SuperLite is one such example. Take a look at this blog to see how shorter people are enjoying the SuperLite. Here’s one example: “I love the fact that it is, as the name suggests, super-light. I am quite short, and I find lifting this bike so much easier compared to other ebikes.”
Perception of cheating:
Some people think that riding an ebike is cheating. This perception is particularly prevalent amongst men. But, with the right ebike, you get the best of both worlds. What do we mean?
Some ebike motors make pedaling more difficult when the motor is turned off, while others, such as those from MeloYelo, are easy to pedal when the power is turned off, meaning you can ride it just like a normal bike. Of course, it’s that what you plan on doing all the time, then an ebike won’t make sense. However, if you ever plan on riding with your spouse or children, or joining friends on longer trail rides, you’ll soon find that an ebike becomes a social necessity. Not only that, but get yourself onto an e-bike and you’ll wonder why you’ve waited so long. Ebikes are a lot of fun!
The benefits of ebikes are many:
- They get you outdoors more often
- You get fitter
- You spend more fun time with your partner, family and friends
- You can explore parts of NZ that would otherwise have been inaccessible
- You’ll make new friends
- You may find that riding reduces, or even eliminates, arthritis pain in your lower body
Don’t expect the sale prices being offered in late 2024 to continue. The post-COVID supply surplus is coming to an end, so if you’re looking for the best possible price on an ebike, get out there soon to explore your options. And, please take a look at MeloYelo.
