Where are electric bikes most used?

Electric Bike Market Overview

Current Market Size and Value

Despite differences in the specific figures provided by fortunebusinessinsights.com and precedenceresearch.com, it is clear that the global electric bike market is undergoing significant expansion. 

According to fortunebusinessinsights.com, the ebike market, valued at USD 37.47 billion in 2022, is anticipated to grow from USD 43.32 billion in 2023 to USD 119.72 billion by 2030, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15.6%. 

However, precedenceresearch.com offers a different estimate, suggesting that the electric bike market, valued at USD 18.66 billion in 2022, is expected to rise to over USD 40.98 billion by 2030, representing a CAGR of 9.6%.

This sharp incline is no doubt influenced by advances in bike technology, especially rechargeable batteries, as well as the rising societal preference for e-bikes as a cost-efficient and environmentally sound means of transportation.

The e-bike wave gained momentum amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, as traditional public transportation methods lost appeal. This shift towards a safer, personal mode of transportation was the driver for an increase in e-bike demand and higher sales for major industry players. In turn, this has resulted in a rapidly expanding electric bike market, positioning it as a major player in the future of urban mobility.

Regional Market Share Analysis

The electric bike market is witnessing varying levels of growth across different regions. Among all regions, Asia-Pacific is observed to be the main protagonist in the growth narrative, having contributed to around 81% of the global electric bike market revenue. 

This region’s dominant position is largely a result of extensive bicycle infrastructure, heavy vehicular traffic, and strict emission regulations, with key market players located in countries such as China, India, and Japan. Notably, China alone is responsible for more than 90% of the world’s e-bike production, making it the primary force in the Asia-Pacific’s e-bike surge.

On the other side of the globe, Europe also illustrates potential for significant market growth, fuelled by a strong e-bike manufacturing industry and substantial investments in R&D. SMEs in 23 out of the 27 EU member countries are currently active in the e-bike manufacturers and parts industry. 

Cumulatively, these SMEs employ approximately 120,000 people and have pumped in more than USD 1.09 billion in R&D. This concentrated effort is expected to pay off, with e-bike sales in the EU predicted to reach around 13.5 million units by 2030.

The Middle East & Africa region, although still in the early stages of e-bike adoption, is showing promising signs of quick development. This is mainly attributed to the fast-paced development of micro-mobility infrastructure and escalating demand for bike-sharing platforms in the region.

Lastly, North America is also predicted to observe impressive growth. The rise in e-bike usage, coupled with city landscape alterations and changes in infrastructure to accommodate two-wheelers, is driving this trend.

Comparative Analysis: Electric Bikes vs Traditional Bicycles

Ebikes offer speed, convenience, and accessibility, even on uneven terrains, thanks to their pedal-assist features. However, they come with higher upfront and maintenance costs due to proprietary parts. They require regular charging, which can present challenges for long-distance journeys. 

Not to forget about the environmental impacts. While they’re more energy-efficient than cars or buses, they still require regular charging. The sourcing of electricity for this charging and the manufacturing of their batteries definitely comes with a price.

Traditional bikes, on the other hand, are less pricey and a more eco-friendly means of transport, as they don’t come with batteries and require no charging. Moreover, their parts are not only cheaper but also easy to find. 

However, without a pedal-assist feature, they can be physically demanding and slower, especially for daily commuters. Their user-friendly and environmentally friendly nature is balanced against the physical effort required and slower travel times.

Ebike Trends and Statistics

Recent Growth in the Ebike Industry

A number of factors, such as increased interest in mountain biking and the environmental benefits of cycling,  have contributed to the ebike trends. 

The Precedence Research claims that the growing popularity of mountain biking, driven by a rise in adventurous sports and tourism, has a huge impact on the ebike market size. According to their research, the  e-MTB market is set to see a grow at an accelerating rate of 10% from 2020-2027

What’s more, there’s been a noticeable shift towards mid-drive motors in ebikes. These motors offer better performance, are easier to maintain, and improve the overall handling of e-bikes due to their central positioning. This contributed to the increasing popularity of mid-drive motors among e-bike manufacturers and consumers.

Key Drivers of Ebike Popularity

According to Fortune Business Insights, the increasing popularity of E-bikes is primarily driven by the integration of connectivity solutions in bicycles and the ever-rising fuel costs. Innovations like Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) connectivity are ensuring rider safety, leading to an increase in bicycle usage. 

Furthermore, fuel price hikes triggered by supply shortages are compelling people to opt for bikes as a daily commute option. And not to forget, governments all over the world are facilitating this switch by enhancing charging infrastructure for electric bikes and offering incentives. Ultimately, bikes have become a symbol of green transportation, resulting in broadened acceptance across the globe.

Electric Bike Market Segmentation

Different Types of Electric Bikes

The good thing about electric bikes is that they come in various forms, catering to different user needs. Class 1 e-bikes, mainly offering pedal-assist functionalities, hold the largest market share due to their health assistance and power support within 25 kph. So they don’t require any driving regulations. 

Class 2 e-bikes provide both pedal-assist and throttle activation without pedaling, appealing to users with physical limitations or those who prefer an effortless ride. These are commonly used for commuting and leisure. 

Class 3 e-bikes, also known as speed pedelecs, are for those who seek a faster commute, with a maximum speed of 45 kmph. 

Apart from classes, there are e-bikes specifically designed for certain applications. Commuter e-bikes are perfect for city/urban travels, mountain e-bikes are perfect for sports enthusiasts and adventurous riders, and cargo e-bikes serve well for transporting goods, experiencing a predicted growth surge due to increasing freight activities.

Market Share and Growth Potential per Segment

According to the research done by  Precedence Research, Class 1 e-bikes captured approximately 45% of the market revenue in 2020 and are expected to maintain dominance due to the rising demand for pedal-assist bikes. 

The demand for Class 2 e-bikes mostly depends on regional regulations. Nonetheless, their ease of use and versatility make them an attractive choice for those, seeking an accessible mode of transportation. 

The forecast suggests that Class 3 e-bikes will dominate in coming years due to their speed advantage, particularly for commuting purposes. And when it comes to components, batteries hold the largest market share. Due to their performance and efficiency, the lithium-ion batteries segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.9% from 2022 to 2032. 

On the application front, the trekking segment accounted for more than 32% of global revenue in 2022, with rising demand for performance-based adventures. Still in the future, the cargo segment is expected to experience remarkable growth. 

Hub motor e-bikes held nearly 77% of the market share in 2020 due to their low maintenance requirement, while mid-drive motor e-bikes are estimated to grow fastest due to higher torque and performance.

Consumer Preferences and Behavior

Ebike Selection Preferences

When it comes to picking out an ebike, consumers have a list of preferences that narrow down to convenience, practicality, and personal circumstances. 

Let’s start with commuter ebikes. They’re the go-to option for those who want a reliable and cost-effective transport solution for getting to work. Why sit in traffic when you can bypass it on your ebike? Plus, you can do your workout on the go – not so intense that you’re drenched in sweat, but just enough to keep you fit.

Next up on the selection list are comfort and health considerations. For older users or those having some health issues, ebikes are the perfect solution. They bring the joy of cycling without the need for excessive physical effort. Particularly for individuals who find traditional biking a challenge, ebikes are just a miracle.
Not to forget the wide array of ebikes the electric bike market offers to suit different terrains and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a folding ebike that can be easily stored and transported, or a fat-tire bike for those off-road escapades, there’s an ebike out there waiting for you. 

For endurance junkies and adrenaline-seekers, performance road bikes and mountain ebikes bring speed, longevity, and excitement in equal measure.

The point is that when it comes to choosing the perfect ebike, the one-size-fits-all affair is basically impossible. It’s about what you need it for – be it daily commuting, recreational fun, or even cargo delivery. What consumers value is the versatility e-bikes offer, broadening their biking adventures while meeting their unique needs and desires. So, rest assured that in the electric bike market, there’s a perfect fit for everyone.

Factors Affecting Purchase Decisions

When purchasing an electric bike, customers weigh several crucial factors to ensure their selection aligns with their needs and lifestyle.

Speed and Class of the Bike: There are three main classes of e-bikes.

• Class 1 (Pedal Assist): They’re perfect for those who want the charm of a regular bicycle but with an additional push.
• Class 2 (Power on Demand): If you like a full range of options, from human-powered to motor-powered and everything in between, then Class 2 bikes are your best bet. Great for newcomers to e-biking or those who want to decide how much they sweat on their ride.
• Class 3 (Speed Pedelecs): For the speed demons out there, Class 3 bikes offer the thrill of hitting speeds above 28 mph, a fusion of pedal and motor power. Just be sure to double-check your local regulations, as these speedsters can sometimes need special registration or licenses.

Purpose of Cycling: Whether it’s for fitness (burning calories), practicality (running errands), or leisure (casual cruising), understanding your primary intent can significantly influence ebike choice.

Terrain Compatibility: Some riders may prioritize bikes that perform well on smooth flats, while others may need a bike robust enough to conquer challenging hills.

Geographical Limitations: Depending on where you live, especially when comparing regions like the EU and the US, there might be different e-bike regulations and specifications to consider.

Safety and Comfort: Features like seat quality, suspension, brake systems, and lighting can also play a significant role in the purchasing decision.

So the choice of an electric bike goes beyond just speed and power. It’s about finding the perfect combination of the rider’s requirements and the bike’s capabilities. This approach ensures a more satisfactory and effective purchase.

Customer Reviews as Market Indicators

E-bikes are setting the pace in the personal transportation world, and it’s not just the tech enthusiasts or hardcore cyclists who are buying in. Their appeal is broad and diverse, as highlighted by Benjamin Preston, a reporter from Consumer Reports.

For instance, Omaha cyclist Sarah Johnson turned to ebikes when health issues threatened her passion for cycling.

Then there’s Steve Volkers, residing in suburban Maryland. He’s discovered that his ebike is the magic bullet for dodging D.C.’s infamous traffic, even cutting his commute times.

Not to forget about the story of Glen Mayenschein, a dedicated bike commuter from northern New Jersey. When a knee issue made his hilly commute challenging, he chose to switch to an ebike at age 62.

These stories aren’t outliers, they’re part of a larger narrative. Ebikes are proving their value as versatile, adaptable options, appealing to everyone from millennials to baby boomers.

Key Challenges and Opportunities

Producer Challenges in Electric Bike Market

The electric bike market isn’t all roses, with several speed bumps along the way. One big issue is with hub motors, which are heavy and hard to put in. This makes the bike heavier, which can make it tougher to ride and less efficient.

Not many people know about ebikes, and governments aren’t doing much to help. To fix these problems, ebike makers might have to team up with other companies or work with governments. Doing this can help them sell more bikes and get a better spot in the electric bike market.

Opportunities for Growth & Market Expansion

The electric bike market has an optimistic future, with promising opportunities in traveling, exercise, and recreational activities. According to a Lucintel report, the global electric bike market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.1% from 2021 to 2027. And what’s impacting this rise? Well, people are getting health-conscious, traffic jams are a pain, and we all worry about the environment. 

Not to forget, governments are pushing for more bike riding to cut down those nasty carbon emissions. What’s new on the block? Luxury folding e-bikes and the ones that sync with your smartphone are turning heads. 

When it comes to the types of e-bikes, cargo e-bikes are in the spotlight. They’re great for delivering parcels on time. And where is this e-bike wave the biggest? In the Asia-Pacific. Thanks to governments promoting healthy living, better cycling facilities, and people choosing e-bikes for clean travel.

Transition to Electric Mobility

From Traditional to Electric: The Bike Evolution

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a worldwide surge in bicycle usage due to concerns over public transportation and an increase in exercise routines. The aftermath? An absolute eruption in the bike market, named the “bike boom.” 

Suppliers struggling to keep pace with the skyrocketing demand, city streets going through a complete redesign to make room for more riders – it was all part of the deal. Alongside this trend, the popularity of ebikes has been rising, posing a question on the future transformation of mobility. Meanwhile, the world also witnessed a rising star on the horizon – e-cargo bikes, or those snazzy light electric freight vehicles (LEFVs). 

These modern bikes, known for being fast and pollution-free, suggest the start of a totally changed transportation situation. So, are we about to see a revolution in the electric bike market? Only time will tell.

Sustainability through Electric Mobility

E-bikes are getting really popular and for a good reason! A study shows us just how much of a game-changer they can be. For example, if you ride an e-bike about 5.8km, it uses as much energy as charging 12 smartphones. But a petrol car uses as much as charging 182 phones for the same distance!

And check this out – if everyone in England switched from cars to ebikes, we could save 24.4 million tonnes of CO2 every year! That’s like turning off the energy for 2.7 million houses or not charging 2.7 trillion smartphones.

But there’s more. Ebikes are even better than regular bikes. They can go longer distances and they don’t make us eat more food to get the energy to pedal, which means we’re reducing the carbon footprint from food production too. So, ebikes aren’t just a fun ride, they’re a big step towards a cleaner, greener world.

Potential Disruptors in Electric Bike Market

The electric bike market is facing potential disruptions due to the high purchase cost and absence of standardized regulation. The average ebike price varies widely by propulsion type, components used, and country. 

For instance, in 2019, the wholesale cost of a mountain bike in the U.S. was $620. The absence of uniform regulations poses another challenge. Only 22 out of 30 U.S. states classify bikes into classes 1, 2, and 3 due to a conflict between federal, state, and local regulations. Regulations also vary in countries like China and European nations, based on power rating and speed.

All this to say, these high costs and mixed-up regulations might slow down the global ebike adoption rate.

FAQ

How big is the electric bike market?

The global electric bike market size was valued at around $37.47 billion in 2022 according to Fortune Business Insights. However, Precedence Research estimated it at a lower figure of $18.86 billion in the same year.

Why are Ebikes popular in Europe?

Europe’s riding high on the e-bike wave, and it’s not just because they’re trendy. It’s a blend of cultural roots, as well as economic, and policy factors. Europe’s deep-rooted cycling culture, coupled with narrow city streets, complex road conditions, and dedicated bike lanes, provides an ideal environment for riding ebikes. 

Another reason is the need for assistance in hilly terrains, especially for the elderly and long-distance commuters. Moreover, e-bikes are a cost-effective commuting solution, given Europe’s pricey electricity and parking. Governments are backing the electric bike market too, with tax reductions and subsidies, which ultimately affects their popularity.

Policies supporting e-bikes, such as tax reductions and subsidies, also play a key role in their popularity. However, despite strong consumer demand, no single brand has yet dominated the European e-bike market, and the sector has seen participation from traditional car manufacturers, start-ups, and consumer goods companies alike.

Why are people buying ebikes?

Lots of people are getting ebikes because they’re easy to use, save money, and are good for the planet. They help people ride uphill or go far without getting too tired.

Who are ebike customers?

Many different people! Young, green-minded commuters after a sustainable ride, the older people who appreciate the easier mobility, and fitness enthusiasts who use them for exercise. It also appeals to those who are fed up with traffic jams and want to cut their transport expenses. So, e-bikes are not just cool, they’re a smart choice.

Who are the key players in the ebike market?

The ebike market is fragmented and highly competitive. There’s no clear leader, but there are a few key players like Giant Bicycles, Merida, Trek Bikes, Riese & Muller, and M1 Sporttechnik. Giant Bicycles, a Taiwan-based company, is anticipated to become the most dominant player due to its proximity to the significant ebike markets of China and the Asia-Pacific region.

How many e-bikes are sold in Europe?

In 2021, the number of e-bikes sold in Europe reached 5.06 million, as reported by Statista.

Fact: Electronic bicycles are pedaling towards wider consumer adoption in the United States, thanks to shifting mindsets on the environment, health, wellness and ideal work commute — plus a little daily thrill-seeking. 

Fiction: E-bicycles are loud, expensive, hard to maintain and convenient only for those in high-density urban areas — or for those too lazy to use a regular bike.

Don't just take our word for it, though. Explore these electric bike statistics to see how 2020 will be an inflection point in the burgeoning U.S. e-bike marketplace. In this guide, you'll discover the latest data on:

• E-bike usage rates and adoption variables

• Rider demographics

• Key geographic e-bike markets

• The environmental impact of e-biking

• Costs of e-bike ownership compared to cars, motorcycles and other modes of transportation

• And much more, revealing key information and statistics on electric bike popularity and the benefits an e-bike can bring to your lifestyle. 

E-Bike Market and Sales Growth

E-bikes, or electric-assisted bicycles, are the next-generation of bicycling with numerous benefits for riders, wallets, cities, the economy and the environment. Intuitively designed with a built-in battery-powered motor attached to every model, e-bikes assist riders through enhanced, semi-motorized pedaling as well as the option for traditional manual biking. Some e-bikes even offer throttle-only power, in which the rider doesn't have to pedal the bike at all.

Assisted electric biking is not exactly new. In fact, the first e-bike designs were patented in 1895. Advancements in battery types, efficiencies, charge cycles, capacities, transmissions and more in the past decade has revolutionized both the quality and convenience of e-bicycles, though — with U.S. consumers finally taking note. 

1. E-Bike Sales Growth Statistics

E-bicycle sales data reveals the steady growth in demand for pedal-assist bicycles worldwide, with some of the largest increases occurring in North America between 2010 and 2020:

• 2010-2013:

   

  E-bike sales at the onset of the decade saw modest but steady growth.

   

  The Electric Bikes Worldwide Report (EWBR) cited an 80% sales jump in e-bikes between 2012 and 2013 alone, with 2013's inflection point of

   185,000 electronic bikes sold in the United States.

• 2016-2019:

   

  The latter half of the 2010s reinvigorated the consumer electric bike market. Between 2016 and 2017, electronic bicycle sales in North America rebounded and then reached new records, catalyzing in 263,000 e-bikes sold in 2017over 400,000 e-bikes sold

   

  and even wider consumer awareness behind this alternative form of transportation. 
• 2020-2023: As a result of recent advancements in lithium-ion battery technology

  As a result of, over 130 million e-bikes are expected to be sold between 2020 and 2023. Because lithium-ion batteries are more affordable and powerful than their lead-acid counterparts, they're making e-bikes more affordable and attractive to consumers. Some experts predict that e-bikes featuring lithium-ion batteries will account for about 60% of all e-bikes sold in 2023.

2. Average Price of E-Bikes Over Time

Technological developments in lithium-ion batteries, bicycle frame molding and material sourcing has lowered the cost of an e-bike in America. Today, you can find reliable and high-quality e-bikes for as little as $1,500 — largely due to battery production costs dropping over 87% in the past ten years. If you're looking for an e-bike with a larger battery, larger motor and higher quality features, you can find one for around $2,500-$3,000.

3. E-Bike Market Projections

Worldwide, over 300 million pedal-assist bikes will exist on roads and sidewalks by 2023 — a jump of over 50% from 2019. By 2025, e-bicycles are expected to blossom into an over $23 billion dollar industry in the U.S. alone, translating into a compound annual growth rate of 4% to 5% in less than five years and setting a positive trajectory for consumers and producers alike. 

How Are E-Bikes Used?

From exercise enthusiasts to the eco-minded suburbanite, data has a lot to say on the most common uses for e-bicycles, plus the benefits of using electronic bikes for these activities.

1. Commuting

The average commuter today will spend about 26 minutes each way getting to and from work. In some parts of the U.S., that figure is even more dismal, with workers in New York City, Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Atlanta facing over 32-minute commutes each way.

With these statistics in mind, it's no wonder one of the most-cited reasons for picking up e-biking is for improved work commutes. E-bikes allow for shortcuts around sidewalks, parking lots, alleyways, trails, parks and other landmarks that cars and public transportation alike can't traverse. Bikes are also less inhibited by traffic lights and controls, especially when commuting on dedicated trails. What's more, given its pedal-assist nature, e-bikers don't arrive at work drenched in sweat after climbing hills or battling headwinds, even though in some cases, you're getting to work faster. 

2. Moderate Exercise

An e-bike's electronic motor helps propel the bicycle forward, easing the strain of continuous pedaling for the rider. However, e-bicycles can still be used in the traditional manner when the motor is turned off, allowing for a flexible workout fitting the rider's health goals and schedule. 

In fact, most e-bike motors reduce the required pedaling effort and double or even triple a bike's propulsion power. This combination promotes a steady rather than rapid heart-rate elevation, making e-bicycles a great form of exercise for individuals across ages and health situations, including senior citizens. 

In a national study, about 10% of e-bikers cite health as their top reason for choosing this form of transportation. Additional research shows, the physical activity gained is the same for both traditional and electronic bike rides, given the longer-average bike rides performed with e-bikes. 

3. Short and Mid-Distance Travel

Electric bike riders tend to cycle across longer distances than their traditional cycling peers. With today's more efficient lithium-ion battery motors, e-bikes can also travel at comparable speeds to city street traffic. According to research from the most recent North American Survey of Electric Bicycle Owners, e-bikes are optimal for traveling because they:

• Ease biking on hilly city, suburban or urban streets and trails.

• Allow riders to forgo paying for or worrying about parking.

• More readily transport cargo, with riders citing they carry 30 to 40 pounds on their e-bikes comfortably.

• from 20 to 40 miles per charge cycle

  Can travel longer distances than a traditional pedal bike, with the average e-bike ride lasting anywhereand e-bike type.

This all ensures e-bikers don't have to sacrifice time in their days for health or the environment and can use their bikes for short and mid-distance commutes, running errands, visiting friends and family, dining out or any other everyday utilitarian use. 

4. Tax Subsidies 

Riding a bike to work can also earn you a tax-free subsidy under The Federal Bike Commuter Benefits program, providing yet another reason people are turning to e-bikes as a preferred form of daily local transportation. 

Where Are E-Bikes Most Popular?

Globally, the most popular countries for e-biking are China, Germany, Spain and Denmark, respectively. Some corresponding stats are as follows:

• An estimated 85% of all e-bicycles are sold in China.

• China reportedly has more e-bikes than cars on the road.

• Sales of e-bikes in the European Union have grown on a year-by-year basis since 2006, at rates between 19 and 76% annually. 

In the United States, the electric bike market is strongest in these states and cities according to rankings from the League of American Bicyclists:

1. Washington State, particularly the Seattle area.

2. Oregon, specifically cities like Portland and Eugene.

3. Minnesota, namely the St. Paul-Minneapolis metropolitan area.

4. California, in cities like San Francisco and its neighboring Silicon Valley.

5. Massachusetts, in Boston and across smaller coastal towns.

6. Delaware, particularly its major urban areas of Dover and Wilmington.

7. Colorado, especially Boulder, Denver and Fort Collins.

The League of American Bicyclists uses the following criteria to determine the most e-bike friendly cities and states: 

• Bicycle-friendly infrastructure and funding, namely dedicated, safe bike lanes on roads as well as well-maintained, abundant bike trails. 

• Relative urban density making e-biking a suitable form of transportation.

• Pre-existing bike-sharing programs growing biking's public awareness, as represented in programs like Chicago's Divvy, New York’s Citibike and Washington DC’s Capital Bikeshare. 

• Public-education programs encouraging the adoption of traditional and electric biking. 

• Pro-biking legislation and enforcement of biking laws, particularly those protecting the rights and safety of bikers and bike-dedicated spaces. 

• Total number of bicycle-friendly actions undertaken by local and state governments. 

The Rise in Popularity of E-Bikes

An improved commute remains the top reason people hit the pavement on their electronic bike, fueling e-bike sales and underscoring a year-by-year jump in consumer e-biking awareness. 

But what's really behind the fastest-growing biking segment in the U.S.? Electric bikes are becoming more popular largely because of the following factors:

1. Environmental Consciousness 

The electric bike's popularity rides the waves of America's growing concern over climate change. 

In urban centers particularly, carbon emissions from cars, trucks and even public transportation are linked to half a dozen environmental implications, which, in turn, negatively affect consumer health and wellness:

• Decreased air quality leads to aggravated breathing and skin conditions, respiratory damage, cardiovascular disease and even cancer. 

• More greenhouse gases increase average temperatures, change seasonal climate conditions and further aggravate air and water pollution.

•  

  trucks and cars produce nearly 24 pounds of CO2, plus other detrimental gases and fumes. 

  For every gallon of gas burned,, plus other detrimental gases and fumes.

From a commuter's perspective, e-bikes are a triple threat: they provide reduced traffic and a healthier and greener alternative to traditional modes of transportation that collectively fuels over 30% of the U.S.' total global warming emissions (the country's single-largest contributor). Using an electric bicycle is one of the best options for concerned consumers working on cutting their carbon footprint. 

2. Corresponding Legislation 

Nine countries worldwide have set sales deadlines for petrol and diesel-based cars. Many of these deadlines are approaching faster than the average consumer may even realize. For example, by 2025, the Netherlands will only permit the sale of electric vehicles. India and Norway aren't far behind, with their bans coming in 2030. 

The United States still lags behind many of its global counterparts regarding federal environmental regulations and the transportation industry. However, pro-electronic biking legislation at the state level has better positioned the electric bike market's success, incentivizing state citizens to go green, such as:

• Protections around e-bikers in Colorado, Oregon, Utah and more.

• Laws preserving the owning and riding of e-bikes without special licenses or proof of insurance.

• Sensible regulations around e-bike safety and ridership, including bike lights and helmets.

• Up-to-date speed limits or outputs for legal e-bike riding.

Health Benefits of Using an E-Bicycle

On average, cyclists actually spend more time and travel farther on e-bicycles, compared to traditional pedal bikes. The compound effects of these longer biking times and distances directly correlate with several positive health outcomes for e-bike riders, as shown by one of the largest biking studies ever performed tracking 10,000+ adults across seven countries.

Consider these top health benefits and e-bike health statistics:

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Heart disease is the single leading cause of death in America regardless of sex, race or ethnicity. What's more, it shows little signs of slowing down. From high blood pressure and cholesterol to coronary artery disease, rates continue to climb nationwide, with current projections estimating one out of every three Americans will die due to cardiovascular causes. 

Luckily, e-biking and positive cardiovascular health are intertwined due to its innate aerobic benefits. Research shows moderate e-bike usage can produce the same heart-healthy effects as traditional manual biking:

• VO2 efficiency:

   

  E-bike riders' VO2 levels — or the amount of oxygen transported and used in the bloodstream during physical activity — is equal to those of regular cyclists.
• Lowered blood pressure:

   

  E-bike riders also lowered their blood pressure levels across the massive four-week study, sometimes even more so than their traditionally biking counterparts. 
• Overall improved heart function:

   

  E-bikers' heart vitals held no statistical differences from those riding a normal bike, leading researchers to conclude e-biking as a beneficial form of exercise. 

2. Combats Obesity

The average cyclist's body mass index (BMI), or calculated body fat composition compared to height and weight, is 23.8%. Comparatively, e-bike owners have been shown to hold an average BMI of 24.8%, only a single percentage point higher.

Both these BMI rankings fall well within the recommendations for most healthy American adults. However, considering studies have found the average e-bike rider tends to be older (48.1 years old versus 41.4 for traditional cyclists), these BMI findings are particularly positive, supporting the weight management and fat metabolism benefits of electric biking. 

3. Reduces Stress 

Electric bicycling has also been shown to improve riders' mental and emotional health. What's more, these benefits are noted even in minimal e-bike usage, with ridership as low as once a week. Even short electric rides have been shown to:

• Boost rider self-esteem.

• Improve stress tolerance.

• Sharpen mental acuity.

• Minimize feelings of tiredness and fatigue.

• Raise overall levels of self-reported happiness and life satisfaction.

4. 

Increases Mobility

Over 28% of e-bike owners — one out of every four — reports physical impairments preventing them from riding a standard pedal bike. These impairments include both physical and dexterity ailments, including:

• Knee and back pain

• Arthritis

• Miscellaneous musculoskeletal issues

• Nervous-system damage, impairments

• Partial hearing or eyesight loss

These mobility-related impairments are particularly challenging — and widespread — amongst the elderly. Each renders a traditional bike unusable yet statistically contributes to the high rates of e-bike ownership among senior citizens, who are the second-largest demographic to own an electric bike. 

Environmental Impact of E-Bikes

The environmental e-bike statistics are clear. E-biking remains one of the greenest and most cost-efficient modes of transportation available to the modern consumer, blowing other forms of transport like cars and trucks out of the running. 

1. Riding an E-Bike Cuts Down on CO2

 

Emissions

Electric bikes carry a minimal carbon footprint — roughly 21 to 22 grams of CO2 per kilometer traveled — compared to other modes of modern transportation like cars, trucks and even motorcycles. For reference: 

• A traditional pedal bike nets only one gram less of CO2 emissions, or 21 grams total per kilometer, according to the European Cyclist Federation. 

• Public transportation buses produce around 101 grams of CO

  2

   per kilometer.

• Passenger cars produce over 271 grams of CO2 per kilometer. 

These figures make e-biking a serious strategy for reducing your overall carbon footprint. Even more persuasively, studies from the European Cycling Federation and other industry researchers have factored in an e-bike's indirect contributions to greenhouse gases, such as the environmental friendliness of its materials (e.g., rubber tires; aluminum framing) to the diet of the rider (i.e., extra calories consumed due to increased exercise). Even with these additional considerations, e-biking creates a near-negligent total carbon footprint. 

2. E-Bikes Reduce Fossil Fuel Dependency

At a time when fossil fuels still generate 64% of the U.S.' electricity, even small reductions make a substantial step towards more sustainable energy models.

By supporting e-bike infrastructure and social measures, the U.S. can decrease its dependency of fossil fuels and contribute to the social, economic and environmental goals set by U.S. Department of Energy itself for 2025, including:

• Save American consumers over $1.7 trillion in total fuel costs.
• Reduce imports of price-fluctuating foreign fossil fuels, halving current imports from OPEC countries.
• Lower our participation in the price-shock controls exerted by players in the modern fossil-fuel marketplace. 

3. E-Bikes Reduce Ai

r Pollutants

A four-mile e-biking trip keeps up to 15 pounds of pollutants from entering the air. Improved air quality leads to many positive health outcomes for people and the planet, including:

• Decreased complications from asthma, allergies and other respiratory irritants.

• Improved mental functions, memory and focus.

• Improved sleep.

• Stronger immune systems.

• And many other holistic wellness markers.

Cutting Costs With E-Bikes

How much can even modest e-bike riding save your wallet? The latest industry data reveals the true dollar-per-dollar, year-per-yer cost of ownership between cars and e-bikes. 

1. Annual Costs of Driving Your Car

Today's four-door passenger car has an average ownership cost of $9,761 per year. That sum can be broken down into these primary yearly car expenditures: 

• Car payment average: $3,975 per year.

• Gas and oil: $2,109 per year.

• Vehicle-related costs:

   

  $3,677 per year.

2. Annual Costs of Riding an E-Bike

E-bicycle ownership costs a fraction of what a passenger car does — in some cases as low as a few hundred dollars a year after the initial bike purchase.

Use these common expenditures to determine the basis of you e-bike cost of ownership, particularly compared to owning a car, truck or motorcycle: 

• Electric battery charging: 

  $.04 to $.06 per charge cycle (400-500 watt-hours). Rates vary depending on your municipality's electricity costs per kilowatt and are based on the

   

  2019 national average of $.12 per kilowatt
• Annual maintenance check-up:

   

  Every six months or every 500 miles, whichever occurs first.

• Battery maintenance

   

  and disposal: Electric bicycle batteries

   

  and packs should last a few years and should not need annual replacement. Batteries should also be disposed of properly at certified locations or retailers collecting used electronics. 
• Miscellaneous expenses:

   

  Replacing e-bike parts and components

Make a Lasting Change Today

Explore one of the nation's largest and most advanced e-bicycle assortments online. Juiced Bikes has been a top-rated, premier brand in the e-bike market for much of the last decade. We're ready to show you how much you can gain with an electric bike in 2020 — and for years to come.