Electric bicycles, powered by electricity from a battery, are a solution focused on the aspects that are open to development, while preserving the positive and useful features of the bicycle. Therefore, in this article, let's take a look at what we know about electric bikes, which have become widespread in our country in recent years.
What is an Electric Bicycle? Who Should Use For What Purpose?
Bicycles that are driven by the energy provided by a rechargeable battery and some models have the option to use with pedals, while some models are driven only by motor power, are called electric bicycles.
- Almost everywhere, by people with low fitness and advanced age,
- In order not to have difficulty in uphill climbs, which force people from almost every condition level,
- In order to go farther than the distances that can be traveled by human power,
- To go a little faster than pedaling speed,
- In order not to sweat while going to work or office (unfortunately, it is not possible in every city),
they can be preferred.
What are the Legal Regulations on Electric Bicycles?
In fact, electric bicycles have not yet been fully classified in Pak, and the ambiguities on this issue are just being resolved. However, according to the current law;
Except for the definition made in Article 3 of the Road Traffic Regulation titled “Definitions”, Clause 1, Sub-clause 10 of Clause C (that is, without pedals, with a label on the electric motor and with a motor power higher than 0.25 kW, also when the battery is removed or the power All vehicles that do not move with pedaling when cut off) are considered electric motor bikes (MOPED) or electric motorcycles. This means;
Vehicles that do not have pedals or that do not have the option to drive using pedals, that have a power of more than 0.25 kW and can travel faster than 25 kilometers per hour are subject to registration and taxation, as well as a driver's license and helmet are required to drive these vehicles. However, electric bicycles that fall outside this definition are not subject to registration, do not require a license plate, and there is no need for a license to use them – for now.
Learn More: Electric or flex bike: which is the best option?
What are the Types of Electric Bicycles?
There are basically two kinds of electric bikes.
- Pedal Assisted Electric Bicycles (Pedelec): This more popular type follows the pedaling of the rider and provides engine support by activating itself according to the pedaling power and the speed reached by the bicycle. In other words, it provides support when the driver is struggling. This type of electric bikes can reach a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour with electric power.
- Electric Bicycles That Provide Power in Time of Need (Twist-N-Go): They are electric bicycles in which the engine is activated with the help of a button on the handlebar, and in this way they are similar to scooters.
- What are the Battery Specifications and Range of Electric Bicycles?
Batteries using lithium-polymer, lithium-iron or lithium-ion batteries in recently produced models can be charged at home. It has a wide range of charging times (depending on the capacity of the battery) from 30 minutes to 8 hours.
You can think of the average battery life as 800-1000 full charges. Of course, with careful and sensitive use, this life can be extended, but after about 1000 full charges, the battery needs to be replaced with a new one.
The range, on the other hand, varies between 40-200 kilometers at a time, depending on the capacity of the battery (fully charged). On the other hand, battery capacity is not the only factor affecting range. While the driver's weight, other weights, if any, and the fact that the headlights are on during night driving are among the factors that shorten the range, the support given to the engine by pedaling extends the range.
What Level Are Electric Bicycle Prices?
Although it varies according to the brand and model, it is possible to find electric bikes with increasing prices starting from (400 - 450 USD) in the market. The most important criteria affecting the price are; engine power and battery capacity.
What Are the Dangers of Electric Bicycles?
Until this part of the article, we talked about the benefits and good sides of electric bikes. However, such bicycles are a vehicle that can be dangerous if not careful.
- The most important danger is that they are extremely silent, which is also mentioned a lot on social media. No matter how careful you are as the driver, the sudden reaction of a pedestrian or car driver who is aware of the existence of an electric bike at the last moment can cause serious accidents in traffic. Therefore, honking the horn frequently while using an electric bike will be an appropriate precaution, even if there is noise pollution.
Learn More: HOW TO CHOOSE AN E-BIKE?
- Another danger is that it can be used without the need for a driver's license or other license, despite reaching a certain speed. In this regard (the legal regulation allows up to 25 kilometers per hour), it requires drivers to be more conscious.