How Much Does an Electric Bike Cost?

There are a million reasons to switch from a traditional bike to an electric bike. 

While e-bikes have been around for years, their rise to popularity is fairly recent. You may know someone who owns an electric bike, or maybe you’re seen them around town. Either way, you’ve probably wondered how much it costs to own one of your own.

Now, you’re here. We’re going to finally answer that question and others that you may have asked after seeing an e-bike on the streets. From what exactly an e-bike is to the price range you can expect when buying one, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about these zippy electric bikes and why they might be perfect for you.

Let’s go! 

 

Misconceptions About Electric Bicycles

It’s an extremely common misconception that an e-bike’s motor has the same amount of power as an electric scooter or moped. This is a major reason why people are skeptical about e-bikes. Some think the motor takes away from the exercise you get when riding the bike, but it’s actually there to assist you, not fully take over.

You’ll find that most electric bikes have multiple settings for how much power is used. This way, you can turn it down or shut it off completely when you want to have a more traditional bicycle ride, or you can crank it up when you’re going up a steep hill or getting tired of pedaling. 

Whenever and wherever you decide to use the powerful motor, it’s good to know it’s there to help you when you need a little push. 

Additionally, there are multiple styles of electric bikes, so they don’t all look the same. In fact, it’s likely you’ve seen an e-bike before without even realizing it. Whichever type you decide to go with, your e-bike will be versatile and get you to where you where you’re going.

 

Why Should I Switch to an Electric Bike?

There are so many reasons to go electric – for your health, for the planet, for convenience, just for fun, and more. 

When making your decision to purchase an e-bike, consider where you live and how you intend to use your bike. For example, someone who commutes to work or school in a big city will get the most use out of a city electric bike, and someone who wants an e-bike that can go off-road might opt for a fat tire e-bike. No matter what you plan to use your e-bike for, know that there is one for you!

Here are some common reasons for taking the plunge and picking up an electric bike.

 

Commuting

Biking to work or school can be physically demanding, especially if your commute is several miles each way. 

With an electric bike, you can alleviate some of the physical work your commute requires. Use the dual hub motor to get over big hills to save your energy for the day. If you’re dressing nice, using the e-bike’s motor to propel you can keep it that way. 

Using an e-bike to get to class or work beats sitting in traffic or unreliable bus systems, and you’ll still look fresh when you get to where you’re going. Sounds like a win-win to us!

 

Going Green

Arguably the most impactful reason to go electric, e-bikes are environmentally friendly. 

Electric bikes do not release any harmful emissions, which allows them to combat climate change 10 to 30 times more efficiently than electric cars.

You don’t need to ditch your gas car completely in order to make a difference. You can still make a huge impact by simply replacing small trips in the car with bike rides under the sun. 

If you’re going somewhere nearby and the weather is good, why drive? E-bikes will make for a smooth, eco-friendly, and enjoyable trip. 

Going electric is one of the best things you can do for the environment. Reducing our carbon footprint is the first step towards a brighter future, and it can all start with something as simple and fun as an electric bike. 

 

Accessible

For differently abled riders, e-bikes are capable of making longer rides much more pleasant. With long-lasting throttle and pedal assistance and the ability to go many miles per charge, people who are physically unable to ride for long periods of time are able to pedal with lower impact on their joints for longer. 

Go wherever the road takes you knowing that your body will be well taken care of.

 

Versatility

There are several different styles of e-bike that you can choose from based on where you live and what you do. 

Looking for a bike to use on your daily commute in a big city? The city electric bike will make it a breeze. 

Near the coast and want to take a more relaxing ride? The electric beach cruiser offers maximum comfort. 

Live in a smaller town with lots of wilderness and bumpy roads? The electric fat tire bike is the best for off-roading and handling uneven terrain. 

With electric bikes, there really is something for everyone. 

 

So, How Much Are eBikes?

For traditional and big-name brands, e-bikes will cost anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on the model and style of e-bike. 

If you’re feeling a little shocked at the price range, don’t be. There are traditional bikes that are more expensive than some high-end e-bikes. It’s just how much they’re going for these days. 

Luckily, you have options, and Retrospec offers high quality electric bikes of all types at lower prices than most other retailers. 

 

The Price Tag of E-Bikes Compared to Cars

Another huge advantage e-bikes offer is that they can pay for themselves. What do we mean? Well, let’s say you still own a car but use an e-bike as your primary mode of transportation for any trip under 5 miles. 

 

Those small trips to the coffee shop or grocery store add up in terms of miles. The less you drive your car, the longer you’ll have it. By completely cutting out short trips, you can increase your car’s lifespan by years. 

 

Probably the most noticeable difference in your life that comes with using an e-bike is the amount you spend on gas. Gas prices have been through the roof lately, and whether or not you’d classify your car as a gas-guzzler, you’re probably spending more on gas than you’d like to. Instead, save the $5 per gallon that you’d pay at the pump and use an e-bike. 

 

The money you’ll save will quickly catch up to the upfront cost of purchasing an e-bike. Additionally, if you want to help the environment and save money at the same time, storing your car during the warm months is another way you can go green. 

 

For a lot of people, not having a car isn’t practical, especially if you live somewhere with all four seasons, but in those warm summer and late spring months, you can thrive with an e-bike.

Conclusion

Although the upfront cost of a new e-bike may be more than a regular bike, it’s well worth it to buy an electric bike, especially if you plan on using it regularly instead of your car, which will save you money and reduce your carbon footprint.

Take it from us; a good e-bike will go a long way. Reduce your carbon footprint and go green. We’ll see you outside! 

Sources: 

E-Bike 1000 MPG Project | Climate Action 

Should I Buy an Electric Bicycle? Here's Everything You Need to Know to Get Started! | Treehugger

ENERGY Americans are paying the most for gas in seven years | CNBC