Electric Bike Virud

[Deleted member 4366]

Have a read of this. I think that what they say makes some sense when you consider what happened to the typwriter and washing machine. A few more breakthrough developments needed first though.
The bike has been infected forever - ExtraEnergy.org

 

[RobF]

The impact of new technology is often over estimated in the short term, but under estimated in the long term.

The first computers were meant to herald the paperless office, which hasn't happened, yet there are now computers in every office.

I agree developments in ebikes are needed, particularly battery weight and size, if not power.

But I can foresee the day when push bikes will be the preserve of a few, hardcore enthusiasts.

 

[neptune]

This is a very interesting article, and whilst I agree with some of it, I disagree with other parts. It says that the unassisted bicycle will only survive as a niche market, but that niche is likely to be larger than the author anticipates. The unassisted bike has certain great advantages over the ebike. The price is much lower. In the right hands, the range can be greater. I think it unlikely that the ebike will ever totally replace the push bike, until and unless you can buy a 100 Ah battery that weighs 2 Kg for about £20. I suspect that most ebike owners also own and occasionally use a push bike.

 

[flecc]

But I can foresee the day when push bikes will be the preserve of a few, hardcore enthusiasts.

I very much doubt this, it's at least as likely to go the other way in some areas.

In cycling mad Holland, the Dutch have long been used to treating riding just like walking, no special preparation, just pedalling off in the same way they walk somewhere. Currently they've taken to e-bikes in a big way, but I wonder how long it will be before some find the added hassle of battery charging and replacements, more things to go wrong etc causes them to think again. In their flat country the sheer simplicity and low costs of an ordinary bike could once again become more appealing to a utility rider.

 

[timidtom]

I very much doubt this, it's at least as likely to go the other way in some areas.

In cycling mad Holland, the Dutch have long been used to treating riding just like walking, no special preparation, just pedalling off in the same way they walk somewhere. Currently they've taken to e-bikes in a big way, but I wonder how long it will be before some find the added hassle of battery charging and replacements, more things to go wrong etc causes them to think again. In their flat country the sheer simplicity and low costs of an ordinary bike could once again become more appealing to a utility rider.

I seem to remember gale force headwinds during a cycling holiday there many years ago - maybe Dutch weather has improved since then? I didn't even know about e-bikes then!
;-)
Tom

 

[flecc]

I seem to remember gale force headwinds during a cycling holiday there many years ago - maybe Dutch weather has improved since then? I didn't even know about e-bikes then!
;-)
Tom

That's very true on the polders Tom, I was thinking more in terms of the numerous town utility riders who use their bikes for shopping and other local purposes. I see some of them thinking again.

 

[mike killay]

I would liken it to small boats.
Most nowadays have engines, even 2hp outboards.
Against these you find the canoes, rowing boats and sailing craft.
Now sailing boats maybe outside the picture because they are wind rather than muscle powered.
Rowing/paddling enthusiasts will always be there, but the bulk of people prefer some sort of power, preferably petrol although electric boats are just starting to take off.

 

[OldBob1]

Its started next will be Canbus, the bike will tell you what it wants, charge or service, throw away the old chain and gear sets look at the new Vari drive!!!!
Put away apple box and slink off..

Bob

 

[103Alex1]

Rowing/paddling enthusiasts will always be there, but the bulk of people prefer some sort of power, preferably petrol although electric boats are just starting to take off.

Main problem with motorboats is all the servicing, and having to have stored and launched etc. It's time-consuming and expensive. I'd rather rent one than own one. Running them on petrol costs a fortune - if you can get away with liquid gas they are pretty economic. I don't think electricity and water will ever be a natural mating, but you never know !

I don't even think of canoes/kayaks as a form of boat but love them as much as motorboats (a completely different experience) and don't get out on them often enough. Some people seem to take to them easier than others - I love sea kayaks because you can take them into inlets and remote places which you can't get a boat to. The peace of using them on calm water is hard to beat. Especially if the water's warm enough to swim too . Might even own one if I had the storage / means of getting it around. They are great for your health but perhaps not so comfortable if you have a bad back.

 

[SRS]

I suspect that most ebike owners also own and occasionally use a push bike.

Good article and I suspect that for the most part pedelecs will ultimately outgrow push bikes. Maybe some decades but will surely happen.

An interesting assumption as to pedelec owners and push bike ownership.

I,d be keen to know if the assumption is true, anybody?

I for one own e-bike and non powered hybrid.

Love both, e-bike for in your face windy day commutes.
Hybrid for the nicer days. Weekly mileage averages around 50/60 miles on each.