Today marks the inaugural National E-Bike Day—here's what to know and gear to shop
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Today, Tuesday, May 30 is the inaugural National E-Bike Day, a day established to celebrate one of America’s favorite modes of transportation, the electric bike. It’s held to encourage current E-Bike owners to ride more and for those without E-Bikes to make the switch. Established by the electric bike manufacturer Lectric, this is the first National E-Bike Day to be held and it is to be annually observed on May 30th moving forward.
The best time to get an E-Bike is today, as the average price of an E-Bike in 2022 was 10% cheaper than it was in 2021. If you’re looking to try one for even cheaper, over 50 U.S. cities have E-Bikes available for public use. Why should you try an E-Bike? We’re here to show you all you need to know about the power of E-Bikes, as well as the gear you’ll need to enjoy your ride.
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The history of E-Bikes
You might be surprised to learn how far back E-Bikes stretch back. The patent for the first electric bike was filed in 1895, the same century in which standard bikes were invented. American inventor Ogden Bolton Jr.’s E-Bike patent featured a battery-powered hub motor near the rear wheel. Shortly after, another inventor by the name of Hosea W. Libby would file a patent for an electric bike that placed the hub motor inside the crankiest axle hub, which is still seen in current models. The biggest innovation to electric bikes would come in 1989, as E-Bikes with pedal assist were invented, meaning the motor could be engaged by pedaling in addition to the traditional throttle.
More: Leave the car at home and cruise through summer with the Lectric XP 3.0 e-bike
Why are E-Bikes so popular?
E-Bikes are popular because of their fun and convenience. They have the engagement and low carbon footprint of bicycles, while they require less physical exertion like a car. This is thanks to the motors which help to propel riders, something particularly helpful when approaching hills. In recent years, the growth of electric bike sales has been associated with the need for more outdoor activity during the 2020 lockdown and the momentum grew from there. Another contributing factor to E-Bikes’ rising popularity has been the high price of gas, making the fact that E-Bikes are fueled by electricity instead of gas all the more appealing.
How are E-Bikes different from bikes?
The main difference between E-Bikes and traditional bikes can be seen in how they are propelled. Traditional bikes are solely propelled by a rider pedaling, while pedaling an E-Bike activates its rechargeable, electric motor, giving the rider a boost and allowing them to attain higher speeds with less exertion.
Lectric XP
Looking to get your ride on? When it comes to E-Bikes, it doesn't get any better than Lectric. Lectric, which established National E-Bike Day, has the best E-Bike out there, the Lectric XP 3.0. The XP 3.0 is easy to assemble and tops at 20 miles per hour. With its impressive power and battery, you won't want to get off this bike once you get on.
Charge Comfort Bike
Charge is another electric bike manufacturer to shop if you're looking for a new ride. There are several bikes to choose from. One of them is Charge's Comfort Bike, which features a top speed of 20 miles per hour, as well as a comfortable seat and unique upright configuration that makes it more comfortable to ride.
Helmets
It's all fun and games until you crash into something or fall off your bike. Both of these scenarios carry the risk of causing serious injury. To avoid that, we recommend wearing a helmet. Lectric offers many helmets in various styles and designs to help you ride with confidence.
Baskets
Whether you're getting books from the library or hauling groceries, having a basket on your E-Bike can make your life a whole lot easier. Lectric offers baskets in both small and large sizes. Plus, they're compatible with the Lectric's headlamps, meaning you won't have to choose between convenience and visibility.
If you’re looking to ride your new E-Bike with a friend, you’ll need an extra seat. Fortunately, you can install one onto the Lectric XPedition. It should be noted that to ride with another passenger, you’ll need a pair of cushions.
$90 from Lectric$60 from Lectric
Food delivery pack
For those working in food delivery or if you just want to keep your groceries at the perfect temperature during your ride home, you'll want Lectric's food delivery package. In addition to its convenient insulation that keeps food from spoiling, these packages feature side pouches to organize your food and a detachable front zipper so you can easily access it.
$89 from Lectric$109 from Lectric
Pet trailer
There's no need to leave your fur baby at home once you get your new E-Bike. Lectric's most adorable accessory is the Wag-Along Pet Trailer. Just hitch the trailer to the back of your Lectric bike and you'll be able to bring your pet with you wherever you go. Buyers have found that both dogs and cats love riding in the pet trailer.
Headlight
While E-Bikes are faster than regular bikes, they're the same size, meaning riders are still at risk of being unseen by cars at night. A great way to remedy this is by using a headlight when riding during times of limited visibility. A headlight will ensure that you are seen and can see cars and other obstacles while navigating.
If you’re looking for a headlamp to wear on your head instead, one of the best you can buy on Amazon is the GearLight S500 LED Head Lamp. It has over 30,900 five-star reviews on Amazon thanks to its water resistance and low cost.
$49 from Lectric$11 from Amazon
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.