This article is to help settle any doubts about electrical bicycles, or ebikes, that you may have. Going over the truth of the matter so you can have an educated opinion and facts.

Myth #1: Same Thing as an Emoto)

A common misconception is that using an electrical bicycle or as we call them, an ebike, is the same thing as an electric motorcycle (emoto) for short. 

Debunked: Ebikes can reach 20-28mph with their up to 750kW motors, meanwhile emotos range 30-100+mph with their 3,000+kW motors. This makes emotos much more dangerous and in a  completely separate category  than ebikes.

Myth #2: Not Real Exercise)

Another myth  is that using an ebike is cheating at exercising when compared to a normal bicycle.

Debunked: As it turns out, ebike riding offers similar cardiovascular benefits if not more than traditional bicycle exercise as riders often go longer and more frequently than with traditional bicycles.

Myth #3: Only for the Elderly or Lazy)

It is common to hear that  using an ebike is only for the elderly or lazy.

Debunked: Myth! Why? Because regardless of age people engage with ebikes, getting in more exercise and time on the seat, whether it is a couple laps around the neighborhood with grandkids or dashing through mountain trails.

Myth #4: Batteries Always Catch On Fires)

A common misconception is that using an ebike risks the battery catching on fire.

Debunked: Batteries are not prone to catching on fire, only ones that come on discount or less-than-respectable brands. At Ebike Oasis we only carry brands like Velotric and Lectric which are UL certified meaning that the likelihood of combustion is near nonexistent. But if you wanted to still sway your worries, you can get a bike battery bag which covers the battery and/or bike to smother any flames if you are still worried.

Myth #5: Too Heavy to Ride)

On facebook I imagined you might have heard, “ Oh, ebikes are too heavy to ride up inclines or anything other than perfectly flat land.”

Debunked: While yes ebikes are heavier than traditional bikes, you do not feel it while riding as the motor picks up the pace to make it feel like a casual ride even if you are going uphill. If you have trouble lifting or hoisting it, you can remove the battery and lift it as if it was a normal bike.

Myth #6: You Need a License or Insurance)

A common misconception is that using an ebike requires a license and insurance.

Debunked: Nope! Since most ebikes are Class I to Class III they do not require a license or insurance to operate. Ride them as if they were traditional bikes with no fear of getting pulled over.

Myth #7: Cannot Ride in the Rain or Wash Them)

With anything electric, people are always concerned that you cannot ride in the rain or wash them without fear of damaging the bike or yourself.

Debunked: Any quality ebike, such as the Velotric and Lectric models sold at Ebike Oasis in Pelham and Montgomery, Alabama, is water-resistant! You do not need to worry about riding your ebike in the rain as it poses no physical risk. Just mind the mud to make cleaning easier, and if you do get mud on it, use a hose and a cloth to wipe down the bike, trying not to apply high pressure water near electrical components and you will be safe and sound.

Myth #8: Too Expensive to Maintain)

A common misconception is that maintaining an ebike is too expensive.

Debunked: Upkeep and maintenance are similar to a traditional bike with additional care only required for the battery and motor. Most of which have warranties and you can get a maintenance plan such as the ones Ebike Oasis offer, to make sure you have a locally owned business handle the communication with manufacturers for you to mitigate costs and hassle.

Myth #9: They Are Too Fast and Dangerous)

Now, I know you have heard that ebikes are too fast and dangerous, causing trouble in the neighborhood like mini motorcycle gangs.

Debunked:  As we mentioned early, that is a misconception mistaking emotos for ebikes. Ebikes have set speed limits that are set in place to protect riders and the public. You can personalize it to ride as fast as a normal bike to up to the legal limit of 28 miles per hour from the electric motor. Meaning it can be as safe and reasonable as you wish it to be.

Myth #10: They Are Unreliable and Short Range)

Lastly, you may have heard that ebikes are unreliable and short range.

Debunked: False! The batteries can get you an average of 50 to 75 miles on a full charge depending on the model and you can charge it back up in a night. This means the ebikes are powerful, reliable and have impressive ranges.