Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. What is electric cycle
   1. How does an electric bike work
3. How to make electric cycle
4. Advantages and disadvantages of electric bicycle
5. Conclusion

Electric bicycles, popularly known as e-bikes, have become the talk of the town. Why is it all over the news? Is it worth the hype? Research says electric bike sales surged by 240% in 2021 in the United States. Industry experts are now predicting a revolution with sales in 2022. The whopping numbers can pleasantly shock you.

We are living in the future, and e-bikes have a big role to play in the approaching times. Although the market is still in the infancy stage in India, experts foresee a boom hereafter. The electric space is projected at a compound annual growth rate of 12.69% from 2022 to 2027.

As per our analysis, a major population is yet naive towards the approach of electric vehicles. So, here’s everything you are curious to know about the features, working, advantages and disadvantages of electric bicycles.

Have you ever seen a solid looking cycle zipping down your street and wondered what it is? You have all the answers down right here.

What is electric cycle?

First thing first, an electric bicycle is completely different from a regular cycle and a motorcycle. It is a motorised bicycle with an electric motor that assists and gives the rider ample power while pedalling. The motor delivers power depending upon the speed of the pedaller. E-bikes are battery-operated, and that’s the base of the motor’s working. The rechargeable batteries allow the rider to travel typically upto 30 km/h (17 to 20 mph).

Not just one, but these bicycles are designed to provide a variety of modes to choose from. Each mode permits pedalling at a different range and speed.

How does an electric bike work?

The best part about the push-bike is that they give you the required assistance and foster great cardiovascular health by allowing you to use your power. The working of the electric bike depends upon three major components – motor, battery and sensor.

1. Motor

The basic use of the motor is providing torque while pedalling. It can easily amplify the rider’s ability by putting in less effort. Advanced electric bicycles come with an upgraded motor which can provide exceptional force. This means the motor abets in getting to the destination quickly, even if that means climbing up a hill. The idea of the motor is not completely to take over but to provide consistent power and make the experience simpler.

2. Battery

Without a battery, the motor cannot function. The capability of the motor to operate depends upon the battery wattage, type and model. The choice of the battery may seem crucial because it directly impacts the range of the bike. Gladly, the size of the batteries has shrunk, but the competency to provide power has increased. Just like any other battery, this requires recharge as well. The time frame may vary but will range anywhere between four-six hours.
The placement of the battery will depend upon the type and size. Some of them can be removed and recharged, while some are required to be on the bike while recharging it.

3. Sensor

Sensor plays a mammoth role in the working of an e-bike. The component keeps track of the speed and how hard the rider pedals. With this data, the sensor makes the motor alert on the power and speed; and the motor acts upon accordingly with the right assistance. For instance, the torque sensor quickly notes the force put in by the rider, engages the motor and then responds with a small amount of torque. And then comes the speed sensor that keeps a check on how fast the rider pedals. The bike leverages this sensor to watch the speed to prevent the bicycle from going too fast. So, the sensor is pretty utilitarian in the dynamics of an electric cycle.

How to make electric cycle?

If you are an eager beaver, that’s a positive sign. Knowledge growth can do only one thing for you – benefit you. Here’s an easy manual on how to make electric cycle. Building a bicycle by yourself may seem immensely intimidating at first. But if you are a keen learner, nothing is impossible.

Before you begin, get all the tools in place.

• A bicycle
• A conversion kit that includes a speed controller 24v, throttle 24v and a hub motor.
• Pie kit with LCD display
• Dual freewheel removal kit
• Torque arm
• Battery 14 amp
• Zip ties
• Sockets

A step-by-step procedure on how to make electric cycle at home.

Step 1: Start with selecting the battery. You will find options of various battery types with different voltages and amp-hour. Choose one with a 36-28 volt and capacity of 10Ah-20Ah. A battery with a higher voltage will make your bike more powerful.
Step 2: Remove the rear tire and attach the hub motor to the bike. Reinstall the brake cables using the lever. For disc brakes, secure the pads using springs and clips. Ensure to adjust the brakes as needed.
Step 3: Draw out the wheels for replacement with a one-inch socket. Once done, the old freewheel can be used for the new wheel.
Step 4: Reusing the existing tire and tube is a great idea, and it will save you a good amount of money.
Step 5: Remove the tires with the help of the bike tools kit.
Step 6: Affix the old tubes and tire to the new wheel. Add a washer to the freewheel and add that as well.
Step 7: Go ahead and attach the new wheel to the bike.
Step 8: Cautiously install all the bike components. Attach all the bolts on each side and secure a torque arm
Step 9: Tighten all the wires with the zip-ties. Do not cut the battery wires and don’t touch them together. Plug the connector on the speed controller into the connector on the battery.
Step 10: Unfasten the handlebar. Detach the shifters and the brake. Now, attach the LCD display (centrally) and the control switch (right side) to the handlebar.
Step 11: Mount the battery.
Step 12: Secure all the grips, cables and wires. You are done!
Step 13: Get ready to ride your e-bike.
Step 14: Don’t forget to charge the battery when required.

Advantages and Disadvantages of electric bicycles

An e-bike scores an edge over a regular bicycle and a motorcycle for many reasons. Here’s a list of the pros and cons. Let’s begin with goodness.

Benefits of electric bikes

1. Eco Friendly

First and foremost, an eclectic bicycle is eco-friendly. Unlike conventional transportation, the running of an e-bike is not harmful to our environment. There is no usage of petrol, gas or diesel, and therefore, there is zero emission of toxic and greenhouse gases. Electric cycles also don’t let out any sound, so there is no scope for noise pollution. Unquestionably, e-bikes are a safe option for the environment.

2. High speed

With a little effort, you can be rest assured of getting the extra oomph to cover miles of distance. Quicker than a regular bicycle, motorcycle or even a car, for that matter. Turn on the motor assistance mode and get a speed of 15 miles per hour. Some bikes can go at a higher speed as well, depending upon the motor’s efficiency.

3. Fitness boost

Riding is one way to stay healthy, and it’s as amazing as riding a regular bike. Even though an e-bike is pedal-assisted, it still requires your legs, arms, and shoulders to be activated. You also have the option to choose a fitness-oriented e-bike.

4. Smart bike

Have no qualms about calling an e-bike a smart bike. You can connect the bike wirelessly to your smartphone and keep track of your fitness goals and maps. The bike has configured some clever integrations and eliminated the usage of phones when cycling. Enjoy the luxury of looking up for directions on the LCD display of the bike. You will be surprised to know how you can send and receive calls through the bike display. That’s the power of wireless communication. To know more on that front, drop by the blog – What is Wireless Communication? ThinkBig!

Disadvantages of electric bikes

1. Upfront cost

And that’s the biggest disadvantage of electric bikes. It’s a given that e-bikes are more pricey than ordinary bikes or a motorcycle. The sole reason behind that is the undeniable technology it brings to the table. Everything good comes at a cost. In the case of an electronic cycle, you are paying for the experience, convenience and smart integration.

2. High repair and maintenance cost

There can be times your pocket may feel the burden of the repair and maintenance. In case of a breakdown in any of the components, it is sure to disrupt the performance of the e-bike. Malfunction in the motor, sensor, display, battery or any other techy component requires an immediate repair, which is priced heavily.

3. Battery concerns

There are two crucial aspects to factor in here. First, batteries come with a lifespan. They need a replacement once damaged, and that is an additional cost. Second, the battery will need about 4-6 hours to recharge completely. This could be infuriating if you love the last-minute thrills.

4. Absence of infrastructure

The conceptualisation of e-bikes is still being established in India. Therefore, there is still a lack of infrastructure. Whereas developed countries have a charging station every few kilometres, we are yet not there. So, planning a long ride with your friends may seem like a far-fetched dream. Hang in there; India has big plans for a better future.

Even though the disadvantages of electric bicycles may seem weighty, the advantages are certain to exceed them. What do you think?

One Last Thought:

And that’s a wrap to everything about this ingenious invention. In a nutshell, you are well aware of all the electric bikes info, which we can proudly call the future transport of India. For the long and short, it would be wise enough to explore our blog on – Future of Electric Vehicles in India!

While watching a sci-fi movie, what is the one thing that holds your massive attention? A sleek and newfangled vehicle with zero-emission. The electric bike is on its way to being the sustained future, especially in congested cities. They are clean and green. Thanks to the cutting-edge electric bike features, you ought to save money in the long run.

In addition, for a comprehensive Mobility program at Atria University, you can choose from three specialisations in this exciting domain. Set your foot in to explore the great times ahead.