Bicycles, like any other human invention, have their own benefits and drawbacks. The same is the case with Electric Bicycles. You are likely to agree that, in fact an E-Bicycles and a regular Bicycle have a lot more similarities than there are differences between the two. An Electric Bicycle is very similar to a regular Bicycle. Significant changes are in the Electric system of supporting pedalling and the battery to store the charge. Some people may perceive E-Bicycles to be more dangerous though as compared with regular Bicycles. It is both true and false at the same time.
While we will discuss the matter in detail below, let’s have a brief answer first. Are electric bicycles dangerous? Are e-bicycles more dangerous than regular bicycles?
Electric Bicycles are not dangerous and not more dangerous than traditional Bicycles. The risks associated with E-Bicycles may be different than those, associated with regular Bicycles. The good news is that one can avoid almost all these risks with adequate care.
The E-Bicycle battery catching fire
What could be more awful than an E-Bicycle battery catching fire? You might have seen videos showing Electric Bikes catching fire either while riding or during the charging time. Such a sight would be a big putt-off for anyone. Most Electric Bicycles have Lithium batteries that are combustible. Most of these fires usually occur when poorly built lithium batteries are subject to careless treatment.
These fires present the biggest dangers related to E-Bicycles. However, nearly 80% of such fires could be avoided with due care and precautions. For example, never charge a fully wet battery pack, never plug in a wet charger into the battery, and do not store the battery pack in hotter or colder conditions than the brand recommended temperatures. Most importantly, always buy Electric Bicycles from trusted brands to ensure it has the right cell design and structure to support high temperatures and over-charging.
The majority of modern Electric Bicycle batteries are well designed and safe to use. The battery technology is progressing further and upcoming designs will be less heavy, provide better performance and less dangerous. As E-Bicycles are Electric vehicles, the risk of a short circuit is still present, but the likelihood of one happening is really negligible.
Too much acceleration at the start
Too much Throttle application or starting from a high electric power from a dead stop is among the biggest causes of minor accidents related to E-Bicycles. As such accidents often occur at a very low speed, they don’t usually cause any serious damage. Still, these can be huge put-off.
Again, this major cause can be avoided by due care. For example, if you are using an Electric Bicycle with a Throttle, never apply full Throttle until your ElectricBbicycle starts moving. If your E-Bicycle has Pedal Assist, make sure that you do not start off at the highest mode or level. Always start at a lower level and then gradually increase the assist level as you gain speed.
HOW ARE E-BICYCLES ARE DIFFERENT FROM REGULAR BICYCLES?
As noted above, e-bicycles present certain challenges that are specific to them. On the other hand, however E-Bicycles may also present certain benefits that can make an Electric Bicycle ride more fun and entertaining.
1. Traveling at higher speeds
As Electric Bicycles are usually operated at higher speeds, they need a more efficient system of brakes to stop or reduce the speed at crossways and pedestrian crossings. Almost all major brands have equipped their Electric Bicycles with an intuitive Pedal-Assist system and high quality and efficient brakes (mostly disc brakes) for the same purpose.
2. More agility in manoeuvring
A good Electric Bicycle would provide far greater agility than a regular Bicycle. Hence, allowing you to move with greater power and precision. Moreover, as opposed to regular Bicycles, an E-Bicycle will usually come with higher standards of parts, such as tires, frame, and brakes. This will not only allow a smoother ride but also ensure better safety standards on all sorts of terrains and weather conditions.
3. Easier for Physical Fitness
Another way E-Bicycles might help you is to remove physical obstacles related to Cycling. Let it be hills, potholes, or rocks, E-Bicycles are suitable for all terrains and allow you to have a more comfortable ride along with providing an opportunity for exercise.
The positive aspects of E-Bicycles, when combined with the fact that these Bicycles provide an energy-friendly way of traveling and faster travel times, make E-Bicycles a very attractive way of commuting. While one must not forget the dangers usually associated with Electric Bicycles, these dangers should not act as a barrier to using them. One can avoid most of these dangers by having a better understanding and knowledge about the causes of E-Bicycle accidents and making efforts to avoid the careless handling Electric Bicycles. With the right approach and mind-set, E-Bicycles may be safer than regular Bicycles and Motorbikes along with being a cheaper, environment-friendly and healthier option.
