11 E-Bike Myths Checked!
They are as old as humanity itself: myths. Stories that are based on faith and don't take hard knowledge and facts too seriously. Myths stop at nothing and no one. Not even in front of e-bikes. What surprising things haven't you heard and read about the topic? If even a fraction of this were true, then probably no one would own an e-bike, let alone ride one.
The fact that electric bicycles have enjoyed increasing popularity over the years is actually enough to put the brakes on various prejudices.
A popularity that can also be measured: in 2021 alone, around 220,500 e-bikes were sold in Austria and every third of all bikes sold was an e-bike. Models that were approved for road traffic were particularly in demand. In Germany, another record was reached in the same period with around two million electric bicycles sold. And according to the industry association, the number would have been even higher if the bicycle industry had not struggled with delivery problems in 2021. Incidentally, there are problems that buyers of Geero e-bikes are not aware of. Due to regional manufacturing in Austria, Geero was and is not affected by delivery bottlenecks and the associated delivery problems, but scores points with full product availability.
But now we no longer want to withhold from you the 11 most persistent myths about e-bikes - to make you smile, be amazed and think! We will of course provide the relevant information.
Myth 1
“E-bikes are only for old people.”
We start with one of the most common and – make no mistake – also the most discriminatory prejudices. Aside from the fact that you're only as old as you feel, this myth couldn't be further from the truth. Because e-bikes know neither age nor fitness level limits - thanks to the motor support. In addition, their practical uses are diverse: from stress-free commuting to work and effortlessly running errands, to an environmentally conscious alternative to the car and leisure activities, to sporting activities. The e-bike also offers people who can no longer ride a conventional bike for health reasons or who, for example, return to sport slowly and in a controlled manner after an operation, an optimal way to stay mobile.
Myth 2
“E-bikes are mopeds in disguise.”
It's time to dispel the rumour that not a single muscle is used for e-bikes, or more precisely pedelecs. No, Pedelecs are not easy to run on their own and that is also reflected in the name: Pedal Electric Cycle. This means that you have to pedal so that the motor provides support if necessary. And only up to a speed of 25km/h. So muscle strength is required! This also answers the question of whether e-biking is a sport – yes. Numerous scientific studies have already clearly shown that regular Pedelec rides are healthy and keep you fit. Cycling is actually one of the healthiest endurance sports of all.
Myth 3
“E-bikes have no training effect.”
This myth is closely related to the prejudice that Pedelecs are only suitable for – to put it diplomatically – very comfortable people. However, the training effect should still be examined in more detail.
Riding an electric bike builds your muscles and increases your fitness and performance. It has been proven that users of e-bikes get on their bikes more often and for longer periods of time than people who ride conventional bikes. The reason for this is simply explained: thanks to the possible motor support, headwinds, further distances, inclines, etc. are no longer a deterrent and the radius of action increases without bikers having to push themselves to their limits.
Good tip: The less often the motor is switched on, the longer the range of the battery is. Geero e-bikes inherently impress with a strong power battery. When used optimally, it even has a range of up to 100 kilometres.
And because calorie consumption is often an issue in connection with training: When riding a conventional bicycle, it is assumed that around 300 calories are burned per hour - when riding slowly on a straight path. Steep climbs or high speeds can burn up to 1,000 calories per hour or more, depending on the person. When it comes to e-bikes, it is difficult to give exact figures because it depends, among other things, on the person's weight, muscle mass, speed and route conditions and, of course, how often the motor is switched on. However, studies show that in the long term, e-bikers burn at least as many calories as riders of a conventional bike.
Myth 4
“E-bikes are so ugly that you can only ride them with a bag on your head.”
Of course, we cannot speak for all e-bikes worldwide. But for our various Geero e-bike models, we are putting both hands on fire so that no one needs a bag over their head. On the contrary. But we highly recommend a helmet. We advocate this in the interests of safety. To get back to the look: Our Pedelecs are not only characterised by a stylish, unobtrusive (and even multiple award-winning!) retro design, you can't even tell that they are e-bikes at all. Thanks to the hidden, easily removable battery and whisper-quiet motor.
Myth 5
“E-bikes are difficult to maintain.”
That depends entirely on the e-bike. What is certain, however, is that careful handling of a Pedelec is also important. So checking tire pressure, lubricating the chain if necessary, and regular cleaning and care are the basics for the bike to function smoothly.
Speaking of cleaning: Steam jets and high-pressure cleaners are not suitable for cleaning e-bikes! These devices attack the electric motor, hubs, etc. Water gets in during cleaning, which in the worst case can result in a total electrical failure. Rust can also form when using steam jets and high-pressure cleaners.
The battery and motor of Geero e-bikes require little maintenance if handled correctly. If the electronic components still cause problems, call customer support or write an email and our in-house workshop will take care of the problem.
Myth 6
“E-bikes are terribly complicated.”
We'll say it quite casually: Anyone who can generally ride a two-wheeled vehicle can also e-bike. The battery has to be charged regularly, but that means the socket has to work. And you quickly get used to the support that the engine provides, for example on inclines. The electronic support is displayed on a display mounted on the handlebars. Simply switch the support level higher or lower as needed at the touch of a button and you're done. Some e-bikes require a smartphone app or something similar to start riding. Despite the latest technology, Geero Pedelecs do not require an app to start riding. The display is also easy to handle. The OLED display has been new to the range since autumn 2021. It can do everything the standard display can do. But it is even easier to use, brighter, larger and therefore easier to read.
Myth 7
“E-bikes can only be ridden when the weather is good.”
In response, we quote from Shakespeare's Hamlet, Act II, Scene IV, Verse 48: "No!"
Joking aside. Geero e-bikes, for example, are suitable for every season and are therefore practical and reliable means of transport. And even rain and winter proof. Geero Pedelecs also have hydraulic disc brakes. This means shorter braking distances and good braking effect even in wet conditions. Short errands in wind and weather are no longer an issue. Appropriate caution is of course required in all weather conditions, but this applies not only to e-bikes but to any form of transport on the road.
Myth 8
“E-bikes are bulky and heavy.”
Another yes answer. Ordinary e-bikes weigh on average between 20 and 25 kilograms. And yes, that means they are a little heavier than conventional bikes. The reason for this lies primarily in the installation of additional components, such as the motor and/or the battery. This makes some Pedelecs appear very massive and bulky. Both points are also a question of design. The well thought-out design of Geero e-bikes not only has a positive effect on the appearance - keyword: slim facade, a lot behind it - but also on the weight. This has been worked on for years and with a lot of know-how. Including the battery, all Geero models weigh under 20 kilograms and are therefore considered lightweights on the e-bike market. Geero Pedelecs also have the advantage that they are as easy to ride as a conventional bicycle in what is known as “freewheeling”.
Myth 9
“For e-bikes you need a helmet and a driving license.”
Regarding the driver’s license: a clear no. A Pedelec with a motor support of up to 25 km/h is a bicycle under traffic law and you do not need a legal driving license for it. As for the helmet: It is not compulsory from the age of 12 - neither in Germany nor in Austria - but is highly recommended. It has been proven that the head is most injured in bicycle accidents, yet only 57 percent of all e-bike riders wear a helmet. The reasons for this are varied: starting from vanity - helmets ruin your hairstyle - to convenience. But none of these reasons outweigh the idea of security. That's why the following applies in road traffic: Better safe than sorry!
Myth 10
“E-bikes are as expensive as a used car.”
Here again there is only a clear yes as an answer. Yes, the purchase costs of an e-bike are generally slightly higher. Because quality costs and Geero Pedelecs are not mass-produced goods. But, and this 'but' is very important: They are a well-spent investment that is worth it in the long term. In terms of purchase, fuel and maintenance alone, e-bikes perform better than cars. And the monthly costs for public transport or fuel for the car are also relatively more expensive. Just a conventional bike is generally cheaper. In addition, the Pedelec simply guarantees driving fun. The most important point of all. Because this means you travel with less stress and effort. And mobile independence and self-determination are actually priceless.
Good to know: Many companies now also offer company bike leasing. A perfect option to get a high-quality Pedelec cheaply without having to bear the costs all at once.
Myth 11
“E-bikes are dangerous.”
Well, life itself can be dangerous. Forward-looking and prudent action is essential in every situation. And as far as participation in road traffic is concerned: Unfortunately it is not risk-free - regardless of whether you are travelling on foot or on two, four or more wheels. Overall, riding an e-bike is no more dangerous than riding a conventional bike. And those who control their vehicle and rely on good visibility (such as through reflective clothing) and safety are best equipped. If you still feel unsafe on an e-bike, you should consider riding technique training, which is offered by bicycle clubs, for example.
Since, statistically speaking, most accidents involving cyclists happen in the evening or at dusk, a functioning lighting system is of course also the be-all and end-all of bike safety. Geero Pedelecs have a permanently installed lighting system as well as reflectors on the tires and in the spokes. The lighting system is powered by the battery and the light is effortlessly operated via the display. Geero models without a permanently installed lighting system can easily be equipped with high-quality plug-in lights, such as the Sigma Sport light set AURA 30+ Curve , which is of course StVO compliant.
Testing is above studying
If you want to find out which e-bike myths are true: At Geero you have the opportunity to find out about our Pedelecs online or in person. But it's even better to see for yourself. Simply arrange a test drive and test the theory in practice without any complications. Then you will know whether an e-bike could also be interesting for you personally!
