How far will it go?

At the end of the day, batteries have a limit to their range.  But so does your car.  But you don’t tend to worry about it.  Ditto your new bike – although of course with an E bike you can still ride it without the motor.  A better question is how far do you need to go?  Most of the modern E bikes can get about 70 miles off a full charge.  This is influenced by things like the wind (into the wind is harder) number of climbs, but weight and size of the rider is another factor.  But 70 miles is a safe amount.  And most of the splendidly clever onboard computers will not only keep you informed as to how many miles you’ve left in the tank, but will even modify the motor performance and, get this, smooth out your recommended route, to maximise battery life! 


How fast will it go?

Great question!  The bikes in the UK are limited by law to 15mph.  The bike will go faster of course but the motor simply won’t be taking the strain for you – you’re on your own after 15 mph.  But you can ride up hills at 15mph too…..


Do I need a license / road tax / insurance?

No, no and that’s up to you.  Ebikes are still classed as pedal bikes so you don’t need to tax them nor have a license.  Just buy and ride.  In terms of insurance, you don’t need anything and there’s no requirement for third party because, again, you’re riding a pedal bicycle.  However, you are also investing a fair amount in your bike, so protecting what you value is a good idea.  Most household insurance policies will cover it but we can advise you on bike-specific policies.  Give us a call!


Why does it cost that much?

Compared to what?  We offer a range of bikes priced competitively.  Ebikes are generally more expensive than their human-powered brethren.  If you compare the price of the bike to a car or a motorbike then obviously the upfront and ongoing costs of an Ebike are minimal by contrast.  But they also stack up well against a comparative non-motorised bike, model for model.  The big three variables – motor, battery and computer – do add some additional cost but, as always, the end result is a bike which you choose to meet your needs.


How much does it weigh?

Well, the wheels help it move faster than carrying it, so realistically weight isn’t as much a factor as people think!  Typically the extra parts add 6KG or so to the average bike.  But unless you are carrying it up long flights of stairs daily or hike-a-bike mountain biking, bike weight is more important in the Tour de France than your new E bike.


What’s the warranty

Oh we love this one!  The motorised components are covered for two years.  The frames are a lifetime or ten years depending on the manufacturer.  Yep, even the mountain bikes!  Go huck those puppies worry-free!  And the big advantage of buying from us is that you know the named individual who’ll be servicing your bike (and we’re the only Edinburgh bike shop with parking!)


What are the common problems?

Swallowing flies because you are smiling too much!  Well, bikes are complex little beasts and just like our low-tech pedal bikes, things can wear out or need tightening up.  We use computerised diagnostics for the motors, and did we mention the great warranty?  But to be honest, the most common problem is you ride your bike over something sharp and pointy and need to fix a puncture.


How long does it take to charge?

Think of your bike battery like your phone battery (they are pretty similar).  You very rarely let your phone fully discharge, right?  Same with your bike.  Depending on the size (400 or 500 watt) you can charge fully in four to five hours.  But the really clever thing is that they will both charge in about an hour to a 75% capacity.


How much does it cost to charge?

About 12p, depending on your energy supplier.


What colours does it come in?

Brilliant!  You want one!  Come speak to us.