Tag Archive: E-bike

  1. E-bikes in France gaining ground

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    Source: Fondation Jean Jaurès

    A recent French study provides a snapshot of the current status of e-bikes in France, examining the evolution of their growing popularity with a varied demographic.

    As France sees the sale of electric bikes averaging 600,000 annually (putting them ahead of electric cars), a report published by Fondation Jean Jaurès explores their perception and use by the French population. The study, Dans la France du vélo électrique, draws on data from market research specialists Ifop, and a survey by e-bike reconditioning platform Upway.

    Ifop’s study was carried out with 3,003 people representative of the French population in May 2026, measuring what people think about e-bikes – their perception, image and intention – and whether they own one. Upway conducted a survey of customers in the first quarter of 2026, building a profile of their everyday behaviour and motivations. Upway also gathered interviews with customers who agreed to share their experiences.

    Key findings

    • The perception of e-bikes depends on the age demographic. 45% of those aged 65 or older value the ease of pedalling and reduced effort most, while 28% of those under 35 emphasise the importance of technology, equipment, formats and brands.
    • 42% of e-bike owners use it for commuting.
    • Almost 2 in 10 French people own an e-bike, with a younger, more affluent demographic the main buyers.
    • 80% of e-bike owners would recommend them to friends and family.
    • Engaging in light physical activity, enjoying the outdoors, and reducing car use are seen
      as the three main benefits of using an electric bike.
    • Barriers to e-bike use include purchase and maintenance costs, and the lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure.

  2. E-bike safety training for elders in Germany

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    Source: SAZ Bike

    Recently, the German town of Weingarten’s Senior Citizens Council and Motorsport Club (MSC) organised an e-bike safety training course, which covered practical techniques for safer pedelec use.

    The course, now in its third iteration, had eight participants who brought their own bicycles to the MSC grounds.

    Practical training for daily riding scenarios

    MSC member and safety instructor for motorcycles and e-bikes, Josef Rubner, led the training, with his son Lukas conducting demonstrations. Participants practised situations which are commonly encountered in riding such as slalom riding, evasive manoeuvres, emergency braking, turning, and riding with one hand extended

    Focusing on balance and vision

    Slow-speed riding was seen as one of the most challenging exercises, with most cyclists underestimating the momentum generated by pedelecs.

    The instructors also emphasised the importance of looking ahead instead of focusing on obstacles or the ground.

    Additional exercises, such as riding in tight circles and picking up a bottle while cycling, demonstrated to participants how maintaining proper visual focus can improve balance and stability. The organisers stated that they hoped the course helped to enhance both safety and enjoyment for their participants.

  3. Netherlands’ national dataset on bikeability reveals evidence that e-bikes enhance accessibility

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    Source: CROW Fietsberaad Image source: Eugenia Pan’kiv, Unsplash

    The dataset, which indicates accessibility by bicycle to a range of destinations including work, education, healthcare, shopping, leisure and recreation, has been compiled by SmartwayZ.NL and Argaleo.

    The bikeability concept indicates whether destinations can be accessed within a specific travel time and, if people want to, are able to cover the specified distance. The dataset presents a picture of opportunities for policy in the cycling field.

    Mobility researcher at SmartwayZ.NL, Joost de Kruijf, describes the significance of the dataset in further detail:

    “Travel time over distance. People measure their day in minutes. This score makes visible at the neighborhood level what that means for the mobility transition. And the pattern is not static: with every facility that closes and every new neighborhood that emerges, the boundary shifts. Only when you calculate per neighborhood does it become visible who is balancing on the edge.”

    Data revealing e-bikes increase accessibility

    At the national level, the dataset reveals that 86% of the Dutch population can reach the supermarket, doctors and primary school within 5 minutes by bike, however for 2.8 million citizens, one of the facilities is considerably further to travel.

    In regards to e-bike usage increasing accessibility, of the 341,000 people who would normally take over 15 minutes to reach somewhere on a conventional bicycle, 62% manage to arrive at that destination within 15 minutes on an e-bike.

    For the example, in the region of Bergen, the weighted average time to the supermarket by a conventional, non-electric bicycle is almost 14 minutes; with an e-bike the time is decreased to 11 minutes.

    The dataset indicates a similar pattern in other Dutch regions such as Hilvarenbeek, parts of Schouwen-Duiveland, Borsele, and Sluis.

    Implications of these cyclability findings show that in scenarios such as an aging population that has declining car options, the electric bicycle can be seen as a viable transport link to daily life.

  4. E-Bike Positive podcast episode

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    Source: BikeBiz

    The latest episode of the BikeBiz Podcast will focus on the UK’s E-Bike Positive initiative, and the increase of illegally modified e-bikes which have resulted in a decrease in trust from consumers.

    Podcast host Pedro Couto Lopes hosts a panel discussion with three industry leaders who are at the forefront of the regulatory and retail fight back:

    • Jonathan Harrison: Director of the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT), representing independent bicycle dealers (IBDs) on the front line of the retail sector.
    • Scott Longstaff: Brand Director of Madison and Sportline (Ridgeback, Genesis, and Saracen), who represents the brand and distribution landscape.
    • Peter Eland: The Bicycle Association’s Technical and Policy Director, who drives negotiations on the government on public affairs, policy, and safety frameworks.

    Together, they discuss the launch of the industry’s new E-Bike Positive Trustmark, which has been created to defend the legal status of e-bikes, educate the public, and tackle damaging media narratives.

    Topics covered include:

    • Why reputable dealers are rejecting unbranded conversion kits
    • Challenging the prevailing headlines around e-bike fires, and promoting consumer trust
    • Online marketplaces, the gig economy, and lobbying activity
    • What independent bike shops can do to get involved
    • The roadmap to making E-Bike Positive into an international industry standard

    The full podcast episode can be accessed on Bike Biz’s YouTube channel.

  5. Lacros announces it’s a WWF Business Supporter

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    Source: Lacros

    The LEVA-EU member explains its relevant connection between cycling and nature, as it aspires to make a meaningful contribution to environmental areas that need it most. By supporting WWF, it joins the organisation in helping nature in over 200 regions worldwide.

    About the partnership, the Dutch e-bike manufacturer states that it believes that freedom and mobility go together simultaneously with respect for the living environment. It emphasises that with its bikes bringing people closer to it, it feels a responsibility to protect nature and provide a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.

    Lacros’ partnership with WWF results in the brand directly contributing to the initiative “More nature worldwide”. It supports more than 200 regions across the world that are experiencing a difficult time, from helping to reconstruct Asian coral reefs, protect vital forests in South America, and preserve fragile ecosystems, from the savannah in Africa to the Arctic’s icy plains.

    Together with its customers and partners, Lacros looks forward to making a positive contribution to a world of people and nature living together in better harmony.

  6. QWIC launches Elan and Signal models

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    Sources: QWIC, Nieuwsfiets, Pedelec Elektro Fahrrad

    The LEVA-EU member has recently introduced its new e-bikes in Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, with the brand describing the move as representing its product development phase, which places an emphasis on design and everyday use. The news coincides with the re-appointment of René Stubbmann, for strengthening brand development and dealer network expansion in Germany.

    QWIC highlights that both bikes have been developed on the concept of “daily riding that feels smooth, looks sharp, and fits who you are.”

    Powered by the Bosch Smart System, the Elan has been innovated to deliver all-day comfort, while The Signal is QWIC’s lightest e-bike ever, weighing 20.6 kg.

    The newest additions to QWIC’s e-bike line-up

    CEO Steven Uitentuis describes the significance of the latest models:

    “With the Elan and Signal, we demonstrate what QWIC stands for: distinctive design and a smooth daily user experience.”

    The company has prioritised comfort and reliability features as being central to their design, as well as customisation options (including color and finish) to provide riders with smooth and personalised daily riding experiences.

    “The bike should not only be pleasant to ride, but also align with who you are and how you live,” says QWIC’s marketing manager Carolin Wenk.

    QWIC Elan electric bike

    Developed as a premium all-round e-bike for both commuting and recreational scenarios, this model supports a comfortable riding position, and is equipped with the Bosch Smart System.

    This is the first time a QWIC model has incorporated Bosch technology in its design. It adopts the latest Bosch Performance Line drive (75 Nm), to bring smooth and supportive riding for both the city, and for longer journeys (500 Wh, alternatively 625 Wh).

    QWIC Signal electric bike

    Positioned as a lightweight e-bike for short trips in urban riding scenarios, with its design it focuses on ease of use and high maneuverability. It is QWIC’s lightest e-bike ever, weighing 20.6 kg.

    Pricing and availability

    Elan’s recommended retail price starts at €2,999, and Signal at €2,399.

    Both models are available via QWIC dealers in Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, and more information is available on the company’s regional websites.

    QWIC strengthens sales team in Germany

    QWIC’s launch news coincides with the brand welcoming back René Stubbmann to the team, who previously worked there for several years. He will bring his comprehensive market knowledge and network to take his new role of Senior Sales Representative for Northern Germany, where he will work closely with the Managing Director of Sales at QWIC, Rasched Abu-Isbeih, to strengthen brand development and dealer network expansion in Germany.

    “With René, we are not only gaining back an experienced sales expert, but also a person who understands our brand, our partners, and the dynamics of the market perfectly. His experience and network will play a key role in strategically expanding our presence in Germany,” said Rasched Abu-Isbeih about Rene’s appointment.

  7. Beaufort publishes positive sales figures for first quarter

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    Source: Nieuwsfiets Image credit: Nieuwsfiets

    The brand of LEVA-EU member, Bizbike, has experienced great results in the first quarter of 2026, exceeding its sales expectations with 71% more electric bikes sold. Beaufort also reported it has sold more than it planned for in January and February, as well as double the sales it anticipated for March.

    Brand Manager Pieter Vander Linden described Beaufort’s positive Q1 2026 results as the following:

    “A wonderful feeling. On the one hand, the targets have been quite high over the past few months, so it was a risk to put so much weight on the scales. On the other hand, we already felt during Velofollies that there was a lot of interest in our models, so we are confident that we could meet our target. However, I never would have dared to dream that we would exceed it by 71%.”

    Vander Linden declares these latest results, and an 11% sales increase from 2025, as a testament to the cutting-edge designs of Beaufort’s e-bikes, while also highlighting the positive feedback the brand has received:

    “This is also evident from the number of retailers lining up to represent the brand since Velofollies and the B2B FESTIVAL this year. Year-to-date, we are performing 11% better in terms of sales. The greatest gift you can receive is the trust your customers place in you and your policies. I am grateful that they stand behind the brand and see the added value as an addition to their current offerings. We hope to be able to continue this trend.”

    Testaankoop credentials simplify Beaufort sales to end-users

    In late 2025, Testaankoop, Belgium’s largest independent consumer organisation, awarded Beaufort’s bikes with ratings of Best Buy, and Best Tested, with Bay receiving the first label, and Bay Infinite the latter.

    When asked if the impressive credentials have had an impact on sales, Vander Linden answered:

    “Yes and no. The Bay and Bay Infinite have been the brand’s flagship models since their introduction two years ago. These labels do simplify resale to the end consumer, because retailers make optimal use of the momentum.”

  8. Many owners not protecting their e-bikes enough from theft

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    Source: Nieuwsfiets

    On behalf of the STAAT-E-LEKKER campaign, PanelWizard surveyed over 1,000 e-bike owners in the Netherlands, revealing that many are taking insufficient measures for tackling theft.

    With increasing amount of bicycle thefts occurring, according to the survey of Dutch e-bike owners, it appears that a significant amount of users do not secure their e-bikes well enough in compliance with recommended guidelines.

    The Vehicle Crime Insurance Bureau Foundation (VbV), initiator of the STAAT-E-LEKKER campaign, believes that theft can often be linked to user behaviour, with theft opportunities more likely in the event of users making short stops on their bicycle, with a lack of additional security.

    PanelWizard’s survey reveals that 45% of respondents use just one lock when outdoors, and only 37% of users always lock their bike to an object (such as a bike rack or pole, for example).

    Furthermore, 70% of these respondents think that their e-bike is safe generally, with 29% scoring the risk of theft as high.

    The role of convenience and routine in users protecting their e-bikes sufficiently

    In the survey, 30% of respondents indicate taking fewer security measures when away from their bike for a short time, as 26% believe their bike is safe at specific locations.

    Meanwhile in terms of practicality: 21% have stated that they find extra security inconvenient and 25% say they can’t always identify a suitable object for locking their bike to.

    The study also shows other security precautionary steps have not been taken by users:

    41% of e-bikes haven’t been insured against theft, with some users not knowing whether their lock complies with minimum security requirements. Furthermore, 48% of respondents stated that by default they leave the battery on their bike, despite its high value.

    Over half of respondents (56%) have directly or indirectly experienced e-bike theft. However, 46% of them haven’t adopted additional security precautions after this experience.

    The STAAT-E-LEKKER campaign

    The campaign, which was launched during the Week Against Bicycle Theft (April 6 to 10) and operates through to October, focuses on improving user behaviour for protecting bikes against theft. It advises owners to always use at least 2 locks (with at least one being ART-2 certified) for securing their bike to an object, even during short stops.

    The STAAT-E-LEKKER campaign will involve awareness activities being held in Dutch cities that have relatively high numbers of bicycle theft, such as including Den Bosch, The Hague, Amsterdam, Zwolle, and Groningen.

    Furthermore, to improve bike security, there are efforts being made to introduce supplementary measures including improved bicycle registration, using decoy bikes, and additional information being provided online and in various locations such as train stations and bicycle parking facilities.

  9. Manchester trials new e-bike subsidy

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    Source: Cycling Electric

    The UK city region has announced a new scheme which will enable eligible citizens to save between £300 to £1,000 when purchasing an electric bike, e-cargo bike, or an adapted e-cycle bike, and associated accessories.

    The TfGM (Transport for Greater Manchester) vouchers are available through specialist retailers on a first-come, first-served basis, courtesy of the UK Government’s body Active Travel England.

    Vouchers for making e-biking more accessible

    The subsidy scheme is targeted at residents in the Greater Manchester area who are over the age of 16 for individuals with:

    • Lower incomes
    • Living in high-deprivation areas
    • Limited access to affordable transport
    • Less likelihood to be part of typical cycling demographic groups

    About the voucher eligibility, the Beeactive Transport for Greater Manchester website says, “The e-bike voucher scheme actively aims to increase access to e-bikes for those who stand to benefit the most. Higher value vouchers may be offered to applicants with greater need, helping to reduce cost barriers and support more people to begin or sustain cycling.”

    Transport for Greater Manchester adds “You may be able to use your TfGM e‑bike subsidy voucher with a Cycle to Work scheme. This depends on whether the retailer supports both the voucher and Cycle to Work scheme and accepts them together.”

    At the same time, residents can test e-bikes for free for the short-term before committing to a purchase by applying for a “Borrow an e-bike” scheme.

    Voucher exclusions

    The terms and conditions of the scheme mean that e-bike conversion kits aren’t eligible for purchasing, nor any vehicle that is throttle-controlled (and therefore unlikely to be an e-bike outside of certain exceptions). For lock purchases using the funds, they must be a diamond-rated security item.

    E-bike media, Cycling Electric, are also playing a role in encouraging e-bike awareness in the UK by holding free testing events in Bath, Leeds and London this year.