Tag Archive: E-bike

  1. UK’s Bicycle Association complains about e-bike misrepresentation in BBC’s Panorama

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    Source: Bicycle Association

    The UK’s national cycle industry trade body, the Bicycle Association, has published their formal complaint to the BBC about the recent coverage of e-bikes and illegal e-motorbikes on the programme Panorama.

    The letter, titled “Complaint: Panorama – E-bikes: the battle for our streets” reads:

    Dear BBC,

    I write for the Bicycle Association, the trade association for the UK cycle industry, representing ca 140 companies, including most of the reputable UK companies who supply safe, fully road-legal e-bikes. These companies include household names and well-known high-street retailers. You can view our full member list here.

    We wish to register a formal complaint about the programme “Panorama – E-bikes: the battle for our streets” presented by Adrian Chiles, broadcast on BBC 1 on the 6th January 2025.

    Our main concerns are:

    • The programme repeatedly conflates the safety and social issues surrounding the use of illegal e-motorbikes with “e-bikes” and fails to make it clear that these issues are overwhelmingly not caused by (road legal) e-bikes. This is compounded by the juxtaposition (without distinction) of footage of both illegal e-motorbikes and road-legal e-bikes, implying that they are one and the same. This misrepresentation is against the public interest and not fair or accurate (hence in breach of BBC editorial guidelines)
    • In the choice of “expert” – an enthusiast with a collection of illegal e-motorbikes, not road legal e-bikes – the programme in effect promoted illegal e-motorbike use. No reputable road legal e-bike supplier or cycle industry representative was featured. No fair balance or representation from the reputable e-bike sector was provided, also in breach of BBC editorial guidelines.
    • It is stated that the laws and regulations around e-bikes are unclear or insufficient. This is factually incorrect – the law is completely clear about what is or is not a road legal e-bike (EAPC). We have an info sheet on this and the Government guidance is also perfectly clear. Any electrically powered two wheeler that is not a road legal e-bike (EAPC), or a properly type approved and registered e-moped/e-motorbike, is an illegal e-motorbike. There are legitimate questions about the extent of enforcement of these rules, but the rules themselves are completely clear.
    • The reputable UK cycle and e-bike industry fully supports all and any measures to enforce the current very clear legislation and to remove illegal e-motorbikes from our streets. We also call for reforms of the food delivery sector to address use of illegal e-motorbikes by delivery riders.

    However, these issues are entirely distinct from the road legal e-bike category, which offers many health and mobility benefits for the general public, including many disabled people.

    We consider that this programme has, by confusing these issues, both failed to properly inform the public and also unjustifiably damaged the road legal e-bike sector through misrepresentation.

    We urge the BBC to:

    • Remove “E-bikes” from the programme title and instead reference “illegal e-motorbikes”.
    • In future programming on this subject, make it fully clear and properly inform the public that e-bikes and illegal e-motorbikes are two entirely separate categories.
    • Provide proper balance when addressing contentious transport issues, including featuring representation by responsible organisations in the sector.

    Yours sincerely,

    Peter Eland

  2. Subsidies on bike purchases eliminated in France

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    Source: Bike Europe

    The recent budget crisis in France, which has stirred significant political turmoil, is now impacting the bicycle and e-bike industry.

    Without prior notice, the French government has announced the abrupt termination of all state subsidies for bicycle and e-bike purchases. The decision has sparked widespread concern within the industry, with the Alliance for Cycling warning of severe repercussions.

    In late November, the government revealed that the ‘ecological bonus‘ program, which supported bicycle purchases for both individuals and businesses, will end next year. Starting from December 2, 2024, bicycles invoiced or rented for the first time after February 14, 2025, will no longer qualify for state aid.

    Backlash from the cycling community

    Patrick Guinard, president of France Vélo, criticized the government’s sudden decision, stating, “These decisions were taken without the slightest consultation, in total contradiction to studies showing the benefits of cycling—for the planet, the economy, health, and social cohesion.” He emphasized that this move undermines recent progress made during a pro-cycling five-year term.

    E-bike market at risk

    The bicycle subsidy, introduced in 2017, led to a doubling of sales, according to Union Sport & Cycle. Despite subsequent restrictions, subsidies still accounted for 10% of e-bike purchases. Earlier this year, the program was extended to 2027 and expanded to include secondhand bicycles. Research highlighted its positive effects on public health, regional economies, and the decarbonization of transportation.

    Additionally, the ‘conversion bonus‘, which allowed consumers to trade in their cars for e-bikes, was a notable achievement of the 2021 Climate and Resilience Regulation. In 2023 alone, the government paid out €40 million in subsidies, with grants ranging from €150 to €2,000, depending on the type of bicycle and the recipient’s financial situation. In low-emission zones, additional premiums of up to €1,000 were available.

    Challenges for the cycling industry

    Industry groups such as Réseau Vélo et Marche, FUB, Union Sport & Cycle, and APIC have emphasized the importance of the subsidy program in rebuilding France’s bicycle production sector. In a joint statement, they noted a 24% decline in bicycle production and a 13% drop in sales compared to 2022. They warned that while electric cars continue to receive government support, neglecting e-bikes risks derailing progress in the cycling industry.

    Cargo bikes, in particular, have seen significant growth due to subsidies, with sales quadrupling between 2022 and 2023. “The subsidy program has been a crucial driver for developing a sustainable and ambitious cycling industry in France,” the statement concluded.

    The abrupt halt to these subsidies marks a significant challenge for France’s efforts to promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation. Industry leaders are urging the government to reconsider its decision to preserve the momentum built over recent years.

  3. People fitting incompatible batteries and chargers due to “incomplete” e-bike conversion kits

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    Source: E-bike Tips

    The charity Electrical Safety First (ESF) has expressed concerns over “incomplete” e-bike kits, stating that consumers are often left to pair batteries and chargers themselves, which can lead to compatibility issues and increase fire risks, according to the BBC.

    Product safety engineer Giuseppe Capanna noted that some kits bought online may lack essential components, such as the battery and charger, which places the responsibility on the consumer to find suitable replacements—often resulting in mistakes.

    “You have a high risk that a charger won’t be compatible with the battery. The battery could then become overcharged – that’s one of the things that can cause it to go into thermal runaway, which causes it to catch fire and explode” Capanna explained.

    Capanna, however, emphasized that reliable companies do sell safe kits, and suggested referring to guides, for reputable options.

    In its Battery Breakdown report released last year, ESF pointed out that well-designed conversion kits from reputable manufacturers, when installed professionally, are generally safe. Nonetheless, the charity advocates for stricter safety standards for these kits, highlighting that many kits available online do not include a battery, leaving it up to consumers to find and ensure compatibility with a charger.

    ESF also raised concerns over some kits offered by less reputable sellers, which exceed legal power limits, putting both riders and pedestrians at risk and potentially subjecting users to legal consequences.

    In response, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has called for stronger product safety regulations for e-bike kits and stricter sales oversight. The NFCC supports ESF’s recommendation for third-party certification of e-bikes, e-scooters, and batteries, noting that current regulations allow manufacturers to self-declare battery safety.

    The upcoming Product Regulation and Metrology Bill, recently introduced in the King’s Speech, aims to address unsafe products sold by overseas suppliers in the UK. A Department for Business and Trade spokesperson stated, “We take the risk of e-scooter and e-bike fires very seriously. That’s why we’re working with local authorities to identify illegal products to prevent them from being imported, while notifying consumers and businesses about unsafe products.

    “The Product Regulation and Metrology Bill will allow us to amend product regulations, respond swiftly to innovative new products and maintain high safety standards.“

  4. New data identifies trends and challenges for e-bike adoption in Germany

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    Source: SAZ Bike

    A recent report from IoT Venture GmbH highlights the growing popularity of e-bikes in Germany, presenting statistics on usage, CO2 savings, and the ongoing issue of theft.

    E-bike usage report

    E-bike adoption in Germany continues to surge, with remarkable figures recorded in the third quarter of 2024. According to the report, cyclists covered a total of 2.3 million kilometers during this period, marking a 33% increase compared to the previous quarter, this figure is equivalent to 57 trips around the globe. September 22nd was a standout day, with over 201,000 kilometers traveled by e-bikes across the country.

    Key figures and insights

    Notably, weekday journeys are typically shorter than those on weekends. Half of the rides during the week are less than 3.81 kilometers, while weekend trips average 4.3 kilometers. E-bike riders also contributed to significant calorie consumption and CO2 reduction, burning an average of 78.5 kilocalories per ride and saving approximately 399 grams of CO2. Over the past three months, e-bike use saved an impressive 2,760 tons of CO2, roughly equivalent to the emissions of a large cruise ship traveling from Barcelona to Oslo.

    Tuesdays and Thursdays are the most popular days for e-bike usage, with cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg leading in the number of rides. A heat map of Frankfurt revealed that routes around the exhibition grounds were especially popular during Eurobike.

    Challenges of e-bike usage

    Despite the positive trends, theft remains a major concern, particularly in large cities. Around 80% of reported e-bike thefts occur in urban areas, with significantly fewer cases in rural regions.

    The report’s findings are based on data from over 100,000 GPS trackers, providing a comprehensive view of current e-bike trends and challenges in Germany. As urban mobility evolves, e-bikes are expected to continue playing a vital role in shaping the future of transportation.

  5. E-bikes are emerging as the mobility of the future

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    Source: SAZ Bike

    Insurer Huk-Coburg, in collaboration with YouGov Germany, conducted a representative online survey of 4,101 individuals to assess current mobility behaviours, with a particular focus on e-bikes.

    The study revealed that e-bikes continue to perform well, maintaining the bicycle’s position as the second most preferred mode of future transportation. Traditional, non-motorized bicycles, however, have lost popularity since the pandemic.

    Bicycle Ranks Second as a Future Mode of Transport

    According to the study, approximately one in four Germans considers the bicycle to best meet their future mobility needs, placing it second overall, behind cars but ahead of walking. However, the appeal of conventional bicycles has dropped significantly, with approval ratings decreasing from 26% in 2021 to 16%. In contrast, e-bike approval has remained steady at around 10%, helping to secure cycling’s second-place ranking.

    Regional Differences Highlight E-Bike Popularity

    The growing importance of e-bikes is particularly evident in North Rhine-Westphalia, where e-bikes are now viewed as a more suitable future transportation option (13%) compared to traditional bicycles (12%). The strongest support for e-bikes is found in Schleswig-Holstein (14%), with notable increases in popularity since 2021 in Hesse (9% to 11%) and Saxony-Anhalt (7% to 9%). However, in the other eastern states, e-bike support is declining, and Berlin remains at the bottom with only 5% approval.

    Expert Commentary on the Findings

    Dr. Jörg Rheinländer, a board member at Huk-Coburg, commented on the findings: “During the pandemic, the limited use of public transportation significantly boosted the popularity of bicycles. The sustained interest in e-bikes suggests they have attracted new, long-term users. The bicycle’s second-place ranking as a preferred future mode of transport underscores its essential role in a balanced and eco-friendly transportation mix.”

    Decline in Interest Among Younger People

    The study also indicates that interest in cycling is higher than interest in trains (15%) or trams/suburban trains (12%). However, enthusiasm for non-electric bicycles has notably waned among younger people since the pandemic. For those under 25, the perception of muscle-powered bicycles as the ideal future transport option has dropped sharply from 28% to 11% since 2021. Among those under 40, the rating has halved from 28% to 14%. In comparison, those over 40 have seen a smaller decline from 25% to 16%.

    Regional Variations in Cycling Adoption

    Regional variations are also significant in both future expectations and current cycling frequency. The northwest shows the highest increase in cycling over the past 12 months, with 21% of Hamburg residents, 20% of Schleswig-Holstein residents, and 18% of Bremen residents cycling more frequently, regardless of electric assistance. These figures exceed the national average of 14%. Conversely, the lowest increases are seen in Saarland (8%), Rhineland-Palatinate (10%), and Saxony (11%), where cycling adoption is about half as common as in the northwest.

  6. Motivation to use smart e-bikes varies by country

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    Source: Fietsberaad Crow

    Research conducted by the University of Twente reveals that the acceptance of the smart e-bike, a technology still under development, varies across countries and user demographics. While participants from five European countries generally rated functionality as the most important factor, Dutch respondents placed higher value on the enjoyment of using the bike. The findings provide policymakers with valuable insights on how to promote the adoption of smart e-bikes.

    The smart e-bike was developed in response to rising concerns about the risks and severity of accidents involving e-cyclists. This bike alerts riders to potential collisions, communicates with infrastructure to provide quicker green lights, and suggests safe routes. In the event of a serious crash, the bike automatically notifies emergency services.

    Visual representation of a smart e-bike.

    The questionnaire

    To aid in the technical development and implementation of the smart e-bike, University of Twente researchers conducted a study on user acceptance. Between November 2022 and January 2023, they surveyed 1,589 respondents from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Austria, and Greece—countries selected for their varying cycling infrastructure quality, bicycle usage, and cycling safety. The participants either used an e-bike or speed pedelec or were interested in purchasing one, with more than half of the respondents from the Netherlands.

    Findings

    The study found that the key factors driving acceptance of the smart e-bike are functionality, user enjoyment, and enhanced safety. For Dutch participants, enjoyment ranked higher than functionality, followed by social influence—the visibility of others using the bike. Acceptance is also higher among individuals over 60 years old or those who have experienced a bicycle accident. Familiarity with the technology contributes positively to acceptance, while poor cycling infrastructure and higher levels of education, likely due to greater car access, negatively impact it.

    Implications

    The insights from this research can help technology developers enhance the features of the smart e-bike that drive higher acceptance. For policymakers, the results highlight which aspects of the smart e-bike should be emphasized in future promotion efforts. When designing practical tests and encouraging adoption, it’s crucial to consider national context and the motivations of different target groups.

    Read the full study here.

  7. Ridley launches first urban electric bike, the Urbx

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    Source: ebiketips

    Belgian bike brand Ridley has unveiled its first urban electric bike, the Urbx. Powered by a Bafang motor, the Urbx is designed for urban exploration and marketed as the “ideal bike for the modern city dweller.” Starting at £2,199, the Urbx offers a choice of frame styles. This launch follows a €15 million investment in electric bike production by Belgian Cycling Factory, the parent company of Ridley and Eddy Merckx, announced last year.

    More than just a bike, a “lifestyle on wheels”

    The Urbx marks Ridley’s debut in the electric urban bike market, a notable move for a brand known for its high-end, premium bicycles.

    There are two frame styles: the Mixte, featuring a lower step-through design, and the Gent, with a traditional diamond shape. Despite the name, being a “gent” isn’t a prerequisite for that particular frame style.

    Ridley has equipped the Urbx with Ergon grips and saddle, emphasizing comfort with designs based on user feedback.

    The Drive System

    The Urbx is powered by Bafang’s G310 hub-drive motor, providing up to 30Nm of torque. Ridley emphasizes that the bikes “do not need the most powerful motor”, instead focusing on a more “natural riding experience.” The 360Wh battery offers a range of up to 80km, balancing weight, power, and capacity.

    To enhance its urban appeal, the Urbx features mudguards, a rear rack, and integrated lights in the seat post and handlebars. Buyers can choose between a belt drive or derailleur setup.

    Specifications

    The Urbx is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large for the higher tube version, and small and medium for the step-through design. Both styles offer a choice between a single-speed belt drive or a Shimano 10-speed Deore groupset. The bike features an aluminium frame paired with a carbon fork.

    Starting at £2,199, the Urbx falls into the entry to mid-level urban e-bike price range and is available for purchase from Ridley dealers now.

  8. Multiscope E-bike Monitor: The latest updates in the e-bike, e-scooter and LEV market

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    Source: Multiscope

    Multiscope has launched the fourth edition of its E-bike Monitor, a comprehensive study focusing on electric bicycles, electric scooters, and other light electric vehicles (LEVs) within the Netherlands. This report offers insights into various aspects of the market, encompassing providers, insurance, maintenance, usage patterns, and user satisfaction levels.

    What can you expect?

    The study delves into the market landscape, addressing over 50 pertinent research inquiries. Key questions explored include the size of the Dutch market for e-bikes, e-scooters, and LEVs, expenditure trends on these vehicles, market expansion dynamics, and average prices for both new and used units. Additionally, the report identifies major providers and insurers, along with user satisfaction levels for different service providers.

    The E-bike Monitor holds relevance for all Dutch organizations and businesses directly or indirectly associated with e-bikes, e-scooters, and LEVs. This encompasses roles in development, sales, consultation, maintenance, and insurance services related to these products.

    The report covers numerous providers such as Amslod, Batavus, Cortina, Cube, Flyer, Gazelle, Giant, Koga, Sparta, Stella, Trek, and Vogue Bike, as well as insurers like Allianz, ANWB, Centraal Beheer, ENRA, FBTO, Interpolis, Kingpolis, Unigarant, and Univé.

    For further information, please see the website, table of contents, and brand list.

    Key findings

    • Ownership of e-bikes, e-scooters, and LEVs is stagnating
    • There’s a difference between online and offline purchase prices
    • Used city bikes are significantly cheaper
    • There are different market leaders in online and offline insurance

  9. E-bikes are gaining ground in commuting in South Limburg

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    Source: Fietsberaad Crow

    An annual measurement by Zuid Limburg Bereikbaar shows an increase in the number of people using e-bikes and speed pedelecs for commuting between 2022 and 2023.

    The Clustered Effect Measurement 2023 asked more than 8,000 respondents, employed at Zuid-Limburg Bereikbaar (ZLB) and participants in the ZLB panel, about their commuting and work from home habits.

    The results showed that in 2023, almost 30% of commuting trips in South Limburg were made by bicycle, e-bike, or speed pedelec. The percentage of trips commuted by bicycle was higher for those working at ZLB than the general population for the region. Maastricht has the largest share of the modal split for bikes and e-bikes. The share of commuting bike rides from Maastricht as a place of residency is 60% and 37% as a work area.

    The share of e-bikes and speed pedelecs in the modal split for commuting has increased from 9% to 14% between 2022 to 2023. These changes indicate a clear switch from car to electric bike for people’s commutes. In 2023 trips up to 15km were made more often by e-bike and less often by car, however there is still potential to increase cycling for this distance. One of the recommendations is to continue the #posifiets campaign, as this appears to have made a significant contribution to reducing the number of car journeys.

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