Tag Archive: electric bike

  1. E-bike use in the Netherlands has increased in all age groups over the past decade

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    Source: Fietsberaad

    A decade-long analysis by SWOV (Institue for Road Safety Research), based on data from the Lifelines cohort study, reveals a transformation in the Netherlands’ electric and non-electric cycling landscape: older adults are cycling more frequently and for longer durations, while younger generations are riding less. Included in this development is the rise in electric bicycle use, which has become a driving factor in keeping older populations mobile and active.

    Between 2014 and 2023, cycling time among older adults (ages 66–89) rose from an average of 267 to 323 minutes per week. Adults aged 30–65 also increased their weekly cycling time—from 150 to 172 minutes. In contrast, young adults (18–29) cycled less than before, with weekly averages declining from 136 to 130 minutes. The share of young people who cycle at all also dropped notably, from 75% to 68%.

    The study, commissioned by the provinces of Friesland, Groningen, and Drenthe and supported by Tour de Force, analysed sociodemographic and health characteristics of cyclists using data from over 160,000 participants in the Lifelines cohort study. This research initiative, launched by the University of Groningen and the University Medical Center Groningen, tracks long-term health and lifestyle patterns in the northern provinces.

    The rise of the electric bike

    The most significant trend underpinning the demographic shift is the rapid adoption of electric bicycles. In the past decade, the share of e-bike users has surged across all age groups, with 14% of young adults, 25% of adults, and 40% of older adults now riding e-bikes.

    The data suggests that increased cycling among older and middle-aged adults is closely linked to e-bike use. Riders who expanded their cycling activity between 2019 and 2023 were more likely to do so on an electric bicycle than on a conventional one.

    E-bike users tend to be women and often report more health issues than regular cyclists, including chronic conditions. Yet, the technology allows them to maintain active mobility. According to SWOV, the overall health profile of cyclists has declined slightly over the past decade—not because individuals have become less healthy, but because the cycling population now includes a larger share of older adults.

    Implications for road safety

    This shift in the cycling demographic brings both opportunities and challenges. While e-bikes enable older riders to remain active and independent, the aging cycling population may also elevate safety risks. Elderly cyclists are more physically vulnerable in the event of crashes, and currently, nearly half of all fatal or serious cycling injuries involve individuals aged 70 and older.

    Although SWOV reports that the risk per kilometre cycled has not increased, the total number of casualties is expected to rise as older cyclists make up a greater share of total riders. Whether e-bike use contributes to this trend remains uncertain and is the subject of ongoing research. Investigators aim to determine if factors such as health status or diminished cycling skills may influence crash likelihood among older electric cyclists.

    Looking ahead

    SWOV’s findings, published in the report “Socio-demographic and health characteristics of cyclists from the Lifelines cohort study 2014–2023,” emphasise the importance of adapting road safety strategies to an evolving cycling population. The researchers stress that tailored interventions—such as infrastructure design, e-bike training programs, and health-informed mobility policies will be key to ensuring that the benefits of the e-bike revolution are matched by safe, sustainable cycling conditions for all age groups.

  2. Segway unveils high-speed electric bike Xyber

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    Source: PC Mag

    The LEVA-EU member has introduced its latest addition to the electric mobility market, a rugged e-bike that blurs the line between a bicycle and motorbike. Boasting a top speed of approximately 56 km per hour and a maximum range of 180 miles with dual batteries, Segway’s Xyber is designed to serve both as a potential car alternative for commuters and as an adventurous off-road vehicle.

    Weighing in at 138 pounds (62.5kg), the Xyber is equipped with an aluminum frame that’s capable of supporting riders up to 400 pounds (181kg). Its suspension system includes 110mm dual-crown front forks and a 100mm adjustable rear shock, while its braking is handled by four-piston hydraulic brakes in front and dual-piston brakes in the rear.

    The bike provides an estimated 90 km range from a single battery, with an option to double the capacity through the purchase of a second unit for approximately 851 euros. With both batteries installed, the Xyber delivers 175Nm of peak torque, compared with 120Nm on a single battery.

    Technological features help the Xyber distinguish itself in the electric mobility market. The 2.4-inch color display offers navigation, music controls, and ride data, with brightness up to 1,400 nits for visibility in daylight. The system is integrated with the Segway Mobility app, which enables software updates, GPS tracking, remote locking and unlocking via Bluetooth, and even compatibility with Apple’s Find My network. Some services such as theft alerts and remote power-on, require approximately €51 for an annual subscription after the first year.

    In terms of ride performance, the Xyber offers the three throttle modes of Eco, Sport, and Race, alongside pedal assist. Riders report that the bike’s strength lies in its throttle-driven operation, where acceleration is smooth, quiet, and powerful. The pedal assist function, by contrast, is considered less effective and impractical given the bike’s weight. Despite this limitation, the Xyber is praised for its speed, handling, and comfort, aided by dual shocks that mitigate the firm seat’s stiffness.

    With an approximate retail price of €2,811, PC Mag recommends the Segway Xyber as one of the most advanced choices available for riders interested in high-performance off-road adventures with integrated smart features. The full article about the new Segway Xber can be accessed on PC Mag.

    The Xyber’s product page can be accessed on Segway’s website.

  3. All-New Pivot Shuttle SL/AM: Lightweight. Powerful. Unstoppable.

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    Meet the Shuttle SL/AM, Pivot Cycles’ most electrifying ride to date. This all-mountain eMTB doesn’t follow trends—it sets them. Merging featherweight agility with full-throttle power, the SL/AM unlocks a whole new way to move through the mountains. If you thought you knew what an e-bike could be, think again.

    With 160mm of front travel paired to 150mm of dw-link® rear suspension, the Shuttle SL/AM delivers unmatched responsiveness whether you’re threading technical climbs or charging through fast, chunky descents. The ultra-sleek chassis houses a Bosch Performance Line SX drive system, pumping out 600 watts of peak power and up to 55Nm of torque with a seamless, natural-feeling boost. Backed by a fully integrated 400Wh battery, and optional 250Wh Bosch PowerMore range extender, The Shuttle SL/AM offers ride-all-day capability.

    “This bike makes you feel like you’ve got a superpower,” says Paz Chinchilla, Pivot Senior Graphic Designer & the Shuttle SL/AM’s #1 Fan. “It climbs like a beast, floats through corners, and descends like it’s reading your mind. The best part? You forget it’s even an e-bike—until you’re halfway up a climb grinning like a maniac.” 

    The Shuttle SL/AM rolls on 29” wheels in sizes Small through XL, while the all-new XS frame features a dedicated mixed-wheel (MX) setup—delivering big-bike performance and dialed handling for smaller riders without compromise. Minimal weight. Maximum fun. With the Shuttle SL/AM, you get the handling and ride feel of a traditional all-mountain bike, plus the power to make every ride longer, faster and just flat-out better. 

    Pricing, Specifications and Availability: The Pivot Shuttle SL/AM will be available in Brownstone and Gloss Grey colorways. Riders can choose from multiple complete build options featuring SRAM drivetrains, with carbon wheel upgrades available. Pricing ranges from $7,999 to $12,299. The optional Bosch PowerMore 250Wh range extender can be purchased with the bike or separately for $550. Fox Live Valve NEO Shock upgrade available for $1,450 (Pro & Team builds only).

    For more information, visit https://global.pivotcycles.com/bikes/shuttle-sl-am. For immediate download of complete technical details on the Pivot Shuttle SL/AM, as well as photos, video, social assets, specifications, and more, please follow this link.

  4. UK parliament launches inquiry into e-bike safety and gig economy practices

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    Source: Cycling Electric

    The UK Parliament is initiating an inquiry into e-bike safety, with particular attention given to the role of the gig economy in encouraging the modification of electric bikes and the use of potentially hazardous upgrade kits that may pose thermal risks.

    The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cycling & Walking (APPGCW) is now soliciting evidence from a range of stakeholders. These include industry professionals, delivery riders with relevant experience, advocacy organisations, policy experts, emergency services, and other concerned parties.

    Fabian Hamilton MP, Chair of the APPGCW, noted the potential of e-bikes to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable transport system. However, he expressed concern that this potential could be compromised by the proliferation of low-quality imported conversion kits. He highlighted the pressures experienced by gig economy workers, who may resort to using unregulated or unsafe equipment to enhance their earnings. In some cases, these products may constitute illegally modified motorcycles rather than compliant e-bikes, which could harm the reputation of legitimate e-bike manufacturers.

    Public perception has also been affected by media reports that may have misrepresented the root causes of fire risks associated with electric bikes. This has led to actions such as landlords and building managers restricting e-bike storage and use, and Transport for London banning e-bikes from its services. Additionally, some insurers have begun to deny coverage to bike shops, despite most shops not selling the types of kits linked to thermal incidents. This has raised concerns about the impact on independent retailers, which have not been responsible for distributing dangerous components.

    Specialist e-bike insurers have indicated that, based on their data, e-bike fire risks are minimal, suggesting that media narratives may have contributed disproportionately to public alarm.

    The inquiry aims to clarify the scope of the issue, explore its implications for the cycling industry and public safety, and identify practical responses. It also presents an opportunity to reassess public understanding of electric bikes amid industry challenges that have included shop closures and job losses.

  5. Researchers highlight surprising benefit of e-bike rides for older adults

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    Source: The Cool Down

    Research from the University of Reading and Oxford Brookes University has revealed unexpected benefits of e-bike riding for older adults, citing surprising improvements to executive function compared to traditional cycling.

    Outdoor stimulation and physical activity are known to help combat and prevent age-related cognitive decline, with cycling a popular choice for adults of varying ages worldwide. To test the psychological and cognitive benefits of outdoor cycling, a team of researchers from the UK measured the cognitive function and mental health among 100 adults aged 50 to 83, none of whom were regular bike riders. One group was instructed to ride a conventional bike three times a week for at least 30 minutes per outing for eight weeks. The second group was given the same assignment, only they were outfitted with e-bikes to ride. A third control group did not ride at all in the two-month study period.

    How did the study work?

    The study, published in PLOS One, found that cyclists between the ages of 50 and 83 experienced both cognitive and mental health benefits from riding a bicycle, whether electrically assisted or traditionally pedal-powered. At the end of the study, both bike-riding groups enjoyed significant improvements in executive function, which is the ability to plan, organize, and complete tasks. Interestingly, though the researchers had anticipated that the riders on the standard bikes would improve the most because they would be working harder and, therefore, getting more exercise, that wasn’t the case.

    What were the results?

    Not only did the e-bike riders score as well as the regular bike riders in the follow-up cognitive tests, but the motor-assisted pedallers also performed a little better in processing speed and enjoyed a more improved sense of well-being than the other two groups.

    “We had thought that those who used traditional, pedal-only powered bikes would have the greatest brain and mental health boost, as they would be giving their cardiovascular systems the biggest workout,” said University of Reading professor of psychology Carien Van Reekum, Ph.D., in a press release on the project. “Instead, people who used e-bikes told us that they felt more confident in completing the requested activity of three 30-minute rides a week for eight weeks, compared to pedal bikers.”

    These results suggest that the additional benefits that e-bikes provide to older users have an effect beyond increasing physical activity. Researchers theorise that electric bikes allow older adults to explore their local area and reap the benefits of being in a natural environment without overexerting themselves. It could be argued that aging individuals may find it challenging to engage in safe physical activity; however, low-impact cycling with powered-assisted support would give them the energy and confidence to exercise in a safe and stress-free way. Despite the lower intensity and heart rate associated with e-bike riding, it is the quality of being outside in nature that is highly beneficial to seniors.

    The results of this study also benefit those recovering from common surgeries, such as those of the knee, hip, or shoulder. Regular cyclists may consider switching to an e-bike for the duration of their recovery to maintain their routine and enjoy both the mental and physical benefits of outdoor cycling without compromising their recovery process.

  6. E-bikes account for majority of the Austrian bicycle market

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    Source: Saz Bike

    Austria’s Arge Fahrrad bicycle association has published its 2024 sales figure for the Austrian market, reporting the region as having the largest share of e-bikes in Europe.

    After the number of e-bikes sold surpassed non-electric bikes for the first time in 2023, sales figures have since increased by 5% for 2024, accounting for 57% of the overall Austrian bike market, equating to the highest share in Europe. Meanwhile, in Germany e-bikes took up 53% of its market in 2024.

    Austrian bicycle market in recent years

    As the German bicycle market experienced a decline in 2024, its neighbouring country Austria also had a slight decline in bicycles sold compared to the previous year (-6.1%). However, the Austrian market has had an overly positive year like previous years, with 2024 sales generating €1.055 billion, the fourth time in a row that Austria’s market has exceeded one billion Euros.

    The role of subsidies in Austrian bicycle sales

    Although many countries have experienced challenging economic conditions since the pandemic, following Austria’s introduction of subsidies it has experienced a continued uptick in e-folding and e-cargo bike sales, with a sixfold increase in the number of company bicycles since 2022.

    Until 2024, Austria’s e-mobility initiative, a joint cooperation of the Federal Ministry for Climate Protection with the sports and bicycle trade, offered up to €900 in subsidies towards the purchase of a new e-cargo bike and up to €500 for an e-folding bike, resulting in 13,300 electric bicycles being subsidized. From these positive increases, the Arge Fahrrad (Bicycle Working Group) is hoping for an extension in subsidies.

    Bicycle industry stakeholders campaign for an extension in e-bike subsidies

    Hans-Jürgen Schoder, spokesperson for the Arge Fahrrad, commented on the status of the overall bicycle market, with recommendations on how to strengthen it. “We predicted the decline due to the challenging economic conditions, which naturally have a negative impact on consumers’ purchasing power. But it is significantly smaller than expected; especially with e-bikes, we have some strongly growing segments, which makes us very confident. This makes it all the more necessary to create a political framework that will strengthen domestic purchasing power and get the economy going”.

    Michael Nendwich, spokesperson for the sporting goods trade at the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber and managing director of the VSSÖ has commented on the need for subsidies to continue: “On the one hand, there is strong demand and added value in the domestic sports and bicycle trade. On the other hand, there has been a strong increase in sustainable electromobility for commuters, transport, and many other journeys using e-bikes for years. This is a tandem that must absolutely continue on the road to success. Reviving the successful subsidy models for (e-)folding bikes and (e-)cargo bikes, which expired last year, is imperative. These are a game changer for sustainable mobility – even in an economically difficult year with cautious consumers. The repair bonus also contributes to the bicycle trend,”

    Anticipated Austrian bicycle market status for 2025

    Schoder from Arge Fahrrad maintains an optimistic outlook for the current season for the industry and retail as other bicycle markets are also increasing their market share. “The bicycle is not only an important and reliable economic factor in Austria, but also a consistent trendsetter. E-mountain bikes have been stable for years and are even still slightly increasing at a high level. The fact that we are still able to gain market share and new fans for gravel bikes (+12.7 percent) and road bikes (+20.8 percent), even in economically difficult times, makes us confident for the future. The initial feedback from our retailers regarding Easter business is also cautiously optimistic. Industry and retail have done their homework, are always in close contact with our consumers, and we hope for another strong year for cycling in 2025,” Schoder concludes.

  7. UK council launches e-bike and cargo bike trial scheme to promote sustainable transport

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    Source: Colchester City Council

    Colchester City Council in the UK has launched a new initiative offering residents and businesses the opportunity to trial electric bikes and cargo bikes before making a purchase. The ‘try before you buy’ scheme, introduced in late March 2025, allows participants to borrow an e-bike or e-cargo bike for up to one month at a low weekly cost, aiming to promote active travel and reduce reliance on cars.

    With rising fuel prices and increasing interest in environmentally friendly transport alternatives, the scheme is designed to help individuals explore the practicality and benefits of electric cycling in their everyday lives. Participants can test a range of electric bikes, including standard models, longtail cargo bikes, two-wheeler box bikes, and tricycles—accommodating a variety of transport needs from commuting and shopping to carrying children or goods.

    The initiative has already received positive feedback. One local resident, Jose, trialled a longtail e-cargo bike equipped with an extended rear rack for carrying his daughter; he said. “There’s something undeniably refreshing about starting the day with a bike ride. This daily routine has become one of my favourite parts of the day; it is more than just a commute: as we pedal along, we bond over shared moments and the simple joys of being outdoors. I am grateful for the Colchester City Council short-term hire scheme for the opportunity to rent before investing. Having the possibility to rent the bike for a few weeks is a great way to ‘try before you buy’: this equipment is pricey and without this scheme I would not have considered getting a cargo bike myself.”

    The scheme is offered at a rate of £12 per week, and bikes must be securely stored at the user’s home or workplace. To ensure safe and confident use, the council also provides a free induction session for participants.

    Councillor Luxford Vaughan, Portfolio Holder for Environment, Planning, and Sustainability, described the scheme as an important step towards encouraging active travel and cleaner air in the city. “This scheme is a fantastic opportunity for residents to explore sustainable transport options before committing to the upfront cost of purchasing an e-bike. We hope that by giving people the chance to try electric bikes, we can encourage more active travel choices, improve the air we all breathe, and make Colchester a healthier and happier place to live.”

    This initiative forms part of Colchester City Council’s wider strategy to reduce urban pollution, increase accessibility to low-emission transport, and support a shift towards greener, more active ways of getting around.

  8. E-bikes have an image problem in The Netherlands

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    Source: Multiscope

    The high cost remains the biggest deterrent to purchasing an e-bike. Current users rate their e-bikes at an average of 8.4, but only 51% of public perceptions about electric bikes are positive. This is according to the E-bike Monitor, a comprehensive study by Multiscope involving more than 5,500 Dutch respondents.

    High Cost and Theft Among Major Obstacles

    For 39% of potential buyers, the ‘price’ is the main barrier to purchasing an e-bike. Other concerns like ‘lack of physical effort’ (22%) and ‘vulnerability to theft’ (20%) are also common. Additionally, more than 10% of Dutch people consider e-bikes ‘dangerous,’ while 8% cite ‘lack of storage space’ as a concern. Fewer people mention issues like frequent charging (7%) or the negative ‘environmental impact’ (6%).

    Current Users Are Satisfied

    Despite the barriers, current e-bike owners are generally very satisfied with their purchase, giving an average score of 8.4. Only 19% rate their e-bike below an 8. Users especially appreciate the comfort, ease of use, and pedal assistance, which contribute to the high ratings.

    Only 51% of Perceptions of E-bikes Are Positive

    Just over half (51%) of the associations Dutch people have with e-bikes are positive, with ‘speed’ (14%) being the most frequent positive remark. On the other hand, ‘expensive’ or ‘high price’ (8%) and ‘dangerous’ (6%) are the most common negative perceptions.

    About Multiscope

    Multiscope is an expert in online market research, assisting businesses and organizations in making informed decisions through online panels, market reports, and innovative research methods.

    The results in this release come from the E-bike Monitor, a large-scale study on electric bikes, scooters, and light electric vehicles in the Netherlands. The survey included 5,554 respondents aged 18 and over, representative of the Dutch population.

  9. SUPER73 announces pre-order is live for its K1D best-in-class children’s electric balance bike in the EU and UK

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    SUPER73’s K1D offers regenerative braking to unlock confidence and freedom for kids while making riding safe and fun

    SUPER73, the American lifestyle adventure brand specializing in electric motorbikes, announced that European and UK pre-orders are available for its first youth series vehicle, the K1D. Developed with a perfectly complemented blend of fun and safety, the SUPER73 K1D offers a best-in-class electric balance bike option for kids ages four to eight. The K1D retails for €1199 on the SUPER73EU website and will ship to customers starting in July 2024.

    Available in four colorways, the K1D’s design was influenced by 80’s BMX and Motocross culture to create a neo-retro balance bike with a 60-minute playtime. Further separating itself from the competition, SUPER73 emphasized a technology-focused theme throughout the kid’s electric balance bike, including innovative technology such as regenerative braking and the safest battery in any kid’s balance bike.

    A critical feature of the SUPER73 K1D is the first-in-class, innovative regenerative braking, which is only available in this model and the soon-to-be-launched C1X. The basic idea of regenerative braking is that when a rider releases the throttle, the vehicle will use the electric motor to flow current back into the battery, slowing down the vehicle and charging the battery. This feature means longer-lasting brakes, more range on the battery, and an inherent safety measure put in place to further protect the youth who can modulate speed with the throttle alone.

    Furthering the safety protocols and technological innovation implemented in the K1D, the electric balance bike features a Lithium Iron Phosphate battery (LiFe PO4) that is resistant to thermal events, allowing riders to continue charging the battery in all weather conditions.

    The K1D’s battery charges in 45 minutes, exponentially faster than its competitors’ typical four-hour charge time. Additionally, Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries have two times the battery life than existing competitor’s batteries.

    SUPER73’s K1D:

    • Get Comfortable – K1D comes equipped with a motorcycle- and motocross-inspired seat style.
    • Ride in Your Own Style – Living up to SUPER73’s standard of high-end finish and design, the K1D features an exclusive hexagon pattern on the gum wall tires and the handlebar grips, making the throttle highly visible, while riders can choose between Blu Tang, Sriracha Red, Obsidian, and Prickly Pink color options.
    • Grow With The Bike – The K1D offers removable hexagon patterned foot platforms, removable and adjustable oversized pegs for two different positions, and multiple handlebar options to fit the height of riders.
    • Class Modes For Speed Modulation – Three different class modes allow riders to learn the fundamentals of an electric balance bike at a lower speed, and then boost performance as comfort and experience increase.

    Similar to our current offerings, two standard modes will be easily accessible by the rider, with a locked and secured third “Track Mode” mode for the more advanced competitors on closed courses.

    Through the launch of K1D, SUPER73 wants to help educate kids on appropriate rider safety at an early age by teaching them the proper way to ride, along with other safety measures from the start. As riders grow, they will graduate from the K1D to other SUPER73 models targeted at an older age demographic armed with the experience, knowledge, and education to ride properly and safely.

    For full details on the SUPER73EU activities, visit SUPER73.com and follow along on Facebook®, YouTube® or @super73eu on Instagram®.

    ABOUT SUPER73®

    SUPER73® is an American lifestyle adventure brand based in Orange County, CA that develops products to help fuse motorcycle heritage with youth culture. Founded in 2016, SUPER73 has quickly grown into one of the most recognizable electric vehicle brands in the world with a passionate customer base including A-list celebrities, professional athletes, and many more. For more information, visit super73.com or @super73eu on social media.