Tag Archive: electric bike

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. Stromer ST5 Pinion now available in the U.S.

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    Following a successful launch in Europe, Stromer’s high-tech ST5 Pinion brings all its features to American riders.

    Source: American Luxury

    Stromer continues to advance its high-performance e-bike legacy with the introduction of the ST5 Pinion edition, a model that builds upon the features of the 2020 ST5 ABS model. This new iteration incorporates automated Pinion gear-shifting, enhancing the electric cycling experience. The core of the ST5 Pinion is a sophisticated collaboration between human and machine, where Pinion’s electronic Smart Shift system efficiently selects optimal gear ratios among nine speeds. Stromer’s anti-lock brakes contribute to stability during braking, preventing traction compromise.

    In addition to its functional features, the ST5 Pinion includes integrated audio alerts for actions like startup sequences or charging status. These audible cues add to the bike’s overall sophistication. The inclusion of a Gates Carbon Belt Drive and a 750-watt rear hub motor contributes enhanced efficiency and power. The bike is equipped with Bluetooth and cellular connectivity, enabling GPS tracking and over-the-air updates.

    The ST5 Pinion ensures safety with head and tail lights for both day and night use, coupled with TRP hydraulic disc brakes for robust stopping power on varied terrains. Despite pushing the boundaries of performance and technology, the ST5 Pinion maintains an elegant aesthetic, featuring handmade grips, a Selle Royal saddle, and recyclable carbon fenders that reflect a dedication to luxury craftsmanship.

    Available in limited edition hues starting at $11,990, the ST5 Pinion is a truly impressive electric bicycle, blending electronic intelligence with considered design. This model, recently released in Europe, is now available in North America in Launch Edition red or Aventurine green for US$11,990.

  8. SUPER73 Launches K1D In Europe, Best-In-Class Children’s Electric Balance Bike With State-Of-The-Art Technological Advancements

    Comments Off on SUPER73 Launches K1D In Europe, Best-In-Class Children’s Electric Balance Bike With State-Of-The-Art Technological Advancements

    SUPER73’s K1D Becomes First-In-Class To Offer 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, recently announced the European launch of 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.

    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.
    “The technological advancements in the K1D youth series balance bike are groundbreaking from a safety, performance, and durability standpoint. We’re excited to announce the highly anticipated product will arrive to the European market in 2024,” said LeGrand Crewse, SUPER73 CEO. “At SUPER73, we’re focused on driving the technology of our products forward while making it fun and safe for our customers. The launch of K1D provides us with an entirely new customer base of young, aspiring riders, and we’re thrilled to be leading the charge in our industry.”

    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 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 protect further 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, which is exponentially faster than the typical four-hour charge time of its competitors. Additionally, Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries have two times the battery life than existing competitor’s batteries.

    In addition to the technological and safety advancements, below are several features found in 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.