What advantages are there for me in riding an Electrically Assisted Bicycle?
Commuters
If you have to commute every day, then an electric bicycle will save you money, and get you fitter!
A small car covering an average mileage each year will cost in the region of 75p per mile to operate, yet an electric bicycle will only cost in the region of 8p per mile.
It is often argued that bicycles would be slower than using a car, but Transport for London's own statistics clearly show that the average speed of traffic in London is just 14.8 miles per hour during the morning peak period - slower than cycling, and not nearly so much fun - or as environmentally friendly!
Sweat may not be a too much of a problem when you're out riding for enjoyment or fitness,but it's more important if you're cycling to work. Although some companies do provide showers, drying rooms and clothing lockers and maybe even secure bike parking, the great majority do not, and probably have no intention of doing so.
Riding an electric bike resolves this problem with style and efficiency, During our scorchingly hot summers, you can not only arrive for work on time, but also feel cool and refreshed by allowing the electric motor to take the strain. During colder weather - simply reduce the power, or - if you really want to have a workout on the way to work, then turn the motor off completely.
You can also travel in normal business dress, and get to work in a comfortable condition, and with no reasons to need showers and clothing lockers.
Looking at the financial side of things, it is obvious that the initial investment costs in a reasonable quality electric bike will soon be paid off by the financial savings in fuel and associated running costs of a car.
Remember - No Road Tax, No Insurance, No MoT, No expensive Servicing! This is the better way of travelling!
Domestic Riders
60% of all car journeys in the Europe are under 6 miles in length, a distance that is easily covered on an electric bike in about 24 minutes. The length of the average shopping trip in the UK was 3.8 miles, (a 15 minute journey on an e-bike!) and in many cases, the amount bought would easily fit into the panniers of a bicycle.
On a conventional bike, lots of people would be put off at having to pedal a laden bicycle for 15 minutes, but with an electric bike, the effort is minimal, and you get the additional benefit of getting some fresh air, and a bit of gentle exercise! And all for just 8p per mile!
Cancel your expensive Gym Club membership - use an electric bike - you know it makes sense!
The Elderly
It happens to us all - getting older! We get less flexible, and sometimes joint mobility may be a problem. The medical profession advise on staying fit, and getting regular gentle exercise, and for many older people, replacing a conventional pedal cycle with an electric bike helps them do just that! Knowing that power assistance is available at the twist of a handgrip encourages less fit individuals to get out, enjoy life, and maintain their fitness.
Non Drivers
Not everybody has a driving licence. Some may have never bothered to learn, and a fair few may have lost their driving privileges as a result of medical incapacity. Some may even have had their driving licences withdrawn as a result of Alcohol-related driving offences. An electric bike will get you back on the road, and give you access to areas that would normally only be accessible with public transport - and we all know how unreliable that can be!
Economy Riders
Stop filling Alistair Darling's pockets! Your car is constantly hoovering up your cash - but that money could be better spent could'nt it? In addition to the standing cost and operating costs of a car, there are other costs more difficult to factor in - such as time lost in finding parking space, car park costs, parking restrictions, and now - the menace of Zoned Parking Schemes. Many councils have launched such schemes, whereby you pay for the "privilege" of parking your car outside your home - in addition to paying Road Tax! The taxman has already been considering taxing companies on staff car parking slots, so thinking of living in Credit Crunch times, you are probably better off on an E-Bike, particularly if your company operates a Salary Sacrifice or Cycle to Work scheme.
Environmentally Conscious Riders
We all know that petrol, diesel and gas propelled road vehicles create huge amounts of pollutants, and damage our planet. Traffic levels have seriously increased in the last couple of decades, and the sheer volume and weight of traffic, is, quite literally, knocking our roads to pieces. Using an electric bicycle is a very "Green" and ethical way to travel, and creates minimum impact on the environment in terms of emissions (Zero) noise (Virtually none!) and road damage (Virtually none!)
Leisure Rider
Fancy a Sunday Roast at that Pub a few miles away? No more costly taxis, or having to drive and drink fizzy pop rather than a welcome pint or glass of wine. Just pull your e-bike out of the shed or garage, and the countryside and local amenities are yours to explore.
Caravaners and Boat Owners
If you take your holidays in a caravan then an electric bike is an ideal way of seeing the local area once you arrive. Hills no longer present a problem, and getting into the local village or town is a breeze, and trips out for picnics so much easier. It also means that you dont have to disconnect your RV or motorhome to get out and about!
If you have a boat, then the same thing applies. Sail into a "foreign" port, and no more taxis and buses, but simply jump on your e-bike, and whizz off to explore the local area.
For those individuals lucky enough to live on a boat, you may have parking issues, and owning a car may not be practical. However, an e-bike may be stowed inside the cabin of most houseboats and is ready for use whenever you are!
All in all, your needs may fit into one, two, several, or in some cases all of the categories above. Simply contact us to arrange a test ride of any of our range, and start enjoying the benefits of a Wisper Electric Bike today!