BikeBiz

Power struggle: e-bike gurus clash over wattage

As an Electric bicycle designer, builder, and retail seller, I have a few ideas to share. First off, these guys are leaders in the industry, and we all respect their ideas and views. But, after watching the industry grow by leaps and bounds, and working with E bike riders for over ten years, we have learned a few things. The most important piece, is that all of the riders I know, use the pedal power, and electric assist in tandem, providing for the most efficient ride. I believe that the future of E bikes is continued development in true hybrid systems, with both pedal and throttle inputs. I agree with the 750 watt limit here in the USA, and highly recommend that ETRA change their laws to allow a useful assist to enable these bikes to create value as tools, and not toys. Any rider who uses the full 750 watt assist knows that if they lay on the throttle full blast, they shorten their ride, and soon, they learn to "ride electric", using the least amount of energy, for the longest value. Additionally, they also know they can climb hills, loaded down with cargo, and make the grade. 26 miles up Pikes Peak is an achievement, for sure. Additionally, the notion of the E bikes with assist over taking and replacing the traditional pedal only bikes, is most likely misplaced enthusiasm created by watching the E bike industry grow at an exponential rate. Like any section of the bike industry, we see trends that bloom, like the mnt bike section, or the touring section, but these have not replaced the traditional road bikes, and we are more likely not to see the traditional bike replaced, but the E bikes bloom, and have a seat at the table along with the best of the best, Road, Mnt, touring, BMX, trials ect... The future of E bikes is in high power, off road racing, and we will see more and more race driven designs permeate into the industry. Optibike is leading the pack, but many other companies are chasing to be leaders in this field. The trickle down effect will allow for stronger E bikes, to be used for Mountain climbing, Cargo delivery, and performance orientated riding. All of these will include athletes that add their pedal power, at higher rates than ever before. Just look up Stealth, Optibike, Aerobic Cruiser, and other new companies to see the new trends. Electric Motor cycles have their place in the world, and no doubt, we will see more and more companies with strong offers with the continued development of better batteries, chargers, and components. But, these are motor cycles, and not bicycles. E bikes have carved out their own place in the world, and will continue in the development of more and more efficient human hybridizations. These are the days, and we look forward to seeing the new developments. Josh Kerson, Founder of RunAbout Cycles Inc.