As we move into a new year, there are always new trends and advancements that have evolved during the previous year.
There is definitely a more concerted push with all riders, commuters, exercise enthusiasts, and leisurely weekend riders moving to electric bikes.
Why?
They are so much fun and you also get to exercise as well as getting to places that may have been out of reach or simply just too hard to get to that level of fitness to attempt that longer ride
What are the trends as we see them?
Technology and Efficiency
Improvements to battery technology and development in motor design and efficiency. Riders can now go further with the newer innovations as well as tackling more challenging terrain.
Lightweight Materials
Makers are now researching further into materials that are lighter in weight as well as much stronger. What a great combination for us riders
Aerodynamics
Focusing on aerodynamics means that designers can produce bikes that are more efficient and sleeker allowing them to “cut” through the air. It takes less effort to ride, and yes this applies to eBikes, and of course, being able to maintain a constant speed. We have all noticed subtle design changes to the “standard” frame shape that has been around for years and this is one of the areas that no one realised made such a difference to a rider’s effort once they were in motion
Sustainability
Just using a bike does suggest sustainability as the rider is using their power which is true. Designers are also looking further into sustainability. Researching and finding eco-friendly solutions such as recycled products, longer life of the basic components and being able to recycle components as they are replaced
Safety Features
Stronger and lighter frames, using new technology provide greater durability and strength. All quality electric bikes have disc brakes, V brakes or calliper brakes. Although not a new trend all bikes have better reflective materials included. All electric bikes include front and rear lights, and there have been great advancements in the quality of these as well over the last couple of years.
Suspension
There has been an acceleration in the acceptance and provision of suspension systems on all electric bikes from commuter eBikes, mountain eBikes, cruiser eBikes, as well as kid’s eBikes. Top-of-the-line eBikes, especially mountain bikes have systems that allow the riders to adjust the settings for their weight and terrain.
Planned Cycleways
We are now seeing cities including cycle paths in updated areas as well as being actively considered and retrobuilt to complement existing main roads to separate motor vehicle traffic from bike riders. This makes it much safer for all modes of traffic