Debunking the "Electric Bikes are Cheating" Myth

Are electric bikes cheating? This question has been the subject of much debate, with some people believing that using an e-bike is not a legitimate form of exercise or transportation. But we're here to tell you that this couldn't be further from the truth! In fact, riding an electric bike can be an absolute blast, and we're here to debunk the myth and show you why.

What Are Electric Bikes?

First things first, let's talk about what electric bikes actually are. E-bikes are bicycles that use an electric motor to assist with pedaling. This motor is powered by a battery that can be charged using a standard electrical outlet, and the level of assistance can be adjusted according to the rider's preference. Some e-bikes also come equipped with a throttle that allows riders to control the speed without pedaling or give some extra acceleration when needed. In other words, they're like regular bikes, but with a little boost!

Why Some People Think Electric Bikes Are Cheating

Most e-bike enthusiasts have reported being teased by other cyclists about "cheating" or not riding a "real bike". One of the main reasons people believe that e-bikes are cheating is because they provide assistance to the rider, making it easier to pedal and climb hills. Some might think that e-bikers do not pedal at all. Some might think that exercise has to be strenuous in order to count. Or they may have an entirely different personal opinion or bias. But here's the thing: the motor only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling, so it's not like you're just sitting there while the bike does all the work for you. And most nutritionists, doctors and physical therapists will tell you that some movement is better than none. If an activity needs to be fun in order to entice you off of the couch, who are we to judge?

Accessible Fitness

Electric bikes are an excellent way for people who have health concerns or physical limitations to get exercise or enjoy an outdoor activity. Sometimes people are told by a doctor that they need to get more exercise, but they aren't sure how, or it feels like a chore. People experiencing advanced age or those living with health conditions often feel left out of certain activities, and are also aware of the benefits of cardiovascular exercise on their overall well-being. An electric bike or trike could be a solution for some for whom, traditional cycling may be too strenuous or physically challenging. The level of assistance provided by the motor can help make cycling accessible and enjoyable. By using an e-bike, older and disabled individuals can exercise at their own pace, allowing them to gradually increase their fitness levels over time. Plus, the motor assistance can help them conquer hills or longer distances that they might not be able to manage on a traditional bike. This means that e-bikes can provide an excellent low-impact workout option for people who may have limited mobility or strength, helping them to maintain their independence and improve their overall health and well-being. And in the event they aren't feeling it that day, but still want to get outside for some fresh air, the throttle is always there for a fun ride.

Why Electric Bikes Are a Blast

Now, let's get to the good stuff: why riding an e-bike can be an absolute blast. First of all, they're incredibly convenient. They can be used for commuting, running errands, or just for fun, and they're a great way to explore your city or town. Plus, they're a lot faster than regular bikes, so you can cover more ground and see more sights in less time. And you ride at a slower pace than when driving a car, so you can get more enjoyment out of a scenic drive.

But perhaps the best thing about e-bikes is that they're just plain fun to ride. The motor-assisted pedaling makes you feel like you have superhuman strength, and you'll be zipping around with a huge grin on your face. And if you're worried about getting too much of a workout, fear not: studies have shown that riding an e-bike can provide similar health benefits to traditional cycling, including improved cardiovascular fitness, increased muscle strength, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. So you can have your cake and eat it too!

Electric bicycles operate the same as a standard bicycle, and can be operated with or without the motor. Most e-bikes come with multiple levels of pedal assist, allowing the rider to decide how much or how little exercise they feel like at any given time.

The Benefits of Electric Bikes

Aside from the fun and fitness factors, there are many other benefits to riding an e-bike. For one, they're a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and help protect the environment. They also offer a convenient and affordable mode of transportation, as they can help you save money on gas and car maintenance. Plus, they're a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, which is always a mood booster.

Riding an e-bike is not cheating, but rather an absolute blast. They're convenient, fun, and offer many benefits, both for your health and the environment. So, if you're thinking about giving an e-bike a try, don't let the "cheating" myth hold you back. Trust us, you won't regret it! And our shop in Redlands hosts regular group rides if you ever want to have fun with people who you can trust will never judge you for the type of bike you ride. For more information on rides:

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Notice: Before undergoing any type of physical activity, including e-biking, check with your physician first.