Thinking of buying an electric bike (e-bike)? You’re not alone. Their popularity is soaring in Australia – annual sales rose from 9,000 in 2017 to more than 100,000 in 2022. 

They’re a cheap and sustainable way to get around. But the e-bike advantage goes much further.

Read on to answer all your e-bike questions.

How does an e-bike work?

E-bikes handle just like regular pushbikes. They look similar too, except for the battery pack that clips onto the bike. It charges a built-in motor that can be switched on to provide a boost of power when you need it. Most e-bikes have several power levels. Turn it off altogether or keep it low when cycling on the flat. It’ll feel like you’re riding with a helpful tail wind. Boost the power to pick up pace from a standstill or to head up a hill.

Why would I want an e-bike? 

Let us count the reasons…

1. Keep yourself active: E-bikes let everyone ride further and with less effort than a pushbike. But you’re still pedalling and exercising. Riders with mobility or health issues can keep up with others on an e-bike and enjoy a leisurely ride together.
    
2. Save money: An e-bike will pay for itself quickly if you use it to replace trips you’d normally take by car or public transport.
    
3. Beat the traffic: Many households are replacing their second car with an e-bike. Use it on both roads and shared paths for the quickest route and an easy ride when you don’t need a car. Opt for an e-cargo bike to carry up to 2 children.
    
4. Hit the hills: Boroondara is hillier than many parts of Melbourne. Tackle sloping terrain with ease as the motor kicks in and powers you to the top. No need to catch your breath.
    
5. No sweat: E-bikes make it easier to commute to work or study without breaking much of a sweat. You can boost the power level on your way in for a serene ride, then turn it down for a workout on the way home.
    
6. Go off-road: Are you keen to explore Melbourne’s bike trails or country Victoria’s rail trails but aren’t sure if you have the stamina? On an e-bike you can pump up the power to go the extra distance or sail up any hills with confidence.
    
7. You’ll be helping the planet: Australia has one of the highest rates of car ownership in the world. By 2030, our transport emissions are projected to be our biggest contributor to climate change. Make a difference by taking an e-bike instead of a car. 

How do I charge an e-bike?

You can take the battery pack off the bike and charge it from a regular power socket at home. It’ll generally take 4 or 5 hours to recharge fully and can give you a range of around 50 km, depending what power level you use when riding. 

How much do they cost?

E-bikes range in price from about $750 right up to $14,000. Spending $2,000 will buy you a very good e-bike, but you can also lease one for as little as $15 a week. They come in different types including road bikes, mountain bikes, cargo bikes and folding bikes.

What are the road rules related to e-bikes?

E-bikes must have a maximum rated power of 250 watts. Power assistance must cut out at the top speed of 25 km/h. You can ride faster than that but only by pedal power. The road rules for pushbikes also apply to e-bikes. You don’t need a licence to ride an e-bike.