5 Reasons To Choose An e-Cycle For Your Daily Commute

Concerns about climate change and the prevailing high cost of automotive fuel have resulted in a small, but noticeable shift towards electrification when it comes to personal transportation. Among the options available, electric bicycles turn out to be among the most affordable modes of transportation if you do the math. But, there are several reasons why you should pick an e-cycle for your daily commute and here are the top five: 

Has a smaller carbon footprint

A European Cyclists Federation research indicates electric bikes are even better for the environment than electric cars, producing 2.5-5g of CO2 per 1.6km rather than 150g for the same distance. The difference is even bigger when compared to petrol- or diesel-powered vehicles or buses. To elaborate further, an average e-bike uses only about 10 per cent of the energy required to operate a standard car.

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Offers a healthy lifestyle

E-cycles can be versatile as they offer multiple ride options. Simply put, you could either choose to pedal, use some assistance from the motor or rely completely on the motor using the throttle. The first two options can offer a great workout without draining you out completely. If you’re tired on your way back from work, just switch to the motor and head home at a leisurely pace. We’d say, that’s a great way to burn some calories and get a good daily workout. The SVITCH MXE is a foldable e-cycle that’s a blend of practicality and ease of use. 

Convenience at your fingertips

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Ok, maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but e-cycles can be fully charged overnight or within a couple of hours while you’re at work. Thanks to modern tech, detachable batteries, like the one on the Toutche Electric Heileo M200 make life even simpler. You can carry them along with you to either your home or your workplace and you need only plug it back in when you’re ready to head out again. E-cycles also cater to a much broader audience, as they are suitable for teenagers, adults and grandparents alike.

Exceptional range 

Despite having a much smaller battery compared to e-scooters or cars, e-cycles like the Nexzu Bazinga have the ability to cover between 80-100 km per charge using pedal assist. So they’re perfect for city commutes or short-distance rides. Small-scale businesses could even use e-cycles for logistics with a few modifications of course. The possibilities are endless if you’re creative. 

Cheaper than e-scooters and e-motorcycles

Compared to conventional bicycles, e-cycles do command a rather heavy initial investment, but they're still a lot cheaper than most e-scooters and electric motorcycles in the market. 

Charging an e-cycle only costs a fraction of the cost of refuelling your vehicle. You’ll get a full charge by consuming half a unit of electricity. To put things into perspective, MSEDCL's per unit rate is Rs 4.67 for those consuming electricity between zero to 100 units. A litre of diesel costs around Rs 92 while petrol sets you back by approximately Rs 106 (Pune) today.  

Cycles like the EMotorad EMX can travel at speeds of up to 45kmph purely on the motor, which is perfect for city traffic. Besides, the cost of maintaining your e-cycle is also much lower than any ICE-powered vehicle. So you’re getting the best of both worlds – personal mobility at the cost of public transportation.