Electric bicycles are gaining popularity as a way to explore new trails and spend time outside with friends and family. With their versatility and accessibility, e-bikes are a great addition to the RV lifestyle. If you are considering adding an e-bike to your adventures but don’t know where to start, then allow us to share everything you need to know about the wonderful pairing of e-bikes and RVs.
What are E-Bikes?
E-bikes, or electric bicycles, are bicycles equipped with an electric motor that assists with propulsion. They offer varying levels of pedal assistance, allowing riders to conquer hills, cover longer distances, and navigate challenging terrain with ease. The various styles means that there is an e-bike for whatever type of riding you want to do, and whatever adventure you’re after!
Choosing the Right E-Bike for Your Adventure
In order to have the most success on your ride, you’ll need to consider various factors when picking out the right e-bike.
The first consideration is deciding whether you want a pedal assist or throttle bicycle. Pedal assist e-bikes have a motor that will only engage when you are pedaling the bike. The strength of the motor can double or even triple the power of your pedal, providing the speed you need to tackle hills or keep up with faster riders. These e-bikes are more efficient than other types of e-bikes and can also be safer. Pedal assist e-bikes are generally the most common bikes manufactured by tried and true bike companies, like Trek, Specialized, and Santa Cruz. Electric bikes that aren’t pedal assist will have a throttle that you can use to control the motor, even when you aren’t pedaling.
Not all e-bikes are created equally! There are different styles of bike available for different rides, so if you want to cruise along a bike path, speed through a city, or ride up and down mountains, there’s an electric bike specifically made for the task. Consider what you’ll be using the bike for and what your priorities are before purchasing.
E-bikes also have unique considerations that don’t apply to traditional bikes, like the battery life and range. The motor and battery also add more weight to the bike overall, so keep that in mind if you have to lift your bike onto a hitch rack for storage while on the road. Another consideration to keep in mind is the quality of the bike: higher quality e-bikes will cost more up front, but will provide peace of mind while riding and might not need as much maintenance as cheaper bikes.
E-Bikes and the RV Lifestyle
Once you’ve picked out the perfect e-bike for your adventure, it’s time to integrate it into the RV lifestyle.
The most important component to consider when bringing an e-bike with you on your travels is the storage. If your RV is compatible with hitch racks, make sure to purchase one that is specially equipped to handle the extra weight of an electric bike. Depending on the size of your motorhome, you might be able to store the bike inside; if not, you’ll want to look into locks so you can keep your bike secure when it’s not in use.
The battery that powers your e-bike will need to be recharged. If you aren’t able to do that inside your RV, then seek out resorts that have electrical hookups or designated charging stations specifically designed for e-bike users. You can take advantage of communal charging areas to interact with fellow travelers to learn about local trails and bike paths.
Lastly, make sure you stay safe during your ride by always wearing a helmet and having bike lights with you. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and regulations and exercise caution when navigating congested areas or challenging terrain.
Cycling is a sport that you can enjoy with your friends and family no matter where the road takes you. Purchasing an e-bike is a great way to extend your rides, summit any hill, and keep up with faster riders. Embark on your next RV adventure with confidence, knowing that e-bikes are poised to revolutionize the way you explore the world around you. Let the open road beckon, and may your travels be enriched by the seamless integration of e-bikes into your luxury Class A motorhome lifestyle.