How Bicycling Can Help You Save Money and the Environment

E-bikes are bicycles with an electric motor that provides additional power to the pedals, making it easier to ride longer distances or uphill. They offer financial and environmental benefits over traditional bicycles and are quickly becoming a popular alternative to cars and public transportation, with an expected CAGR of 5.90 percent by 2029

By cycling using an electric bicycle, you can partake in an eco-friendly mode of transport that also helps you save money. This benefits everyone, from your community and neighbors to yourself and your family, making city or electric mountain bikes an excellent choice for commuting, running errands, or exploring parks or trails.

Save Money and the Environment 

Savings Offered By E-Bikes Over Other Modes of Transportation

E-bikes can be a cost-effective mode of transportation compared to other forms of transport, such as cars, motorcycles, or public transit. When you invest in an electric bicycle, you can save money in the following ways:

  • Lower fuel costs: E-bikes are powered by electricity, which is cheaper than gasoline or diesel. With an average cost of gas at around $200 per month for most people, charging an e-bike battery is less expensive than filling up a gas tank.
  • Reduced maintenance costs: E-bikes have fewer moving parts than cars or motorcycles, meaning fewer parts need to be serviced or replaced. Most e-bike owners will spend less than $200 annually on tune-ups, with specific issues like new tires costing only $10 to $20 to repair. This is much less than the cost of tire replacements, at between $45 to $250 and general repair expenses for a passenger vehicle.  
  • Lower insurance costs: Unlike cars, e-bikes do not require insurance in the U.S.  You can purchase a policy at around $100 per year for extra coverage for medical bills or property damages if you’re in an accident. This is much more affordable than typical car insurance, which costs an average of $2,014 annually
  • No parking fees: E-bikes can be parked almost anywhere, which means you can avoid paying parking fees in congested areas. The Business Journal reports that people spend around $3,000 on average for parking-related expenses, making e-biking a much cheaper alternative. 
  • Reduced public transit costs: If you regularly commute on public transit, an e-bike can help you save money on fares over time. While public transit is less costly than driving a vehicle, it can cost around $452 per year. Additionally, e-bikes are faster and more convenient, reducing the time and hassle associated with transit commutes.
  • Reduced healthcare costs: E-bikes can be an excellent way to improve your health and fitness, leading to lower healthcare costs over time. A 2019 study from New Zealand determined that walking and cycling resulted in around $79 in healthcare savings. Regular exercise can help prevent chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and obesity.

Why E-Bikes are Better for the Environment

Electric bicycles have several environmental advantages compared to traditional modes of transportation. These include reduced CO2 emissions, traffic congestion and air pollution.

  • Reduced carbon emissions: E-bikes produce fewer carbon emissions than cars, motorcycles, or other gas-powered vehicles. According to a study by the European Cyclists’ Federation, e-bikes emit 22 grams of CO2  per kilometer per person, compared to 271 grams for a car and 101 grams for a bus. E-bikes are also powered by electricity, which can be generated from renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.
  • Reduced air pollution: E-bikes produce no tailpipe emissions, which means they do not contribute to air pollution. This is important in densely populated urban areas where air pollution is a major health concern.
  • Reduced noise pollution: E-bikes are much quieter than cars or motorcycles, producing less noise pollution. This can be particularly important in residential areas or other quiet zones.
  • Reduced oil consumption: E-bikes do not require oil changes or other petroleum-based lubricants, which means they reduce the demand for fossil fuels. Instead, they use the same chain lubricating oils as manual bikes, which must only be reapplied a few times yearly. 
  • Reduced traffic congestion: E-bikes take up less space on the road than cars or motorcycles, which can help reduce traffic congestion. This can reduce the overall amount of carbon emissions and air pollution generated by vehicles. A 2022 study found that when e-bikes and scooters were banned in Atlanta, travel time increased by 11% for daily commuting and 37% for larger events. 
  • Sustainable manufacturing: The manufacturing process for e-bikes is often more sustainable than the manufacturing process for cars or motorcycles. E-bikes require fewer raw materials and less energy to produce, which can reduce their overall environmental impact.

Steps to Finding the Right E-Bike for Your Needs

To start saving money on transportation costs and reduce your carbon footprint, you’ll need to find the right e-bike. The following tips can help you find the right e-bike so you can experience the savings and environmental benefits they offer:

  • Determine your budget: Determine how much to spend on an e-bike. Many newer models are upwards of a few thousand dollars. However, you can find refurbished cheap electric bikes for up to 60% less than new ones for a more affordable option.
  • Consider your needs: Think about your riding style, terrain and distance you plan to ride. For city use, choose a hybrid/city model. If you plan to ride on trails, opt for a road or mountain e-bike. 
  • Do your research: Read reviews and research different models to determine the features that matter most to you. Consider the battery life, distance and speed capabilities and frame size when choosing your ideal e-bike. 
  • Buy from a reputable dealer: Buy from a dealer that offers support and after-sales service to ensure you get the most out of your e-bike. For example, some platforms offer a 1-year warranty and a free 14-day return on your purchase. 

Protect Your Wallet and the Planet

Choosing eco-friendly modes of transportation like an electric city bike can provide numerous benefits for your wallet and the planet. By reducing fuel costs, maintenance expenses and parking fees, e-bikes can help you save money while reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future. 

With proper maintenance and care, e-bikes can provide a fun and reliable mode of transportation that is both eco-friendly and cost-effective. By choosing to ride an e-bike instead of driving a car, you can positively impact your finances and the environment.

 

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