Gasoline prices are skyrocketing in the USA, and there appears to be no end in sight. OPEC nations chokehold, and our own overconsumption, are creating an untenable situation in this country. While there are other options available to people, including hybrid vehicles and electric cars, I chose to try an electric bicycle. Anything to tame the high cost of transportation.
Finding a manufacturer
First I had to find someone who sells them. There are numerous manufacturers of these in the US. They are simple to operate, and require no license to operate. For short commutes, they seem to be an ideal choice. I looked on E-bay, and found a model that suited me. It is an E-bike XB502 from xtreme bicycles. It cost around $850.00 for a deluxe model that looks identical to a gasoline-powered scooter. I received my bike in about two weeks; it was shipped from GreenMax Distributors out of Tacoma, Washington.
Some Assembly Required
It was sent to me via UPS freight, packed up in a heavy cardboard box. Upon opening the box, a lot of shrink wrap had to be removed. Some assembly was required. But it was fairly simple: A few screws and bolts, and light reading of the manual, and I had a completely built vehicle. The only problem was the pedals, where some threading did not seem to line up. A call to the distributor took care of it: they promptly shipped me a new pedal and arm at no cost!
Characteristics and handling
My e-bike (it is considered a moped, since it also has pedals) has lights, turn signals, even a lighted dashboard. It has three cargo areas, perfect for carrying lunch to work, or groceries back home. It also has a 48-volt battery that must be charged every 20-25 miles, depending on usage. But the battery can be removed to be charged indoors, or it can be charged outdoors. So there is flexibility designed into it.
It handles rather like a bicycle. It goes 40 KM/Hr or around 20 MPH top speed. This is slower than most gas-powered scooters. So I found that while I could take it on the streets, I usually hugged the side of the road to let faster vehicles by. But the speed was faster than I can pedal a bicycle,( although some can pedal faster than that, especially downhill.) So the speed seems adequate to get me to work (a ten mile commute), or to the grocery store. And it runs quiet – no need for a muffler on this vehicle!
Drawbacks
Of course there are some drawbacks. In cold weather it is a chilly ride, though it can be done. And during rainstorms one will get soaked, no question. Having an enclosed vehicle to keep off the extremes of weather might be preferable, especially when going to work! The rider will feel every bump in the road, just as one would on a regular bicycle. You have to keep your eyes open for potholes. But all in all, the drawbacks are tolerable, especially if one is used to riding a regular bicycle.
Summary
For an inexpensive alternative to pricey gasoline, an electric bike is a workable choice. It is cheap to operate, and fun to ride. It is quiet and smooth. There are the same drawbacks that there are to any two-wheel open air vehicle. But rather than worrying about gas and crankcase oil, or even a fuel-oil mixture that some require, this one uses battery power.
A cost estimate by the US department of Energy is between 2 and 4 cents per gallon equivalence. A small price to pay for a unique and enjoyable mode of transportation. I am pleased with my choice of “green” transportation – a nonpolluting vehicle powered by electricity. Power that can be obtained from wind or solar sources. Green energy, in other words. This is definitely something for people to look into.
Mike Wilson - I have been writing short stories, poetry and the occasional article for several years now. My focus has been on science fiction, but am ...
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