e-bike power

Electric is the word when it comes to urban transportation. From C-trains to hybrid cars, there are more ways than ever to get around downtown, emission free. Now motor-assisted bicycles and electric scooters are about to become all the rage. With a new regulation in Alberta, electric bikes may be a more “powerful” option. Users will no longer need a licence, insurance or registration in order to ride one.

Topping at 32km/h, e-bikes may not be right for highway driving, but perfect for running errands in your neighbourhood. In some –not all – cases, they may be suited for your daily commute. Because of the new regulations, many retailers believe you will see more commuters on e-bikes.

While traditional bicycles remain popular, some routes require just a little more juice, like biking uphill or long distances. Despite having more power than a traditional bike, if recharged via renewable provider like Bullfrog Power, it’s still emissions-free.

Electric scooters are gaining in popularity as well. Consumers often report feeling safer on a scooter than a bike, whether motorized or not. This is partly because other vehicles treat it like a vehicle, and partly because it has some car-like features; rear-view mirrors, turn signals and horns.

While generally intended for use within a few kilometres of a city’s downtown area, they are gaining popularity with riders further from the core. There is no question that both e-bikes and electric scooters are strong additions to the plethora of urban electric vehicles.

Vroom!