Frequently asked questions about electric bicycles

How do electric bikes work?

Modern electric bicycles are powered by a lithium long-life battery that runs an electric motor attached to either the wheel (hub motor) or the cranks (center drive/crank motor.) You engage the motor by simply pedalling, you can adjust how much push the motor will give you (usually 4 levels of power/push), if you stop pedalling the bike will slow done like a normal non electric bike. You have full control of how much or little power assistance you receive it’s that easy.

How far can I go?

It depends on a number of factors, such as battery size, the weight of the rider, the terrain (hills), winds and the amount of assistance you choose. However, most riders will be able to travel at least 40 kilometres with full power assistance, an average of 60-80 kilometres, you may achieve well over 100 kilometres with less power assistance. Larger capacity batteries are also available for most brands of bikes we sell.

Are all electric bikes the same?

No. There can be a substantial difference in electric bikes and comparing them can be a bit like comparing a luxury European car with a basic car made in China. We only sell quality electric bikes and comparing them with some electric bikes (particularly many of the electric bikes available online) is like comparing chalk and cheese.

Do I need to test ride an electric bike?

We highly recommend test riding an electric bicycle as they all ride differently. A bike that looks right may not be comfortable for you. Alternatively, a bike that might not immediately catch your eye may be perfect for you.

How do I recharge my bike?

Simply plug the separate battery charger (included) into a normal power outlet. It’s quick and simple. You cannot overcharge the batteries so they can be left on overnight. In all cases, the batteries can be removed from the bike for recharging. In most cases, the battery can be recharged while on the bike.

Are electric bikes easy to ride?

In a word, yes. An electric bike is very simple to ride. It has primarily the same gears, brakes, pedals, wheels and frame as a regular bike. It just has an additional option that gives you the choice of less effort and more fun!

How expensive are Perth Electric Bike Centre’s bikes?

The electric bicycles we sell aren’t bikes with an electrical motor strapped on. They are purpose built, quality electric bikes. That’s why we say we don’t sell the cheapest electric bikes; we sell quality electric bikes at the best prices. Expect to outlay a minimum of around $2200 for a quality e-bike and you can spend up to $5000 to $10,000 or more for the top of the line models.

Why buy from Perth Electric Bike Centre?

  • We sell quality electric bikes and accessories at the best prices.
  • We have Australia’s largest range of quality electric bicycles in store.
  • We don’t just sell electric bicycles; we match them to the specific requirements and size of the individual. This guarantees our customers a long-term investment in fun, fitness and freedom.
  • We provide a full after sales in-store workshop service, including a 3-month free safety check and service for every bike sold.
  • You can test ride any bike in the shop. We guarantee it will put a smile on your face!
  • Our electric bikes comply with Australian Standards, making them street legal.
  • We sell all the accessories you need for your bike.
  • We also provide short-term rental of electric bicycles.
  • All our bikes come with a minimum 2 year manufacturer’s electrical component warranty (including battery). Proving that our bikes are built to last.

Are electric bikes safe?

Absolutely! Electric bikes are as safe to ride as a regular bike. When you need to stop or slow down, all you need do is apply the brakes or stop pedalling to cut the power. All Melbourne Electric Bicycles bikes are built to the highest quality and meet Australian Standards and regulations.

Do you service electric bicycles?

Yes. We service any electric bicycle that we sell in our state of the art workshop.

What warranty do you offer?

All our bicycles are sold with a full manufacturer’s warranty, virtually all our electric bikes come with a two year manufacturers warranty on all electrical components including batteries. The frames on our bikes range from 5 years to lifetime warranties.

Is there any special equipment required to ride an electric bike? Are there any special requirements?

As with any bicycle, you need to wear a bike helmet and follow the normal road rules. No additional equipment is required; no additional laws need to be followed. Common sense is also recommended!

I’m not quite as young, mobile or fit as I once was. Can I ride an electric bike?

Electric bikes are perfect for the young at heart and people with mobility and fitness issues. Our range of electric bicycles includes several that you step through rather than over. And remember, you have total control over how much or little power assistance you receive.

Are electric bicycles cheap to run?

Fully recharging a lithium battery for an electric bike costs only 15-20 cents on average, so you can potentially save thousands of dollars a year compared with driving a car or using public transport. This also makes the electric bicycle an environmentally friendly transport option.

Are electric bicycles easy to maintain?

The lithium battery packs and motors of the electric bicycles we sell are extremely reliable. Apart from recharging your battery, as with any bike there are minor maintenance tasks required to keep an electric bike in top condition. Our after sales service is first class, so if you need assistance with a bike bought from Perth Electric Bike Centre we’re more than happy to help.

Are electric bikes noisy?

Not at all. The noise of the motor is not discernible over other background noises.

Do I need a licence?

No. Virtually all our electric bicycles are street legal and can be ridden anywhere a regular bicycle can be ridden, if not we will obviously advise you.

Do I need to register my electric bicycle?

No. None of our 250w bicycles need to be registered as they are regarded as street legal pedal assisted bicycles in all Australian States and Territories.

How fast can I go?

Depending on the terrain and conditions, and model of bicycle, you’ll be able to reach up to approximately 25km/h with electric pedal assistance. Obviously, if you want to go faster down a hill, etc. you can, the electric motor will however stop pushing you after the 25km speed limit.

Why haven’t I seen a lot of electric bikes being ridden?

Today’s state of the art electric bikes look very similar to traditional bikes, so you might not have noticed! But it’s also true that electric bikes are only in their infancy in Australia. In Europe, the electric bike market is huge and has been popular for some time and their popularity and use is also growing strongly in America.

Got a question that’s not answered here? Simply complete the form below and send it to Perth Electric Bike Centre and we’ll get back to you, usually within the day. Alternatively, call us or just drop in to Electric Bikes Perth.

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