Rolling on some of the best road bike wheels and best road bike tyres (e-bike compatible, of course), e-road bikes can be nearly indistinguishable from their non-assisted counterpart. They are also know as electric off road bike.
Many are quick to dismiss the best electric road bikes as ‘cheating’, but we’d argue that there’s no right or wrong way to ride a bicycle, and we relish the way that the growth of the electric bike market has led to so many more people discovering the joys of cycling. Plus, that notion is usually put to bed when those same people swing a leg over an e-bike for the first time.
There is no such thing as a free lunch, and you still have to pedal to make any of these bikes go, but they certainly make it much easier for anyone with a low level of fitness, mobility issues, or simply anyone who wants to sweat a little less.
Can you ride an electric road bike on public roads in the UK?
You may own e-bikes with power outputs exceeding 250 watts or with a motor-assisted drive that doesn’t shut off at 25 kph. Despite this, it is illegal to ride it like a standard bike (without having it registered and insured like a moped), on a public highway – this includes both roads and off-road rights of way, such as bridleways and byways. E-bikes that do not comply with regulations can only be ridden on private property where the public has no access, with the owner’s permission. An off-road electric bike will serve you better in off roads conditions in the UK such as the specific off road trails or fields. This would serve those who are thirsty for an adventure better.
