Exploring the Multifaceted Benefits of Electric Bicycles: Health, Environment, and Mobility

— My Insights from ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal 28(2):p 19-25, 3/4 2024 | DOI: 10.1249/FIT.0000000000000944 and BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med. 2022 Sep 12;8(4):e001275.

This issue of the ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal discusses the exploration of electric bicycles (e-bikes). As a dad who occasionally uses an e-bike to take my daughter to and from school, I find this tool very convenient for urban travel. 

Improvements in bicycle technology allow people to integrate exercise into their daily tasks innovatively, one of which is the e-bike. Riding e-bikes opens up new opportunities in transportation, recreational activities, and personal and public health. The global sales of e-bikes are increasing, with Asia having the largest market.

E-bike technology has led to innovative ways of incorporating exercise into everyday tasks, including the use of electric bicycles. The global sales of e-bikes are on the rise, with over 450 million units in Asia, 120 million in the European Union, and 100 million in the United States.

Health Benefits of E-bikes

Studies indicate that riding e-bikes can provide cardiovascular benefits similar to those from traditional bikes, such as improved cardiovascular health, increased muscle strength, and weight management. For individuals with chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, e-bikes can be particularly beneficial.

Environmental Benefits

E-bikes offer a lower-carbon alternative to cars, significantly reducing carbon emissions without the need for registration or licenses. While refueling a car can cost over 100 USD, fully charging an e-bike costs less than 10 cents. The typical carbon emissions from charging an e-bike are only about 3 grams per mile, compared to 230 grams per mile for cars, making e-bikes a more environmentally friendly option.

Increased Accessibility to Physical Activity

 E-bikes lower the physical barriers to cycling, allowing even those with less physical ability to enjoy biking and increasing the likelihood of engaging in physical activity.

Traffic Convenience and Efficiency

The assistive features of e-bikes enable riders to cover longer distances more easily, which is beneficial for daily commutes and opens up more possibilities for recreational activities. E-bikes can serve as an alternative to cars for short trips, saving time and avoiding traffic jams.

Safety and Community Interaction Considerations

While e-bikes offer many benefits, their safety must be considered. Riders need to adapt to the weight and speed of e-bikes and take appropriate safety measures, such as wearing helmets and using rearview mirrors. Compared to traditional cyclists, e-bike riders are more likely to suffer injuries and have a higher chance of accidents involving pedestrians.