disclaimer: I realise that there are many legitimate reasons for having an electric bike (e.g. disability), and ultimately people can ride/driver whichever vehicle they want.
<Rant>
Why do I see so many young people travelling around on electric scooters/bikes? They have all that energy, why do they need electricity to help them.
A lady at my work got an electric scooter. After about 1 month she stopped using it. I asked her why? She said, "it is ok in the summer but in the autumn/winter you get cold standing on the platform since you are not moving". She has not used it since. I never get cold. In the winter I just put on more layers for insulation and since I am moving that keeps me warm too.
I am 54 and I travel by pushbike wherever possible. I love the simplicity of a traditional bike: no taxes, no fuel, simple mechanics. I love the fact that I get exercise doing something I enjoy. I love the endorphin rush when I stop and sit down after a long ride.
I do not understand the obsession with electric bikes. Granted, it is a bit easier to pedal but the bikes weigh a ton due to effectively carrying a car battery with you all over the place. In a few months years there will be the inevitable maintenance/electrical issue with the bikes and most will not get fixed either for economical or knowledge reasons. There are so many different incompatible brands. Perhaps when the market inevitably shrinks a standard will be established which will reduce the cost of maintenance.
A reasonably well maintained bike (e.g. oil the chain, pump up tyres, mend the odd puncture etc.) lasts ages before needing a service. When you get home you just put in in the shed. You do not need to recharge the battery.
Maybe it's just me but I have always preferred traditional non-electric bikes. So much simpler ...
</Rant>
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