COMMON QUESTIONS

What is an electric bicycle?

Oregon Statues (ORS 801.258) states an electric bicycle as the following (also known as low speed electric bicycle, E-Bike or electric assisted bicycle):

  • Is designed to be operated on the ground on wheels;
  • Has a seat or saddle for use of the rider;
  • Is designed to travel with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground;
  • Has both fully operative pedals for human propulsion and an electric motor; and
  • Is equipped with an electric motor that:
    • Has a power output of not more than 1,000 watts; and
    • Is incapable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of greater than 20 miles per hour on level ground. [1997 c.400 §2; 1999 c.59 §233]

Federal law states an electric bicycle as the following (also known as low speed electric bicycle, E-Bike or electric assisted bicycle):

  • Any bicycle or tricycle with fully operable pedals;
  • An electric motor not exceeding 750 W of power;
  • A top motor-powered speed not in excess of 20 miles per hour (32 km/h);

In layman's terms, any bicycle that mounts an electric motor and battery of less than a certain wattage (check your local state guidelines) and capable of a maximum speed of a certain speed (20 mph Federally, but again, check your local state guidelines) and can be peddled like a regular bicycle is an 'electric bike'.

How fast can your bike go?

My electric bike can reach 15 mph on level ground.

What is the range of the battery?

About 25 miles, depending on my weight, hills and ratio of motor/peddling.

What type of battery is it?

All my bikes use high quality Lithium Ion batteries, similar to what is used in laptops. Lithium Ion batteries can hold the same amount of power with half the weight of a comparable Lead Acid and doesn't suffer from memory effects when being recharged.

Can you take it on the airplane?

Yes, as checked luggage.

Does the battery recharge when you peddle?

No, since that would make it harder to peddle than a regular bicycle. The motor does generate surplus energy when going downhill however.

How long does the battery take to recharge?

About 4 to 6 hours for a complete recharge.

What happens if the battery goes dead?

I can still peddle the bike like it was a normal bicycle.

How many times can you recharge the battery?

It's rated for 500 charge/discharge cycles before reaching 80% Depth of Discharge. (meaning only being able to attain 80% of its original capacity).

What do you use your electric bike for?

I use it as my primary means of commuting to work.

How far is your commute?

15 miles each way but I bike 4 of that and use the MAX for the other 11. (for a total of 8 miles per day)

How much do you save by biking?

I have reduced my monthly fuel expenditures by 2/3s, and since my wife can utilize our single car, we save all the costs associated with owning a second vehicle.

Even with purchasing Trimet tickets, my direct cost savings is still over a thousand dollars per year!

What are the benefits of an electric bicycle?

  • Having a motor allows me to pedal at my own pace.
  • I don't worry about getting stranded in some remote area because I'm too tired.
  • Hills are as easy to climb as peddling a regular bike over flat ground.
  • I don't get to work all tired and sweaty.
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