Your Guide to Electric Bikes - Amazon S3 · Modern electric bikes all use very similar systems to...

Your Guide to Electric

Bikes

Nicholson’s Cycles Dundee Your Local Electric Bike Experts

Nicholson’s Cycles, Dundee 01382 461212 2-4 Forfar Road, Dundee. DD4 7AR

Electric Bikes

What is an Electric Bike?

An electric bike or e-bike is just like a normal bike. If you removed the battery and motor, you will find

that everything is in the same place and functions in the same way as a normal bicycle. However,

with a motor and battery, the bike helps you, assisting your pedalling on or off road. This guide will

give you everything you need to know about getting an e-bike for you or your family.


Types of Electric Bikes

Thanks to developments in electric motor technology and the design of electric bikes they are now

available in as many types and styles as conventional bikes.

Mountain Bikes

These are aimed at making that technical climb more achievable, that long fire road drag a little less

of a drag and it won’t have an impact on your fun.

Leisure and Recreational Bikes

Whether you are a cyclist or not, old, or young, out to enjoy the views and get some fresh air, there’s

an e-bike bike for you.

Commuting & Folding Bikes

Helping you get from A to B less sweaty, quicker, and refreshed.


Controls

Modern electric bikes all use very similar systems to help when pedalling. These can be in the form of

a hub or bottom bracket mounted motor. This means that sensors register when the pedals are

turning, and power is provided from brushless motors.

This works in a comparable way to how a turbo works on a car, the pedalling part being the normal

petrol engine moving you along as normal with the turbo providing extra power on top.

How do I control an electric bike?

All electric bikes will have a control unit. This can be found in the form of a handlebar mounted

computer, on the battery or in some cases even controlled via a smart phone app.

The handlebar mounted computers are very similar to a normal bicycle computer. They provide

information about speed and distance. They also handle more electric bike specific things like

remaining battery life. You also have full control over the level of assistance required.

The more advanced smart phone-based systems offer a fully customisable system. These systems

allow you to set your assistance based on the GPS data of your route. Luckily, most systems are a

basic plug and play. This means you can get the most out of your electric bike without having to touch

a button.


Make and Manufacture

Electric bikes are produced in the same factories and by the same manufacturers that make conventional bicycles. This means that high safety standards and quality control are upheld. Currently motors are produced by third-parties and then bicycle manufacturers spec them to the bikes like any other component.

Currently the three main manufacturers are Bosch, Shimano, and Trans X, with German brand Brose and Yamaha making their way into the market.

All these companies produce very similar systems with most offering a couple of levels of motor performance in their range.

The bottom bracket mounted motors are lighter and help to minimise the amount of sprung or dead weight. These are the sports cars of the electric bike world offering better handling, weight distribution and better access to the battery and other bicycle components.

Hub based motors are found on the more affordable models on the market and are more like your everyday car, the ones you run the kids to school in, go to the shops or work. They allow manufacturers to make almost any bike electric. They can be front or rear wheel drive, meaning no drastic changes need to be made to the frame to accommodate the motor.


The History of Electric Bikes

Unbelievably, the idea of an electric bicycle has been something inventors and visionaries have been trying to make work for as long as we have had bicycles and batteries.

The first documented electric bike appeared in the U.S. Patent office in 1895. Ogden Bolton Jr was granted a patent for a rear hub motor, electric powered bicycle.

Only to be topped two years later by Hosea W. Libbey of Boston. Libbey patented a crank based motor system that at the time didn’t turn any heads and it wasn’t until the 1990s when Giant Bicycles re-invented it did people see its true potential.

It wasn't until the late 90s when torque sensors, power controllers and batteries were improved, that electric bikes started to become more widely available. This was largely thanks to the creator of the Sinclair C5 (yes that futuristic looking electric car from the 80s) - Clive Sinclair. The Sinclair Zike, although not very successful is widely regarded as the starting point of the modern electric bike.


The Law

You must be 14 years or older. UK law states the motor power of all pedelecs (pedal assisted electric bikes) must not exceed 250watts. The maximum speed is 25kmh or 15.5mph.

The bicycle parts still must comply with all the normal safety standards and testing found on any conventional bike.

You don’t need a licence, insurance, or documentation for your electric bike.

However, you do have to follow the Highway Code like any other road user in England, Scotland, and Wales.

The rules in Northern Ireland require you to have a moped licence to ride any electric bike. The bike must also be registered, taxed, and insured.

It’s not a legal requirement but a cycle helmet and bike lights are always recommended for any bike user. This is even more important on electric bikes due to the higher average speed of these bikes over a conventional bike.


Types of Electric Mountain Bike

Enduro, cross country, trail, single-track, downhill, aggressive-trail, and all-mountain bikes - whatever you call the discipline - the lines between them all become a little more blurred when talking about electric bikes.

Thanks to the motors, weight and the pedals, the discipline styles are all but eliminated. It therefore comes down to the type of terrain you plan to tackle on your electric bike. The more technical and aggressive the terrain, the more travel you will need.

Full Suspension – this is the area that has had the most development over the last couple of years. This is to accommodate all the things we take for granted on a conventional mountain bike.

Short chainstays, longer front centres, lower bottom brackets and even the bottle brands have had to re-think how they design these to fit onto an electric mountain bike.

This development in the full suspension electric bikes does mean that these bikes have some of the most advanced technologies the industry has ever developed, allowing you to tackle the most gruelling of terrains.

Hardtails – Hardtails have had an easier transition to the electric bike market meaning integration of batteries and the progression of geometry has moved quicker.

Hardtails will appeal to a much broader spectrum of people. Not only are prices lower but also because of the lack of suspension, the bikes can be made lighter. This means they are more manageable for all ages and abilities on the track or trail, to get it in and out of cars, or on and off bike racks.


Electric Mountain Bikes

As with most electric bikes the drivetrain, brakes and suspension components change very little from conventional bikes. Whether you are a convert to electric bikes or new to them all, these things will be familiar, or you will be able to get help from our mechanics at Nicholson’s.

One thing manufacturers of electric mountain bikes have worked incredible hard to make sure of though is that electric bikes ride as well, if not better than their non-electric counterparts. There are some very subtle differences like the increased use of ‘plus’ sized tyres and 1 x drivetrains as standard, on almost all electric mountain bike systems, but otherwise these can just be considered mountain bikes with a motor.

The amount of range you get from an electric bike is dependent on a multitude of factors. Terrain, undulation, level of assistance, tyres and even the gear selection can affect the amount of battery life you get from your electric mountain bike. Not to worry, most motors will give you a couple of hours on full power to get the riding in that you want, not forgetting the amount of assistance can be adjusted depending on how much you need for a given situation, so there should be plenty of range for your desired requirements.

As a kid were you always told to keep water and electric as far apart from each other and always make sure that you have dry hands before operating appliances? You might think that an electric mountain bike, in what UK mountain bikes call ‘the slop’, might be a bad idea. Well not to worry, all the normal bike parts like gearing, bearings and suspension are all maintained in the same way you would on a conventional bike - by keeping things clean and well lubed.


As for the electrics, these are completely sealed units and can handle way more than our English weather conditions can throw at them. To get technical, all electronics on electric bikes are rated to IP56 or higher.

The same laws apply for electric mountain bikes as they do for any other electric bike. You must be 14 years of age or older to ride an electric mountain bike plus the bike must not assist you to over 15.5mph or 25.kmh. Additionally, as always, the Highway Code must always be abided by.

As electric mountain bikes or Pedelecs (their official name) are classed as bicycles, there are no additional rules for mountain bikes. So that means you can take your electric mountain bike anywhere you would take a conventional mountain bike.


Types of Electric Hybrid Bike

Electric hybrid bikes can be broken down into two disciplines of bikes. These are the urban commuter bikes and the more recreational or fitness-based bikes.

Urban or Commuter Bikes

These bikes are designed to be hard working, quick, efficient, light and most of all; they need to be able to carry a load. Electric hybrid bikes almost always have rigid forks, slick tyres and can be equipped with mudguards, racks, and lights. They are primarily aimed at the commuters that want to ride to work, have the need to be in a suit or don’t have facilities to change at work stop them from doing so.

Thanks to the electric motor’s power this style of bike can really replace the car for shorter trips, or public transport - with a kid’s seat, or a rack and bags, you can really load these bikes up and not feel a difference.

Recreational/ Leisure

These terms are quite broad but cover everything from bridleway and light off-road bikes to the more classic styled, shopper bikes. Whether you need it for a short journey, out with the dog at the weekend or on the back of the camper, to take on holiday, it’s all covered under this banner.


Frame Styles

Electric hybrid bikes can come equipped with a rigid or suspension forks, semi-slick or knobbly tyres and have a much more relaxed riding position. It’s worth noting that both disciplines of bikes will come in a few different frame styles.

Low, easy step or step thru

Thanks to the bikes electric motor, these bicycles will make cycling more accessible to more people, so if you do struggle to get on and off a conventional bike, the step thru is perfect, as you won’t need to hoist your leg over a waist high top bar.

Drop, Trapeze or slopping top tube

These are considered as women friendly framed bicycles and will normally be easily spotted as they will be advertised as such or have women’s specific components fitted. Batteries on these bikes will more than likely be on a rack at the back so that the stand over height is not impacted.

Standard or Straight Top Tube

These frames with their straighter top tubes will give a sportier ride and are suited for taller riders. The straight tube means materials don’t need to be made more durable and hardened as the natural design of the frame can give it rigidity. This means frames can be made to ride smoothly without impacting on the stiffness of the bike.


Electric Hybrid Bikes

Why an electric bike and not a conventional bicycle?

There are lots of arguments for and against, but some of the benefits for electric bikes are favourable. Less effort is required, whether it is for leisure or commuting, you can travel further, faster and carry heavier loads than you can on a conventional hybrid bike. After the initial out lay for an electric bike, with regular use an electric bike will cost less than £5 of electricity a year to run, compare that to even a small car’s running costs and you will be saving a hefty amount.

Finally, regardless of what health study or journal you read, the most common topic is loud and clear, regular exercise keeps us healthy and happy for longer and electric hybrid bikes make cycling more accessible to a greater range of people. In summary, they are capable, versatile, cheap to run and they will keep you healthy - sounds good to us.

How far can you ride an electric hybrid bike?

The amount of range you get on an electric bike is dependent on a multitude of factors. Terrain, undulation, the level of assistance, tyres, the amount of weight being carried and even the gear selection can affect the amount of battery life you get from your electric bike.

Not to worry, most motors will give you a couple of hours on full power to get the riding in that you want, not forgetting the amount of assistance can be adjusted depending how much you need for a given situation, so there should be plenty of range for your desired requirements.


Are there any laws surrounding electric hybrid bikes?

Electric hybrid bikes or Pedelecs (their official name) are still classed as bicycles by UK law so this means they should conform to all the same standards as conventional bicycles. However, on the road, there are some additional law’s you must abide by.

Firstly, you must be 14 years of age or older to ride an electric bike. The bike must not assist you to over 15.5mph or 25.kmh and it is essential that you always abide by the Highway Code while on the bike.


Electric Bike Motor Systems

Bosch

You may be familiar with the name Bosch whether it is car parts, appliances, tools, or electric bikes. Bosch has become known over the years as a brand of quality and the same can be said for their electric bike systems.

Do they come in different levels?

They are available in 3 levels, Performance CX for those who ride over more aggressive terrain, the Performance Speed motor ensures a smoother response with sporty characteristics and Active Line is for those enthusiastic leisure riders. With 250w of power delivering up to 75nm of torque the Bosch system ensures plenty of clout when it is needed.

What are Bosch batteries like for quality and performance?

Bosch batteries are available from 300Wh to 500Wh depending on the price point and have been proven to offer exceptional mileage and long service life. The on-board computer allows a variety of different displays from the sleek look to the Nyon which has all the information that you’ll ever need for your ride at the touch of a button, to Intuvia and Purion which give a simpler display for ease of use.


Shimano

Shimano are best known for their excellent gearing and braking componentry and over the last forty-five years have become the market leader in this area, so it is no surprise to find them making electric bike components.

What types of electric bike systems do Shimano offer?

Shimano Steps offers three easy to define disciplines to allow you to pick the correct system for its intended use. Available in City, MTB, and Trekking versions they each have their own characteristics to get the best out of your electric bike system.

City, with the powerful E6000 motor, delivers an output torque of 50Nm for ultimate performance and reliability. Trekking versions use the same motor as the City but add a little more power for those long adventures. MTB utilises the E8000 drive unit which has a slightly different motor design allowing bike manufactures to use shorter chain stays and add greater heel and tyre clearance. With its maximum output of 70nm of torque it also packs a punch. The E5000 and E6001 motor systems will be launched in early 2019 on selected bikes to offer a wider price range to consumers.

Brose

Brose produced specialist mechatronics systems for the automotive industry with electric motors for auxiliary systems such as vehicle doors, cooling systems and steering. The Brose system comes from the development of steering motors from millions of cars which technology has been applied to an electric bike motor.

What makes the motor on a Brose electric bike system stand out?

The Brose motor is one of the quietest on the market and compatible with various displays and batteries that enable maximum integration for your chosen discipline. Developed within automotive standards, comes a motor that is highly reliable because of extensive testing in a discipline that Brose is already a market leader in producing.


Yamaha

Yamaha have been producing a very wide range of products since 1955 and are well known for the production of musical instruments, motorcycles, and power sports equipment. Back in 1993, Yamaha produced their first electric bike system and, to date have seen their use on 2.7 million electric bikes worldwide.

What is special about the motor on a Yamaha electric bike system?

Yamaha utilises a 250w motor that is not internally geared, which allows the use of a double ring set up on the front meaning a larger gear ratio. The Yamaha system also delivers a quicker power delivery and a smooth power curve that means assistance can be used right from the off.

The Yamaha motor and battery setup is a more compact system allowing for a more attractive build as it can be easily integrated in the shape of the frame when used.

Trans X

Founded with the aim to develop bicycle-based solutions produced from aluminium some 30 years ago in china, Tranz X drive systems continue to focus on producing the highest level of utility, comfort, safety, and reliability. The range of Tranz X drive systems on offer come in both frame-integrated and hub-driven motors giving a high degree of flexibility in how the system can be set up.

What does the Trans X motor offer in comparison to other electric bike systems on the

market?

The hub motor F15/R15 comes as one of the lightest electric bike solutions on the market coming in at 2.5kg for the motor itself. Tranz X frame integrated motors offer a sleeker look and a higher max torque in the M16 and M25 motors meaning higher performance and superior riding characteristics.


Servicing Electric Bikes

Because your e-bike is so effortless to ride it’s easy to forget that it’s still a bicycle that will require regular

servicing to ensure it works to its full potential. In terms of servicing, an e-bike has several special needs,

which our mechanics are trained and equipped to address. For instance, the motor unit might be concealed

from view, but you can be sure that crud will get in there as only UK muck can do. To combat this, we’ll

remove the motor (where feasible) and thoroughly clean it as a standard part of our e-bike service.

Most reassuring of all, our workshop is equipped with the training and tech required to run diagnostics on the

major e-bike systems (STEPS, Bosch, Brose) so we can upgrade yours with the latest updates and ensure

that the electronics are working as they should. This diagnostics service on its own would be a good enough

reason to consider treating your electric bike to a service every 9-12 months.


Nicholson’s Cycles

Nicholson’s Cycles is an independent, family-owned retail cycle shop located in Dundee, Scotland.

The original business was opened in 1949 by Jack and Irene Nicholson. Jack was a member of the Dundee

Thistle Cycling Club and a good amateur rider.

The site of the original shop was No. 15 Arbroath Road, Dundee. The shop was a magnet for all level of

cyclists during the 1950s and 1960s. Brands such as The Flying Scot, Holdsworth, Bob Jackson, Falcon and

Raleigh were much sought-after bikes.

Into the 1970s, the business relocated to the current site at No. 2 Forfar Road, Dundee. Jack and Irene retired.

The Nicholson name continued to flourish throughout the 1980s under the guidance of Jack’s son-in-law Bryn

Williams and Jack’s daughter Margaret.

The brand names have changed, but the family tradition continues. As the shop moves into its 70th year of

trading, Bryn and Margaret have made way for their son-in-law Colin. Colin is ably assisted by Mark, over 30

years’ service and Billy, 28 years’ service.

The latest team member is Tracy who assists in the sales department.


Our technicians are Cytec trained to level 2 & 3 which means that you can be confident that your bike is

correctly set up and safe to ride.

Electric bikes (e-Bikes) have become one of our specialties. With so many people getting into cycling and

choosing to commute via cycling, the popularity of the electric bike is snowballing. E-bikes are ideal for those

who want to cycle but are not as fit as they used to be. E-bikes also mean that the whole family can cycle

together regardless of their individual fitness levels.

The shop also stocks an excellent range of quality cycling products.

When you buy a bike at Nicholson’s, you’re not just buying a bike. You’re buying peace of mind from a

business that’s truly passionate about cycling. No one in Dundee knows more or cares more about bikes. Your

bike will be appropriately set up and tested before you take it away to ensure you get maximum enjoyment and

many miles on your bike.

Oh, and if your bike needs a service, then we’re on hand to cover that as well.

Why not pop in and have a look around?

Colin & the Team

The only number you need for all things

Electric Bike:

01382 461212

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