FAQ & Answers
And then there was light...
What is Real E-Bikes?
Real E-Bikes is a designer, wholesaler, and distributor of quality electric bicycles focusing on commuting and shopping usages. Real E-Bikes is based in Montreal and operates in Canada and in the European Union. Real E-Bikes is a product of Real InterTrade.
What is an e-bike?
An electric bike is essentially a bicycle that is equipped with an electric motor. In Canada, e-bikes are road legal but have to comply with numerous regulations, the most important of them being that motor power cannot exceed 500W, speed cannot exceed 32 km/h, and they must be equipped with pedals. E-bikes typically allow riding in pure bicycle mode (you do all the work), in pure throttle mode (the electric engine does all the work) or, more commonly, something in between (called pedal-assisted). Real E-Bikes entirely comply with Canadian regulations.
E-bikes vary greatly in appearance, some looking more like a regular bicycle, others more like a scooter, and others completely different.
Why using an e-bike?
E-bikes are in high demand because they bridge the gap with other means of transportation like cars, public transportation, and regular bicycles.
E-bike or regular bicycle?
E-bikes allow for a good dose of exercise, but with a better control of the effort. For example, you might use an e-bike to go to work to get some morning exercise but yet not sweating too much. E-bikes are also faster than regular bicycles. Therefore, they extend the range you can reach from your home. Moreover, Real E-Bikes are not necessarily more expensive than good-quality regular bicycles!
E-bike or car?
When cars are stuck in traffic jams, e-bikes are zipping through. Whereas cars require 10's of dollars in fuel every month to operate, e-bikes use only 10's of cents worth of electricity. As for parking, you get the picture! Do we need to say more? So unless you need to take the highway, drive a long way (say, more than 15 km), are accompanied or carry a heavy load, e-bikes will do the job much more efficiently. Real E-Bikes are specially designed for commuting and shopping, making them an ideal replacement for cars in many instances.
E-bike or public transportation?
You might consider using an e-bike unless you are living and going to a place that is well served by public transportation. Even if this is the case, it is always convenient to have a door-to-door vehicle such as an e-bike.
What are the different types of e-bikes?
E-bikes come in many different flavours such as e-bike kit to be placed on a regular bicycle, foldable e-bike, bicycle-like e-bike, or light e-scooter. They vary in capability, in price, and in size and weight. It is important that you ask yourself what is the best type for you depending on the expected usage.
Do riders need a driving license, license plate, and insurance?
In Canada, Real E-Bikes are considered as bicycles... but not entirely. And regulation may vary in every province! In Quebec, the rider needs a driving license for limited speed motorcycle (6D) if he/she is between 14 and 18, and no driving license at all above 18 years old. E-bikes do not require license plate or insurance. But don't forget your helmet!
How heavy is an e-bike?
Depending on the type, an e-bike can weigh anything between 15 kg and 50 kg, including the battery. An e-bike is typically 5-to-15 kg heavier than its regular bicycle equivalent, but this extra weight has little impact on its rideability, even without using pedal assistance. Real E-Bikes are made of high-quality light materials and parts, such as alloy frames and lithium-ion batteries. You should choose a light e-bike if you plan to move it into your home, in particular if you have to carry it through stairs.
What is the typical range of an e-bike?
The range varies greatly according to the e-bike capability and the usage. With fully charged battery, the range will typically vary between 30 km when using full-throttle, and more than 60 km when using the motor with moderation in pedal-assisted mode.
How much does an e-bike cost in electricity?
Depending on the model and the cost of electricity at your location, a full charge of the batteries will cost between 5 and 15 cents.