CategoriesUncategorized

Black Friday Blowout E-Bike Sale and save up to $1000

🚲🙌Big news from Rising Tide Electric Bicycles – we’re launching a BLACK FRIDAY SALE starting this Thursday, November 23rd! 🚲🙌Just got word from Wolff E-bikes, and for the first time ever, they’re cutting prices on most 2023 Wolff models by as much as $500.00! 🚲🙌 Everything in the store is on sale! Combine that with the $500.00 provincial rebate, and you’re looking at total savings of up to $1,000.00 which is HUGE!! The sale is on in-stock items only. Hope to see you all this week!
#BlackFridayRide #EbikeDeals #SeeYouAtRisingTide

Now is the time to buy an e-bike if you’ve been waiting!! 🚲😎

CategoriesUncategorized

The Difference Between Mid Drive and Hub Drive Motors

Mid Drive and Hub Drive Motors – Electric bikes are one of the fastest-growing modes of transportation, and it’s not hard to see why. They help riders go faster, further, and longer. Because of their popularity, there is a wide range of styles, motors, and price points that riders can choose from depending on their needs.

Motor positioning, and how it affects performance is one of the most discussed topics when it comes to e-bike purchases. It’s important to know the differences between the two main types of motor positioning: mid-drive vs hub motor. We receive many questions about the difference between hub motors and mid-drive motors on electric bikes. We thought it would be a good idea to post an article outlining the differences between the two motor types.

Mid Drive and Hub Drive Motors

 

MID-DRIVE MOTORS

A mid-drive motor gets its name from its position on the bike. Located in the middle of a bicycle’s frame near the bottom bracket where the cranks are connected. The mechanisms required to coordinate the motor’s power with pedaling and shifting are a bit more complicated than hub systems – it’s more important to be in the correct gear when riding an e-bike with a mid-drive motor.

Depending on the programming, the shifting may not feel as smooth as an e-bike with a hub motor. For example, if you don’t pedal with smooth, even pressure, you can experience power surges as you ride.

Some people love mid-drive motors, and in some instances, they absolutely make sense. Avid mountain bikers prefer mid-drive motors for technical riding because the center of gravity is weighted at the lower middle of the bike, which is preferable when navigating technical trails. The ability to better control the motor traction also fits well with the variable terrain encountered when mountain biking, particularly when climbing.

Generally, mid-drive motors require a specially designed frame to contain the motor in the center. For nearly all crank-driven motor options on the market, such as Bosch, Shimano, Yamaha or Brose, or Bafang, the controller is integrated into the motor, making it simple for OEM electric bike manufacturers. On the other hand, this integration makes for maintenance and occasional repairs more of a challenge for the bike owner.

HUB MOTORS

A hub motor is located on the rear (or occasionally front) hub of the e-bike. It is completely sealed and self-contained and requires no additional maintenance.

A hub motor seamlessly delivers power where and when it’s needed, working independently of your pedaling and gear shifting. Overall, hub motors end up being a smoother ride because you don’t need to worry about shifting as much or maintaining proper chain tension.

Hub motors can be activated by pedaling or using a throttle. The motor uses either a cadence or a torque sensor. A torque sensor supplies more power if you push harder. The cadence sensor simply detects when you are turning the pedals and at what rate. The e-bike’s computer smoothly turns the motor on at whatever level of power you have selected, eliminating the need to monitor what gear you are in.

MID-DRIVE VS HUB MOTORS: WHICH ONE IS BETTER?

Generally speaking, hub motors have proven to be more reliable and durable. Even if your hub motor fails, in most cases you still have a regular bicycle to pedal back home. On the contrary, failure in the mid-drive system or bicycle transmission means you are stuck with a bike that may not move.

Performance-wise, it doesn’t matter for the casual rider or urban commuters as the differences are relatively subtle. After a month or so, whatever system you are riding, you will have adapted to it and will be riding without a single thought about sensors and motors. We recommend you take both types of motors out for a test ride and see which one you prefer.

 

 

CategoriesUncategorized

Physical activity of electric bicycle users compared to conventional bicycle users and non-cyclists: Insights based on health and transport data from an online survey in seven European cities

From: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S259019821930017X Physical activity has been widely associated with beneficial health effects. The use of electric-assist bicycles (e-bikes) can lead to increased or decreased physical activity, depending on the transport mode substituted.

This study aimed to compare the physical activity levels of e-bikers and conventional bicycle users (cyclists) as well as across e-bike user groups based on the transport mode substituted by e-bike. Physical activity, transport, and user-related parameters were analyzed. Data from the longitudinal online survey of the PASTA project were used. The survey recruited over 10,000 participants in seven European cities.

Engaging in regular physical activity is vital for maintaining good health and well-being. It helps to improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen muscles and bones, and enhance mental health. Whether it’s through brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or participating in sports, staying active can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, combined with muscle-strengthening activities. Find activities you enjoy and make them a part of your routine to lead a healthier, more active lifestyle. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Body movement levels, measured in Metabolic Equivalent Task minutes per week (MET min/wk), were similar among e-bikers and cyclists (4463 vs. 4085). E-bikers reported significantly longer trip distances for both e-bikes (9.4 km) and bicycle trips (8.4 km) compared to cyclists for bicycle trips (4.8 km), as well as longer daily travel distances for e-bikes than cyclists for bicycles (8.0 vs. 5.3 km per person, per day, respectively). Travel-related activities of e-bikers who switched from cycling decreased by around 200 MET min/wk., while those switching from private motorized vehicles and public transport gained around 550 and 800 MET min/wk. respectively.

Read the entire article here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S259019821930017X