Electric bikes are basically similar to a regular bicycle – except that they are packed with motor for extended efficiency. E-bikes operate on electric DC batteries, generally of the sealed lead-acid type with voltage varying from 12 to 48 volts. With power of 150 watts to 2,000 watts, e-bikes can run at a speed of 30 to 55 kph for a range of 30 to 150 kilometers.

Coming in many shapes and sizes, these vehicles can load items up to 200 kgs. as they bring you from one point to another with relative ease and comfort. Compared to gas-powered motorcycles, e-bikes present more cost-saving features. It is practically maintenance-free, not requiring the changing of oil, spark plugs, filters and other spare parts.

E-bikes also spare you the hassle of dealing with unstable oil prices. All you have to do is charge the battery for three to eight hours, and the e-bike is up and running.

By riding the e-bike, you can also contribute to society’s efforts to save the environment. Since they do not run on fuel, e-bikes do not emit any smoke, and with their silent and smooth drive, they do not add to noise pollution.

More than their cost-saving and environment-friendly features, experience an e-bikes’ usefulness in short errands. Why drive a car to the corner store, bakeshop or the bank, when an e-bike can get you there in the same amount of time.

Today, there are more than 15 million e-bikes in China, the world’s biggest market and manufacturer of e-bikes.

In the Philippines, the concept of e-bikes is still new. But with today’s rising prices and environmental concerns, Filipinos will likely embrace e-bikes as an alternative means of transportation.

The latest models can be viewed at Scoot E-bikes & Accessories, at 209 Aguirre Ave., BF Homes, Parañaque City.