An electric bike is a power-assisted bicycle with an electric motor and battery built into the bike. You still pedal, steer, brake and change gears like you would on a regular bike but the extra power will let you go further and faster. They “flatten” every hill and turn every headwind into a tailwind, in other words taking the bits that aren’t fun out of cycling, leaving you with the enjoyable bits.

No, in fact, you can go anywhere that a regular bike is allowed to go – cycle paths, cycle lanes, rail trails and other shared paths – as long as your electric bike is rated not more than 300 watts of power. Under current law, more powerful e-bikes can’t be ridden on public roads (unless they are registered as “mopeds”.

In the Tour de France, yes, but otherwise only to the extent that any form of mechanical assistance (including cycling) is “cheating” compared to walking. Humans have cleverly invented machines enabling them to get from A to B in a more timely, practical and convenient way. Unfortunately, some of these (fossil fuels driven vehicles, we’re looking at you) have contributed to other problems including air pollution, obesity, congestion and climate change. The electric bike may be the best form of transportation yet invented. Super energy efficient, pollution-free and usually faster at peak hour than a car or bus. You’ll still get exercise, but unlike a regular bike you won’t arrive hot and sweaty to work, requiring a shower (or being ostracised by your workmates).

Yes, most E-Bikes require some level of pedaling to engage the motor and provide assistance. However, the amount of effort needed can vary depending on the eBike model and settings. Some E-Bikes have a throttle that allows you to ride without pedaling, but many models primarily rely on pedal-assist, where the motor boosts your pedaling effort. This makes riding easier, especially on hills and long distances.

Most electric bikes will have a motor that tops out at around 35km/h +, with a couple going up to 45km/h like the Stromer. The real speed advantage will come going up hills, where you will be flying past riders on non-electric bikes. E-bikes will also take off quicker from standing starts, allowing you to get away safely in front of traffic at the lights. They’re also great for merging with general traffic, allowing you to maintain a more consistent and safer speed when doing so.

As long as you’re prepared to pedal there are no limits…but most e-bikes will quote a maximum “assisted” range. This can be anywhere from around 35km at the low end to 200km at the high end. Bear in mind that manufacturer’s maximum ranges usually assume a fairly optimal set of conditions. Still, the vast majority of electric bikes will have sufficient range for what 95% of people would do in a day. Battery capacity is measured in “amp hours”. 10 – 11 amp hours should take you around 50km, and larger batteries beyond that, although some bikes (especially mid-drives) may be more efficient.

There are generally two methods – pedal assist and throttle. Many E-bikes will have both. Different people have their own preferences. Some prefer the full manual control of a throttle, adding as much or as little power as you need in an instant. Others prefer the automation of pedal assistance – where you select an assistance level (usually 3 – 6 levels dependent on bike) and the E-bike detects when you’re pedalling and adds motor power to support you

Modern E-Bikes typically range from 11kg to around 30kg, with most models weighing between 20-23kg. The weight of an E-Bike can enhance its stability, so it's important to consider your specific needs. Feel free to talk to us about your preferences—we offer a variety of options to suit different requirements.

Our electric bikes are weather-proof. However, they are not waterproof. Riding through deep water that submerges the motor can cause the system to fail.

If your eBike will be exposed to extended rain, use a bike cover, seal all connectors with insulation tape, and shield other electrical components from driving rain.

Depending on the battery, they are usually good for somewhere between 500 and 2000 charge cycles before they deteriorate significantly. This is where it’s really important to ensure you’re dealing with a reputable supplier. $1500 E-bikes might seem like a bargain at the time, but battery failures on cheap products are relatively common. We get asked to repair said batteries and are usually not able to help as they are made specifically for the bike, which means the owner is usually lumbered with a very heavy “normal” bike. Buy from established brands that use Samsung, Sony or Panasonic cells and you’ll generally be OK.

Generally, no. The physics of a bike is very different to a car, and it’s usually not worth doing. When you get 50 – 100km by spending just 15c on electricity per charge, you’re talking unparalleled mileage, so nearly every electric bike just has a removable battery that you charge at the wall.

3 to 8 hours, depending on the amp hours of the battery and the charger.

Just choose the bike you want to try, the day you want to try it and the store you want to collect the bike from, then you’ll be given options for booking time.

No, our E-Bike demo test rides are completely free. Simply book online through our test ride form, or give your nearest Electrify NZ store a call and they will set aside your bike. 

Yes, you’ll get a full briefing on how to use the E-bike, and we’ll supply a free helmet and lock if you need it.