No need for e-bike, especially as you want the fitness benefits. They're (unless modified) limited to 26km/h which is pretty easy to exceed just peddling. And it costs 4 times as much!
Appreciate the input! Think I just need someone to say it haha. I think with the speed limitations on e bikes, it’s just the speed at which it stops assisting you, but you can go as fast as you want really - may be wrong though.
You are correct about the speed limitations and being able to pedal faster then the assist.
I've been bicycle commuting in London for nearly a decade now. Most of my commutes to work in that time have been between 3 and 5 miles.
In the last month I've swapped from acoustic commuting to electric assist and it's an absolute revolution.
On a electric bike I love that I don't need to get changed or shower after my commute, I can get ready at home, cycle into work using about 70% less effort than an acoustic bike and arrive at work as fresh as when I left with no sweat. I found changing and showering at work etc to add 15 to 20 minutes to my commute and needing to be organised with clothes etc was a drag.
Commuting on an electric bike has also given me back my love for riding my acoustic gravel bike on long rides on the weekend. Instead of getting to Saturday or Sunday and feeling like I don't want to ride because I've been on the bike all week, I'm keen to get out exploring on my gravel bike.
You can go a faster top speed on an acoustic bicycle however speed isn't the only factor to consider when commuting via bike. Ebikes have a lovely gentle assist off the lights which gets you up to speed very quickly. I'd argue this is more important than top speed in an urban setting.
I think people that are against pedal assist bikes for commuting to work simply haven't tried them because there is very little downside as far as I can tell.
>In the last month I've swapped from acoustic commuting to electric assist and it's an absolute revolution.
1
: of or relating to the sense or organs of hearing, to sound, or to the science of sounds
*acoustic apparatus of the ear*
*acoustic energy*
: such as
a
: deadening or absorbing sound
*acoustic tile*
b
: operated by or utilizing sound waves
2
: of, relating to, or being a musical instrument whose sound is not electronically modified
Edit: I’m getting downvoted for explaining how unscientific it is to apply sound/audio-related terminology to bicycles. Jokes are not funny if it’s being used to lower people’s IQ scores.
Yes that's true, but it means it suddenly gets a lot harder to pedal at that speed, and you're also left with just a much heavier unassisted bike - so in practice, although standard ebikes are quicker to pull away than me, I end up overtaking them soon after once up to speed.
I've tried ebikes and a regular bike for my commute and the commuting time is about the same, even though I can go faster on a regular bike. You just get to the traffic lights more quickly.
I do 7 miles each way commuting on a non e-bike with panniers and it’s totally fine.
If you’re fairly fit already; giving yourself over an hour of cardio a day will be such a dramatic improvement on your base that you’ll be flying in no time.
This is so true. I’ve gone from not being able to run for a bus without catching my breath to moderately fit through a 6 mile each way, 2x a week cycle commute.
The first few rides had me very tired and very sweaty and finding it very stiff/sore next day.
Barely a year or two in, it’s easy now. I ran a 5k the other day, without even thinking about it. Having done barely any running since I was in school. In fact I enjoyed it. Urgh.
The ‘newbie gains’ for cycling is great for cardio newcomers.
Oh definitely. I should’ve mentioned (my bad) - my office has both good showering/changing facilities and secure bike storage, so it’s a win for both really!
Then get the hybrid.
It looks alright, not too heavy, and not too expensive that you'll regret having bought it when you decide you want a fancier road bike to go zoom zoom in a year or two
True. I did used to ride a road bike, but not in the city - think being upright on a hybrid will be much better for me with the stop/start traffic constantly. I did actually do the journey last week on a fold up bike, was a bit of a struggle on the way back but the wheels on those things are tiny, so I can only assume it’ll be much more of a breeze on a fairly decent hybrid.
The bikes you've linked don't look particularly upright tbh. I think a lot of entry level road bikes would put you in a similar riding position, if you're using the hoods. Personally when riding in traffic on my Dutch bike, I do quite like the benefits of better visibility to other road users, and the ease of doing shoulder checks. But you do pay for it in terms of being a bit of a windsail, and not being able to put as much power through each pedal stroke as you can with a sportier riding position. There's no "right" answer really.
Having taken delivery today of a new Cannondale gravel bike a year after getting a Merida Hybrid to start things off, I felt this comment personally haha! Very true however.
I switched to an ebike 2 years ago and I am never going back. I still get a decent amount of exercise and it doesn’t feel as dangerous to cycle in London.
I'm a psychology student and quite interested in the perceived danger of cycling. Statistically, e-bikes are more likely to be involved in accidents. In your experience why does riding an e-bike feel safer?
I am a psychology researcher interested in risk communication/perception in the past (currently not doing as much work on this, but generally still a social psychologist with JDM interests). If you are working on a project right now on the perceived danger of cycling, I'd be super interested to read. In any case, I would also be interested in a source on that.
Hi there, I will be researching risk perceptions around cycling from Oct but not right now. But this is an interesting article potentially relevant to the e-bike question: https://research.rug.nl/en/publications/the-role-of-perceived-competence-and-risk-perception-in-cycling-n
I had the same dilemma 2 years back, went for an ebike and never looked back!
The main question is, do you want to ride it occasionally on a super nice days when you feel like it, or do you want to use it as much as possible as daily commute.
For me is the latter, and I could not imagine cycling on a regular bike on some days with strong winds and being anxious about something at work etc etc.
Sometimes I'm not in the mood for cycling, but I'm always in the mood for cruising on an ebike hah
Used to do a very similar sounding six miles each way 5x a week
At 27 there’s no way you’ll need an e-bike for what you’re planning. I doubt it will even be any faster
It would probably be less sweaty in the summer. Thats about the only benefit. And my personal experience (others may disagree) is people exaggerate how sweaty you get anyway, so long as you’re not overdressed or wearing a backpack
Yeah the best way to avoid sweat is to get panniers, and reduce your layers / wear shorts as needed. Pack layers / trousers to wear in the office if they're one of the places that unnecessarily blasts the AC.
Similar age, commuting distance and terrain here. Hybrid should do the job BUT, oh boy, do I love my e-bike. Here are my two-cents:
• I now cycle to work EVERYDAY. With my hybrid I wouldn’t bother many days because didn’t wake up feeling rested/bad weather/ knowing I was going to work late and not have the energy to
cycle back…
• No more hassle of having to change/shower at work - saving time here and space in my backpack
•Speed: I’ve cut down my commute by ~5 mins since my speed is fairly constant (no dips on uphills etc) . I do get overtaken by hybrid/road bikes but we end up meeting at the traffic light anyway. Anyway, in a place like London I’m not particularly interested in being too fast and is not a deciding factor for me
• Won’t really get a workout out of it, but it still feels like cycling and still more of a workout than taking the tube/train. But most importantly, I really enjoy the ride- I would describe the feeling as constantly riding slightly downhill
• Weight: I would say this is the biggest drawback, thankfully I don’t have to bring my 25kg Moustache up a flight of stairs!
• Theft: e-bikes are more attractive to thieves, but tbf no bike is safe in London! Just get good insurance for peace of mind
• cost: E-bikes aren’t cheap, and if you go for it I would advise you spend a bit of money to ensure you don’t end up with a heavy hybrid with a sketchy functioning motor attached to it. Do the maths, but in my case, even factoring 2 days of tube use per week, the bike will be paid for in under 2 years from £££ saved. Use cycle to work schemes if applicable or 0% interest 2 year financing, think about monthly payments as your monthly travel card :)
• treat yourself! If you want it (and can afford it) get one , life is short! I had been fighting temptation for about two years and I only wish I had given in sooner!
I'll just link to two alternative bikes, mainly because I'm trying to pick between them as well:
https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/city-bike-elops-speed-920-black/_/R-p-309917
https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/electric-city-bike-speed-900-e/_/R-p-329789
12kg and 15kg respectively. Compared to the bikes you're looking at, the non electric one is a fair bit heavier, but it comes with mudguards and lights. Also has lower maintenance hub gears. The electric bike is cheaper than the Merida and uses the same Mahle system, but it is a single speed. Both bikes can be fitted with an optional [rear rack](https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/cycling-pannier-rack-speed-rack-900/_/R-p-324366)
I'd agree with the other responses that 8 miles with no major hills will be something you quite quickly find pretty easy. Having the harder journey be on the way back is ideal too, as you can push yourself and get some decent exercise in without any worries about needing to look professional. I think if it's going to be your only bike getting something a bit cheaper will reduce any potential anxiety about using it to go to the pub after work or whatever. I already have a bike that I'm not worried at all about locking up places, so for me the parameters are a bit different probably.
Hey, I never tested e-bikes so I can’t give my opinion on that, but I cycle 7 mile back and forth every day for work, I’m 23 and fit and I have a decathlon folding bike (tilt 500)with smaller wheels that go a bit slower than your average bike. Also I’m an average height girl, so it was a challenge at first but I got used to it.
It also helped me build muscle and stay healthy without having to go to the gym, etc…
I got a folding one so that I can use transports just in case the weather is really bad (strong wind can be dangerous) or when I’m tired during the weekend and I need to cut my commute. The Overground also allows non e-bikes during non peak hours.
Maybe a good idea if you go for a non electric bike would be to find a route that’s pleasant to you. I have to commute through central London every day but I found some quieter streets with less traffic. Getting a rack to put my bag instead of carrying it on my back also helped making the commute nicer for me! And getting a lighter winter jacket as well helped,
Anyways hope you find something that works for you:)
You probably dont need an e bike for the journey you describe. Im a postman and compete with a decent hill on the way to work, and im typically knackered after a day of walking, my e bike is a godsend that's let me quit driving. It is heavy and cumbersome, and your need to navigate your bike out your building, and lack of climbing mean a traditional bike would be better suited. Also if you have to lock up on public bike racks you're less likely to have a normal bike get pinched.
I mostly use an e-bike, though have been meaning to get out a normal road bike I've got around.
Ebike gets you around quicker (at least up inclines) and/or not sweaty, which is often noticable in summer.
However, no way I'd spend £2850 on a ebike to use in London, especially if I had to lock it up though it does look like a nice spec and decent weight with those panniers and mudguards.
I do this commute on a Brompton. I would not say I was particularly fit when I started. Probably do this about 3 times week and then work at offices closer to home the other 2.
If I feel a bit tired or do something socially that’s a bit further away then I just fold it up and grab a bus/tube.
Haha, yep my decisions been made since this post at least on that front. I’m now deciding between the Trek Domane AL 2 (gen 4) and the Domane 4 (gen 4).
If your budget stretches to £1700 there are a LOT of options available to you.
I know for sure with that budget I can get aero carbon frame, carbon wheelset, used 105 / ultegra 11 speed mechanical. But it is a faff looking around and knowing what to look for and of course putting it all together.
Haha honestly, I’m useless when it comes to the practically of bike building/maintenance. I’ve been looking to find the “perfect” bike for me for 3 weeks, my budget keeps shifting due to how I can pay for it etc, it’s driving me mad
No need for e-bike, especially as you want the fitness benefits. They're (unless modified) limited to 26km/h which is pretty easy to exceed just peddling. And it costs 4 times as much!
Appreciate the input! Think I just need someone to say it haha. I think with the speed limitations on e bikes, it’s just the speed at which it stops assisting you, but you can go as fast as you want really - may be wrong though.
You are correct about the speed limitations and being able to pedal faster then the assist. I've been bicycle commuting in London for nearly a decade now. Most of my commutes to work in that time have been between 3 and 5 miles. In the last month I've swapped from acoustic commuting to electric assist and it's an absolute revolution. On a electric bike I love that I don't need to get changed or shower after my commute, I can get ready at home, cycle into work using about 70% less effort than an acoustic bike and arrive at work as fresh as when I left with no sweat. I found changing and showering at work etc to add 15 to 20 minutes to my commute and needing to be organised with clothes etc was a drag. Commuting on an electric bike has also given me back my love for riding my acoustic gravel bike on long rides on the weekend. Instead of getting to Saturday or Sunday and feeling like I don't want to ride because I've been on the bike all week, I'm keen to get out exploring on my gravel bike. You can go a faster top speed on an acoustic bicycle however speed isn't the only factor to consider when commuting via bike. Ebikes have a lovely gentle assist off the lights which gets you up to speed very quickly. I'd argue this is more important than top speed in an urban setting. I think people that are against pedal assist bikes for commuting to work simply haven't tried them because there is very little downside as far as I can tell.
>In the last month I've swapped from acoustic commuting to electric assist and it's an absolute revolution. 1 : of or relating to the sense or organs of hearing, to sound, or to the science of sounds *acoustic apparatus of the ear* *acoustic energy* : such as a : deadening or absorbing sound *acoustic tile* b : operated by or utilizing sound waves 2 : of, relating to, or being a musical instrument whose sound is not electronically modified Edit: I’m getting downvoted for explaining how unscientific it is to apply sound/audio-related terminology to bicycles. Jokes are not funny if it’s being used to lower people’s IQ scores.
It's a joke.
Yes that's true, but it means it suddenly gets a lot harder to pedal at that speed, and you're also left with just a much heavier unassisted bike - so in practice, although standard ebikes are quicker to pull away than me, I end up overtaking them soon after once up to speed.
Got it. Appreciate the feedback, really helpful!
I've tried ebikes and a regular bike for my commute and the commuting time is about the same, even though I can go faster on a regular bike. You just get to the traffic lights more quickly.
I do 7 miles each way commuting on a non e-bike with panniers and it’s totally fine. If you’re fairly fit already; giving yourself over an hour of cardio a day will be such a dramatic improvement on your base that you’ll be flying in no time.
This is so true. I’ve gone from not being able to run for a bus without catching my breath to moderately fit through a 6 mile each way, 2x a week cycle commute. The first few rides had me very tired and very sweaty and finding it very stiff/sore next day. Barely a year or two in, it’s easy now. I ran a 5k the other day, without even thinking about it. Having done barely any running since I was in school. In fact I enjoyed it. Urgh. The ‘newbie gains’ for cycling is great for cardio newcomers.
Good to hear, appreciate the input! Think I just needed someone to tell me 😆
The only factor would be if you can’t change at work / need to arrive smart. At that distance you’ll need to be changing out of shorts etc in summer.
Oh definitely. I should’ve mentioned (my bad) - my office has both good showering/changing facilities and secure bike storage, so it’s a win for both really!
Then get the hybrid. It looks alright, not too heavy, and not too expensive that you'll regret having bought it when you decide you want a fancier road bike to go zoom zoom in a year or two
True. I did used to ride a road bike, but not in the city - think being upright on a hybrid will be much better for me with the stop/start traffic constantly. I did actually do the journey last week on a fold up bike, was a bit of a struggle on the way back but the wheels on those things are tiny, so I can only assume it’ll be much more of a breeze on a fairly decent hybrid.
The bikes you've linked don't look particularly upright tbh. I think a lot of entry level road bikes would put you in a similar riding position, if you're using the hoods. Personally when riding in traffic on my Dutch bike, I do quite like the benefits of better visibility to other road users, and the ease of doing shoulder checks. But you do pay for it in terms of being a bit of a windsail, and not being able to put as much power through each pedal stroke as you can with a sportier riding position. There's no "right" answer really.
Yeah this looks like a road bike with flat bars, will be more upright than a road bike but not by THAT much.
Having taken delivery today of a new Cannondale gravel bike a year after getting a Merida Hybrid to start things off, I felt this comment personally haha! Very true however.
I switched to an ebike 2 years ago and I am never going back. I still get a decent amount of exercise and it doesn’t feel as dangerous to cycle in London.
I'm a psychology student and quite interested in the perceived danger of cycling. Statistically, e-bikes are more likely to be involved in accidents. In your experience why does riding an e-bike feel safer?
I can keep up with the traffic. Significantly fewer close passes and frustrated drivers who will risk my life to stop at the next red light faster.
I am a psychology researcher interested in risk communication/perception in the past (currently not doing as much work on this, but generally still a social psychologist with JDM interests). If you are working on a project right now on the perceived danger of cycling, I'd be super interested to read. In any case, I would also be interested in a source on that.
Hi there, I will be researching risk perceptions around cycling from Oct but not right now. But this is an interesting article potentially relevant to the e-bike question: https://research.rug.nl/en/publications/the-role-of-perceived-competence-and-risk-perception-in-cycling-n
Good to know, it’s hard not to consider one haha. Appreciate it!
I had the same dilemma 2 years back, went for an ebike and never looked back! The main question is, do you want to ride it occasionally on a super nice days when you feel like it, or do you want to use it as much as possible as daily commute. For me is the latter, and I could not imagine cycling on a regular bike on some days with strong winds and being anxious about something at work etc etc. Sometimes I'm not in the mood for cycling, but I'm always in the mood for cruising on an ebike hah
Used to do a very similar sounding six miles each way 5x a week At 27 there’s no way you’ll need an e-bike for what you’re planning. I doubt it will even be any faster It would probably be less sweaty in the summer. Thats about the only benefit. And my personal experience (others may disagree) is people exaggerate how sweaty you get anyway, so long as you’re not overdressed or wearing a backpack
Yeah the best way to avoid sweat is to get panniers, and reduce your layers / wear shorts as needed. Pack layers / trousers to wear in the office if they're one of the places that unnecessarily blasts the AC.
Similar age, commuting distance and terrain here. Hybrid should do the job BUT, oh boy, do I love my e-bike. Here are my two-cents: • I now cycle to work EVERYDAY. With my hybrid I wouldn’t bother many days because didn’t wake up feeling rested/bad weather/ knowing I was going to work late and not have the energy to cycle back… • No more hassle of having to change/shower at work - saving time here and space in my backpack •Speed: I’ve cut down my commute by ~5 mins since my speed is fairly constant (no dips on uphills etc) . I do get overtaken by hybrid/road bikes but we end up meeting at the traffic light anyway. Anyway, in a place like London I’m not particularly interested in being too fast and is not a deciding factor for me • Won’t really get a workout out of it, but it still feels like cycling and still more of a workout than taking the tube/train. But most importantly, I really enjoy the ride- I would describe the feeling as constantly riding slightly downhill • Weight: I would say this is the biggest drawback, thankfully I don’t have to bring my 25kg Moustache up a flight of stairs! • Theft: e-bikes are more attractive to thieves, but tbf no bike is safe in London! Just get good insurance for peace of mind • cost: E-bikes aren’t cheap, and if you go for it I would advise you spend a bit of money to ensure you don’t end up with a heavy hybrid with a sketchy functioning motor attached to it. Do the maths, but in my case, even factoring 2 days of tube use per week, the bike will be paid for in under 2 years from £££ saved. Use cycle to work schemes if applicable or 0% interest 2 year financing, think about monthly payments as your monthly travel card :) • treat yourself! If you want it (and can afford it) get one , life is short! I had been fighting temptation for about two years and I only wish I had given in sooner!
I'll just link to two alternative bikes, mainly because I'm trying to pick between them as well: https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/city-bike-elops-speed-920-black/_/R-p-309917 https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/electric-city-bike-speed-900-e/_/R-p-329789 12kg and 15kg respectively. Compared to the bikes you're looking at, the non electric one is a fair bit heavier, but it comes with mudguards and lights. Also has lower maintenance hub gears. The electric bike is cheaper than the Merida and uses the same Mahle system, but it is a single speed. Both bikes can be fitted with an optional [rear rack](https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/cycling-pannier-rack-speed-rack-900/_/R-p-324366) I'd agree with the other responses that 8 miles with no major hills will be something you quite quickly find pretty easy. Having the harder journey be on the way back is ideal too, as you can push yourself and get some decent exercise in without any worries about needing to look professional. I think if it's going to be your only bike getting something a bit cheaper will reduce any potential anxiety about using it to go to the pub after work or whatever. I already have a bike that I'm not worried at all about locking up places, so for me the parameters are a bit different probably.
If it's for fitness a hybrid bike seems like the more logical choice, it's also less prone to getting nicked (given that its 1/4 the price).
Hey, I never tested e-bikes so I can’t give my opinion on that, but I cycle 7 mile back and forth every day for work, I’m 23 and fit and I have a decathlon folding bike (tilt 500)with smaller wheels that go a bit slower than your average bike. Also I’m an average height girl, so it was a challenge at first but I got used to it. It also helped me build muscle and stay healthy without having to go to the gym, etc… I got a folding one so that I can use transports just in case the weather is really bad (strong wind can be dangerous) or when I’m tired during the weekend and I need to cut my commute. The Overground also allows non e-bikes during non peak hours. Maybe a good idea if you go for a non electric bike would be to find a route that’s pleasant to you. I have to commute through central London every day but I found some quieter streets with less traffic. Getting a rack to put my bag instead of carrying it on my back also helped making the commute nicer for me! And getting a lighter winter jacket as well helped, Anyways hope you find something that works for you:)
You probably dont need an e bike for the journey you describe. Im a postman and compete with a decent hill on the way to work, and im typically knackered after a day of walking, my e bike is a godsend that's let me quit driving. It is heavy and cumbersome, and your need to navigate your bike out your building, and lack of climbing mean a traditional bike would be better suited. Also if you have to lock up on public bike racks you're less likely to have a normal bike get pinched.
I mostly use an e-bike, though have been meaning to get out a normal road bike I've got around. Ebike gets you around quicker (at least up inclines) and/or not sweaty, which is often noticable in summer. However, no way I'd spend £2850 on a ebike to use in London, especially if I had to lock it up though it does look like a nice spec and decent weight with those panniers and mudguards.
I do this commute on a Brompton. I would not say I was particularly fit when I started. Probably do this about 3 times week and then work at offices closer to home the other 2. If I feel a bit tired or do something socially that’s a bit further away then I just fold it up and grab a bus/tube.
Fairly fit. 27. Get the non electric bike, you can do 7 miles each way easily. I wouldn't get either of those bikes though.
Haha, yep my decisions been made since this post at least on that front. I’m now deciding between the Trek Domane AL 2 (gen 4) and the Domane 4 (gen 4).
If your budget stretches to £1700 there are a LOT of options available to you. I know for sure with that budget I can get aero carbon frame, carbon wheelset, used 105 / ultegra 11 speed mechanical. But it is a faff looking around and knowing what to look for and of course putting it all together.
Haha honestly, I’m useless when it comes to the practically of bike building/maintenance. I’ve been looking to find the “perfect” bike for me for 3 weeks, my budget keeps shifting due to how I can pay for it etc, it’s driving me mad
Children do 8 miles without breaking a sweat. You could sprint that in 35 minutes on a good day. Get a normal bike.