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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA NEVADA CYCLING ASSOCIATION Because they enjoy the feeling of riding a bike - except for hills, starts, and headwinds. Local errands are easy, slow paced and scenic. By riding an electric bike, you can save money, meet new people, protect the environment and get some exercise - even if it's just a little bit! Those who have lost their driving privileges still need to get from place-to-place and electric biking allows them to do just that. Convenient parking spots and shortcuts. Some people have considered a gas-powered moped or small motorcycle, but most dislike the noise, smell, starting problems and special laws associated with ownership. Fun and freedom can be found by riding an electric bike. |
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Electric Bikes
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Electric bikes are part of a whole range of Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs) that provide local point-to-point transportation. Generally designed for one person and small cargo capacity, LEV range, speed, and cost are moderate. For most of us, half of our errands and trips are less than 10 miles - within the range of most LEVs. Clean, quiet, and efficient LEVs include electric scooters small enough to fit under a bus seat -- and one-person cars capable of driving in freeway HOV lanes. Electric bikes towing a trailer can easily haul 100 pounds of cargo. For under $1000, you can be riding your first LEV. Enjoy the advantages of an extra car without the burdens. Replace that costly extra car with an e-bike or scooter, and use the savings to rent a car when you really need one. Or simply enjoy the fun and freedom of a vehicle that goes almost anywhere - including into public buildings. |
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How do electric bikes work?
Can I ride an electric bike in Merced? The electric (or electric-assisted) bike is an emerging new category of vehicle. Its design is based on the principle of augmenting, not replacing human power. Electric Bikes work by helping you pedal. Electric bikes are normal bikes with a battery-powered electric motor. Electric bikes perform much better when you pedal. The average person who normally rides at 10 mph can ride at 15-20 mph using the same effort. Electric bikes can go about 10 miles before needing a recharge. "Power-on-demand" means just that...no pedaling required anytime! Although all electric (or "electric-assist") bikes are designed to work with your pedaling, power-on-demand allows you to break the rule. Most systems offer a variable speed control, although some are simply on/off. A "ped-elec" won't deliver motor power unless it senses you are pedaling. And its "power output to pedal pressure" ratio is often adjustable. Rechargeable batteries, usually sealed lead-acid, provide power for the electric drive motors. Charging times vary widely due to charger output and battery capacity, but you can expect to recharge in less than 8 hours with most stock chargers. The electric bike's ability to level out hills, cruise quietly with a minimum of fuss and perspiration, while providing an appropriate level of exercise, is convincing many that there exists a more attractive choice than the pedal-only bicycle, bus or car for errands, commuting or sheer rider enjoyment. The electric bike is designed to be near-maintenance free. It costs no more than a quality pedal-only bicycle. The law regards it as a non-motor vehicle, and, in essence, as a bicycle. So, get on the internet and type in keyword "Electric Bikes". You'll be amazed at the results you will find on the web. |
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This site is brought to you by the Merced County Association of Governments
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This page was last updated on January 23, 2012