E-Bikes vs. Classic Bikes: Which is Better for Commuting and Exercise?

Riding bikes for work is getting popular in the modern world because it's easygoing, time-saving, and affordable for personal transport. Bikes are also more sustainable than other vehicles but there’s always an unending debate about e-bikes vs classic bikes.

We’ve tested both classic bikes and e-bikes to compare the differences and find the benefits and gathered everything about them. Buying the perfect bike can make your life simple and handy as well. Now buckle your helmet and keep reading to choose the right bike for you.

Electric Bikes vs Classic Bicycles For Commuting and Exercise

To understand the comparison between two types regarding commute and exercise, you need to evaluate the commuting efficiency, consider case studies and real-life experiences, and then choose the one that matches your goals and budget.

Comparing Commuting Efficiency 

A. Analysis of time, speed, and energy expenditure for commuting

There are some major differences we’ve found while comparing e-bikes and classic bicycles in time, speed, and energy expenditure. Here, you’ll easily understand the differences in time, speed, and energy expenditure between two types of bikes.

Distance (miles)	E-bike speed(mph)	Classic bike speed (mph)	E-bike time (minutes)	Classic time (minutes)	E-bike energy expenditure (calories )	Classic energy expenditure (calories)
3	12	8	15	22	90	180
5	15	10	20	30	150	250
6	18	15	20	24	180	240
8	20	12	24	22.5	200	300
10	22	16	27	37.5	220	375

Our research proves that electric bikes are highly time and speed efficient compared to classic bicycles. E-bike runs faster and easier than classic bikes and it saves a lot of time and energy. But in the case of energy expenditure, classic bikes burn more calories than electric bikes as it needs extra physical support and effort.

Note: This calculation can vary to different distances. Also, speed depends on the bike's quality and durability as well.

 

B. Case studies and real-life examples of e-bikes and classic bikes in commute

According to a case study of three universities in Liege, Belgium, e-bikes are more comfortable, user-friendly, and effortless. Moreover, it can run through greater distances within less time. But the classic bikes are slower and take more time to reach anywhere.

If you consider the transport modes, then e-bikes are better in all ways than classic bicycles. Along with that, it’s safer and more convenient for adult of all age.

Talking about our real-life experience, we went on an exciting bike tour last summer. We were divided into two teams, one with the commuting e-bikes and another with the classic bikes.

And we’ve noted that e-bike riders reached their destination faster than classic bike riders. Despite riding so far, the e-bike riders were highly energetic to ride more distance. But classic bike riders were quite tired and they rested for more than two hours before coming back.

Note: E-bikes are great because it’s easy to commute and secure longer rides.

Benefits of e-bikes for commuting and exercise

When it comes to transport, it’s necessary to have a convenient and efficient e-bike rather than a classic bicycle. It’s not only best for commutes, but also for exercise as well. We’ve listed some effective benefits to commute and exercise with e-bikes.

1. Electric assistance for easier and faster commuting

• E-bikes include a robust electric motor that ensures smooth and long-distance rides. And also it assists pedaling to make it faster and trouble-free.
• Assisted by the electric power of the e-bikes, it’s pretty effortless to ride through the uphills and terrain easily.
• With an e-bike, you don’t need to worry about uneven and bumpy roads, and it won't make you tired, so you can ride as long as you want.

Note: You always should check the battery condition before riding your e-bike.

1.  Increased accessibility for individuals with physical limitations

• Cycling is a better option for people with physical limitations to aid their mobility. To make their cycling easier and more comfortable, the e-bike is the best solution because it has amotor assistance feature. So, it’s convenient for them to ride on e-bikes.
• E-bikes are designed with adaptive features. You can customize it with some accessories and make it more beneficial for the people with disabilities.

Note: Correctly training them before riding is a must. Otherwise, it can be unsafe for long distances.

C. Option to choose between manual and electric modes for exercise variation

• The best part of an e-bike is you can shift the electric mode to the manual whenever you want, which makes e-bikes more appropriate for commuting and exercise. Let’s dive into the manual and electric modes of e-bikes for exercise variations for better fitness.
• On the other hand, the electric modes operate with motor assistance. You can also ride and exercise with it without hassle.
• So, you can customize it and make a versatile workout routine using e-bikes. It’s way more effective than other exercises for burning calories. But not all e-bikes have the option to customize the mode. It’ll depend on the different models and brands. After considering all these, we suggest Young Electric E-Scout 750W Off-Road Ebikefor perfect workouts and daily commutes.

The Pros and Cons of Classic Bikes for Commuting and Exercise

Classic bikes are known as an ideal option for commuting and exercise for so long. We all are passionate about riding bicycles and its environment friendly. Also, it’s good for your health and keeps you stress-free.

Along with some advantages of classic bikes, there are drawbacks as well. Now let’s go through the pros and cons of classic bikes for commuting and exercise.

Pros

• Cost-effective: Classic bikes are budget-friendly and available. It comes up with a simple and lightweight design that costs less than e-bikes. As it doesn’t need batteries to operate, it cuts off the additional costs.
• Improves physical fitness: Riding on conventional bikes boost your stamina, and energy level on peak. Besides that, it releases stress and reduces anxiety issues. Also, it's an amazing choice for cardiovascular exercises.
• Eco-friendly: As it doesn’t need fuel or electric power, it saves the environment from air pollution and gas fumes.
• Various exercise options:From intense workouts to simple evening rides, bicycles can do it all. You can customize your preferred exercise routine according to your fitness goals and workout preferences.

Cons

• Limited distance: Bicycles are great for classic leisurely rides and flexible workouts. But not ideal for long routes, because in that case, it’ll need more effort and physical force for pedaling, which is quite tiresome.
• Weather conditions:It's difficult to commute with classic bikes during heavy winds, extreme heat, and cold weather as riding in these circumstances can be harmful and injurious to you.
• Safety issues: Classicbike riders find it hard to travel on bumpy roads while riding as in some cases, it increases the risk of accidents and injuries.

Note: You must wear helmets and follow the traffic rules while riding bikes.

How to Choose the Right Bikes for Commuting and Exercise

If you're looking for an electric or classic bike for commuting and exercise, you must consider some necessary things that will help you to choose the suitable one. Let's have a quick look at these features.

A. Personal fitness level and goals

You should select the bike with the perfect frame size, customizable handlebar, comfortable pedal, and high flexibility. These features will ensure a smooth riding experience on long and classic rides.

If it's for your regular intense evening exercise, go with the classic ones. But for light workout lovers, the e-bike is the best choice.

For maintaining personal fitness goals, Young Electric Vie 27.5’’ Cruise is the perfect one because it has a strong motor capacity and battery power that can serve you for longest time.

B. Commuting distance and terrain

The second most important thing you need to look at is commuting distance and terrain. For short commutes on flat and plain roads, you need to choose lightweight and classic road bikes are perfect.

But if you're traveling to the jaggy roads, then bikes with fat tires and motor assistance work better. So, get a good quality e-bike to travel longer distances. In that case, you can look into Young Electric E-Explorer because it has 26 inches fat tires and a powerful motor.

1. Budget considerations

Before buying a bike for exercise and commutes, you need to make a budget for your favorite one. While making the budget, keep in mind the must-have features, riding preferences, and quality.

Apart from the bike purchase, you'll need to invest in additional accessories, parts, and maintenance. To sum up, align every cost to your budget.  

1. Environmental impact and sustainability

Choose a bike that is manufactured with eco-friendly and recyclable materials and produces less carbon footprint and emissions. In that case, both electric and classic bikes are good.

Conclusion

After considering our discussion above, you may have the complete idea of e-bikes vs. classic bikes. If you only want a bike for workouts and group rides, then classic bikes are suitable. But for classic commutes and consistent workouts, you should choose e-bikes.

Both bikes are good for a healthy lifestyle. But choosing the right one depends on your commute preferences and fitness goals.

After all, we recommend e-bikes because it’s more comfortable and accessible than classic ones. And while looking for an e-bike with beneficial features, we’ve got Young Electric E-Scout 750W Off-Road E-bike on top. Most users of this e-bike are satisfied with its powerful geared motor, high-quality features and robust construction.