A recent study out of Europe reveals the potential of electric-assist bikes (e-bikes) to transition mobility away from cars.
Lloyd Alter shares news of a recent study published in the journal Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives that makes a substantial case for the potential of e-bikes as a substitute for driving.
A key finding of the study is that e-bike riders get as much exercise as many conventional bike riders, because e-bike riders take longer trips.
"But perhaps even more significant is the dramatic increase in exercise among people who switch from cars to e-bikes," according to Alter, because the transition is much easier than switching from a car to a conventional bike.
One caveat offered by Alter informs the finding about physical activity: The study examines the use of European pedelec e-bikes, which require riders to pedal before the motor kicks in. "Results probably don't apply to overpowered throttle-controlled American e-bikes or scooters."
FULL STORY: Study finds that e-bike riders get as much exercise as riders of regular bikes
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HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
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Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
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