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Electric Bikes: Tips For New Owners

It’s always exciting to receive a brand new bike so you must be keen to get the first spin in!  Before you take out your new Furo X, here are a few tips to get the most out of it.

 

Speed limit

Legally, the UK legislation is based off European regulations, limiting the speed of electric bicycles to 15.5mph. The electric assistance cuts out automatically if the speed exceeds 15.5mph. However, you may want to change this speed limit if you use your bike in an area with different restrictions (for example, USA 19.8mph), or if you do not use your Furo X on public roads (for example on private property). All electric bicycles that meet these requirements can be ridden on any cycle paths and anywhere else that bikes are normally allowed without the need for insurance.

 

 

 

 

 

The different levels of assistance

The Furo X has 5 levels of assistance that can be adjusted via the onboard computer on the handlebars. In order to activate the assistance,  all you have to do is pedal for the motor to engage. Each mode offers a level of assistance that allows you to pedal with minimal effort.

  • Level 1-2 – economical mode
  • Level 3-4 – normal mode
  • Level 5 – maximum sport assistance mode

For those who wish to ride without electric assistance like a classic bike, you can lower the assistance level to 0 and the motor will disengage itself providing you with a natural riding experience supported by its gears and hydraulic disk brakes.

 

 

Ebikes are water-resistant

You can ride your electric bicycle in the rain as the battery and motor are protected by water-resistant cases, allowing you to ride in the rain without any danger.

However, you cannot completely submerge your electric bicycle, nor can you clean it with a jet wash as this can cause water to penetrate the seals. Instead, clean it with a sponge and warm soapy water. Remember to remove the battery when cleaning your bike.

 

How to boost your range

As a key element of your electric bike, there are tips to prolong the life of your electric bike battery:

  • Use your electric bicycle preferably between 15°C and 35°C rather than in temperatures inferior to 15°C.
  • Don’t wait until your battery is completely discharged before recharging it. This can increase its capacity from 500 to up to 6000 cycles. (Optimal longevity is obtained when the battery is charged to 75% and discharged to 25%).
  • The optimum storage temperature for Lithium-ion batteries is 23°C in a cool place and at 60% capacity.
  • Moderate your average speed and the intensity of your acceleration and deceleration.

The lithium-ion cells used in your battery will achieve 500 full charge cycles before reaching 70% of their original capacity. Following this, the decrease in capacity will be linear. As described above, charging your battery to 75% of its capacity and using it up to 25% of its capacity will greatly enhance its life. In this case, in order to maintain performance, it is important to conduct a full charge and discharge every 10 to 15 recharge cycles.

 

Lithium-ion battery etura Folding electric bike

 

It’s important to maintain your bike regularly

Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to prolong the lifespan of your bike and keep it running smoothly.

Check tire pressure, rims, braking and lighting for proper operation before each ride. Under-inflated tyres put more strain on the motor and therefore decrease your range. To optimise your battery life, be sure to regularly maintain your tire pressure, which should be approximately between 40 and 60 PSI. We also recommend that you have your bike serviced once a year at your local bike shop.

Be prepared for any eventuality and always carry tools and spare parts with you. Here is a list of the essential items you should have on hand during a bike ride to ensure that you can proceed to minor repairs:

  • a compact multi-functional tool
  • a puncture repair kit
  • a spare inner tube
  • a compact bicycle pump

 

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If you have any after receiving your Furo X, do not hesitate to contact us here

Why 2020 is the Year you Should Consider an Electric Bike

The pandemic has changed the way we travel. As lockdown started easing, bicycle businesses reported that the demand for electric bikes skyrocketed, as people seriously started to consider alternatives and better ways to commute.

In the wake of the government encouraging people to go back to work, surveys show that the majority of employees are not comfortable returning to public transport for their commute because of coronavirus.

Public transport is seen as too risky, as well as shared mobility services. This is where electric bikes come in handy to avoid car use and close contact on crowded tube trains – we will now go through several reasons why electric bikes are a good idea.

 

Ebikes Make Cycling Easy and Accessible

Limited to 15.5mph, you do not need a licence to ride an electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC), it does not need to be registered, taxed or insured. It can be ridden on roads, bike paths and other places where bicycles are allowed under UK law.
Electric bikes are easier to ride than normal bikes but still require pedalling. They will let you glide uphill, accelerate smoothly and cover miles of distance with little effort! The motor boost on hilly sections allows you to wear work clothes without turning up to work sweaty and exhausted! You can think of it as a car replacement to undertake short journeys and reduce reliance on cars. They also ease the transition to riding, helping people switch from four wheels to two.

 

Buying an electric bike

 

Improve Your Overall Fitness

It’s a great way of getting people to have a moderate-intensity activity regularly, helping them build their fitness level and giving them the confidence to go further. Cycling with an electric bike is still an exercise and therefore good for your health. The main benefit is that you can choose the level of effort you put in, for example, our Furo X has 5 levels of assistance, allowing you to work your way up to more challenging rides.
E-bikes appeal to a potentially wide range of riders athletes to older people, including those suffering from impairments, disabilities or getting back into exercise post-injury or after a long absence.

 

 

Buying an electric bike

 

 

Save on Transport Expenses

Cutting your commuting costs, spending less time in traffic and boosting your overall health are the main reasons why e-bikes are a popular choice. They are a perfect way to combine moderate exercise with a commute and maybe save on gym memberships for those who cycle regularly!
Compared with public transport and driving a car, e-bikes will save you money in the long run. The only expense is the initial investment and maintenance, the latter being minimal. The cost of electricity to charge the battery is also minor (about 20p per 150km in the UK). Plus, several companies are taking part in the Cycle to Work scheme which allows you to get tax-free bikes and accessories.
Many short car trips can easily be replaced and cycling for commuting instead can save you a ton of gas and car-park fees, which in turn can save you hundreds to thousands of pounds per year.

 

 

Ebike Insurance

 

 

Help Cut Air Pollution

Air pollution is not just irritable, it is dangerous. It is stated as a UK national public health emergency since 2016. The emissions from transports are a major source of air pollution and a contributor to the poor air quality in cities. However, we have seen dramatic improvements in the air quality throughout London as a result of the significant decrease in traffic during the lockdown.
Becoming ever more popular, cycling can bring large improvements in air quality and electric bikes offer an exciting opportunity to slash transport carbon emissions, reduce congestion and improve mobility. The Department for Transport has since taken action to promote sustainable urban mobility and stated that changes are being made to implement transport policies to remove polluting vehicles from roads and increase the use of active travel by 2025.
Now is the perfect time to grab an e-bike and play a key role in reducing air pollution! Long term benefits being the reduction in air pollution and emissions.

 

 

air quality in major cities

 

 

Government Willing to Create a New Era For Cycling

Desperate for green solutions which allow people to get to work without risking their health on public transport, the government have funded work with local authorities across the country to help make it easier for people to use bikes to get around.

 

https://twitter.com/SadiqKhan/status/1286388970289537025?s=20
 

The UK government is now offering first of their kind financial incentives for the use of ebikes over cars by issuing vouchers for cycle repairs and introducing the Cycle to Work scheme, an option which gives a discount on the cost of a new bike to help encourage employees to take up cycling in their everyday routines.

U.K. transport secretary Grant Shapps has announced what he calls a “once in a generation” £2 billion plan to boost cycling and walking both during and after the lockdown.

 

Pop-up bike lanes with protected space for cycling, wider pavements, safer junctions, and cycle and bus-only corridors will be created in England within weeks as part of a £250 million emergency active travel fund – the first stage of a £2 billion investment.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “During this crisis, millions of people have discovered cycling – whether for exercise or as a means of safe, socially-distanced transport. We know cars will continue to remain vital for many, but as we look to the future we must build a better country with greener travel habits, cleaner air and healthier communities.”

 

So, could an e-bike be the answer to your post-lockdown commute? If you’ve been thinking about buying an electric bike but have been hesitant to pull the trigger, why not book a test ride and see for yourself!

Folding Electric Bikes Are Brilliant. Here’s Why

There’s never been a better time to get a folding electric bike. As a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and convenient mode of transportation, they’re perfectly suited to urban living. In this post, you’ll see how much better a folding e-bike makes it to commute, run errands, and generally get around town.

 

Getting Around Town Is No Sweat

Riding an electric bike is a great way to burn off excess calories without breaking a sweat. Pedal away as much as you want to get your heart pumping; when you need to take a break, simply let the electric motor do the work. You’ll especially appreciate this every time you commute or ride to a social event as you won’t need to shower or change clothes when you arrive at your destination.

 

 

 

 

You’ll Be Riding Up That Hill With No Problems

You shouldn’t have to choose between struggling to pedal up a hill as your legs and lungs beg you for mercy or getting off and walking your bike up, which can be a hassle in itself. Your e-bike’s motor can power you up hills; you’ll also have a less strenuous ride when you’re carrying your rucksack, bags of groceries, or anything else you need to transport by bike.

 

 

 

Get Up To Speed Easily

There are times you need to accelerate from a dead stop quickly to keep up with traffic, both on roads and bike lanes. Your folding e-bike’s motor takes care of this for you instantly, giving you added peace of mind at intersections. Additional power can also benefit you when you need to overtake – just as long as you’re doing so with total awareness of what’s going on around you. After all, with extra speed comes extra responsibility!

 

 

 

 

How Convenient

Lightweight and foldable, yet incredibly durable, folding electric bikes are easy to store and carry. If you need to use public transport during your travels through town, you can quickly fold up your e-bike and carry it on with you. Because it takes up no more room than a large piece of luggage, your folding electric bike is far less of a bother to transport than a regular bike. 

When you get to your destination, you can keep your bike with you and store it without obstructing others. This beats locking it outside or putting it somewhere that’s going to annoy the people you live or work with. Since you can store your foldable electric bike indoors, you don’t need to worry about bike thieves taking off with your ride – in essence, your bike comes with a built-in security system. 

 

 

 

No Room Too Small

For the growing number of people living in micro-homes, storage space is a serious issue. No matter how small or big your home may be, folding electric bikes help you maximize your available space. You can store it pretty much anywhere – in a closet or corner, under a table or bed, or on a balcony or a hook in the foyer.

 

 

This advantage extends to car storage – when you want to take your e-bike with you on a road trip, fold it up and pop it in the boot. You no longer have the hassle of affixing your bike to a roof rack or folding down the back seat to fit your bike into your car. Bringing your own foldable electric bike also spares you the expense and risks of renting a bike during your travels.

 

 

 

 

 

Become An Eco-Road Warrior

Well, maybe not a warrior, we just like the way that sounds. The point here is that more bike riders mean less air pollution. Folding electric bikes are as environmentally friendly to ride as push-pedal bikes. They also happen to be a convenient, healthy, and fun way to get around.

 

 

 

Explore Your Options

To get a better idea of how much a folding electric bike can bring to your life, check out our Furo X. This popular e-bike fuses style, performance, and practicality – plus an abundance of extra features – to give you a riding experience that experts are raving about. If you’re looking for something that’s even lighter but still a dream to ride, take a look at our eTura.

 

We’re always available to answer your questions and help you choose the right folding electric bike for your needs, so get in touch with us.

Electric Bikes vs Motorcycles: 5 Differences

With electric bikes becoming more and more popular, they naturally invite comparison between them and motorcycles, both electric and petrol, and it’s understandable. There are powered bikes that are often used for commuting and whizzing around cities. If you own a motorbike already, is it worth investing in an electric bike? In this article, we discuss the major differences between electric bikes and motorcycles in a range of areas.

Before we start, it’s important to establish the key difference between electric bikes and motorcycles: the way you ride them. With electric bikes, you pedal just like a traditional pushbike, and then the electric motor provides you with assistance. With motorcycles, there’s no pedalling involved, and all movement is controlled by the throttle. The differences don’t end there.

 

 

1. Legal requirements

Electric bikes and motorcycles are treated very differently in the eyes of the law. motorcycles, whether electric or petrol, are liable for road tax, insurance, and must be registered with the DVLA. Riders of motorcycles must also have a driver’s licence to be able to legally drive the vehicle. With electric bikes, no such restrictions apply. You do not need a driver’s licence, the bike doesn’t need to be registered or insured, and you don’t need to pay tax. In the eyes of the law, electric bikes are generally treated the same as traditional pedal bikes.

The clothing riders must wear differs between motorcycles and electric bikes too. Motorcycle riders are required by law to wear a crash helmet at all times, and it’s advisable to wear more protective clothing. The higher speeds that motorcycles are capable of come with a higher risk of injury. When riding electric bikes, you do not need to wear a crash helmet (although wearing a helmet of some kind is strongly advised). You also don’t need to carry around cumbersome motorcycle outfits. Electric bikes give you the freedom to wear whatever you want, within reason.

That being said, wearing protective clothing is recommended, especially if you’re going to be taking your electric bike onto busy roads. Read more about the legality of electric bikes in our dedicated article here.

 

 

2. Speed

It should come as no surprise, but electric bikes cannot compete with motorcycles (electric or petrol) when it comes to speed. The primary factor is regulation that limits the speed at which electric bikes will provide the rider with assistance: electric bikes are required by law to stop providing power when the bike reaches a speed of 15.5mph (25kph).

Motorcycles, on the other hand, do not face such limitations and are legally allowed to reach much higher speeds. If you’re a speed demon, then a motorcycle, either electric or petrol, may be best for you. However, as you’ll see in the next section, being able to travel faster doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll reach your destination sooner.

 

 

3. Commuting 

Electric bikes make for a perfect commuter vehicle. They’re light, fast, reliable, and not subject to train delays!

In a city, the added speed capabilities of a motorcycle are irrelevant because of rush hour traffic and traffic lights. Electric bikes share the advantage that motorcycles have over cars in that they’re able to sidle down the side of traffic. However, electric bikes have the added benefit of being able to use them in cycle lanes and in certain parks around cities. You have more travel options with an electric bike. Motorcycles are restricted to roads. Therefore, in reality, the faster vehicle isn’t necessarily the fastest method of commuting.

Furthermore, electric bikes have a number of other practical advantages over motorcycles. For instance, there’s no need for a parking space, and many offices have space for bikes to be locked away safely. Also, some electric bikes, such as our very our Furo X and eTura, can be folded. Folding electric bikes are even more versatile since you can carry them onto trains and buses, and you can even take them into coffee shops or store them under your desk at work. Every base is covered!

 

 

4. Maintenance

Electric bikes come with far fewer maintenance needs than traditional motorcycles. There’s no oil or cooling system to take care of, and there are fewer parts overall, meaning there’s less to maintain. Additionally, running costs are minimal in comparison to petrol and electric motorcycles. You don’t need to buy any fuel, and you don’t need to charge the bike either. Electric bikes are ready to use at all times – there’s no preparation or forethought needed. When the mood takes you, you can hop on and be on your way!

 

 

5. Exercise 

By virtue of needing to pedal in order to move, electric bikes are far better from an exercise perspective. Of course, electric bikes offer a huge amount of assistance to the rider, which makes them so enjoyable and accessible, but there’s still an element of rider input beyond twisting a throttle. For people who find traditional cycling very taxing – especially in a city – electric bikes offer an accessible form of exercise that motorcycles simply can’t.

While we may be a little biased, in many cases, electric bikes are the more versatile form of transport. They can be used in more places and by more people than motorcycles, and that’s a huge plus in a world that’s constantly looking for new and improved modes of personal transport. If you’ve been thinking about investing in an electric bike, check out our eTura, the lightest folding electric bike you can buy, or our ever-popular Furo X, the electric bike that started it all.

The Furo X is sold out for delivery in May and 10 days left for 25% DISCOUNT

Taking our bikes from paper directly to you and making them your new favorite way of commuting, cycling or just having fun has truly been a formidable adventure and keeps getting better!The FURO community is growing day after day and we have officially just sold out our batch of FX for delivery in May. The SIERRA is almost gone as well with only 2 left in stock.

As most of you are aware, our 25% discount is also ending very soon. You can rest assured that it still applies to all purchases made through our website until it expires. This means that our next batch of SIERRA and FX is still covered by the discount until the 15/05. It is currently planned for delivery in September, although it will most likely come earlier than this as we are working very hard to accelerate our production rate and optimise our supply chain.

If you are thinking about getting a FX or a SIERRA, we strongly advise to make the most of the discount, particularly as our next batch will also have a limited stock.

We are always available and very happy to help you, so if you have any questions or requests please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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