January 2017 | 23
One in three Brits consider an electric bike a potential substitute for public transport
Our crammed tubes and buses offer increasingly overcrowded and uncomfortable commuting conditions . In addition , during summer time , temperatures on the tube can often reach 40 degrees plus , making for a very sweaty , unpleasant and unsafe journey to work . As a result of the ever-growing over capacity transport network , cycling has seen a huge rise in popularity in the UK over the last few years , and an increasing number of people are replacing their normal commute for a cycling trip instead . With public transport fares going up year on year , commuters are looking for even more options to bridge longer travel journeys and avoid expensive travel costs . Electric bikes are incredibly popular in many European countries and are now being considered as a genuine alternative to the traditional pedal bike in the UK . The most important reason for Brits to choose an e-bike is the ability to be at their destination quicker , even when travelling for many miles . Following a survey by Shimano - one of the biggest cycling brands in the world , in collaboration with OnePoll - 34 % of Brits would choose an electric bike rather than public transport for their daily commute .
It seems that men ( 38 %) are more weather hardened , and even more eager to step on an e-bike to race to the office than women ( 29 %). Besides being a faster journey to their destination , other reasons for using an e-bike are more hygiene related . No-one likes turning up to work hot and sweaty , and riding an electric bike allows less physical effort compared to traditional bikes , avoiding this problem and the need for a shower once in the office . Another key factor is being able to go to work in smart looking business outfit or simply some ‘ cool clothing ’, instead of a neon sporty outfit that is not a look for everyone .
However , despite the crammed public transport and high prices , a group of commuters are still hesitant to switch to an e-bike . The main reasons include the perception that buses , tubes and trains are safer and more comfortable . To help facilitate a switch , survey respondents were clear that the best way for the government to support e-bike usage is by subsidising the purchase of e-bikes . In addition , once completed , the Cycle Superhighways should stimulate safe bike riding and test days could be organised so commuters can experience the benefits , including safety for themselves .
Electric bikes use a battery pack that needs to be charged when it runs low , just like many modern appliances . A majority of Brits consider urban transport locations the best locations for charging points . Retail venues come second , followed by recreational areas . Surprisingly , business areas come fourth . Apparently having a charging port near workspaces is not a necessity for e-bike commuters .
Mark Greshon , Shimano Senior Brand Manager at Madison says : “ The survey shows that Brits aged 25-34 years , who are most likely the people in the early stages of their professional career , are most in favour of e-bikes for their daily commute . This makes a lot of sense as this younger generation is open to new technology like Shimano STEPS which we ’ ve already seen make a real impact in other European countries already . We want to encourage the adoption of cycling in general and e-bikes are a viable option for many that would not have previously considered cycling . In the UK it could contribute to less crowded public transport , cost savings and an increasingly healthy lifestyle for our nation in years to come .”