FAQ

FAQs

As the eBike Experts, we get a lot of questions thrown at us. Here are the most frequently asked:

How fast will electric bikes go?
eBikes will go up to 20mph on just the motor alone. This is the Federal legal throttle limit for electric bicycles. Special models and pedal assist will allow you to go even faster.

Can I lose weight with an electric bike?
Absolutely! Electric biking is more fun and less intimidating, which drastically increasing the likelihood of getting out to seize the day! Electric bikes will handle enormous amounts of weight and can be an excellent way to get moving from a sedentary lifestyle.

Are electric bikes cheap to operate?
Yes, very cheap. An electric bike costs -based on Utah electricity rates- $0.0014 per mile in electricity cost.

What is the carbon footprint of an eBike?
Based on electricity use; at least 10 times better than an electric car.

How far can you go on a single charge?
Range is the single most misconstrued information in the industry. Some bikes will claim 150 miles on a charge, others will be far more conservative in their estimates. The truth is, rider weight, terrain, weather, and mode selection all contribute to factors providing different data. Here at Blue Monkey, we test every bike we touch with maximum settings and controlled variables. We found almost any bike will go 20+ miles on a charge using the highest settings. There are others that would go over 50 miles easily. Head over to our range data page to check out actual tests!

How long do they take to charge?
From 0 to 100%, about 4 hours. Check out this video to understand and care for your Lithium battery.

How long will the batteries last?
Maintained properly, LiFePo4 and Li-On batteries have been known to last 6 to 8 years of regular use. After this point the battery power diminishes, but doesn’t die on the spot. The most important thing you can do is to always store the battery between 40° and 110° F. (see the above video for more.)

Can I charge away from home?
Of course! Each bike comes with a charger a little bigger than a laptop charger. You can easily carry this in a backpack or even a big coat pocket.

Will the battery be charged while you pedal?
This is a VERY common question. We think it’s based on the fact that bicycles are generally thought to produce energy while the rider pedals so it makes perfect sense that they should charge their own battery. When you think about it, you wouldn’t expect a cordless drill to charge itself by drilling but a bike seems different. Unfortunately, charging requires friction and help with friction is why you want to ride an electric bike. You’d be surprised how far you can go on a charge and then when you’re ready, just plug the battery into a wall.

For a humorous look at different ebike charging ideas, check out our video:

What are the bike warranties?
We are very stringent about the brands we carry but all of them have warranties of at least 2-5 years on their bikes and components. We are always here for you through the life of your bike!

Are eBikes legal on the street, sidewalk and public transportation?
Electric bikes are legal everywhere bicycles are legal. This includes riding on the street, obeying traffic laws.

Do I need a driver’s license for an electric bike?
Nope.

Can I ride my eBikes in the rain?
If you’d like, you can ride the bike during any inclement weather. If you can handle it, the bike will handle it.

Can I still pedal if my battery runs out?
Yes. If the battery runs out, you can always pedal the bike normally. There is no added resistance from the motor or battery.

How do electric bikes work?
Like a normal bike, you can pedal at any time. When you’re ready for the motor to kick in, either twist the throttle on the handle or set the pedal assist to help, and then you’re on your way!

Where is the motor?
The two most common motors are the hub drive (driven by a motor in the middle of the wheel) and a mid-drive, placed in between the pedals.

What is Pedal Assist?
Pedal Assist is a feature on many of our bikes that enables the motor through the pedal motion instead of the twist throttle. This feature can be turned on or off, so that you may go back to using the throttle at any time.

How much does a quality electric bike cost?
eBikes range dramatically in pricing. We have bikes that start at $1300, and ones over $6000. In meeting the needs of the average customer, the right quality bike is usually around the middle at $2900

What extra maintenance does an eBike entail?
None. Aside from charging the battery, the electric system is robust and maintenance free. The bicycle is maintained just like a normal pedal bike.

How much is an extra battery?
Depending on the brand and size of the battery, usually between $500 and $1000.

What kind of service can I expect from Blue Monkey?
Aside from our own expertise and service, we’ve selected bicycle brands that offer fast, easy, one-call answers for any issues with your bike.

Do you ever have deals or specials?
Yes, though usually in the winter. Check out our promotions page for our current offers.

 

We hope this covers most of your questions. We’re happy to answer your questions personally and we’ll take as much time as needed to get you up to speed on electric bikes. Feel free to stop into our Salt Lake City location or give us a call at 801-608-5138.