These are the most common questions asked, so we hope they help put you on the right track and resolve some of the fanciful beliefs being suggested.
Q. How far will it go per charge?
A. With a 10 Amp Hour (ah) battery 30 - 45 km depending on terrain and how much you pedal.
With a 14ah battery 50 - 70 km depending on terrain and how much you pedal.
Q. Will it help me uphill?
A. Yes! 200 watts is a 1/4 of a horsepower. That's more than you can produce continuously. Hills become a breeze.
Q. How fast do they go?
A. 25-30kmh. This is a world wide accepted speed to fit with shared pathways. However, you can travel up to the speed limit just like all other vehicles.
Q. Do I have to run the batteries flat to overcome the memory?
A. No! Lithium batteries do not have a memory. We recommend charging after use.
Q. Will it charge the battery as I ride?
A. No! The physics is not practical. It takes energy to generate energy. You would not like that. Also it would require a generator and more complex electronics. Manufacturers concentrate on developing quality batteries and efficient motors.
Q. How long do the batteries last?
A. About 2 - 3 years. It depends on how its treated too. Avoid running it flat and drawing maximum power with load. Eg. Uphill. Remember it is a power assisted bike, NOT a motorised vehicle. The running cost will be $3 to $6 per week depending on the battery capacity. It will still be the cheapest form of powered transport available. Do the maths! It would cost over $4000.00 to build an e bike battery out of mobile phone batteries. Makes our batteries look too cheap.
Q. Do the batteries burst into flames?
A. No! Lets be sensible about these old tales. Manufacturers do not make dangerous products. Modern lithium batteries are certified to international safety standards and will NOT explode if treated correctly. ALL batteries should be charged with the charger supplied so they are charged at the optimum safe rate.
Q. If I buy a cheapie elsewhere will you service it for me?
A. No! All brands are different, so we won't have spare parts, batteries, or an understanding of how yours works. Please contact the vendor for servicing. Please be aware that many back yarders have gone out of business.
Q. What's legal and what's not?
A. Go to www.sa.gov.au then Transport travel and motoring. The Cycling section has lots of info that dispels the myths and clarifies the laws.