Oil companies say price rises resulting from the American war with Iran could force the government to protect supplies for hospitals and essential services
A step-through cargo bike with small tyres and a long rack will give you the most utility for your money. I replaced 99% of my car trips with an Aventon Abound LR ($2000 new, $1500~ dealer overstock from Upway). It can fit 63kg of weight on the back with enough space for one adult, two small children, or six grocery bags. I get about 80km of range out of mine and will pay $20 or so in electricity costs this year, riding it 3000km over the past year. At a Class 2 32kmh, my urban commute is about the same as driving times if not faster and much more pleasant.
For safety reasons I recommend a bike with hydraulic brakes. Much more reliable when you have the extra weight with you.
I have had two utiliity bikes like u/happybadger suggested, but I plan to get a relatively lightweight standard-style ebike for my next purchase (in a couple years). My current bike is like 70 lbs and I want to be able to put it on a bus bike rack. The mechanical advantage is piss poor with the small fat tires. good for going over bumps, but if my battery dies I’m going at walking speed the rest of the way instead if a somewhat heavy regular bike.
My primary recommendation is to shop at a local store, especially if you will be making it a primary mode of transportation. You can always save money fixing things yourself, but if it gets out of hand you’ll want to be able to bring it to a shop and have them bail you out.
What do you recommend?
A step-through cargo bike with small tyres and a long rack will give you the most utility for your money. I replaced 99% of my car trips with an Aventon Abound LR ($2000 new, $1500~ dealer overstock from Upway). It can fit 63kg of weight on the back with enough space for one adult, two small children, or six grocery bags. I get about 80km of range out of mine and will pay $20 or so in electricity costs this year, riding it 3000km over the past year. At a Class 2 32kmh, my urban commute is about the same as driving times if not faster and much more pleasant.
I like my Aventon ebike. It’s also as easy to work on as a regular bike; i.e., you can do basic repairs without being an electrician.
For safety reasons I recommend a bike with hydraulic brakes. Much more reliable when you have the extra weight with you.
I have had two utiliity bikes like u/happybadger suggested, but I plan to get a relatively lightweight standard-style ebike for my next purchase (in a couple years). My current bike is like 70 lbs and I want to be able to put it on a bus bike rack. The mechanical advantage is piss poor with the small fat tires. good for going over bumps, but if my battery dies I’m going at walking speed the rest of the way instead if a somewhat heavy regular bike.
My primary recommendation is to shop at a local store, especially if you will be making it a primary mode of transportation. You can always save money fixing things yourself, but if it gets out of hand you’ll want to be able to bring it to a shop and have them bail you out.