5 Myths About Electric Bikes Debunked

Nov 13th 2025

5 Myths About Electric Bikes Debunked

Have you heard the rumors? Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are changing the way we think about cycling and commuting. However, misconceptions tend to cloud the bright future of these two-wheeled wonders. As the proud holder of the "America's Best Bike Shop" award, we at Bike Attack believe that debunking these myths not only educates the public but can also transform your cycling experience for the better.

Why Read This Post?

Before you dive into the details, let’s face a common scenario: You’re considering investing in an electric bike, but your mind is bogged down by questions and misconceptions. This post aims to clear the air and arm you with the right information to take that leap into the future of biking. Plus, we promise a dash of wit and flair along the way, because who said facts have to be boring?

Table of Contents

Myth 1: E-bikes Are Just for Lazy People

Let’s address the elephant in the room. Many people assume that if you ride an e-bike, you’re just taking the easy way out. Wrong! Riding an electric bike can actually promote more physical activity than you think. Research shows that e-bike riders tend to ride longer and faster than traditional cyclists. Check out the study published by NIH.

Plus, with varying levels of pedal assist, you can customize your ride to challenge yourself, whether you’re an intense road warrior or a laid-back Sunday cruiser. Ultimately, isn't that what biking is all about—joy and freedom?

Myth 2: All E-bikes Are Restricted to Roads

Many think e-bikes are confined to the city roads and bike lanes. In fact, e-bikes can be used on various terrains, including parks and trails, depending on local legislation. Most e-bikes are versatile enough for off-road adventures! Always check your local regulations to find out where you can take your new ride. You can find more about e-bike-specific laws in your area on the Explore Bikes website.

Myth 3: E-bikes Are Way Too Expensive

While it’s true that e-bikes can have a higher upfront cost compared to regular bicycles, the gap has been narrowing over the years. Plus, when you factor in the savings on public transport, gas money, and maintenance costs, those upfront costs become a mere drop in the bucket. At Bike Attack, we have models ranging from budget-friendly options to high-performance machines that fit every cyclist’s needs.

Check out our electric bike collection to see the latest offers!

Myth 4: E-bikes Require a Special License

Nope! It's not like getting a motorcycle license. In most places across California, you don't need a license to ride an e-bike, provided it complies with specific power and speed regulations. Always verify local guidelines for specific rules in your area, but in most cases, you can freely enjoy the ride!

Myth 5: E-bikes Are Dangerous

Electric bikes often get a bad rap due to faster speeds helping to foster some fear regarding safety. Yet, research indicates that riders of electric bikes tend to have lower injury rates compared to traditional cyclists. Of course, safety is paramount—always wear a helmet, follow traffic rules, and consider a safety course to sharpen those skills. The League of American Bicyclists provides a wealth of information on how to ride safely, which can be found here.

Conclusion

With more than a few myths surrounding electric bikes, it’s important to sift through the noise to understand what makes them a fantastic choice for many riders. They boost physical activity, expand commuting options, can save you money, don't require special licenses, and can be enjoyed safely.

If you’re curious about learning more or are ready to experience the joy of riding an electric bike for yourself, swing by Bike Attack in Santa Monica, Playa Vista, or Culver City. We have a diverse range of electric bikes just waiting for you! A test ride is a must, and who knows? You might just find yourself zipping around on one of the best electric bikes that California has to offer. Happy riding!

!