Adult bikes Archives - Page 2 of 3

Adult Tricycles and Bicycles: What’s the difference?

by amie.huiam.net | Aug 2, 2023 | Adult bikes

Contrary to popular belief, tricycles aren’t only for children. We’ve seen that trikes are becoming more and more popular as they are great for those who might not be in their cycling prime or have mobility issues.

Who are tricycles designed for?

Trikes are built for cyclists that feel uneasy on two wheels. Many people in the 70+ demographic favour trikes for this very reason. We find that buyers have often become less confident or struggle to cycle with the aches and pains they face daily.

So, if you’re in need of a method of transport that offers extra support and storage, then look no further.

What are the main differences between a tricycle and a bicycle?

The number of wheels:

Three wheels is of course sturdier that two. Individuals that struggle with keeping their balance would hugely benefit from an extra wheel. Getting on and off becomes easier too, especially when a tricycle has a low step frame.

In addition, tricycles are built lower than a standard bike, so it will be easier to maintain your position with a lower sense of gravity.
Back support:

Riding on 3 wheels puts less pressure on your back, meaning you can ride for longer without experiencing as much pain than you might on a normal bike. The added support is sure to make your cycling trips far more enjoyable.

You can also upgrade your seat to one which is padded for extra bottom support. We have seats designed with comfort in mind that are easily swappable with most tricycles.

Inclines made easier:

The extra support means that you won’t need as much effort when going up a hill, unlike being on a bicycle.

As mentioned before, the added stability makes the need to actively balance a thing of the past, so you can put all your concentration on getting up that hill and reaching the end of your ride.
Brakes:

Each bike must have 2 sets of independent breaks to comply with road regulations, and this is no different for a tricycle.

The main difference here is that the back set of wheels on a tricycle requires another kind of brake, a drum brake (as shown here). It might take a bit of getting used to in the beginning, but it’ll feel normal soon enough.

There are a range of trikes that use a variety of brakes, so when selecting yours be sure to investigate what kind of brakes it uses. Our in-store team will be there to answer any questions.

OUR TOP 3 ADULT TRIKES

Ammaco Free and Easy 26 Inch Wheel Adult’s Trike – £599.99

The spacious large rear basket and low step frame makes it easy to operate and carry your shopping back home or if you are heading into work with a rucksack and laptop bag, you won’t have to carry it all the way on your back, thanks to the large basket at the rear.

Mission E-bike Electric Adult Tricycle Black – £1,965.00

Do you need a tricycle with the potential to carry a lot more than just shopping? This model does all that and more in a sleek black finish.

The ‘pedal- assist’ function works exceptionally well. The motor starts when pedalling begins, providing a safe, comfortable ride with an adjustable speed up to 15mph- the legal limit. Just one charge will cover a distance of around 20 miles on level ground on the highest setting, and further on lower settings.

Mission E-Mission Electric Adult Tricycle Silver- £1965.00

Not a fan of black? You’ll be pleased to know this customer-favourite comes in silver too!

Adult Trikes Safety Tips

Before buying a tricycle, it’s important to know that there are risks when riding one in comparison to a normal bike.

Trikes can be hard for motorists to see

Since they’re lower set, it can make it a bit harder for people in motor vehicles on the road to see you. This is more of an issue for recumbent tricycles, ask at your local store to find a solution for you.

You can invest in accessories such as flags and lights to improve your tricycle’s visibility on the road.

Turn carefully

A trike can be a bit tricky to turn in if you’re not used to it, so be sure to take your time and get used to manoeuvring before riding on the road.

Try using yours in a park or on a quiet road first before making the leap onto a busy one – it’ll improve your confidence and make your ride much more enjoyable (and safe).

Browse our full range of adult trikes at Cycle King and Hawk Cycles.

Or if you prefer to view our range and try them out in person, simply visit any of our 23 stores where our friendly team will be available to offer advice and help you choose the right one.

Best budget hybrid bikes in 2023 for under £500

by amie.huiam.net | Jun 22, 2023 | Adult bikes, Kids bikes

In the ever-expanding world of cycling, navigating the vast array of hybrid bikes to find the perfect one can be a daunting task. Budget-conscious enthusiasts are seeking the ideal hybrid bike that seamlessly blends versatility, performance, and affordability. Let’s explore the best budget hybrid bikes in 2023 for under £500 available exclusively from Cycle King & Hawk Cycles, your local family bike shop.

With countless options available, our quest to discover the best hybrid bike on a budget promises to unravel a treasure trove of cutting-edge technologies and exceptional value. So, saddle up, as we embark on the adventure to uncover hybrid biking excellence, tailored for the cyclist who refuses to compromise on quality or price.

Why pick a hybrid bike?

Hybrid bikes are by far one of the most versatile forms of cycling. They can be ridden on both smooth city surfaces and low to moderately rough terrains such as gravel paths.
Built with comfort in mind, hybrid bikes are usually equipped with comfortable padded seats and an upright handlebar making for a more relaxed riding position than a road of mountain bike and gives the rider a better visibility and control whilst riding.
Many hybrid bikes will be equipped with frame mounts either to the rear of the bike or on the front fork giving you the option to add carrier racks so you can take luggage on your ride.

Types of hybrid bike

A classic hybrid bike is designed for general-purpose riding, providing a comfortable and versatile option for commuting, leisurely rides, and light off-road trails. These bikes typically feature a more upright riding position, wider tyres for stability, and a focus on comfort and durability. Classic hybrid bikes prioritise functionality and practicality over high-performance features.
Sports hybrid bikes are similar to flat bar road bikes, though the riding position is more upright. They will usually be built up on an aluminium frame which not only makes for a lightweight ride but also resistant to rust. Sports hybrids are lighter in weight, making them ideal for fitness riding, urban cycling and commuting.

Our top picks for 2023

Here are our top hybrid bikes under £500 that deliver by quality and affordability for the perfect ride! Please note that the prices quoted in this article are correct as of 22 June 2023

Classic hybrids on a budget

Professional Metropolitan Commuter Hybrid Bike – £219.99

A compelling option for riders seeking a versatile and stylish two-wheeled companion. This sturdy steel construction means it’s easy to maintain and ride and also features lightweight 700c wheels for fast acceleration with smoother tyres for more comfortable riding on both roads and bike trails.

Salcano Istanbul Commuter Hybrid Bike Cream – £479.99

A delightful blend of elegance and functionality, this sturdy construction ensures durability on urban streets. With a wide host of components included, from front and gear mudguards, a comfortable saddle, and a rear carrier with straps and ergonomic grips, this bike is designed to deliver a smooth and enjoyable commuting experience, making it an ideal choice for riders seeking both style and practicality whilst touring, commuting and running into town at the weekends.

Sports hybrids on a budget

Ammaco Pathway X1 Sports’ Hybrid Bike – £279.99

A firm favourite for cycling enthusiasts on a budget – this star buy is ideal for commuting or leisure, with a comfortable and easy-to-mount step through frame. This sports hybrid can be ridden on both smooth city surfaces and low-to-moderately rough terrains such as gravel paths.

Not too dissimilar to the classic hybrid, sports hybrid bikes are the ideal commuting ride with their robust construction and keen handling.

As featured on our social media.

Falcon Urban Low Step Sports Hybrid Bike Orange – £169.99

Overcome the steepest of hilly commutes with the powerful alloy v-brakes designed to keep the rider in full control. The Falcon bike is suitable for cycling on the road, or gentle off-road riding at the weekend too.

This option has basic SunRun gears hence the bargain price. Our team will always be happy to take you through the options available to you.

Cycle King & Hawk Cycles everyday low prices range offers a remarkable opportunity for budget-conscious enthusiasts to purchase mens and womens hybrid bikes. With a diverse selection available, customers can find the perfect blend of performance, style and affordability. By choosing Cycle King & Hawk Cycles, riders embark on their cycling adventures with confidence, knowing that they’ve made a smart investment without compromising on quality.

Are you ready to choose your hybrid bike? Choose click and collect and your bike will be ready within 1 hour for collection from your nearest local store – why wait, let’s go riding today!

The Hybrid Bike Buyer’s Guide

by amie.huiam.net | Apr 5, 2023 | Adult bikes, Cycling advice & tips

For someone who wants a lot of choice when it comes to cycling terrain, a hybrid bike is a very good option.

In this blog, we’ll be going into some more detail on what you should be looking for in your brand-new hybrid bike, as well as some of our suggestions to get you started. But firstly, we’ll talk a bit more on what hybrids actually are.

What are Hybrid Bikes?

Hybrid bikes are an in-between bike, incorporating the best parts of both mountain and road bikes. We find that people who like to use their bikes for a wide range of activities from commuting to fitness activities really fall in love with their hybrid bike. So whether it be on a busy urban commute, or even trekking through woodlands, a hybrid is a great all-rounder kind of bike.

What makes a good Hybrid Bike?

Apart from the versatility, there are a few characteristics you should look out for when making your purchase.

Is it lightweight?

For maximum speed you’ll likely want a bike which has a light frame (as there’s less weight for you to push).

We stock a few variations of lightweight frame materials in our hybrid range which include:

Lightweight Aluminium
Hi-tensile Steel
Lightweight Alloy

Essentially, the lighter the frame, the easier it is to pedal.

Handlebars

Unlike road bikes, the handlebars on a hybrid are placed into an upright position. This means that you’ll be positioned on the bike upright too, making it a more comfortable position for long rides.

These kinds of handlebars do compromise your potential for extreme speed compared to a road bike with dropped handlebars. It is very much a case of personal choice and the style of riding that you prefer. If you are all about speed, then it is worth considering a road bike, but if it is utility and multi-terrains that interest you then a Sports Hybrid is the way to go.

Wheels

The size of the wheels you go for can make quite a difference in your ride quality.

Smaller wheels are nimbler, making it a bit easier to take turns. We’d suggest that if you mostly cycle on roads, then these wheels equipped with thinner tyres would best suit your commute.

On the other hand, if you like the thrill of going fast on off-road trails, then wider tyres would likely suit you better. Remember, the larger surface area and wheel diameter increases your traction and speed in forests – ensuring the best ride possible.

However, if you still want the best of both worlds, then it’s a really simple fix to make your hybrid ready for any kind of terrain by having two sets of tyres. Swapping wheels out is a very simple job, and all it will only take a few minutes (with practice).

Brakes

Both kinds of brakes work well on a hybrid bike, being V and Disc brakes.

We would suggest, however, that it would be more beneficial for those who like off-roading to opt for disc brakes. This is because they’re more precise in their stopping power, even with a greater mass, making them very beneficial to a cyclist on loose terrain.

Suspension

Again, like brakes, the importance of this varies depending on what you’ll be doing on your hybrid bike.

We have in our range of hybrid bikes the option to have forks with built-in suspension, and those which do not offer any of these capabilities. A cyclist sticking to the main roads likely wouldn’t have a need for suspension, whilst one who enjoys the bumps and jumps that come from off-roading would need such a feature.

Saddle position

Depending on what sort of saddle your bike comes with, you can adjust the position of yours to suit your cycling style.

To get the most speed out of your hybrid, it is better to position it so that you’ll seat yourself further down the saddle. This aggressive setting makes it easier to put more force down on the peddles and, henceforth, increase your speed.

If going fast isn’t your top priority, then keep the saddle level. This will force your back into an upright position and encourage you to sit up on the bike. But you can still get some good speed in this position on your hybrid bike.

Latest Blogs

Our top picks for Mens’ Hybrid Bikes

Falcon Urban Sports Hybrid Bike Green

This model is a great starter hybrid bike as it comes with the essential features for a great price.

It is better suited to commuting with its V-Brakes and Hi-tensile steel frame, but does not come with suspension on the forks. You can still enjoy some less intense off-roading, but not as much in comparison to our other hybrid bikes on offer.

Ammaco Road Runner Pro V Sports Hybrid Silver

Enjoy the best of both worlds with this hybrid model in a cool silver and yellow colourway.

Being equipped with zoom front suspension, preinstalled propstand, and a 21 speed gearset, this model is a great pick for those who want a bit more off-roading in their cycling life.

Salcano Istanbul Commuter Hybrid Bike Grey

Being in the higher end of our mens’ hybrid bike selection, you’ll be able to experience the full braking power of Shimano hydraulic brake discs.

This hybrid is far better suited to the rough terrains of a bike trail, making it the ideal choice should you really want to tear up the racetracks.

Our top picks for Womens Hybrid Bikes

Falcon Urban Low Step Sports Hybrid Bike Orange

With the model using high quality trekking tyres, you’ll find that going between terrains won’t require a change of wheels – making your bike very easy to use wherever.

This bike can handle some off-roading, but is mostly designed for simpler rides on flat roads.

2021 GT Transeo Sport Fitness Bike in Blue

Sweep through traffic jams with this sports hybrid option in an electric blue colourway.

Equipped with Shimano gears and a lightweight aluminium frame, you’ll have no problems speeding on flat terrain in addition to some off-roading capabilities.

Salcano Istanbul Commuter Hybrid Bike Cream

Equipped with lockout suspension and a Shimano hydraulic disc brake system, this is one of our top picks for use on any kind of terrain.

Enjoy 24 speeds and a handy pannier rack in a very attractive cream colour.

Our top picks for Electric Hybrid Bikes

You can, of course, choose to electrify your hybrid bike. Not only would one make your cycling less strenuous, but they also come with other beneficial features.

Lectro Adventurer 26 Inch Wheel Electric Bike Silver Single Gear

If you need a good first electric bike, then look no further. The Lectro range are excellent value for money, making them a go-to for many cyclists looking for some extra power.

The 250w motor is sure to make your commuting far easier and is hardly noticeable, including the 7AH battery sneakily hidden inside the frame

Dallingridge Malvern 700c Wheel Electric Bike Silver (Womens’ & Mens’)

Get the most out of your bike with the Dallingridge electric hybrid range. These models can achieve up to an impressive 50 miles of electric assistance, and with it’s Suntour suspension, you’ll have a blast on all kinds of terrain.

They have a very quick charge time of 4-6 hours, as well as coming equipped with pannier racks and mudguards, they’re certainly a worthwhile investment for all your commuting and off-roading needs.

Frappe FSD M800i 700c Wheel Electric Bike Aqua Blue

Our Frappe hybrid electric bike has the added bonus of having front and rear lights installed into the frame, and powered by the battery pack.

This bike also comes with a hydraulic brake system which is bound to improve your safety whilst out on the road or doing some gentle off-roading.

Accessories for Hybrid Bikes

Some of our hybrid bikes do some with accessories fitted already, but for those that haven’t, these ones are definitely worth considering.

Mudguards

Even if you’re not cycling on dirt tracks, you can still pick up mud and dirt on your clothes. Installing some mudguards onto your hybrid is a very good idea, as you wouldn’t want to get your smart work clothes dirty whilst commuting.

Panniers

These aren’t quite as useful for off-roading, but for general bike riding they’re a very handy addition.

Instead of balancing a heavy backpack, or even shopping bags in your hands whilst cycling (something you should never do), strapping them securely on a pannier rack is sure to save you some aggravation.

Lights

These are a legal requirement when riding at night time, so should be fitted onto your bike if you’re commuting to and from work during the winter time.

Some of our e-bikes actually come with them integrated into the bike, but for most cases a standard set is sure to do the job.

If you’re now in the mindset to make your brand new bike purchase a hybrid, then feel free to browse our whole selection here. In addition, you can pop into any of our 23 stores across the midlands and south – our expert staff will be happy to help you find the hybrid of your dreams!

The Cycle to Work scheme explained

by amie.huiam.net | Mar 17, 2023 | Adult bikes, Cycling advice & tips

If you’re looking to save money on your journey to work, or simply want to commute in a way that’s healthier for you and the environment, the ‘Cycle to Work’ scheme is a huge incentive to do so. Read on to find out what the scheme actually is, in addition to how you can go about getting a brand-new bike so that you can travel to work in style.

What is the Cycle to Work Scheme?

This scheme is a government incentive for workers to start cycling to work. The scheme offers great savings for those looking to purchase ladies’ bikes or men’s bikes to commute on, from anywhere between 25% – 48%.

Actually, getting your bike is a rather simple process and can be easily negotiated with your employer:

First, inform your company that you’re interested in the scheme…of course they’ll need to be providers of the scheme for you to get the benefit (but more on this later on)
Next, you’ll need to pick out the bike you want and any accessories you need (like a helmet, lights, his-vis clothing, etc.) and work out the total using a Cycle to Work Scheme
This will then be taken into account with your employer, which will lead to an agreement on how much the company will effectively loan you and the repayments that will be taken directly from your salary
At the end of your term, you can either pay a small sum to own everything outright, or give your bike back to the company

‘Where does this discount come from?’ you’re probably asking. Well, this is because the company is buying the bike as a tax-free benefit. This makes the scheme a win-win for everyone involved. It’s a win for you as you’ve got a shiny new bike to use both for getting into work and in your personal time. It’s great for the government, as this deduction in the bike’s cost means that you’ll be more inclined to use a cleaner method of transport, cutting Co2 emissions. And lastly, it’s a win for your company as they can provide you with this extra benefit which will help improve your motivation at work (and maybe even save on some car parking space).

What are the benefits of cycling to work?

If you can easily travel in to work on a bike, then it is definitely an opportunity you should grab by the handlebars. Among the plethora of benefits, we’ve boiled it down to 5 great reasons you should consider the scheme.

Improves your fitness

Getting on two wheels is a fantastic way of keeping up your fitness levels (even if you opt for a power assisted E-bike). If your commute is 10 miles each way, for example, then you’d actually be burning around 4672 calories a week (that’s equivalent to 9 burgers!). Daily exercise can make a huge difference to your overall health.

Good for the environment

Cycling to work is not only good for you, but the planet. You might be surprised to know that from a year’s worth of commuting 10 miles each way, you could save as much as 365kg of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere by car (that’s as much as 17 trees can absorb in one year).

It’s great for your mental health

Unlike a car, bus, or train journey, cycling to your work gives you some much needed ‘me time’. Instead of having to focus on the road, or be distracted by your phone inside squashed public transport, biking into work gives you an opportunity to absorb your surroundings. A survey by We Are Cycling UK found that 91% of participants deemed off-road cycling to be very important to their mental health. Even if your ride into work doesn’t go into the dirt tracks, you can still appreciate the little things on your way to work and detox your mind for better mental health.

A bike can actually save you time

If you’re frequently stuck in rush hour traffic jams, or even long train delays, you’ll find that these issues will melt away when you commute by bike. Being more agile (and having the option to skip traffic by walking on the pavement with your bike) makes waiting around a thing of the past, meaning you can crack on with your day.

Improve your sleep quality

All that extra exercise is bound to tire you out during the day, making it a bit easier for you to fall asleep when your bed is calling. Not only will you feel more refreshed in the morning, but commuting into work by bike is likely to help make your sleeping pattern far more regular.

What Cycle to work schemes are available?

There are a few schemes in which you can go with to get the bike of your dreams, but this is mostly dependant on your employer.

Bike2workscheme.com

It’s a very simple process for both employer and employee to get cycling. All it takes is for the employer to register, and for both parties to sign the hire agreement in order to get the bike and accessories you need.

Cyclescheme.co.uk

Available to any employer, and all it takes is a simple form to give everyone in the office or site a choice to cycle into work.

NHS’ Cycle to work scheme

This is specific to NHS staff; in that you’d need to contact your NHS Employers HR department to get the ball rolling here.

Am I eligible for the Cycle to work scheme?

There aren’t any specific requirements for employees to be eligible for any of the schemes we’ve mentioned. However, what makes you eligible is whether your employer is open to becoming a part of the schemes. A lot of companies do, however, and it’s as simple as asking if this is something they carry out for their employees. For the employer looking to get more people on bikes, it’s a good starting point to ask employees if they would be interested, making everyone’s commute greener and a bit more enjoyable.

It often depends on your employer, you’ll have to get talking to them to see if this is something they do
Unfortunately, some will not have this as an option but hopefully where you work can help you get the ball rolling with getting a brand-new bike

We hope that after reading this blog, you’re now inspired to get involved with the scheme and make a difference to both the environment and your own health. It is probably a lot simpler than you thought, so there’s no excuse for you to not get cycling!

What if your employer isn’t in a scheme?

Even if your employer isn’t apart of any schemes, it doesn’t mean that you can’t get a new bike.

Buy on Finance

You also have the option to split payments over a time period, just without the taxable benefit. We offer Klarna finance which is a very affordable way to pay for a brand-new bike and accessories in 3 payments over 3 months. As a partnered brand with the schemes we’ve mentioned, you can easily browse our hybrid bike range or visit one of our stores today to see which bikes and accessories would suit you best. For the best commuter experience, we recommend our range of folding electric bikes – compact enough to go under your desk yet powerful enough to get you to work and back. Simply view our mens’ and womens’ bike range and see for yourself how a bike could really change your working life.

Best Bikes for Commuters 2023

by amie.huiam.net | Feb 27, 2023 | Adult bikes

With the current extortionate fuel and transport prices, investing in a bike to reduce your commuting costs could make a huge difference to your bank balance. In addition, travelling on two wheels makes it easier to enjoy your environment, take in your surroundings, improve your exercise regime, and save money (we’d say that’s a win-win!)

Since you’ve found this blog, you’re likely unsure where to start looking, or what sort of bike to be looking for. But thankfully, you’ve come to the right place.

From road bikes, to hybrids, to ones which are electrically assisted, we’ll help you understand what features make for a good commuter bike. We’ll also pepper in some of our suggestions of popular bikes to get you started.

What makes a good commuter bike?

When looking for the perfect commuter bike, there are a few key features that make them stand out from other bikes.

Flat handlebars

An upright posture is a great choice for commuting. You’ll be more aware of your surroundings when cycling, especially when riding in very busy urban areas whilst also putting less strain on the wrists, arms, and shoulders.

Disc brakes

For optimal stopping power, disc brakes are certainly the way to go.

Disc brakes are a type of braking system that utilize callipers to squeeze brake pads against the surface of a rotor, which is connected to the wheel. This pressure causes friction, which results in slowing or stopping of the bike.

For better peace of mind when commuting in traffic, especially in wet / icy conditions, they’re sure to come in handy.

Can it be compacted?

Even if a bike is lightweight, sometimes it can’t help getting in the way (particularly if you need to take a bus or train someplace else with it).

This is where having the option to compact your bike down is very useful. In addition to public transport, your bike could easily be placed under your desk whilst working, making it a very versatile method of transport for any commuter.

Now that we’ve defined the most attractive traits, let’s see how some of these bikes match up with what commuters want.

Best types of bikes for commuting

There are plenty of options when it comes to bikes for commuting. Take a look at some of the models we recommend – from bikes designed to be used on the road, to ones that are practical on all terrains.

Best road bikes for commuting

A road bike is certainly a good choice for those who are keen racers, and can also be a good option for commuting.

Getting into the office on a road bike will likely be fine, but you may want to make a few adjustments for optimal travelling.

It might be best to swap out standard tyres for ones with a firmer grip in wet and wintry conditions. This will also reduce the likelihood of punctures, as they’re more rugged in comparison.

Be wary that a road bike might not endure as much wear and tear compared to other bike options, but with proper care and maintenance, they are sure to last.

Ammaco Pace Road Sports Bike (Blue)

Salcano GR001 Sora Gravel Bike (Black)

Tifosi Scalare Centaur Road Sports Bike Black and Red

Best hybrid bikes for commuting

You can’t go wrong with a hybrid, as they’re built to be an all-rounder bike without the hassle of being high-maintenance.

Hybrid bikes are also available in E-bike form and opting for the electric variant is often a no-brainer for many commuters. After a long day of work, it makes a huge difference in reducing the strain on your legs whilst also saving you money on your journey home.

Lectro Adventurer 26 Inch Wheel Electric Bike Silver Single Gear

Ammaco Road Runner Pro D Plus Sports Hybrid Blue

Dallingridge Harlow 700c Wheel Electric Bike Silver

Salcano Istanbul Commuter Hybrid Bike Cream

Best folding bikes for commuting

As we mentioned earlier, the compatibility element of a folding bike is often sought after by commuters.

They’ve also become increasingly popular with cyclists and recreational riders. They offer a convenient way to move around tight city streets, are lightweight, and are easy to transport which makes them perfect for busy city dwellers.

Our range of electric folding bikes can put some extra oomph into your commute, with all the benefits of a non-assisted bike. Take a look at some of our top picks below, or click here to see our electric folding bike range.

Falcon Flo Folding Electric Bike Black

Chill-e Low Step Folding Electric Bike Orange

Ammaco Pakka Metro 20 Inch Wheel Folding Bike Black

Are Mountain bikes good for commuting?

Unless you’re working in the woods, or maybe on a building site where the roads aren’t quite as flat as in a town or city, it might be better to consider another kind of bike.

Mountain bike tyres are better suited to off-roading, and the tyre knobbles will make it harder to journey on flat roads. As well as this, you also won’t really need the suspension mountain bikes come equipped with (since you won’t likely be doing huge jumps on the high street). Ultimately, you’d be spending more on features that would likely make your journey to work less efficient.

Whilst we’d probably recommend another type of bike, like a hybrid, mountain bikes are a quality off-road option. Below are just a few of our favourites, just in case you’re dead set on a brand-new men’s or womens’ mountain bikes!

Ampere Explorer Electric Mountain Bike Toxic Yellow

Ammaco Mountana Mountain Bike Orange Disc

Rock Machine Storm E90 29 Inch Wheel Electric Bike Black

Additional accessories

For the best possible commuter experience, there are always improvements you can make to your bike for better safety and comfort.

Mudguards

Particularly when it’s a wet and miserable day, you’ll benefit hugely from some mudguards.

They do a great job of catching any potential spray which might dirty up your smart work wear, meaning you can think more about what’s in front of you on the road.

Lighting

When the nights begin to draw in, it’s essential that you have the appropriate lighting. It is a legal requirement in the UK to have both front and rear lighting when riding at night, so make sure you adhere to these regulations.

Pannier racks

If the weight of your backpack / bag is too much or gets in the way, it can be dangerous to cycle along as it could throw off your balance.

To prevent a nasty accident, it might be worth installing a pannier rack so that you can better disperse the additional weight for your work gear. They’re certainly a good accessory to have, and there are many bags available which clip on securely, suiting your style and needs.

Clothing (waterproofs, hi-vis, etc.)

Additional clothing is a really great way of ensuring you’ll be seen on the road and also keep yourself warm and dry.

We mentioned in our How to Safely Cycle in the Winter blog that it is very important to be seen when it’s dark, for both your safety and the visibility of drivers so a hi-vis vest, jacket, or even armbands are sure to help.

After reading our guide on the best bikes for commuters, we hope that you now have the knowledge to get the right bike for commuting to and from work.

If you like what you’ve seen in our blog and would like to test out a bike in person, then feel free to visit us in any of our across the midlands and south of England. Our happy colleagues are always willing to help you find the right bike for your commuting needs.

The Electric Bike Buyer’s Guide

by amie.huiam.net | Dec 23, 2022 | Adult bikes, Cycling advice & tips

In recent years, electric bikes have become an increasingly popular choice for our customers both in-store and online. We see people of all ages investing in these kinds of bikes, as they combine all the traditional benefits with the power of an electric motor to help you ride further and faster.

If you’re thinking about buying an electric bike, there are definitely a few things you should consider before making your purchase. From the battery size you need, to safety concerns that you may have around an ebike, this guide will walk you through the key features you should look for when choosing an ebike.

Benefits of Electric Bikes

There are many advantages to owning an electric bike over ordinary bikes, here are our top three:

Motor assistance

If you’re out for a long ride or need to cover some hilly terrain quickly and easily, an electric bike can help get you there with less effort.

For commuters, an ebike really does help to take the strain out of your commute. After a long day at work, the power of electricity means a lot less strain on your legs, making what would be a strenuous ride on a standard bike far easier for the journey to and from the office.

The Falcon Flo Folding Electric Bike is a great choice for commuting. With a quality 36V 7.8Ah battery that fits in the rear of the frame and can be easily removed for charging, but securely locks in place when out and about. This folding bike can achieve up to 60km per charge!

Environmentally friendly

Additionally, electric bikes are more environmentally friendly than other forms of motorised transportation since they don’t produce emissions.

The majority of journeys (71% in England) made are under five miles, but cycling only accounts for less than 2% of all journeys. Imagine the money you could save if those short drives to pick up a few items at the shops or dropping the kids off at school were on an ebike.

Check out the Elswick 26 Inch Wheel Electric Bike, based on a classic Dutch sit-up riding position and with a handy basket, it has a powerful 250W BAFANG rear hub motor, 3 levels of power assistance and a walk-assist mode which is handing for walking the kids to school and powering your way home!

But if you are concerned that e-cycling is cheating, it’s not! Many studies have shown that e-bikers get plenty of very beneficial aerobic exercise. The vast majority of e-bikes have power level settings on the handlebar controls that let you dial down the power if you want more exercise or turn it up if in need of more assistance.

Feel young again with an ebike!

This is something that Adrian at our Benfleet store knows very well,

“An electric bike can extend your cycling career considerably. We have one gentleman who used to cycle around Epping Forest as a child, and now being in his 60s, his electric bike has helped him re-live all those nostalgic routes again.”

That extra push an electric bike can provide really does make all the difference to a person’s ride.

The Lectro EM-300 range of stylish electric mountain bikes are very reliable, and great for any adventurous cyclist who wants to keep powering away on and off-road. Their lightweight alloy frame supports an external down tube battery, alloy suspension forks with adjustable lock out and high speed brushless 250-Watt motor!

Efficiency & Safety Concerns

There are several factors to consider around ebikes which may impact your safety. It’s essential that you take your time to carefully evaluate if the product you like has these as standard.

Is the bike built well?

An electric bike should be designed with quality components that will last longer and provide a smoother ride. This means not only looking into the battery size (more on this in a minute), but the gears, wheels, chainset, and digital display to use the electric functions, to name a few.

Doing this is sure to make your bike last that bit longer, as not researching properly could lead to disappointment in years to come.

Are the brakes good enough?

Good brakes will ensure that your bike stops quickly when necessary.

With their heavier frames due to the motor and battery integration, any e-bike worth its salt will have disc brakes to stop the combined weight of you and the bike. This should be something you keep on the lookout for, as reduced stopping power can lead to accidents.

Does it have good lighting?

Finally, make sure that your bike has sufficient lighting so that you can stay safe in low-light conditions or at night.

There are plenty of electric bikes which come with front and rear lights which are battery-powered, making them a perfect choice for commuters on winter nights

We find that people really enjoy using the Chill-e Low Step Folding Electric Bike for going to and from work. The power assist is a dream after a long day’s work and the lighting is superb for when the nights begin to pull in.

Battery Life & Charging

The battery life of an electric bike depends on the type of battery used, as well as how often it is used. Look for batteries that are designed to last for at least 1–2 years with proper care and maintenance; some models may even last up to 5 years with minimal wear and tear!

Additionally, make sure that your battery is easy to charge. Most batteries can be recharged via wall outlets or USB ports in just a few hours—so you don’t have to spend too much time waiting for it to charge up again before heading out on your next adventure!

One bike that we recommend for a high mileage is the Ampere X-Trail 29 Inch Mountain Bike. The choice of the 14Ah battery option boosts the range to a very impressive 55 miles on a full charge, and takes 6 hours to recharge from empty.

Riding Electric Bikes in the United Kingdom

When getting an electric bike, you must understand the legislation around their proper use before actually riding. There are certain laws regarding where and how you can use them; for example:

You must be 14+ to ride an ebike

Only those aged 14 or over may legally ride an e-bike on public roads or cycle paths (with speed limits set at 15mph). Children below this age should not be out in public on an electrically assisted peddle cycle (EAPC).

It must be registered, taxed, and insured

You won’t need to have a specific licence to ride an electric bike, but since it is classed as an electrically assisted vehicle, you’ll need all the official documentation for it to be road legal.

There are plenty of insurance providers who you can visit, such as Money Super Market where you can get a quote for the bike you’ve got your eye on buying.

Always wear a helmet

Helmets must be worn at all times regardless of age group or location. This is no different for a non-powered bike, but considering the speed an electric bike can travel, it’s essential that you protect yourself.

We always recommend wearing Hi-Viz clothing too. And if you’re riding in low light remember that reflective attachments will help you be seen and safe!

For more information on e-bike regulations in the UK, you can visit our resources page, as well as the information available on the gov.uk website.

If you’re looking for an efficient way to get around town without having to rely on public transport or drive a car, then an electric bike might be just what you need!

Whether it’s cruising around town leisurely or taking on tougher terrain quicker than ever before – check out Cycle King & Hawk Cycles’ full range of adult e-bikes available here, we’ve got something perfect for everyone!

With this guide under your belt – what are you waiting for?