There’s a sentence that still sounds slightly radical in much of America, even though millions of people elsewhere in the world would barely think twice about it: Every family should own an e-bike.
Sure, not every person and not every trip. Maybe not even as a complete replacement for cars. But as a standard household tool? Absolutely!
And before my readers outside the US roll their eyes and say, “Uh… yes, we already know,” that’s kind of the point.
In many parts of Europe and Asia, this argument has already been settled. Families there have spent years proving that electric bikes can replace huge numbers of short car trips, give kids more independence, reduce transportation costs, and improve quality of life in cities and suburbs alike.
Meanwhile, many Americans are still stuck thinking of bicycles primarily as toys, fitness equipment, or recreational gear. Some have gotten the memo and reaped the benefits, though the majority have yet to experience that eye-opening moment.
