You’re ready to purchase your first electric bike, now that gas is at an all-time high, and you have no idea where to start. That’s OK! You’re in the right place.
Whether you’re brand new to ebikes or are transitioning over from a dirt bike, moped, or scooter, Vintage Iron Cycles is here to guide you every step of the way. Located on Clark Drive in Vancouver, in beautiful British Columbia, we’re a dedicated group of cyclists who are passionate about riding in style.
Ebikes aren’t new; in fact the first electric bicycle was patented between 1895 and 1897 – making them almost as old as cars. Interestingly enough, back in the late 19th century the electric bicycle and the Benz Patent-Motorwagen were very similar – with spoked wheels and wide seats, but vastly different powertrains.
What is incredible is that the hub motor that powers most modern electric bicycles was invented over 120 years ago, and is seen in several patent images dating back to the dawn of the ebike era. Some patents from the time contained multiple batteries, and multiple DC brushless motors that powered the wheels through rods or belts that surrounded the wheels.
Over time, as technology improved and motors became more efficient, countries like Canada began enacting electric bicycle laws to regulate the use of electric bicycles. Here in BC, for example, we need to follow Motor Assisted Cycle Regulation, whereas in other countries, such as those that belong to the European Union, have agreed to wider-ranging legislation covering use and safety of their term EPAC (electric pedal-assisted cycles).
Electric bikes here are considered a “motor assisted cycle”, which differs from electric mopeds and scooters, which are “limited-speed motorcycles.”
Essentially what this means is that motor assisted electric bicycles must have an electric motor of no more than 500 W, have fully operable pedals, and the motor must not be capable of propelling the device at a speed greater than 32 km. The engine must disengage when either the operator stops pedalling, an accelerator controller is released, or a brake is applied. A driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance are all not required, but as with all bikes, scooters, mopeds, and motorcycles, a bike helmet must be worn.
Even though we have all of these regulations, it doesn’t take away from the “fun factor” of cruising around Vancouver, hitting the seawall on a sunny day, and enjoying your fat bike off-road on the numerous trails in the Lower Mainland. Come down and check out Vintage Iron for your next electric bike, and leave here in style.