ALEXANDRIA, Va. —
Electric bicycles that now run on lithium batteries are becoming more and more popular and for a good reason. They make eco-friendly commuting easy and accessible. Asif Shakeel, CEO of Strictly Ebikes in Alexandria, spoke about the green benefits e-bikes have.
“The operation of an e-bike is zero emissions, so it doesn't contribute to greenhouse gases, and it keeps our air clean. [They] keep our roads less congested if more and more people stop using their cars for small trips around town,” said Shakeel.
E-bikes work by assisting riders as they pedal. A battery-operated motor helps propel the bike forward and the battery is rechargeable. Shakeel says, “They reduce emissions because they don't have a gasoline internal combustion engine. It's all renewable energy.”
E-bikes can help the environment, but they also have other benefits. More bikes and fewer cars can mean less traffic. With a bike, you won’t have to circle the block endlessly looking for parking and that can save you money.
“Not only do they provide environmental benefits, but they also provide economic benefits as well. So, imagine replacing your car with an e-bike to go to work and come back. Within a year the money that you would have spent on gas will pay for your e-bike," said Shekeel.
Over the years e-bikes have evolved. What were once heavy machines with clunky batteries and big price tags, are now lightweight, sleek bikes that are affordable and almost indistinguishable from a regular bike. But regardless of how much they change, one thing has stayed the same, they are a lot of fun!
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