It has now been three years since I purchased my e-bike. It continues to be a fun toy that I use more and more. Recently, I reached the milestone of 1000 miles on the new bike. I’m now up to 1,065 miles.
The ‘acceleration’ in my usage has been remarkable. My mileage for the last three years looks like this: 200 miles, 400 miles, 450miles. Of course, this year’s biking isn’t even over, yet.
Related: e-Bike Update
While I recommend these pedal-assist (Class 1) bikes to my friends, it now comes with a bit of a warning. I’ve had three issues with the e-bike, all relating to the durability of the ‘e’ components.
First, the computer dashboard clip snapped off. The Shimano computer is just held on the handlebars with a plastic clip. I repaired it with some Velcro rather than spend $150 on a new computer. Second, some of the wires that go through the frame to the motor started shorting out the battery-power. Our friendly neighborhood bike shop had to drop the motor and rewire the system ($175). Lastly, a button on the handlebar ‘boost selector’ popped off. I was lucky that my wife found it on the garage floor. I was able to super-glue it back on.
Fortunately, my good friend owns the bike shop where I bought the bike (and my wife’s). He was able to expedite the repairs so that I didn’t miss a bike trip I took in Northern Minnesota. The wait for most repairs is 3 weeks right now. That’s a lot of time in our short summer.
I’m guessing the e-bike companies are collecting durability service data and making e-bikes more reliable for the future. My wife’s bike is the same make/model as mine, and she hasn’t had any repairs.
As the world (cars, appliances, etc) gets redesigned with chips & smart features it’s not surprising that these issues pop up. I’m hoping they are just growing pains in a new technology.
How much pedaling are you doing this year versus last?
Image: (c) MrFireStation.com
MrFireStation 
There were a couple articles last week that some new Amish orders have taken to E-bikes, because they are seen as an efficient means of transportation that requires without a heavy maintenance burden. I would suspect they found brands and setups that are very durable.
https://amishamerica.com/amish-e-bikes/
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“Easier to take care of than a horse”! Wow – I never would have guessed the Amish would be a market for these. We have a lot of Amish in WI & MN. I know the traditional ways they live are decided by their local bishop. I’m guess some are supportive of e-bikes, and some not. Very interesting!
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I don’t bike anymore since my Fuji bought in 1986 was stolen in 2019. My wife and I walk or take Light Rail to most destinations.
Do see e-bikes as a good solution for transportation for 3-5 miles. I’m still on the fence concerning their use on mountain bike trails. I don’t think motors are appropriate in those area. Some blur the line between e-bike and motorcycle
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Fuji – I had forgotten about that brand! Those were primo bikes back in the 1980s.
Some of the e-bikes are too much for trails. Legally, we can only use class 1 bikes on trails. They are pedal assist & top out at 20 mph (which is fast on a trail). Class 2 & 3 e-bikes don’t require pedaling. They are pure “throttle only” bikes. Class 2 is governed to 20 mph. Class 3 absolutely are electric motorcycles. Those shouldn’t be sharing paths with traditional bikes.
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