With rising gas prices, many Canadians are re-evaluating how they get around. With continuous surges in fuel prices, many are searching for alternatives. The benefits of commuting on a bicycle are plentiful: It’s good for the environment, saves you money, and can even be faster than getting stuck in traffic. However, not everyone likes the idea of an intense workout first thing in the morning. Commuting by electric bike allows you to experience the benefits of cycling without an intense workout. We’ve put together a guide to e-bikes. Examine what qualifies as one, the different types available, and your insurance options. Additionally, we explore cost-effective alternatives to purchasing a new bike.
What are E-Bikes?
An electric bicycle, or e-bike, is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that you can activate to assist you or replace pedaling. It is a two- or three-wheeled cycle with a seat, pedals, and an electric motor. An electric bike has a handlebar for steering, working pedals, and braking systems. To legally drive an e-bike in Canada, you must be at least 16 years of age and wear a helmet. No license is necessary due to the limited power, speed restrictions, safety features, and ease of use that these bikes offer. Your e-bike must meet specific requirements to operate legally on roads in Ontario. This includes its weight and speed limits.
Removing the pedals on your e-bike renders it a motor vehicle. You would then require a license, insurance, and registration to operate it. It is also illegal to modify your e-bike’s electric motor to increase its power or speed.
Operating an E-Bike
There are some legal requirements you must abide by to operate an e-bike:
- You need to be 16 years of age or older
- You must wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet
- Always keep your e-bike in good working order
- You must follow the same rules of the road as other cyclists
Where can you ride an E-Bike?
You can ride your e-bike on most roads and highways where conventional bicycles are permitted, with some exceptions:
- The 400 series, the Queen Elizabeth Way, the Queensway in Ottawa, or the Kitchener-Waterloo Expressway
- Any municipal roads, including sidewalks, bike paths, bike trails, or bike lanes, where e-bikes are prohibited
Did you know that these bikes are prohibited in recreational parks? If caught, you are subject to a fine of $250!
What Are The Different Types Of Electric Bikes?
According to the City of Toronto website, your e-bikes fall into one of two categories:
1. Pedal-assist (Pedelecs)
Pedelec is the collective name for electric-powered bicycles that offer pedal assistance. This is a traditional bike that only delivers power when you pedal. Pedelecs can be used on roads and all cycling infrastructure, including paths, parks, cycle tracks, and bike lanes. You can take your bike on ferries to the Toronto Islands if it has a wheel diameter of 26″ or larger.
2. Power-assist
Power-assist e-bikes operate solely by motor power and are only allowed on roads and within bike lanes. Your e-bike can be designed in a bicycle-style, scooter-style, or moped-style. Regardless of style or appearance, you do not require any muscular power or pedalling to move. You must comply with all laws in Ontario regarding electric bikes.
If you’re searching for an electric bike, there are several categories to choose from that suit your needs and style. These bikes come in various styles and uses that resemble traditional bicycles in function. To start commuting on an e-bike, you’ll need to choose the right model. Hybrid and foldable e-bikes are great commuter choices. Understanding your bike’s range, charging time, and how to secure it at your destination will help you ride it safely and effectively. To learn more about choosing the best e-bike, click here.
What is the Cost of an E-Bike?
Similar to traditional bicycles, electric bikes come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, offering a variety of features. While you can purchase an electric bike in the $600 range, it’s better to spend a little more to get a reliable model. The cheapest electric bikes cost approximately $600 CDN, while most reputable models are priced between $900 and $1,500. The highest bikes top out at $8,000. According to research by ebikeshq.com, there are over 450+ models. Most electric bikes (over 70%) fall within the range of $1,000 – $4,000. About 25% of these bikes are above $4,000, and very few (less than 5%) are below $1,000.
What Is an E-Bike Conversion Kit?
If the cost of a new e-bike exceeds your budget, there is an alternative option. You can transform a bike that you already love into an e-bike. By adding an electric bike conversion kit, you can purchase an electric bike for a lower cost. It may be just the answer to getting the boost in power you are after without the hefty price tag. There are several styles of e-bike conversion kits available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. For more information about e-bike conversions, click here.
E-Scooters: What’s the difference?
E-scooters in Canada are gaining popularity for urban commuting. However, their legal and insurance status varies widely depending on the province. Generally, e-scooters are not covered under standard auto insurance policies or personal liability coverage.
Unlike e-bikes, which are often treated similarly to bicycles (with no license or insurance required if they meet specific criteria, such as speed and motor limits), e-scooters usually fall into some gray areas. In some provinces, such as Ontario, pilot programs allow e-scooters under specific conditions, but insurance requirements remain unclear or optional. As a result, riders should check with local authorities and insurance providers to understand their coverage and liabilities.
Do You Need E-Bike Insurance?
If your regular bicycle is stolen, your home insurance typically covers the cost of replacing or repairing it. But an electric bicycle isn’t a regular bicycle. The cost of an entry-level e-bike starts at more than $1,000, and the average rider spends around $3,000 on their e-bike. A typical home insurance policy won’t be enough to cover the replacement or repair costs if your electric bike is stolen or damaged.
While you don’t have a legal requirement to insure your e-bike, don’t forget that there’s a chance you could be involved in a collision while riding. E-bikes are heavier and faster than regular bikes. These factors increase your chances of being involved in a crash, which can lead to causing damage to someone else’s property or bodily harm to a person. Without liability insurance, you may be personally liable and responsible for substantial financial liabilities. Having the proper insurance in place for an e-bike is a bit tricky. Some traditional home insurance companies consider an e-bike a motorized vehicle and, therefore, only offer limited coverage for theft, damage, or liability. Some auto insurance companies may not insure your e-bike because you’re not required to register the vehicle or hold a valid driver’s license.
Insurance Options
One option is to talk to your isure representative about adding custom coverage to your current policy. Remember, insurance policies are generally “off-the-shelf” and contain standard wording. Suppose your e-bike is not adequately covered for theft, damage, and liability under your current standard policy. In that case, it’s possible that your broker can add an endorsement that overrides the standard policy wording to provide you with the necessary coverage. Naturally, this will increase your monthly premium.
Insurance Coverage
While there are not many Canadian Insurers that cover E-bikes, there are some options. These insurers specialize in electric bike insurance and offer three coverage options. The cost of the coverage depends on the value of the bike being insured. For a person over 21 with no claims or thefts, the annual fee for fire, theft, and collision coverage on a $2,500 bike would be approximately $163. If the person has a $13,000 bike, the annual cost of fire, theft, and collision coverage will be $796. However, the costs may vary depending on the provider.
Currently, Canada is likely still testing the waters as it develops proper e-bike legislation. Hopefully, legislation will keep pace with the growing interest in e-bikes as a more affordable and environmentally friendly means of transportation on Ontario’s streets.
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