E-bikes and the future

Are e-bikes part of the new transportation revolution? During the warmer months and even year-round when the roads are not icy they can be seen out and about. These bikes sometimes look like scooters with their smaller wheels and headlights, but many look just like a mountain bike. Most e-bikes are hybrids meaning they are pedal powered, battery powered and a combination of both called pedal assist. They usually weigh a bit more than a regular bicycle, and their travel range depends on their use and battery capacity. Find more info online HERE.

Tax credits
A Colorado state e-bike tax credit will be available to residents starting on April 1, 2024. There will be a $450 discount off a qualifying e-bike purchase (at the point-of-sale) from one of several participating retailers across the state. A Colorado resident may receive the discount on the purchase of one e-bike from a participating retailer each calendar year. The purchaser is responsible for paying the full sales tax on the bike, even if the discount exceeds the bike’s price.
Visit the Colorado Energy Office online for information.

Do it yourself
For the mechanically inclined, or if one does not want to spend the money on a new e-bike, or both, for a fraction of the cost of a new e-bike, there are conversion kits to electrify an existing mountain bike. There are several products out there that generally have good reviews and are not overly challenging. Unfortunately, there currently are no rebates available for these kits.

Seven great benefits of an electric bike
1. Convenience and ease of use for anyone, including the elderly or disabled
2. Easier commute to work without excessive sweating
3. Energy efficiency. According to a study conducted by Efficiency Vermont, e-bikes were shown to displace meaningful amounts of driving miles.
4. Cost efficiency (no parking fees, no gas expenses, no high maintenance fees)
5. A cleaner alternative of transport for commerce and products for inner-city deliveries
6. No red tape! E-bikes are still considered a bicycle, so if you don’t like the process of registration or getting license plates or insurance, getting an E-bike can be a good choice!
7. Healthy and aids in stress relief from regular physical activity with the electric cycle