Electric Bikes: The Ultimate Solution for Grey Nomads

Tired of towing a small car behind your motorhome? Fed up with trying to pedal your cycle up steep hills? Too old to take up skateboarding?

Fear not. There are other solutions to the eternal big rig traveler’s local transport conundrum. For many Grey Nomads, electric bikes offer the perfect easily transportable, fun, accessible, affordable, and hassle-free means of exploring the area around their camp.

Advances in technology, reductions in prices, and changes to legislation have all helped e-bikes earn a space in increasing numbers of Big Lap rigs.

These ingenious machines are essentially bicycles with electric motors to assist propulsion. While there are many variations within the e-bike family, all retain the ability to be pedaled by the rider.

In Australia, there are currently two main options available:

Throttle-Controlled E-Bikes: The 200-watt throttle electric bike allows the rider to control it by the use of the throttle, by pedaling to make the motor work, or by using a combination of both. This means riders can use the throttle to get started on a ride or to go up a hill, and they don’t have to pedal all the time. It can also be useful to have that extra throttle control in pedestrian-heavy areas such as caravan parks or on boardwalks.

Pedelec (Pedal Assist) E-Bikes: The Pedelec is a pedal assist-only e-bike option. In 2012, the Federal Government increased the allowable motor size for these bikes from 200 to 250 watts, as long as the top speed is limited to 25 km/h. Many pedal assist bikes allow you to select different levels of assistance, depending on how energetic you’re feeling and how daunting the terrain is. Because the Pedelec is pedaling only, these bikes tend to have more range than those where throttle use is a temptation.

However, many Grey Nomads use their e-bikes off-road, where the 250-watt road-legal limit doesn’t necessarily apply. Off-road conditions often demand more power, especially for tackling steep hills and inclines that are common in Australia’s diverse landscapes. Travelers of a certain age may not have the same fitness and flexibility as younger riders, making a higher wattage motor and throttle control essential for their mobility and comfort. These features allow them to enjoy their journey without the physical strain that might come with a lower-powered bike.

E-bikes use rechargeable batteries, and as a rough guide, a standard 9 amp hour (Ah) battery provides a range of 30-40 kilometers. A flat battery typically takes 2-4 hours to charge.

Although a wide variety of e-bike frames are available, space restrictions in caravans and motorhomes make folding bikes particularly popular with nomads.

Pedl offers the widest range of foldable foldable electric bikes in Australia, designed specifically to meet the needs of Grey Nomads. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight option for easy transport, a more robust model for rugged terrains, or an e-bike with a powerful motor and throttle for off-road adventures, Pedl has something for everyone. Their e-bikes are built with quality components, ensuring durability and reliability on all your travels.

The huge divergence in features, quality, accessories, and warranty options on e-bikes means prices can range from less than $1,000 to several thousand dollars. As with all things, you tend to get what you pay for, so it’s well worth conducting thorough research, closely analyzing your needs, and buying from an established and reputable source like Pedl.