With the return-to-school season here, now is the time to prepare. For parents, that could mean packing lunches and washing uniforms. For students, that could mean readjusting their sleep schedule and arranging transport.
Regardless of what school preparation means to you, making life easier for students is vital to improving their academic performance, health and wellbeing, and social life. As unlikely as it may seem, an electric bike can help students have a happier and healthier lifestyle.
In this article, you will learn about ebike’s for back to school, the best models for different age groups, and safety tips for students.
Can Students Ride Electric Bikes to School?
That depends on your local electric bike laws and regulations, and those of your school district. Some U.S. states have minimum age requirements for electric bike riders, which can be as low as 14 years old, as in Alabama and Michigan.
Not every school permits the use of electric bikes on school grounds. This choice may be made for safety or compliance reasons. For example, to reduce the risk of serious harm or injury to staff and students. Check with your school’s rules to determine their stance on electric bikes.
Benefits of Riding Electric Bikes to School
Like adults, students benefit from riding electric bikes in many ways. Reduced travel costs, improved fitness, and improved mental wellbeing are just some of the many benefits. Let’s explore those in greater detail.
Reduced Travel Costs
Cars have a lot of upfront and ongoing costs. These include the initial purchase price and the cost of fuel, maintenance, registration, and insurance. According to USA Facts, the annual cost of car ownership in 2023 was around $12,182 for 15,000 miles of driving.
Electric bikes, by comparison, are much more affordable. Starting prices for electric bikes are around $999, and they cost only a few hundred dollars to maintain each year. Also, riding an electric bike can help you avoid public transport costs like bus, train, and taxi fares.
Improved Fitness
While e-cycling is less physically intense than conventional cycling, it still has many health benefits.
E-cycling comes with a 25% risk reduction in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. These include high blood pressure, obesity, and unfavorable lipid panel results. Studies show that people ride more often and longer when e-cycling, too.
Easy Parking Access
By swapping out the car for an electric bike, students don’t have to worry about finding a parking spot anymore. Instead, they can ride close to the school entrance (or the nearest bike shed) and lock their bike securely.
Not only is this faster than finding a conventional parking spot, but it’s also cheaper as you do not need to pay for parking fees.
What Features Are Essential for Student Riders?
Buying an electric bike for back to school? It’s important to choose one with the right safety, performance, and comfort features.
Safety accessories like headlights and taillights allow riders see in low visibility. This is especially important during the morning fog and at dusk when the sun is setting. For young riders, choose an ebike with a low-powered motor and the ability to limit the top speed.
For comfort, choose an electric bike with a height-adjustable seat and handlebars. You may also want to consider one with a step-through frame. Without a horizontal top tube, step-through frames make it easier to mount and dismount the ebike.
What are the Best Ebikes for Elementary Schoolers?
Elementary schoolers are young riders who need certain comfort and safety features. Height-adjustable seats and handlebars let young riders adjust for a comfortable sitting position. An adjustable max speed prevents young riders from going too fast, as well.
What are the Best Ebikes for Middle School Students?
Middle schoolers are more confident and capable riders than elementary schoolers. This means they can ride at faster speeds, ride for longer, and navigate trickier terrain. However, they still need essential safety features like max speed limiters.
For reference, 13-year-olds can handle speeds of 10 to 12 mph and a distance of 12 to 15 miles. Also, if your little one does light off-roading, you can choose a fat tire electric bike.
What are the Best Ebikes for High School Students?
High schoolers (16 years or older) can handle higher top speeds and rougher conditions. Depending on their skills and experience, they may be able to ride at 28 mph and up to 30 miles or longer.
Also, most high schoolers are not subject to the same age restrictions of younger riders.
What are the Best Ebikes for College Students?
College students can ride any electric bike that an adult can ride. Therefore, you should base your decision on the rider’s ability and confidence.
If you’re a college student buying an electric bike for yourself, set a reasonable budget. You can get a quality electric bike for as little as $999. These ebikes have powerful motors and long-distance batteries with various tire sizes.
College students can also get foldable ebikes. They can be folded into a compact size for easy and convenient storage. Foldable ebikes can be carried up and down stairs as well as on trains too.
Safety Tips for Students to Follow While Riding to School
E-cycling is a great way for students to spend more time outdoors and socialize. However, they need to be aware of the safety risks – especially when crossing roads and navigating through pedestrians.
Here are some of the most important safety tips for students to follow:
- Always wear a bicycle helmet and ensure it fits correctly.
- Stop and look both ways before crossing the street
- Obey all traffic signs and traffic lights
- Use hand signals when turning
- Wear bright-colored clothing when riding at night or in fog
- Don’t talk or text on the phone while riding
Final Thought
Whether it’s starting a new school year or term, an electric bike is a great alternative to walking, driving, and public transport.
As well as saving money on public transport and car maintenance, student riders enjoy improved fitness and mental health. Best of all? The pedal assist allows student riders to climb steep hills and navigate tricky terrain easily.
Ride to school in style and comfort with an electric bike from Heybike.
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