Are you on a hunt for the best electric bike for commuting? No? You should be!
Wouldn’t you just love to trade your traffic-prone car for a liberating, eco-friendly electric bike?
Picture this: you’re in your car, traffic is horrible, and you just want to go home. Out of nowhere, someone whizzes by on their scooter or electric bike, no care in the world. Now, imagine if this person was you.
Even if you don’t really know what you should look for in an electric bike, we do. We’re going to tell you what you need to look for in a bicycle.
We’ve also hand-picked some of the best electric bikes for commuting to make your life easier. All you need to do is read on and pinpoint your favorite bike!
Quick Comparison: Best Electric Bike for Commuting
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1. Emojo Cougar Electric Mountain Bike |
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2. EMOJO Lynx Pro Sport 500W 48V Folding Electric Bike |
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3. Fifield Seaside Electric Bike |
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4. Green Bike 500W USA GB2 Electric Cruiser |
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5. Jetson Adventure Electric Mountain Bike |
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6. Quietkat Villager Electric Bike |
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7. BAM Power Bikes Step-Thru |
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8. BAM Power Bikes EW Supreme |
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9. Fat Cat XL 500 Electric Bike |
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10. Big Cat Long Beach Cruiser XL 500 Electric Bike |
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Front-Wheel, Rear-Wheel, or Mid-Motor?
It’s essential to determine which kind of motor you want before picking a bike. Would you prefer a front-wheel, rear-wheel, or mid-motor drive?
Front Wheel
A front-wheel e-bike has the motor placed in the front of the bike. The motor is located in the middle of the wheel, so it powers the front wheel. Driving an e-bike with a front-wheel engine means that the bike is practically pulling you forward.
The fact that the motor is placed in the front means that the e-bike should be well-balanced. While every bike is balanced differently, front-wheel bikes typically have a more evenly distributed weight than others, but it’s not always the case. They’re a good fit for commuters.
Advantages
Several people prefer front-wheel electric bikes because of their advantages. The most noticeable thing about them is how natural they feel.
When you ride a bike, starting the ride takes some effort for you to push the bike forward, let alone an e-bike. Front-motor e-bikes don’t have this issue. The motor does that initial push, and it pulls you along for the ride. That’s why riders often describe front-wheel e-bikes as “natural” and “smooth.” You don’t really struggle to ride it, it’s quite easy.
It also doesn’t push you forward like rear motor e-bikes. Quite the opposite, you have absolute control over your bike. In addition, the motor powers the front wheel, and you pedal the back wheel so the cycle won’t drag its wheels, for the lack of better words. It’s all-wheels-on-deck, which will make your ride feel effortless.
Speaking of effortless, you won’t need to take these to the shop as frequently as you would other e-bikes. Front-motor e-bikes put much less strain on the bike’s chain than rear-motor bikes, so you won’t have to repair it often.
Not to mention, if you ever need to change any parts, it shouldn’t be a problem. The motor is distanced from the bike parts so that it won’t interfere with the process.
Disadvantages
So why can’t you make your decision yet? There are downsides to front-wheel drive e-bikes.
While the bike in itself is evenly balanced, this might just affect the option of suspension forks. It’s not impossible, there are plenty of front-wheel bikes with suspension, but this tips the bike’s balance forward. Some e-bikes don’t have this issue, but it’s a general concern, so you might want to look into it first.
Another slightly inconvenient thing, lifting the bike up the curb, might require more effort due to the front’s extra weight.
Some people find going uphill challenging and slippery, but this could be rectified. You can learn to distribute your weight evenly on the bike so that it doesn’t slip.
Rear Wheel
Rear-wheel motors are placed in the middle of the back wheel. This usually makes the weight heavier on the back of the bike, but it could be evened out by the battery and suspension forks’ location.
These are perhaps the best fit for people who prefer their e-bikes powerful. Consider a rear-wheel motor if you don’t stick to paved streets and prefer taking detours over rough terrain. You could use them for commuting too, they’re definitely up for the job.
Advantages
Rear hubs can withstand high motor powers, which means you can have some fun with them.
The motor placement means that your weight, and any additional weight you might add on the rear rack, will be supported by your engine (including your eventual backpack!). This gives you better traction, which means better safety.
With most of the weight at the back, this leaves the front end light. You can easily maneuver your bike with little to no interference from its weight.
Disadvantages
Since the motor is in the middle of the wheel, changing the wheel proves challenging to do. It also limits your options, chaining you to certain kinds of wheels and pedaling gears.
These e-bikes are also high-maintenance as a result of the weight load directly on the motor. It wears down quickly.
Mid Motor
Motors can also be placed towards the middle of the bike. Also known as hub-motor bikes, the engine also powers the rear bike. It’s typically positioned low on the bike, which provides better balance due to the lower central gravity.
Mid-motors are recommended for mountain bikers due to their actual weight. They’re also great for commuting but not in places with lots of hills.
Advantages
The placement of the motor in the middle of the bike means it’s less exposed as it would be on the wheels. This helps preserve it so you won’t need to change it a lot.
These e-bikes are pretty well-balanced; they’re light, easy to ride, and enjoy! Your wheels are free to change however you like!
Nothing limits your choice of tires, so you should be able to drive off-road and enjoy your adrenaline-filled ride.
You can add suspension as you would any regular bike without worrying about the balance.
Disadvantages
The motor uses the chain, so you’re going to have to replace the chain regularly.
While these bikes are an amazing option for mountain bikers, they’re not the best when it comes to jumping over obstacles. This would expose the motor and could break it.
Hills are a challenge as well since these bikes only have one drivetrain. You should beware of using high powers, or else you might need to replace the motor often.
Best Electric Bike for Commuting: Top 10 Reviews
Check out our top 10 list of the best electric bikes for commuting.
1. Emojo Cougar Electric Mountain Bike
Description
Emojo Cougar Electric Mountain Bike is for commuters who like living on the edge. Not because it’s dangerous but because you can take it on a little adventure.
Mountain bikes are rigid, and the Cougar is no exception. Its motor is strong enough to handle descents or ascents. Forget about panicking upon the sight of hills, the Cougar can handle it. With the dual-disc brakes in place, you’re going to be in complete control of your e-bike.
The Cougar’s also lightweight, which means it doesn’t weigh you down towards any side, so climbing and descending hills shouldn’t be an issue. This makes it easier to maneuver, especially when it comes to bumpy rides.
Speaking of bumpy rides, they’re smooth, thanks to the air-adjustable DNM rear-shock. The Cougar is comfortable for long hours of commuting and off-terrain adventures!
Features and Specifications
- DC Brushless 500W Motor
- 48V/10.4 Ah lithium-ion battery
- Range: 30 miles
- 3 modes: eco, normal, and power
- Rear hub motor
- Aluminum frame
- Full suspension
- Suntour front suspension
- Air-adjustable DNM rear shock
- Shimano Tourney 29-Speed gearing and shifters.
- Tektro hydraulic dual-disc brakes
- Twist throttle
- Smart pedal-assist system
- LCD screen
- Load Capacity: 330 lb
- Weight: 59 lb (with battery)
- Warranty: Contact the Seller
Pros
- Hydraulic dual-disc brakes
- The LCD screen makes it easy to set the settings and change them
- USB outlet to charge devices is convenient
- Charges within 4 – 6 hours
- Aluminum frame prevents rust
Cons
- Not for hardcore mountain bikers
Video: Emojo Cougar 48 Volt 500 Watt Test
2. EMOJO Lynx Pro Sport 500W 48V Folding Electric Bike
Description
Another top-ranking Emojo, Lynx Pro Sport Folding Electric Bike is another road-friendly e-bike. When we say road-friendly, we mean all kinds of roads.
Whether you’re driving on a paved road or rough terrain, Lynx Pro will keep up. The fat tire is designed to handle unpaved roads smoothly. You can go ahead and take that shortcut through the woods without worrying about toppling over or damaging your e-bike.
The tires absorb the bumps along the way, which gives the rider the comfort needed for long commuting hours. Add to that the generously-sized leather-wrapped seat, and comfort is practically a guarantee.
As the name suggests, with Lynx Pro Sport, you can exercise those muscles by using the pedal without any help from the motor. Going home from work, you might be too wiped. In this case, you can turn on the throttle and save your energy!
Features and Specifications
- DC brushless 500W motor
- 48V/10.4Ah lithium-ion battery
- Range: 30 miles
- Rear hub motor
- Aluminum-foldable frame
- Rigid frame (no suspension)
- Shimano 7-speed transmission
- Front and rear mechanical Tektro-disc brakes
- 4″ Fat tires
- Twist throttle
- Pedal-assist mode
- LCD screen
- Load Capacity: 230 lb
- Weight: 59 lb (with battery)
- Warranty: Contact the Seller
Pros
- 4 – 6 hours until fully charged
- Smooth ride on rough terrains
- Foldable for versatility and easy storage
- Not as bulky as most fat-tire e-bikes
Cons
- Can’t handle hills
- Heaviness makes it slightly harder to maneuver
Video: Emojo Lynx Folding Electric Bike
3. Fifield Seaside Electric Bike
Description
Seaside is a likely competitor for your car.
Whereas most e-bikes come up short when it comes to transporting stuff, Seaside can actually do it. It sports a back-rack, which is pretty handy when it comes to going shopping, to the gym, or even to spend the night somewhere.
It can even go the distance with you! Seaside can go a long way on a single charge, which makes it even more convenient. It can take you further than other e-bikes, and it won’t be an awkward ride.
Your weight would be evenly distributed on the bike, courtesy of the rear-drive and suspension fork. You can control your bike without much trouble.
Even the weather shouldn’t make your ride less graceful. The braking system is practically weather-proof, so you can easily pull up without skidding even if it’s raining. Don’t fear for your bike either, the internal gears are well protected.
Features and Specifications
- 350W rear-drive brushless motor
- 36V/14.5Ah lithium battery
- Range: 30-50 miles
- Aluminum alloy frame
- SR Suntour fork suspension
- Shimano Altus 9-Speed gear system
- Tektro mechanical disc braking system
- Twist throttle
- pedal-assist
- LCD screen
- Load Capacity: 286 lb
- Weight: 45 lb (with battery)
- Warranty: 2-year on frame, battery, motor
Pros
- Can drive up to 50 miles per charge
- Front and rear lights included
- Has a bell
- Rear carrying rack
- Comes with free fenders
- Tires are reflective for clear visibility
- 2-Year warranty on the frame, battery, and motor
Cons
- Can’t handle high speeds
Video: How Can I Commute by Electric Bike?
4. Green Bike 500W USA GB2 Electric Cruiser
Description
Green Bike GB2 is a commuter-approved e-bike.
One of the main reasons for that is its unique safety system. GB2 is built to make sure you’re safe on the streets. Like any other vehicle, you can use signals to warn nearby drivers of what your next move will be. You can safely mingle with cars, fear not!
What’s really impressive about GB2 is its range. Charge it once, and it can take you as far as 50 miles. This is further than the average electric bike goes, which is another reason why it made our list.
You’d think that this means it takes a long time to charge fully. Not even close! You can have your bike up and ready within 3-6 hours.
What makes it even more convenient is that this is a foldable bike.
Features and Specifications
- 8 FUN 500W motor
- 36V/10.4AH fast-charging lithium Samsung battery
- Range: 50 miles
- 9 levels of pedal assist
- Rear hub motor
- Aluminum frame
- Front suspension fork and suspension seat
- Shimano 6-speed gear
- Front and rear Tektro disc brakes
- Thumb throttle
- LCD screen
- Front and Rear LED lights
- Left/right turn signals
- Brake light
- Electric horn
- Weight: N/A
- Warranty: Contact the Seller
Pros
- Turn signals and brake lights for safe commuting
- Front and back LED lights for night visibility
- Reflective tires for added safety
- Little charging time
- Can go up to 50 miles per charge
- Folds for easy storage
Cons
- Heaviness affects the braking speed
Video: 5 Tips to Maximize E-Bike Range
5. Jetson Adventure Electric Mountain Bike
Description
Jetson Adventure Electric Mountain Bike is an intuitive e-bike that poses as a regular bike.
Not everyone can tell that it’s actually an e-bike because it looks like all other bikes.
The battery is stashed inside the bicycle’s frame.
Add to that the fact that there’s no throttle, and you really would think it’s a regular bike.
Unlike most electric bikes, Jetson Adventure e-bike doesn’t have a throttle you can use to ride it. This does have its downsides, there’s no denying it, but it makes this bike more intuitive than the rest.
That’s because the only thing you need to do to get it on the road is pedal. No twisting of anything, you just pedal, and the motor automatically kicks in. Think about how handy this can be if you’re stuck in traffic; you won’t have to keep starting your bike over and over.
Speaking of traffic, the seat is shock-absorbent. You can take it beyond the paved roads for a quick adventure, pun intended, in the woods.
Features and Specifications
- 250-watt rear hub motor
- 36V 7.8Ah Panasonic lithium-ion battery
- Range: 40 miles
- 9 levels of pedal assist
- Aluminum frame
- Front suspension
- 21 Shimano gears
- Front and rear disc brakes
- LCD screen
- LED headlight and taillight
- Load Capacity: 300 lb
- Weight: 42 lb
- Maximum weight is 300 lb
- Warranty: Contact the Seller
Pros
- Front LED light and rear brake lights make it safe to drive at night
- 40 miles is a great driving range
- Lightweight for versatility
- Easy to ride and maneuver
- Many speed options for you to choose from
Cons
- No throttle, so pedaling is a must
- Handlebars’ design could be improved
Video: Jetson Adventure – A Guide to Your Ride
6. Quietkat Villager Electric Bike
Description
Quietkat has released an urban e-bike just for commuting. The Villager electric bike is a powerful bike that’s designed to carry you through the streets, smooth as smooth can be.
While heavier e-bikes tend to be harder to control, the Villager’s motor has enough juice to make your ride effortless and enjoyable. Hills aren’t an issue, you can cruise through them like a pro.
Because power can be a double-edged sword sometimes, Quietkat has built-in brakes that can keep up with the motor so you can stop whenever you want.
The Villager sports 5 levels of pedals assist to give the rider control over his ride. You can alternate between them or go fully on the throttle with no effort at all.
Features and Specifications
- 500W Rear hub motor
- 48V/11.6 Ah battery
- Range: 20-40 miles
- Mid-drive motor
- 10 mm coil suspension fork
- Shimano 7 gears
- 203 mm Tektro mechanical disc brakes
- Twist throttle
- 5-Level pedal-assist
- LCD screen
- Load Capacity: 325 lb
- Weight: 59 lb
- Warranty: Contact the Seller
Pros
- Comfortable for long riding hours
- Designed for both men and women
- Fenders already installed to protect the riders and the bike
- Sturdy enough and can last for years
- Reflectors, front and rear lights ensure your safety
- 3″ Tires provide smooth rides on rough grounds
- The suspension keeps you from feeling the brunt of the bumps
Cons
- Bulky frame
- Heaviness makes it hard to transport
Video: QuietKat 2020 Villager Overview
7. BAM Power Bikes Step-Thru
Description
If you enjoy powerful bikes, make sure you check out BAM Power Bikes Step-Thru.
Its whopping 750-watt motor might just be up your alley, pun intended. With this amount of power, you can fly through town on your e-bike! You can charge your phone while you’re at it, there’s a USB outlet!
Step-Thru can be your shopping companion. Go buy your groceries and load them on the rear rack, this e-bike can take the extra weight.
Let’s talk about comfort; the seat is Velo plush, which means commuting shouldn’t be an issue!
Features and Specifications
- Shengyia 750 Watt motor
- 48 V/14AH lithium-ion battery with Samsung cells
- Range: 25-45 miles
- Rear-hub motor
- Aluminum frame
- 80 mm front fork suspension
- Shimano 7-speed gears
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes
- Twist throttle on/off button
- 5-Level pedal-assist
- LCD screen
- Rear rack
- Load Capacity: N/A
- Weight: 62 lb
- 5-Year warranty
Pros
- Front and back fenders installed
- The rear rack is installed
- Front and rear LED lights for night safety
- Very sturdy frame Can go up to 45 miles per charge
- Confortable Velo Plush seat
Cons
- Hard to assemble
- Weight might cause a problem for some people
Video: BAM Step Thru
8. BAM Power Bikes EW Supreme
Description
Another BAM e-bike, EW Supreme might be a great choice for those who live in extreme weather conditions.
It has Kendra Juggernaut tires made of a dual-compound tread. In other words, its grip is superb. Even when you ride on sand and snow, you should be pretty safe with these 4″ fat tires.
Combined with the 80 mm suspension, you will not only be safe, but your ride should be steady.
The Tektro brakes are built to make the e-bike come to a stop regardless of the weather conditions or speed, so you should be in pretty good, well, wheels.
Features and Specifications
- Bafang 750 Watt motor
- 48 V/14AH lithium-ion battery with Samsung cells
- Range: 25-45 miles
- Mid-drive motor
- Aluminum frame
- 80 mm front fork suspension
- Shimano 7-speeds
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes
- 4″ fat tires
- Twist throttle on/off button
- LCD screen
- Rear rack
- Load Capacity: 275 lb
- Weight: 68 lb
- 5-Year warranty
Pros
- Can go up to 45 miles on one charge
- Night rides are safe with the front and back LED lights
- The powerful motor can make riding easy
- You can alternate between pedaling and going fully on the throttle
- Optional front and back racks for convenience
Cons
- Can be too heavy for some people
- Brakes need improvement
Video: BAM Nomad Supreme
9. Fat Cat XL 500 Electric Bike
Description
Fat bikes are generally built for rougher use than commuting so that they can handle paved roads well.
Fat Cat XL 500 Electric Bike is a good choice for its strong wheels. They’re 4″ thick and can practically go over anything. Sand, snow, rain, and gravel won’t stop it. This e-bike’s speed is quite impressive. Daredevils will love it.
It’s also convenient to charge. The battery is visible behind the seat tube. You can easily remove it for charging and reattach it. Charging while it’s attached to the bike is also an option.
Features and Specifications
- 500 Watt motor
- Lithium-ion 48V12Ah battery
- Range: up to 30 miles
- Rear-hub motor
- Aluminum frame
- Rigid frame
- Shimano Acera 7 gears
- Front and rear Tektro mechanical disc brakes
- 4″ fat tires
- On-demand throttle
- LCD screen
- Rear rack
- Electric Horn
- Load Capacity: 295 lb
- Weight: 63 lb
- Warranty: contact the seller
Pros
- Goes uphill without problems
- The rear rack is included
- Durable frame
- Loud horn, front, and rear lights provide safety
Cons
- The rear is distinctly heavier when carrying the bike
Video: Fat Cat XL quick test
10. Big Cat Long Beach Cruiser XL 500 Electric Bike
Description
If you live near the beach or sand in general, check out Big Cat Long Beach Cruiser. It’s like a beach cruiser 2.0.
Whereas most beach cruisers have balloon tires, which significantly limits the speed, this one sports 4″ tires. These fat tires give you the ability to ride over all sorts of terrain, not just sand, without losing any traction or giving up your speed.
The motor lends your bike strength for a power-charged ride. Nothing should hold you back!
Features and Specifications
- 500 Watt motor
- Lithium-ion 48V12Ah battery
- Range: up to 30 miles
- Rear-hub motor
- Aluminum frame
- Rigid frame
- Shimano Acera 7 gears
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes
- 4″ fat tires
- On-demand throttle
- Pedal-assist
- LCD 3″
- Rear rack
- Front LED light safe night riding
- Load Capacity: 295 lb
- Weight: 63 lb
- Warranty: contact the seller
Pros
- Front LED light safe night riding
- Long-lasting battery
- Back rack for carrying belongings
- Front basket included for smaller items
Cons
- Heavy to transport and carry
Video: Big Cat Long beach Cruiser XL 500 Electric Bike
Pedal-Assist Vs. Throttle Ebike
Some e-bikes feature pedal-assist, and others have throttle only. What’s the deal with that?
Pedal-Assist
Going on pedal-assist mode means that you’re going to pedal your way down the street. Just like you would a regular bike, you’re going to have to put your legs into it. However, there’s more to it than that.
Think of it as a real bike and an exercise bike combined. You can choose the pedal-assist level, which means you can adjust the amount of resistance you get from the pedals.
Low ranges of pedal-assist mean that you will be doing most of the heavy lifting with little work from the motor.
Little effort goes a long way when it comes to high pedal-assist. These involve your trusty e-bike doing most of the work while you relax and lightly pedal.
Of course, you can choose a medium-range, where you’ll be doing a decent amount of exercise but not too much that you tire right away. This would be perfect for long-distance rides; you exercise for a while without overexerting yourself.
Throttle
Throttle, on the other hand, is where you just kick back and relax. Your ride fully depends on your motor, just like a motorcycle, with zero effort needed.
You might think that the whole purpose of getting a bike is to exercise and that the throttle defeats that purpose but think again. It’s much more practical than you can think. If you wish to use your e-bike as your main transportation vessel, then trust us, you want the throttle option.
What if you’ve just finished a long day at work and just don’t have any energy left? How about if you have a meeting to go to, do you really want to arrive looking like you’ve just been in a marathon? Believe is when we tell you throttle is super important, don’t dismiss it.
Which One to Choose?
We would say your best bet would be to choose an e-bike that has both features.
Having pedal-assist only means that you’re going to have to pedal no matter the situation you’re in, which can be impractical sometimes.
On the other hand, throttle only means that you can pedal, but there will be no help whatsoever. This means that you’ll be doing all the heavy lifting by yourself, which can be very strenuous.
Therefore, we encourage you to choose both, so you keep your options open on the off-chance you end up needing them one day.
FAQs
Here are some answers to questions people are asking about the topic.
Are electric bikes worth the money?
Electric bikes can cost between a couple of hundred bucks to a couple of thousands. Generally speaking, an e-bike can be much cheaper than a car.
It’s environmentally friendly, makes you exercise, and isn’t as traffic-prone as cars are. If these things appeal to you, then it will definitely be worth the money.
Do electric bikes count as exercise?
Absolutely! Using the pedals can count as an exercise, just like any regular bike. It might even be a better exercise since they’re typically more massive than traditional bikes.
Is riding an electric bike safe?
Electric bikes are generally heavier than regular bikes. This, combined with their higher speeds and versatility, makes it very important that you pay attention to your surroundings.
As long as you’re fully aware of your surroundings while you’re riding and wearing a helmet, you shouldn’t be in any more danger than you’d be driving any other vehicle.
Why buy an electric bike?
Electric bikes can be pretty convenient to have.
They can travel around 20 mph, which is quite faster than regular bikes. Not to mention, they’re more versatile than cars so you can avoid traffic.
They’re also more environmentally friendly, which means you’ll save a decent sum of money if you use them over your cars.
E-bikes can keep you healthy and in shape; you’ll be exercising as you would on any bike. You might end up canceling your gym membership!
Can electric bikes work in the rain?
Yes, e-bikes are supposed to be rain-resistant, but it’s probably for the best if you invest in a fender for your bike.
The only problem you might encounter if you live somewhere where it rains regularly is staying dry yourself! Make sure you have a raincoat at all times.
Conclusion and Best Offer
You’re now ready to make your decision! Which bike is your favorite so far? Don’t worry, we’re still here for some final advice.
We recommend the 2020 Quietkat Villager Electric Bike.
Best Offer
It’s the best offer since it practically has it all! Its motor is tough, the brakes can handle the size, power, and speed, you can alternate between pedal-assist and throttle, and it’s comfortable for long-distance rides!
The Alternative
If you want something lightweight, we suggest the Jetson Adventure Electric Mountain Bike.
It can take you as far as 40 miles on a single charge, which is further than most e-bikes. We also love how you just jump on and pedal, just like any regular bike.
Jetson Adventure Electric Mountain Bike
Don’t forget that it has no throttle, though. You’ll only have pedal-assist with this one, which means you’re going to have to pedal all the time.
