FAQS

Frequently Ask Questions

1) What are the advantages of electric bicycles?

 Discover the Many Benefits of Electric Bicycles:

• Speed and Efficiency: Get to your destination faster with an electric bike - say goodbye to traffic jams and long commutes!

• Convenient Errands: Skip the car for quick trips like picking up lottery tickets. Your e-bike makes short journeys effortless and enjoyable!

• Comfort and Style: Wear what you like without worrying about sweat or discomfort. Enjoy a ride that's as stylish as it is practical!

• Enhanced Carrying Capacity: Transport more with ease. An electric bike's cargo space allows you to carry groceries, gear, or anything you need without hassle.

• Confidence on the Road: Experience superior control and stability. Our e-bikes offer a smooth, controlled ride, giving you peace of mind on any route.

 2) Why Choose a Pre-Built Electric Bike Over DIY?

Choosing a pre-built electric bike offers numerous advantages beyond just saving you hours of assembly time. The main benefit lies in the seamless integration of all components. Ready-made electric bikes are engineered from the ground up, ensuring that every part, from the frame to the electrical system, works harmoniously together. This results in a bike that's not only tested and reliable straight out of the box but also designed with aesthetics and durability in mind. The wiring is often cleverly concealed within the frame, enhancing both waterproofing and the bike's sleek appearance.

3) Effortless Hill Climbing and Wind Resistance

One of the standout benefits of a quality electric bike is how it transforms challenging terrains into effortless rides. Hills seem to flatten out, and riding into the wind becomes a breeze—literally. This advantage not only boosts your average speed but also removes the dread of encountering steep inclines. With an electric bike, as long as you put in a moderate effort, you can effortlessly tackle hills and conquer gradients of up to 30 degrees or more. Say goodbye to the "UGH" factor and enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable cycling experience!

4) Enhanced Safety

It might sound surprising, but the statistics are clear: electric bikes can significantly improve your safety on the road. Consider navigating a steep, busy street where cars speed by at 60 km/hr. If you previously struggled at just 6 km/hr., an electric bike can boost your speed to 20 km/hr., significantly reducing the number of vehicles passing you. This increased speed not only means fewer cars around you but also greater control and stability. The same principle applies at intersections—faster acceleration allows you to clear them quickly, minimizing the risk of accidents. With an electric bike, you can ride with confidence, knowing you have the power to stay out of harm's way.

5) Cost Efficiency

While the initial purchase price of an electric bike may be higher than that of a conventional bicycle, the ongoing costs are surprisingly low. Mechanical wear and tear expenses are similar to those of traditional bikes, and the cost of electricity is negligible. However, there is an additional cost due to battery depreciation, resulting in an average running cost of about $0.04-$0.08 per kilometer, compared to $0.03 per kilometer for a conventional bicycle.

The real value of an electric bike shines when compared to the expenses of a moped or car. With cars costing approximately $0.50-$0.80 per kilometer, switching to an electric bike can lead to substantial savings. By replacing car mileage with an electric bike, you not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

6) Boost Your Personal Fitness

You might think a conventional bicycle is better for fitness, but the reality often depends on how frequently you use it. Research shows that 46% of traditional bikes are ridden only once or twice a week, with another 30% being used even less frequently—sometimes just once every two weeks or less. In contrast, a recent survey found that a third of electric bike owners ride their bikes daily, and 81% use them at least once a week.

Electric bikes are especially appealing in hilly areas, against strong winds, or when carrying heavy loads, making the riding experience more enjoyable and accessible. While the motor assists with up to half the effort, the increased frequency of use means that electric bike riders actually get more exercise overall. The convenience and fun of riding an electric bike encourage regular use, helping you stay active and fit.

7) No Sweat!

While sweat might not be a concern during a leisurely ride, it can be a significant issue if you're cycling to work. Unfortunately, most workplaces don't offer showers or other facilities for cyclists. An electric bike solves this problem at its source. In hot weather, you can let the motor take on more of the load, allowing you to maintain a comfortable pace without breaking a sweat. In cooler weather, you can rely on pedal assist for a balanced workout or switch to full pedaling if you're looking for more exercise. With an electric bike, you have the flexibility to control your effort and stay fresh, no matter the weather.

8) Clean & Green

While electric bicycles do consume energy, the amount is minimal compared to mopeds, motorcycles, or cars. The only consumables are the batteries, which should be recycled at the end of their lifespan. Electric bikes typically use just 100 to 150 watts of electrical energy, compared to the roughly 15,000 watts used by cars (which do travel faster). In terms of fuel efficiency, electric bikes achieve the equivalent of about 290 to 700 kilometers per liter—figures unmatched by any other commercially available vehicle.

To put this in perspective, consider a 100-watt light bulb left on for an evening. The energy consumed by that single bulb could power an electric bike for 35 to 70 kilometers. Electric bikes offer an eco-friendly and efficient alternative for short commutes and everyday travel, making them a smart choice for a greener lifestyle.

9) Faster travel

While cars can theoretically reach high speeds, urban congestion often reduces their average speed to below 15 km/hr. Motorcycles can navigate traffic more efficiently but are still restricted to the road network. In contrast, electric bicycles offer the best of both worlds: they can achieve higher average speeds than traditional bicycles while utilizing dedicated cycling infrastructure. This allows riders to access areas that cars and motorcycles cannot reach, often resulting in faster door-to-door travel times. With an electric bike, you can bypass traffic and enjoy a quicker, more efficient commute.

10) Why Choose an Electric Bike Over Traditional Transportation?

Many people are discovering that commuting on an electric bike is a far more economical and enjoyable way to travel. Not only does it provide significant savings on fuel and maintenance costs compared to cars, but it also offers a unique and pleasant riding experience. While electric bikes do require some maintenance, the expenses are only a fraction of what you'd spend on a car. Additionally, electric bikes provide a sense of freedom and ease, allowing you to navigate traffic and reach your destination more efficiently. Whether you're looking to save money, reduce your carbon footprint, or simply enjoy the ride, an electric bike offers numerous advantages over traditional modes of transportation.

11) How to Maintain Your MerryGo Electric Bike

Maintaining a MerryGo Electric Bike is quite similar to caring for a traditional bicycle. Contrary to popular belief, the upkeep of an electric bike doesn’t have to be costly. Our bikes use high-quality, brand-name components like Tektro brake pads, which are common in regular bikes.

To keep your MerryGo running smoothly and reduce long-term costs, follow these simple maintenance tips:

• Clean the Bike Regularly: Remove dirt and grime to keep all components functioning well.
• Keep Tires Inflated: Properly inflated tires improve efficiency and safety.
• Lubricate the Chain and Cables: Regular lubrication reduces wear and keeps the bike running smoothly.
• Charge the Battery Properly: Follow recommended charging practices to prolong battery life.

Additionally, it's advisable to have your bike serviced annually to ensure it remains in top condition. We recommend visiting your local bike dealer for any repairs and especially for the annual tune-up.

The most significant maintenance cost for any electric bike is the battery. At Merrygold, we use high-quality Samsung Lithium-Ion batteries. To maximize battery life:

• Store Indoors: Keep the battery at room temperature during cold weather to prevent freezing.
• Charge Every 3 Months: Even if not in use, charge the battery every three months to maintain its health.

By following these guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your MerryGo and enjoy a reliable and efficient ride.

12) Do electric bikes break more often than regular bikes?

Electric bikes DO NOT break down more frequently than traditional bicycles. In fact, 80% of the components on a typical electric bike are standard bicycle parts, so they share the same reliability as regular bikes.

Modern electric bike components are designed for durability. For example, brushless motors, commonly used in electric bikes today, have very few moving parts compared to older brushed motors, which means there's less that can wear out. Additionally, high-quality batteries from reputable manufacturers like Samsung are engineered to last for years with proper care.

On a well-built electric bike like the MerryGo, the electric components may even outlast the bicycle components, providing reliable performance over time. With regular maintenance and care, you can expect your electric bike to be as dependable as any traditional bicycle.

13) OACP - links (Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police)

Transport Canada

The new approach towards e-bicycles by Transport Canada is to first assess its on-road versus off-road design characteristics.

https://tc.canada.ca/en/road-transportation/importing-vehicle/importing-non-regulated-vehicles#power-assisted

 ONTARIO MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION