E-bikes: zero-emissions vehicles that you get to ride
E-bikes are catching on fast, and are particularly well-suited to our active lifestyle on western Colorado. They combine the environmental advantages of electric vehicles with the low cost and health benefits of biking.
An e-bike is a bicycle with a battery-powered "assist." When you pedal, a small motor engages and gives you a boost. That's a big help on hills, and it makes it easier and faster to commute or travel longer distances than on a regular bike. Many e-bike owners find that they ride more, and drive less.
As with an electric vehicle, an e-bike has an onboard battery that you charge when not in use. The charger plugs into a regular electrical outlet, and a full charge will give you 35-50+ miles of assist (depending on a lot of variables). Assuming typical electricity rates, the cost of a charge is literally just a few pennies.
Great news for Glenwood Springs Electric and Holy Cross Electric customers! Both utilities now offer a rebate on the purchase of a new e-bike:
- Glenwood Springs Electric: Apply for a $200 rebate on our website using this form. (A lot of the questions pertain to home energy improvements, but just make sure to check the E-bikes box.)
- Holy Cross Electric: Apply via the HCE website, where you'll also find a handy list of local retailers that sell e-bikes. Unfortunately, the rebate has been reduced to $50.
