I’m contemplating getting an e-bike for my motorhome, but I’m hesitant due to concerns about battery fires. Being in good shape, I can still ride my traditional bike. Additionally, the expense and potential theft of e-bikes are other considerations.
My e bike has a three-way locking system - removing the console disables the bike, the bike also has a frame lock which also locks the wheels, making it impossible to move - and then I have a titanium U-lock.
My son-in-law’s garage was broken into one night - (he has a camera in the garage) - the bike frames were thankfully locked - the thieves tried to move the bikes, couldn’t - and gave up.
Our bikes are also insured.
Get one with a removable battery and you can charge it separate from the bike.
Retirees putt around the neighborhoods at about 10mph but those whom we might call “Florida Man” use them as primary transportation and cruise along closer to 20mph on the major roads. Most of the “Florida Man” group have lost their licenses to drive because of DUI convictions and are very likely to still be under the influence while riding e-bikes.
The risk of fire with a standard, un-tampered-with battery and charger pair from a recognized manufacturer is extremely low. Don’t try to charge the battery when frozen, of course.
Theft is much greater concern, even if you remove the battery. Lots of things can be removed from securely locked bike with a few tools or even no tools. Whole thing has to be inside and not visible.
Wife and I both have ebikes we take RV camping. We LOVE them.
I don’t wear a helmet, wife does. I don’t worry about the fire issue. Do you worry about the explosion issue with gasoline? Propane?
Speed? Most dumb bikes can pedal faster than my ebike. Putting on a yellow shirt doesn’t make you Lance Armstrong.
Dumb bikes crash too.