The e-bike revolution is slowly but surely bringing more commuters around to the bicycle and new evidence, such as a new study by Shimano, is proving why the motorised bicycle is the perfect step from bus, train or car to bike.
New research shows that e-bike commuters sweat three times less than those who commute by regular bike while also having a core body temperature of almost 1C lower than those using a normal bike.
Shimano also found that e-bike commuters will also have an average heart rate that is 63 beats per minute lower than regular cyclists.
This came after Shimano launched research into the levels of exertion made by cycling commuters in a European city.
To find this, Shimano had six participants ride for 30 minutes in a regulated heat chamber set to 28deg C, firstly on a Shimano Step E6100 e-bike and then on a normal bike. Shimano then measured heart rate, core body temperature, the rate of perceived exertion, power output, sweat volume and pre and post-ride weight to create its results.
Alongside less sweat volume and lower body temperature, participants commented that their rate of perceived effort was much less for the e-bike than a regular bike, as could be expected.
In terms of visual difference, it comes as little surprise that the e-bike test also produced little or no sweat patches on their clothing as well as low physiological stress. Those on the normal bike experienced 'drenched' clothing and higher exertion rates.
These results together add further substance to the argument that those willing to give up public transport or driving to work for a greener and healthier method of transport, but unwilling to commit to normal cycling, should consider an e-bike.
Lead scientist at the Sports Science Agency, Jack Wilson, agreed with the e-bike providing the perfect compromise for unsure commuters.
'The main findings of this study show that using an e-Bike as opposed to a regular bike, commuters can complete their ride to work without concerns regarding sweat and physiological strain,' said Wilson.
'It’s fair to hypothesize that the benefits of exercise remain and that e-bikes may be a good introduction to those who feel they’re not sufficiently fit enough to attempt to cycle to work.'