A decade or so ago, you might not have known anyone with an electric bike. These days, they seem to be everywhere—and their numbers are growing. Industry advisor, eCycleElectric, reports that 2.2 million e-bikes were imported to the US in 2025. That represents a growth of 29% over 2024.
So, are you ready to join the battery-powered ranks? Or is the traditional, pedal powered model more your speed? If you are on the fence, take this quiz and see which way you lean.
Circle A or B
1. Which better sums up your riding philosophy?
A. I want cycling to feel easier and more accessible
B. I want to enjoy the simplicity and pace of a traditional ride
2. How do you plan to use your bike?
A. Commuting to work, running errands, and getting around efficiently
B. Exercise, fitness, and building endurance
3. How far is your typical ride?
A. 10+ miles
B. Shorter–maybe just a few miles
4. How often do you think you’ll ride?
A. Daily or several times a week
B. Occasionally, maybe once on the weekend
5. What type of terrain will you be travelling on?
A. Rough surfaces or substantial climbs
B. Generally flat terrain or rolling hills
6. If you need to lift your bike, how much weight can you handle?
A. I’m fairly strong and can lift 45 to 70 pounds
B. I’d rather keep it between 10 to 30 pounds
7. How often do you carry cargo, groceries, or extra gear?
A. Frequently
B. Rarely
8. How do you feel about upkeep?
A. Charging a battery and doing/getting occasional maintenance is okay
B. I prefer to keep things easy
9. How do you feel about arriving sweaty?
A. I’d rather arrive fresh and energized
B. That’s fine. It’s more about the workout
10. Which sounds more like you?
A. It would be fun to push the distance and reach a targeted destination
B. I am content with shorter trips
11. What is your current fitness level?
A. I am not in the best of shape or I have physical limitations
B. I’m reasonably fit and comfortable with cycling a good distance
12. What’s your budget?
A. $1,500 or more
B. Under $1,500
Scoring
More A’s than B’s
You’d benefit from pedal assist and an e-bike may remove barriers that keep you from riding more often.
More B’s than A’s
You enjoy cycling and may not need pedal assist. You appreciate the lower cost, lighter weight, simpler maintenance, and fitness benefits of a traditional bike.
5–6 each of A’s and B’s
You could go either way. Try this if you are unsure: Imagine you’ve won at a fundraiser and can choose one of these prizes. Would you pick:
• An electric bike worth $3,000
• A traditional bike worth $3,000
Sometimes an emotional answer overrides a logical one.
TIP:
If you are thinking about purchasing an e-bike, consider renting one first to get a better idea of the features you might want. Here are some options:
Bishops Bicycle
Milford & Milford Trail Head
bishopsbicycle.com
The Garage OTR
Located in downtown Cincinnati
garageotr.com
The Hub At Fifty West
Located on the Little Miami Scenic Trail in Mariemont
hub50west.com
Loveland Bike Rental
On the trail in Loveland
lovelandbikerental.com
Article originally appeared in September 2026