Other Frequently Asked Questions
Some questions to ask your electric bike supplier
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| You use Lithium batteries. Are they safe? |
50cycles was the very first company to import electric bicycles with Lithium power packs, starting with Panasonic's WiLL bike in 2004. We have a track record others envy in this area.
Our Kalkhoff electric bikes have powerpacks that use Lithium Manganese batteries. These are distinct from the standard Lithium ion batteries that have a Cobalt cathode. These are prone to thermal runaway - ie explosion and fire. The bad news is that this cheap variant is finding its way into more and more electric bikes.
Manganese, unlike Cobalt, is a safe and more environmentally benign cathode material. If you're buying a Lithium powered electric bike from someone else, ask them about battery safety - if they cannot guarantee that they use Lithium Manganese, it's simple: don't buy! |
| What is your relationship with the manufacturer of your bikes? |
We have met with Kalkhoff, our manufacturer, many times and are in daily contact with them. As a result, we have contributed many ideas to the design of these bikes. That's why they're so well suited to British roads.
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| Is the bike light enough to lift unaided? |
A lot of electric bikes come with heavy steel frames and old-fashioned lead acid batteries. Kalkhoff bikes are built around alloy frames and use lighter battery technology, and are, on average, around 10-12kg lighter than most electric bikes. And they all come with removable batteries, making them even easier to transport on a bike rack.
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| Is it fitted with reflectors, mudguards and a bell, as required by law? |
All Kalkhoff bikes come with the complete set of accessories required by British law (BS6102). Some importers forget to check their bikes for this. |
| Does it have the power to climb hills? |
The Kalkhoff Agattu races up most hills and our little Quando folding model has been given the title 'best hill-climber' by A to B magazine. We've heard from customers that certain cheaper electric bikes ground to a halt when faced with even a small hill.
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| How far will it go on a single charge? |
The Kalkhoff Agattu, for example, will carry you between 25 and 50 miles on a full charge, depending on terrain, use of the motor and rider weight.
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How smooth is the ride? Is there any suspension?
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The Agattu and Tasman offer the smoothest bicycle rides around, thanks to their sprung saddles, front and rear suspension and specially-designed tyres. The riding position is perfect and feels very safe indeed.
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| What gears do you use? Are they any good? |
Our Agattu
model is fitted with excellent, low-maintenance Shimano Nexus gears. You can shift up and down the gear range at a complete standstill, handy when you have to stop for a red light and then make a quick getaway.
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| What is the frame made of? Will it corrode? |
ALL our bikes are built around a durable but lightweight corrosion-resistant aluminium alloy frame. Many cheap electric bikes still use a heavier steel frame - not even stainless steel - that will be prone to rust.
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| Are spares available? |
Yes, we hold a complete range of spares. Spare batteries and tyres can be ordered directly through the website.
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| Why is your bike fitted with tiny wheels - won't that make it a bit uncomfortable to ride? |
All our bikes are fitted with either 26 inch or 700C tyres that mop up the bumps and guarantee a smooth ride, mile after mile. They also come with puncture resistant tyres. Certain electric bikes come with tiny wheels that make for a disconcerting riding experience. Avoid!
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| Will I feel embarrassed or unsafe riding this bike around? |
All our bikes have excellent road presence and give a commanding riding position. We've avoided over-trendy or clunky designs in favour of elegant lines and attractive colours. These are not novelty bikes, they look, feel and perform impressively.
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| Is it legal to use in the UK? |
All Kalkhoff bikes are legal to use on UK roads, even without a driving licence. We offer the option of pedal assistance on our most recent stock which means you can use them on the continent too. See below for more information on legality. |
Here is some further information direct from the manufacturer
What should be the size and power of the motor?
Motors are rated at a continuous output that does not heat up the motor too much. It's called “nominal rating” or "continuous maximum output rating". The power available depends on national regulations. In the UK, the legal limit is 200 watts. Cycling at 10 mph will take less than 100 watts of power, and up to 150 watts is used to reach a speed of 15mph on a flat surface without headwind where the rider weighs 75 kg. So a 200 watt motor is more than enough. Our motor and controller could supply peak power of some 500 to 700 watts for a short time.
In summary Kalkhoff bicycles could take you up hills that would have your muscles straining - even on a 24-speed MTB - with ease.
How long can I use the bicycle before the battery runs out?
Kalkhoff e-bikes will run up to a maximum distance of about 50 miles on one charge of the battery in eco mode.
So what should I do when the battery finally packs up?
Simply contact 50cycles and purchase another from us. Or if you have the technical know-how, you may install one yourself by purchasing the battery from any battery dealer. Kalkhoff bikes come with a 2 year manufacturer's warranty.
How fast can I go on the Kalkhoff electric bicycle?
The motor provides assistance up to 25 kph (about 15.5 mph), the legal limit in the UK. However, once you're at that top speed, it's easy to pedal and use the gears to go much faster, beyond 20mph. The motor can be used as a booster and is very effective when you need to accelarate away from junctions. The rear sprocket on the Kalkhoff can be adjusted so that the maximum assisted speed goes beyond the limit of 15.5mph, up to about 23 mph.
Can I climb hills with this bicycle?
With the Kalkhoff bicycle, you'll have no worries tackling grades at all: a simple pedal assist will get you up most grades, making your job even easier than most conventional 21-gear bicycles.
What's the electrical consumption like?
A full charge of the battery will consume 0.5 kwh, working out to be 1 kwh for 100 km of travel distance. That will cost you almost next to nothing on your electricity bills, making it by far the most cost effective vehicle you'll ever own (think of all the food and drink it would take to pedal the same distance!).
How do I get it fixed if it breaks down?
All new Kalkhoff bikes are under warranty for 2 years from the date of delivery against manufacturer's defects.
After the warranty period, we will charge accordingly depending on the kind of repairs needed.
Ok, ok I'm convinced, how do I buy the Kalkhoff electric bicycle?
Each of our bikes has its own page where you can check the specification and read testimonials from current owners. Clicking the 'order' link takes you to our online shopping basket system where you can complete your order. We accept payment by debit or credit card and use HSBC's Secure ePayments or Google Checkout system to carry out every transaction.
We can also take your order over the phone on 0844 800 5979 |
