ped-eh-leks
Noun
A type of electric bicycle.
Example usage: I'm going to ride my pedelec to the store.
Most used in: Urban areas across Europe.
Most used by: Commuter cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: E-Bike, e-Cycle, Electric Bicycle, Electric Bike,
What is a Pedelec?
A Pedelec is a type of electric bicycle that has an electric motor which assists the rider as they pedal. It is a combination of the words ‘pedal’ and ‘electric’, and is also known as an electric-assisted bicycle or an e-bike. The motor is powered by a battery and provides additional torque to the rider when the pedals are turned.
The amount of assistance provided by the motor is usually adjustable, and the power of the motor is limited to a certain wattage. The motor will shut off when the rider reaches the maximum speed limit for the bike, which is usually 25 km/h. Pedelecs can be used for commuting, running errands or leisurely rides.
Pedelecs are becoming increasingly popular in many countries. In the UK, there were an estimated 880,000 electric bicycles in use in 2018. In the US, more than one million electric bicycles were sold in 2018, representing a 72% increase from 2017.
Due to the motor, pedelecs are usually heavier than regular bicycles. They also require more maintenance, as the battery must be charged regularly and the motor needs to be serviced. However, they are still a great option for those who want to cycle with less effort, or for those who live in hilly areas.
.The Origins of the Term 'Pedelecs'
The term 'pedelecs' was first used in the early 2000s in Germany to describe electric bicycles. The name is a portmanteau of 'pedal' and 'electric cycles'.
The first pedelecs were developed in the late 1990s in Germany, and the country was the first to adopt the term. Pedelecs quickly gained popularity in Germany and other European countries, and were soon adopted in other parts of the world.
Today, the term 'pedelecs' is used worldwide to describe electric bicycles. They are becoming increasingly popular as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional bicycles, with their electric motors providing assistance for riders when cycling uphill or over long distances.
