E-bikes for older riders: Safe, simple and a joy to ride
April 23, 2025
For many of us, the freedom of cycling is something we cherish - whether it’s the joy of gliding through the park or simply popping to the shops without a second thought. But if you haven't ridden for a few years, the idea of getting back on a bike can feel daunting. That’s where e-bikes come in - and why they’re opening up cycling to thousands of older riders.
Retailers like E-bikes Direct report that 40% of their customers are over 50. E-bikes can boost cardiovascular health, stimulate the mind, and provide an enjoyable sociable activity - all with the reassuring option of electric assist to ease the ride home. And for those with impaired balance, electric tricycles offer a safe and comfortable alternative.
Yes, riding an e-bike still counts as exercise
There’s a common myth that e-bikes “do all the work” for you. In fact, they just give you a gentle push when you need it - especially helpful on hills, against headwinds, or when carrying shopping. A major European study even found that e-bike users got more exercise overall than regular cyclists. Why? Because they cycled more often, and went further.
If you’ve been out of the saddle for a while or are managing health conditions, an e-bike can be a way back to regular activity that’s kind to your knees, hips and heart.
You’re in control of the assistance
One of the best things about e-bikes is how adaptable they are. Most have different settings so you can choose how much help you get from the motor. You can start on a higher setting while you build up confidence, and reduce the support as you get stronger. And if you’re feeling energetic, you can switch the assistance off entirely.
Importantly, the motor stops helping once you reach 15.5mph (about 25km/h), so you’ll never feel out of control. This is still cycling - you’re just getting a little boost when you need it most.
They’re heavier, but you won’t usually feel it
E-bikes do weigh more than regular bikes because of the motor and battery. But while you might notice the extra weight when parking or wheeling the bike around, it’s barely noticeable when you’re riding. The motor compensates perfectly. And if you’re worried about what happens if the battery runs flat, Cycle Rescue offers 24/7 breakdown recovery for e-bikes and cargo trikes for only £24 a year.
E-bike batteries are safe - and charging is simple
Modern e-bike batteries are designed to be safe and easy to use. Fires involving e-bikes are extremely rare, and the London Fire Brigade says most happen when people use unregulated batteries or chargers bought online. The solution? Stick with the charger that came with your bike and buy replacements only from trusted suppliers.
Charging is as easy as plugging in a phone. A full charge costs around 13p and will give you 30–80 miles of assistance, depending on the e-bike you're using, the terrain and support level you've selected.
Do I need insurance?
Legally, no. E-bikes that meet UK regulations (known as EAPCs) don’t require insurance, a licence, VED, or a helmet. But because they can be expensive and attractive to thieves, it’s worth considering insurance that includes theft, accidental damage, and battery cover. ETA e-bike insurance also includes Cycle Rescue, so if you get a puncture, flat battery or mechanical problem, help is on hand.
Regaining independence and confidence
Perhaps the most powerful thing an e-bike offers is independence. Whether you’ve stopped driving, want to avoid crowded public transport, or just want to get more active, an e-bike makes local journeys easier, quicker, and far more enjoyable.
Many older riders say the boost has given them the confidence to start cycling again after years off the bike - and that it’s transformed the way they get around. It’s not about going fast. It’s about going further, feeling good, and doing things on your own terms.
A tool for freedom - not just transport
In the end, e-bikes are more than a clever bit of kit. They’re a tool for freedom, fitness and reconnecting with the world around you. Whether it’s visiting friends, exploring local parks, or just getting a few groceries, an e-bike can help you do it with less effort - and a lot more joy.
Insurance for an e-bike
ETA bicycle insurance includes everything you’d expect, like theft, accidental damage and vandalism cover – plus a few things you might not. For example, we have a no-quibble battery theft policy, zero devaluation for life, and if you break down on your electric bike, or run out of battery, you can call us 24/7 and we’ll arrange a rescue.
Whether you ride a tricycle, folding, mountain or cargo electric bike, our comprehensive policy has you covered.
Every ETA bicycle insurance policy includes the following as standard:
• Theft, accidental damage & vandalism
• E-bike battery theft cover
• Cycle Rescue (breakdown cover for your electric bicycle and you)
• No devaluation of your bike over time
• £2m third party PLUS £20,000 personal accident cover
• Shed and garage storage
• Low standard excess of 5% (£50 minimum)
Read a full list of everything we include as standard.
The ethical choice
The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.
The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.
Information correct at time of publication.
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