Are fat tyre e-bikes the SUVs of cycling?

The rise of the fat tyre e-bikes is intriguing - not least because it's impossible ignore the distinctive looks of these rugged-looking rides.

Just as SUVs are marketed as accessories to an active lifestyle, fat tyre-bikes project a similar image of ruggedness and capability - qualities that make them attractive to urban commuters, off-road enthusiasts, and leisure cyclists alike.

However, the appeal of fat tyre e-bikes goes beyond styling. When balloon tyres were first launched about 90 years ago, riders welcomed the over-sized profiles, which could run on lower pressures to give a cushiony feel and comfortable ride on bumpy surfaces. In fact, the appeal was so strong they became the defining feature of cruiser bikes.

Fast forward to today and the fat tyres fitted to e-bikes today have further ballooned in size.

Fat tyres might laugh in the face of potholed streets, and gobble up off-road trails, but be warned - they suffer greater rolling resistance and weight than standard rubber. While the electric motor is there to take up the strain, these factors will have a negative impact on range and pedalling without assistance will require far more effort.

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Insurance for fat tyre e-bikes

ETA e-bike 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 fat tyre e-bike, our comprehensive policy has you covered.

Every ETA cycle 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.

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