I'm surprised nobody has mentioned e-bikes. As far as I can tell, that is *the* ...

schoen · on Nov 3, 2016

(Daily cycling commuter here)

Two things that discourage people from commuting by bike that would still apply to ebikes:

You get really wet in the rain.

You get injured in a typical collision with a car.

Two specific issues with ebikes:

They're rather expensive compared to a bike, and even compared to some used cars.

I see a risk that they could someday become regulated and licensed as mopeds.

closeparen · on Nov 3, 2016

What's the draw of an ebike vs. a low-end motorcycle?

Also, one very simple answer is that the Bay Bridge isn't passable on anything short of a 250cc motorcycle and won't be until 2018.

rckclmbr · on Nov 4, 2016

> What's the draw of an ebike vs. a low-end motorcycle

Main draw is that e-bikes are usable on bike paths and through parks. You feel like a kid again by taking "shortcuts".

Mekkanox · on Nov 3, 2016

That's definitely a viable option for biking around a city that doesn't have favorable spring or summer weather. Can you store your bike inside instead of locking it up on the street? I imagine an e-bike would be at greater risk of theft than a regular bike. That might be an issue for folks who commute by bike but have to lock it up outside.

rckclmbr · on Nov 4, 2016

Yea, I lock my bike inside the office (where I charge it as well). I also keep it in the garage. Additionally, I have a GPS on it, so if it does get stolen, it's a lot easier to locate