Electric bikes are very cool and there sure are lots of them to choose from - problem is, most of them are junk. Almost all of the production comes out of China and the quality controls shown in most brands have proven very poor to date. Even good brands seem to have good batches and bad batches depending on where they are assembled and where the components are sourced. Good batteries, bad batteries, good controllers, bad controllers, good wiring, bad wiring - the consistency just is not there.

The PRESTO consortium presents - part of the European Cyclists Federation, has published one of the most comprehensive documents relating to electric bicycles (pedelecs). It is essential reading for those involved with cycling or transportation policy. Municipal planners should also be aware of the contents of this document to understand the role of electric bicycles in an overall transportation and commuting plan.