We see them everywhere in the streets: electric bicycles that whiz smoothly through the city. But how healthy is an e-bike compared to a traditional bicycle? The discussion about electric bicycle health has recently flared up considerably due to new scientific research. Is it a lazy choice, or the ultimate way to stay fit during your daily commute? Let's take a look at the hard facts and the most recent data.
What does the latest survey of 2026 say?
Recent research from the University of Twente (May 2026), led by movement scientist Jasper Reenalda, shows that the health benefits of an e-bike are more nuanced than we thought. Many old studies have been conducted in countries where cycling is not part of the daily routine. In the Netherlands, things are different. Here, the e-bike is increasingly replacing the regular bicycle.
If you exchange a short ride on a normal bike for an e-bike with maximum support, you do indeed lose some physical effort . But there is a big 'but' that completely reverses this for the working professional: commuting.
For commuters, the e-bike does not replace the traditional bicycle, but rather the car or the overcrowded train. And in that scenario, the benefits of an e-bike transform your entire lifestyle. You are on the move, take that crucial me-time and arrive at work fresh — without sloshing armpits.
Data Insights: The numbers at a glance
RIVM recently published an extensive knowledge memorandum on the effects of electric cycling. This shows that e-bikers cover substantially longer distances than traditional cyclists. Where a normal bike is often taken for rides of up to 7.5 kilometers, e-bike users effortlessly ride daily distances of more than 10 to 20 kilometers.
To measure the physical impact, scientists look at the MET (Metabolic Equivalent) value, which expresses the energy effort per minute:
|
Means of transport / Stand |
Intensity (MET value) |
Average distance per trip |
Primary Replacement |
Health effect for commuters |
|
Traditional Bicycle |
~6.8 – 8.0 |
< 7.5 km |
Walking / Public transport |
Good, but often limited to short trips. |
|
E-bike (Eco / Light support) |
~6.0 |
> 15 km |
Car / Train |
Maximum. Perfect balance between endurance training and distance. |
|
E-bike (Turbo / High support) |
~4.0 |
> 15 km |
Car / Train |
Sufficient. More active than the car, minimal sweat factor. |
|
Hiking (recreational) |
3.5 |
- |
- |
For reference. |
Key insight from the WHO guideline: > The World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of moderately intensive exercise every week. With an e-bike on your daily route to work, you can achieve this standard effortlessly. Because you'll be covering longer distances, you'll more than compensate for the lower intensity with the total active time you spend on the bike.
Your 'Me-Time' and health during urban commuting
At EZWLZ, we believe that premium quality doesn't have to come at a premium price. But we believe even more strongly in the value of a stress-free day. Trading in the car for an e-bike does wonders for your mental health. No traffic jams, no parking stress and no delayed trains. Instead, you get pure relaxation in the great outdoors. That is the ultimate form of urban commuting.
With our Forenz models, you combine the best of both worlds. You cycle comfortably, stylishly and efficiently. And you don't have to worry about maintenance: thanks to our stress-free home service, we simply come to you when it suits you.
Get the most out of your e-bike workout
Do you want to make your daily ride even healthier? Then use these three smart hacks:
- Choose the lower support modes more often: The less support you require, the harder your heart has to work. Use the motor mainly to absorb the headwind.
- Make it an interval workout: On safe, straights, alternate between active self-power and the comfortable cruise mode.
- Ride with an active cadence: Try to keep your legs spinning smoothly instead of pedaling hard. This is better for your joints and increases the range of your battery.
Experience it for yourself: Book a home test drive
Living healthier starts with changing your routine. Do you want to experience how the EZWLZ Forenz can transform your daily ride into a healthy, premium experience? Discover our models online or schedule a free test drive directly at your doorstep. Our cycling expert will come to you, so that you can test in your own familiar environment.
View the EZWLZ Forenz Models or Book your test drive at home now