E-bikes sales lag in American markets

Global Business

E-bikes sales lag in American markets

They’re cheaper than a car, don’t pollute and help you ride longer distances than a regular bike. Yet, electric bicycles or e-bikes have yet to win favor with U.S. consumers.

CCTV America’s Roza Kazan has more. Follow Roza Kazan on Twitter @rozakazancctv

Six years ago Bill Schmoldt decided to start stocking electric bicycles in his bike store. So far he’s only sold three.

Essentially, an e-bike is just like a regular bike, but with an electric motor that provides additional assistance.

E-bikes are especially popular in Europe and Asia.

Last year, e-bike sales came to $10.8 billion in China and $5 billion in Europe. Compare that to just $400 million in the United States.

But e-bikes can cost a lot more than a regular bike.