The Future Of Transportation Is Electric (Win!)

You’ve certainly seen them cruising around and you most likely have family members or friends who own them and use them regularly, for pleasure or even to commute. To say that electric bikes are popular is an understatement, and no one knows that better than Zach Richman, co-founder of iGO Electric—a Canadian company that’s been at the forefront of the electric-bike industry for some time. We chatted with Zach to learn more about iGO eBikes, and to find out if the future really is electric. —Noa Nichol

Hi Zach! Please tell us a bit about yourself to start.

Hey there! I’m Zach Richman, and I’m one of the co-founders of iGO Electric Bikes. I grew up in Montreal, Quebec, and I’ve always had a passion for mountain biking and outdoor adventures.

When and why did you launch iGo? What niche were/are you aiming to fill?

We kicked off iGO back in 2006. The whole journey started when our founder and my father, Gary Richman, stumbled upon this fascinating new concept of eBikes that aligned with his interests. At that time, eBikes were a novel idea, and there was a lot of groundwork to be done to introduce their benefits. When my brother Matt and I saw the potential of this industry, we eagerly jumped in to help build iGO into the brand it is today.

What products/services do you currently offer, and what makes them unique?

At iGO, we offer a diverse range of electric bikes that cater to all sorts of riders. Whether you need a bike for your daily commutes or want to dive into the great outdoors for some trail adventures, we’ve got you covered. The unique thing about our electric bikes is that they provide high performance and quality at a price that’s accessible to many. Our aim is to empower people of all fitness levels to ride farther, faster and freer, enriching their overall experience.

For those who don’t know, how do eBikes (generally) work, both in terms of their mechanics, and use? Who are they for, and what are some of their top benefits (perhaps over other modes of transport)?

Using an eBike is as easy as riding a regular bicycle. You’ve got a handlebar-mounted display that controls all the electric aspects of the bike. You just turn on the electric system, set your preferred assistance level and start pedalling. The feeling is absolutely exhilarating—You’ll have a constant grin from ear-to-ear when you ride. As for who they’re for, eBikes are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for those looking to replace their car for daily trips, fitness enthusiasts and even folks who want to explore trails without struggling uphill. One of the standout benefits is that eBikes offer zero emissions and are an economical and enjoyable way to get around, especially when compared to gas-powered vehicles.

Battery wise, how do we charge our iGO eBike, and how long does one charge last (in terms of time and/or distance)?

Charging our iGO eBikes is a breeze. It’s basically like charging your phone: you use the provided wall charger and plug it into a standard outlet. The charging time usually takes around four to six hours, depending on how much charge is left in the battery. Speaking of battery, the range it offers is what you’d want to pay attention to. The range depends on the battery’s capacity. Our latest batteries have a 720Wh capacity and can cover around 110km on certain Urban e-bike models. For most daily commutes within 10 to 15km, you’re good to go without needing to recharge.

What is the life span of an iGO eBike, and what are your top tips for maintenance and care?

The lifespan of an iGO eBike varies based on how well it’s maintained. Regular maintenance is key—charge your battery once a month, especially if the bike isn’t in use or during winter months. Keep an eye on bolts, clean and lubricate components, and ensure it’s dry after rainy rides. If you’re not up for maintenance, local bike shops can help out with tune-ups. With proper care, we’ve seen customers still using iGO eBikes they purchased a whole decade ago.

Security may be an issue when it comes to investing in an eBike; do you have any advice regarding locks, storage, etc?

Absolutely, investing in a high-quality bike lock is a must, especially if you’re leaving your eBike outside. Our eBikes come with lockable and removable frame-integrated battery packs, adding an extra layer of security. Opt for a sturdy cable lock that can be looped through the frame and attached to a solid structure. Sometimes, using two attachment points, like the frame and the front wheel, can deter theft attempts. If you have doubts, visit a local bike shop to discuss the best security options. Storing your eBike in a locked garage or secure storage area provides the best protection against theft. And for safety, don’t forget your helmet!

Traditional bicycles are (we think) most certainly a sustainable form of transport; in terms of Mother Nature, how do eBikes benefit the environment, and improve upon or enhance the traditional bike experience?

You’re absolutely right about the sustainability of traditional bikes, and eBikes take it a step further. They’re a clean and efficient mode of transport that emits no pollution. Charging costs are minimal, maintenance is a breeze and they’re great for your health, too. Electric bikes offer a wider range of options for people looking to escape rising fuel costs, traffic congestion and parking nightmares. They’re a solution that empowers riders to go further, faster and enjoy an enhanced riding experience while being eco-conscious.

As an expert in this industry, why would you say that “the future is electric”?

The future is electric because it’s the direction that makes sense on multiple fronts. The adoption of electric vehicles, including eBikes, has been steadily increasing as more industries seek cleaner transportation options. Legislation to phase out gas-powered vehicles in certain regions within the next decade adds to the momentum. Plus, with the growing infrastructure for cycling in cities, eBikes are becoming a natural and secure alternative for daily commuting.

In 2023, iGo launched many new and exciting eBike models; what’s next for the company in the realm of electric mobile?

2023 was indeed a thrilling year for us! We introduced seven premium models equipped with our second-generation motor drives and electronic systems. We also unveiled the iGO Ride App, a companion app for our 2023 models, which enhances the bike experience with features like ride history tracking, eBike class switching, live diagnostics and over-the-air updates. On top of that, our recent distribution partnership with Parts Unlimited for the U.S. will make iGO eBikes more accessible across the country. As for 2024, stay tuned; it’s going to be an exciting year for iGO Electric!

Final, personal question: how do you use your ebike/what has been your favourite ebike adventure to date?

Personally, I’m a huge fan of mountain eBiking. There’s something magical about hitting the trails and being surrounded by nature. With my eMTB, I get the best of both worlds—I can ride up the mountain and then cruise down. One memorable adventure was when my dad and I took our first samples of mountain eBikes to Mont Bromont. Little did we know, we chose a downhill trail for our ascent! Thanks to the eBike’s assistance, we powered through steep climbs and rugged terrain. That day, we truly grasped the incredible advantages eBikes bring to the table.

igoelectric.ca

Win! A $2,500 Core Elite 3HD eBike From iGO Electric!

Congrats Monika W. of Vancouver, BC, who will receive a $2,500 Core Elite 3HD eBike from iGO Electric! The Elite 3HD fights battery anxiety with a 576Wh (48V x 12Ah) battery offering up to 75km of range that’s secure yet simple to remove and charge off the bike. Designed for no-fuss maintenance and serviceability, its Easy Access Port and quick-connect electronics allow for anyone to ride with confidence. Stay safe and connected with a USB phone charging port, conveniently integrated into the display. ErgoFit geometry means an upright, commanding and comfortable riding experience for any riders 5ft to 6ft 2in.

Please note: if you are the winner, you will receive a DM (direct message) in Instagram directly from @vitadaily.ca. Please be wary of fake accounts, which often use similar handles with an extra or missing letter, number or symbol. We will never ask for a payment or for your credit card number, and we will never ask you to click through a link. If you are unsure whether you have been contacted, via Instagram, by us or a fake account, email us before responding.