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E-Bike Use and Highway Restrictions

Chapter IV presents the findings of a study on e-bike users in Lucena City, analyzing their lived experiences, perceived effects, and challenges through interviews. The chapter is divided into three parts: user experiences highlighting convenience and safety, effects on accessibility and the environment, and an informative campaign video to raise awareness about e-bikes. Key challenges include limited battery capacity, lack of charging infrastructure, and restricted travel distances.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
5 views34 pages

E-Bike Use and Highway Restrictions

Chapter IV presents the findings of a study on e-bike users in Lucena City, analyzing their lived experiences, perceived effects, and challenges through interviews. The chapter is divided into three parts: user experiences highlighting convenience and safety, effects on accessibility and the environment, and an informative campaign video to raise awareness about e-bikes. Key challenges include limited battery capacity, lack of charging infrastructure, and restricted travel distances.

Uploaded by

virnpingllo
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

CHAPTER IV

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

This chapter presents the findings of the study through an in-depth analysis and

interpretation of the data collected from interviews. The data were gathered using an

interview guide designed to answer the research questions presented in the statement of

the problem. The findings are presented in both tabular and textual formats, with support

from related literature and previous studies to provide a detailed discussion of the

findings.

This chapter is divided into three major parts. The first part delves into the lived

experiences of e-bike users in Lucena City, providing insights into their motivations,

challenges, and broader perceptions on e-bike use. The second part focuses on the

perceived effects of e-bike use in the Lucena City, such as its impact on accessibility, the

environment, and everyday life. Finally, the final part presents the output of the study: an

informative campaign video intended on raising awareness about the benefits and effects

of using e-bikes in Lucena City. This systematic approach provides a concise and detailed

discussion of the findings of the study.

Part I – Lived Experiences of E-bike Users in Lucena City

Table 1 presents the summary table on the lived experiences of e-bike users in Lucena

City, highlighting both the advantages and challenges they encounter. These experiences

include accessible and convenient to use, a safer option than other vehicles, low

maintenance, exemption to license and checkpoint requirements, user-friendly for all


ages, limited battery capacity and a lack of charging infrastructure, lower travel distance

range, technical and structural issues, and inconvenient to use in rain.

Table 1. Lived Experiences of E-bike Users in Lucena City

Lived Experiences Participants Exemplars


Convenient and easy “…nakakatulong din naman sa ano, ‘pag ano,
to use halimbawa may pupuntahan kami, hindi na
namin kailangang sumakay ‘pag kaya naman
ng e-bike.”

(It helps us whenever we have errands to finish or


P1 places to go to. We did not need to commute
whenever my e-bike could.)
“Strolling… ‘Pag bibili ng lugawchi, mga
gano—(laughs) pampahulas (laughs) hindi,
yun lang talaga purpose non, gano’n.”

(Strolling around the city, buying some foods. I just


use e-bike for those purposes.)
“Using e-bike is very useful for us because for
me, it's very ah… flexible sa transportation…”
P2
(Using an e-bike is very useful for us because for
me, it’s very flexible for transportation.)
P4 “…Katulad ng ‘pag madami kang bibilhin,
pwede mong… pwedeng e-bike na lang ang
gamitin kasi nakakaano naman siya…
nakakapagdala ng madami din ta’s madaming
sakay…”

(When you have something to buy, you can always


count on e-bike as it can carry a decent number of
loads.)
“Ah… sa pagko-commute naman, wala
namang ano yung e-bike pero halimbawa mas
maganda pa rin gamitin yung e-bike.”
(When it comes to commuting, it is better to use an
e-bike.)
“…ay nagagamit namin sa pag… ginagawang
service. Yun na nga. Parang pang-araw-araw
na… service namin, ginagamit na pagsundo sa
kanila… nina Angel. Kasi hatid sundo ‘yon e.”

(We use e-bike for our daily commuting service


like when picking up my granddaughter, like that.)
“…okay naman. Naitutulong kasi ‘pag
minsan… siya ang kinakargahan sa paglalako
ng gulay. Nagagamit siya. Malaking tulong sa
amin.”

(It really helps especially when I’m selling veggies


around here, it was a big help for us with this age.)
P5 “Yun na nga. ‘Pag ginagamit ‘pag naglalako
ng gulay. Nakatutulong sa paghahanap-buhay.”

(As I said, it helped me sell my veggies, which was


a big help in earning a living.)
“…pero malaking alwan ‘pag magka-e-bike
kasi hatid sundo sila… pag napasok. Tsaka…
minus sa gasolina. Yun lang, hindi malakas sa
kuryente gano’n.”

(It was still a big help for us. In picking up


someone, especially when taking my
granddaughter to school. And also, it does not
require any gasoline and it does not consume that
much of electricity.)
P6 “…And also, ano nakakatulong din siya every
time na may halimbawa biglaang galaan, may
mga practice ahm… pwede kang makalayas
which is ano which is hawa—which is hawak
mo din yung oras mo and also, kung saan mo
gusto pumunta makakapunta ka kasi nga may
sarili kang sasakyan.”
(And also, it’s helpful every time there are, for
example, sudden hangouts, practices, you can go
out since, you have control over your time, and
also, you can go wherever you want because you
have your own vehicle.)
“Kasi sakin, kapag motor ang gamit ano
siya… parang siyang prone to accident so sa e-
bike, mas safe siya lalo na sa mga katulad ko
na… halimbawa, may estudyante sa
elementary, 'pag hahatid-sundo yon, mas safe
siyang gamitin.”

(For me, e-bike was a safer option to use


P2 compared to motorcycle which is prone to
accidents. And it also helps me when I’m picking
up my elementary children from their school.)
“…Basta para sa akin yung e-bike, napaka-
A safer option than safe siyang gamitin compare sa mga
other vehicles motorcycle.”

(For me, e-bike was much safer to use compared


to motorcycles.)
“Ah… sa tingin—para sa akin, sa tingin ko
maga—maganda siya para sa matatanda
kasi… iwas aksidente na kasi mabagal nga
yung… ano yung e-bike eh.”
P4
(For me, it was really a good mode of
transportation especially for older people because
it was not prone to accidents due to its slow travel
movement.)
Low maintenance P2 “…wala na din siyang maintenance, using
electricity gano'n.”

(It's not much of an effort when maintaining an e-


bike, you just need electricity.)
“…weekly kailangan pupunasan siya palagi or
huhugasan, lalo na kapag umuulan diba,
madali siyang kalawangin yung ilalim, so sa
amin kasi, ako gumagamit ako ng e-bike, yung
ilalim talaga kailangan lagi mo siyang nililinis
para hindi siya madaling masira.”

(They need to regularly clean it especially its


lower part since its very vulnerable to break and it
is also prone to rust especially when it's raining.)
“…kailangan lang siyang ingatan lalo na yung
battery niya. Iwas baha para mas matibay yung
battery.”

(You just need to take such good care of it


especially the battery. Avoid wet areas so the
P3 battery lasts longer.)
“kailangan lang siyang alagaan lagi, punasan,
linisan… para maging… maganda, para
matagal na paggamit.”

(You just need to take good care of it, cleaning and


maintaining, so you can have it for longer use.)
“Wala naman. Kasi kailangan hindi siya
naaanohan ng ulan eh. Lagi kailangan may
taklob siya…”
P5
(Always make sure that their e-bike would not get
wet by the rain and always put a cover on it when
not in use.)
P6 “…chine-check ko muna yung mga ano ng e-
bike especially yung mga harang, ta’s yung
mga gulong-gulong, mga bearing, then ano isa
pang iche-check ko don talagang dapat ‘di ko
kinakalimutang i-check is yung battery, dapat
ano parang every time na gagala ako, gusto ko
nafu-full ‘yon para (pause) para may privilege
akong makalayas kahit medyo malayo yung
lalayasan ko.”

(Before I go somewhere, I check the e-bike


thoroughly, especially the barriers, the tires, and
the bearings. Then, one more thing I never forget
to check is the battery. I make sure it’s fully
charged every time I go out so that I have the
privilege to travel even if the place I’m going to is
a bit far.)
“…laging linisin yung e-bike and also maging
careful tayo sa paggamit, huwag laging ano
huwag waso-wasohin ang paggait ng e-bike
and… yun lang naman. Lagi lang linisin
talaga.”

(When you want to maintain your e-bike for long


term use, I think what I can recommend is always
clean the e-bike and also be careful when using it.
Do not always overuse it, and just make sure to
always clean it.)
“…kapag e-bike ang gamit mo, mas… ah…
tawag dito… mas… comfortable dahil wala
siyang license na required…”
P2

(Using an e-bike was comfortable and it does not


Exemption to license
also require any license.)
and checkpoint
“Para ano… yun para iwas huli kasi wala pang
requirements
ano wala pang batas tungkol sa e-bike diba?”
P4
(For me, to avoid getting caught on checkpoints
you know, especially since there is no any law that
requires any license for e-bike, right?)
Accessible for all “…Pwede siyang gamitin ng mga bata, na
ages kahit minor age. Hindi katulad sa mga
motorcycle na 18 and above lang yata ang
pinapayagan.”
P2

(It can also be used by anyone, even those that are


in minor age, unlike motorcycle that allows 18
years old and above only.)
P5 “…maayos ang mga gay’an, hindi na
kailangan ng gasolina. Mas mabilis silang
magamit kesa sa ibang sasakyan. Sa kagaya
kong hindi marunong mag-motor, yon… mas
maalwan ang e-bike… na gamitin. ‘Yon lang.”
(E-bikes are better since it does not need any
gasoline. It was easier to use compared to other
vehicles especially with me, who does not really
know how to drive a motorcycle.)
“…sa daily experience ko sa ano having an e-
bike is very easy na sa’kin when it comes sa
transportation kasi ano ahm… sarili ko siya
and also madali din siyang gamitin.”
P6

(Based from my daily experience, e-bike is very


easy to use especially when it comes to
transportation.)
“Ang main concern ko is yung sa battery
kapag na lowbatt siya while using it in the…
halimbawa, jan sa pagba-byahe ganyan.
Pagna-lowbatt siya so syempre, mag-aakay ka
talaga. Wala naman siyang—hindi naman siya
pwedeng pakargahan tulad ng mga motor na
may… gasoline diba? Magpe-pedal ka talaga
or else mag-aakay ka pauwi.”
P2
(My main concern is about the battery, especially
when it runs out of charge while using it, for
example, during travel. If the battery runs out, of
Limited battery course, you'll really have to push it manually. It
does not have—unlike motorcycles that you can
capacity and a lack of
refuel with gasoline, right? You'll have to pedal it
charging
yourself, or else you'll end up pushing it all the
infrastructure
way home.)
“Mayro’n din. Minsan kasi nung ano kasi
minsan na-lowbattan kami ang layo-layo pa ng
pinuntahan namin. Hindi masyado nagpa-
function yung ano… halimbawa, sa e-bike ‘di
tama yung percent nung battery niya.”
P4
(There are some instances where the battery rans
out while we are travelling on longer trips.
Sometimes, the percentage of the battery does not
function really well, like it does not show the right
amount of battery health left.)
P5 “Ay ‘pag na-lowbatt. Inabot ng lowbatt.
Mabilis siyang ma-lowbatt.”

(Sometimes, we encounter issues with the battery.


It runs out pretty fast.)
“…Isa pa, ‘pag inabot ka ng lowbatt sa daan.
Yun, isa pa ‘yun. Mabilis ma-lowbatt yung
battery pero ‘pag full naman siya, okay lang…
pagkapa-lowbatt na, wag ng idadaan ng
highway kasi aabutin ka don… sa gitna.”

(When your battery ran out in the middle of the


road, it was really a difficult situation. The e-bike's
battery runs out pretty quickly but when it’s fully
charged up, it was best to use it. But when the
battery is at low percent, it’s best not to use it
especially in the highway because the battery
might run out.)
P6 “…yung battery din. Syempre, ‘pag lalayas
tayo, hindi naman nating pwedeng basta-basta
na lang isaksak yung battery kung saan-saan.
Kailangan lagi tayong may extra gano’n.”

(Another one is its battery. Whenever I’m going


out, I cannot just charge its battery somewhere. I
need to bring some extra one.)
“…ang laki ng problema ko d’yan kasi may
mga instances na hindi ako makagala kasi nga
low batt yung battery. Parang pagdating sa
battery ng e-bike, ang hassle-hassle niya. ‘Pag
may gusto kang puntahan tapos hindi gano’n
yung… ka-full yung battery mo, and also
habang nasa galaan ka ta’s biglang na low batt
yung e-bike mo, ano siya ang laking ano
niya… ang laki niyang… parang ano
inconvenience very ano siya kasi hindi ka
naman basta-basta makakapag-charge ng
battery ng e-bike eh kasi nasa bahay mo lang
talaga yung charger.”

(It’s one of my biggest problems in e-bikes. There


are some instances where I cannot go out with my
e-bike since it is at low battery. It was really
hassle. If you’re going out and the battery is not
that full or worst scenario is when you’re at the
middle of your trip then the battery suddenly ran
out, it would cause a big inconvenience since you
cannot just charge it up somewhere, only at your
home.)
“…and the disadvantage niya is ano siya
parang limited lang yung ano—I mean hindi
naman limited pero ‘pag kasi sa battery ‘di ba,
limited kasi ‘pag naubos ‘yon kailangan mong
i-charge gano’n.”

(And another disadvantage is that it’s kind of


limited—I mean, not exactly limited, but when it
comes to the battery, it’s somehow limited because
once it runs out, you have to charge it at home.)
“…e-bike mo’y talagang yung battery ay
mumurahin. ‘Pag hindi mo papalitan ng
original, wala—hindi malayo ang mararating
mo. Ano lang? Kung baga’y hanggang bayan
lang, hanggang Cotta. Gano’n lang, ta’s malo-
lowbattan ka pa.”

(If your e-bike battery was cheap and not


P1 legitimate or original from stores, it would drain
easily. Your driving range would be limited like
from here to Bayan, or to Cotta.)
Limited travel
“…hindi naman nakatulong talaga yung ano…
distance
kasi hindi ko din siya maggamit yung
pangmalayuan. Pang dito- dito lang talaga.”

(Because of its limited driving range, it cannot be


use for longer trips, just around here and there.)
“…Kapag malayo yung pupuntahan mo, hindi
kaya. May limitation din don yung e-bike.”
P4
(And also, its limited driving or traveling range, it
cannot afford to go to longer trips.)
P6 “…hindi mo magagamit ng malayuan talaga
ang e-bike. Hindi mo magagamit ang e-bike
ng hindi ka makakapunta ng… hindi ka
makakapunta ng ibang malayong lugar gamit
ang e-bike. That’s it.”

(Maybe the downside is that you cannot really use


an e-bike for long distances. You cannot use an e-
bike to get to faraway places.)
“Siguro yung pag-ano sa e-bike, yung sa—
pagka… preno niya. ‘Pag hindi okay,
maaksidente ka talaga…”
P1
(I think it would be for the break of the e-bike.
Sometimes it was not working well that it might
cause an accident.)
“Mayro’n na. Minsan nga ano kasi nawawalan
siya ng… ng preno ba. Yung gano’n.”
P4
(I have one where sometimes the break does not
function really well.)
“… ‘Pag minsan naman ay… nagamit sila ay
Technical and
napapa… yun natagilid. Naano din ang
Structural Issues
bearing… minsan… naaano siya… pero okay
naman… nagagamit naman siya.”

(: There are also instances where we encounter


tilted driving and also, we have issues with its
P5 bearing. But it was okay to use since it can serve
its purpose.)
“Ayun… mahihina ang body. Nauga kasi ‘pag
minsan napupwersa…”

(The main body of the e-bike was not that durable.


Sometimes it becomes shaky whenever you force it
to drive.)
Inconvenient to use P1 “‘Pag nababasa yung e-bike yon. Dapat hindi
in rain mababasa yung battery. Or pinakamahalaga
kasi sa e-bike is yung ano… pinakanghuli kasi
nandon yung… mga parts talaga na mga ano…
bawal mabasa. Kasi kapag nabasa ‘yon, wala
na, apektado na lahat, hindi na ‘yon aandar.
Kaya mahirap din magka-e-bike kasi… ‘pag
nga maulan, hindi mo siya magagamit. ‘Pag
naman may bubong, liliparin ka…”

(When there are some instances that e-bike gets


wet, the battery must not get wet, especially the
back since it has the crucial parts of an e-bike.
Once it gets wet, it will affect the overall structure
of the e-bike and it might cause the e-bike to
malfunction. Sometimes, e-bike presents
challenges especially during rainy season. If you
have roof on your e-bike, the wind can blow you
away, so it was hard to use.)
“…minsan ‘pag nababasa, na… nabago ang…
minsan nawawalang ang ano ng battery.”

(There are some instances during rainy season,


when it gets wet, the battery eventually goes off.)
“…Hindi talaga siya aano ‘pag ka ganyang
P5
maulan… ‘pag nababasa, mahirap siyang
gamitin.”

(Always make sure that their e-bike would not get


wet by the rain since it's really hard to use one
when it gets wet.)
“…parang mas mahirap siyang gamitin ‘pag
maulan kasi nga yung e-bike, ang harang lang
niya is mga plastics.”
P6
(It can be difficult to use during rainy season as e-
bikes are made of plastic or light-weighted
materials.)

Based on the interview responses, participants revealed that e-bikes are convenient

and easy to use. They highlighted e-bikes as a flexible and efficient mode of

transportation and reduces dependence on public transportation. Participants also


expressed that e-bikes are helpful for running errands, commuting to school or work, and

even transporting goods. This is justified by the following responses:

“Using e-bike is very useful for us because for me, it's very ah… flexible sa
transportation…”

(Using an e-bike is very useful for us because for me, it’s very flexible for transportation.)

“…Katulad ng ‘pag madami kang bibilhin, pwede mong… pwedeng e-bike na lang
ang gamitin kasi nakakaano naman siya… nakakapagdala ng madami din ta’s
madaming sakay…”

(When you have something to buy, you can always count on e-bike as it can carry a decent
number of loads.)

“…And also, ano nakakatulong din siya every time na may halimbawa biglaang
galaan, may mga practice ahm… pwede kang makalayas which is ano which is hawa
—which is hawak mo din yung oras mo and also, kung saan mo gusto pumunta
makakapunta ka kasi nga may sarili kang sasakyan.”

(And also, it’s helpful every time there are, for example, sudden hangouts, practices, you can
go out since, you have control over your time, and also, you can go wherever you want
because you have your own vehicle.)

In the same way, an article by Electric Scooters London (2023) supports these

responses that e-bikes are easy and a convenient mode of transportation. They are

particularly suited for short to medium-distance trips, making them ideal for commuting

to work or running errands. E-bikes also offer faster transportation, help reduce traffic

congestion, and make parking easier in urban areas, ultimately saving time on commutes

compared to traditional vehicles. Additionally, they provide a reliable alternative to buses

and trains, addressing common urban commuting challenges like parking difficulties and

traffic jams. This makes e-bikes an excellent choice for those looking to save time and

avoid the frustrations of overcrowded public transportation (Lloyd, 2024).


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transportation

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#:~:text=Ease%20of%20Use%20and%20Convenience,next%20journey%20without

%20any%20hassle.

In line with this, participants revealed that e-bikes are a safer option than other

vehicles. They believe that e-bikes are less risky than motorcycles as they travel at lower

speeds. This makes e-bikes less prone to severe accidents and more suitable for older

individuals and parents. This is justified by the following responses:

“Kasi sakin, kapag motor ang gamit ano siya… parang siyang prone to accident so sa
e-bike, mas safe siya lalo na sa mga katulad ko na… halimbawa, may estudyante sa
elementary, 'pag hahatid-sundo yon, mas safe siyang gamitin.”
(For me, e-bike was a safer option to use compared to motorcycle which is prone to
accidents. And it also helps me when I’m picking up my elementary children from their
school.)
“…Basta para sa akin yung e-bike, napaka-safe siyang gamitin compare sa mga
motorcycle.”
(For me, e-bike was much safer to use compared to motorcycles.)
“Ah… sa tingin—para sa akin, sa tingin ko maga—maganda siya para sa matatanda
kasi… iwas aksidente na kasi mabagal nga yung… ano yung e-bike eh.”
(For me, it was really a good mode of transportation especially for older people because it
was not prone to accidents due to its slow travel movement.)
However, these responses contradict an article by Scripps Wellness & Prevention

(2024). The article points out that while e-bikes have become popular due to their

convenience and eco-friendliness, safety concerns are also rising. The article also

highlights the report from U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission which states that

e-bikes, e-scooters, and hoverboards were linked to 360,800 injuries and fatalities
between 2017 and 2022, with an annual increase of 23%. This suggests that without

proper education and training, e-bike users face a higher risk of injury or death in

accidents. Furthermore, most accidents involving e-bikes are primarily caused by user

behavior, such as rider distraction, failure to follow traffic rules, or environmental factors,

rather than issues with the e-bike itself (Bodywel, 2024). This highlights how user

behavior influences the perception of safety in e-bike use.

[Link]

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#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20best%20safe,and%20use%20lights%20at%20night.

Along with the benefits of e-bike usage, participants also revealed that e-bikes require

low maintenance. They mentioned that maintaining e-bikes is minimal, primarily

involving battery charging and occasional cleaning. This is justified by the following

responses:

“…weekly kailangan pupunasan siya palagi or huhugasan, lalo na kapag umuulan


diba, madali siyang kalawangin yung ilalim, so sa amin kasi, ako gumagamit ako ng
e-bike, yung ilalim talaga kailangan lagi mo siyang nililinis para hindi siya madaling
masira.”
(They need to regularly clean it especially its lower part since its very vulnerable to break
and it is also prone to rust especially when it's raining.)

“kailangan lang siyang alagaan lagi, punasan, linisan… para maging… maganda, para
matagal na paggamit.”
(You just need to take good care of it, cleaning and maintaining, so you can have it for longer
use.)

“…chine-check ko muna yung mga ano ng e-bike especially yung mga harang, ta’s
yung mga gulong-gulong, mga bearing, then ano isa pang iche-check ko don talagang
dapat ‘di ko kinakalimutang i-check is yung battery, dapat ano parang every time na
gagala ako, gusto ko nafu-full ‘yon para (pause) para may privilege akong makalayas
kahit medyo malayo yung lalayasan ko.”
(Before I go somewhere, I check the e-bike thoroughly, especially the barriers, the tires, and
the bearings. Then, one more thing I never forget to check is the battery. I make sure it’s fully
charged every time I go out so that I have the privilege to travel even if the place I’m going to
is a bit far.)

These responses align with the article by Maitra (2024), which highlights that e-bikes

are generally low maintenance and the importance of regular care for their longevity and

performance. Maintaining an e-bike involves simple tasks: cleaning it with mild

detergents and a damp cloth, properly managing the battery, and inspecting the bike

before each ride. Additionally, addressing minor issues early on can prevent larger

problems in the future, ensuring that your e-bike remains a reliable and enjoyable

companion for your daily commuting.

[Link]

In line with the other positive aspects of using e-bike, participants also revealed their

comfort in using e-bikes, as they were exempt from licensing and checkpoint

requirements. They expressed the benefits of this through the following responses:

“…kapag e-bike ang gamit mo, mas… ah… tawag dito… mas… comfortable dahil
wala siyang license na required…”
(Using an e-bike was comfortable and it does not also require any license.)
“Para ano… yun para iwas huli kasi wala pang ano wala pang batas tungkol sa e-bike
diba?”
(For me, to avoid getting caught on checkpoints you know, especially since there is no any
law that requires any license for e-bike, right?)
In the same manner, a news article by Cabrera (2020) discusses the exemption of e-

bikes from licensing and registration requirements. According to the Land Transportation

Office (LTO), e-bikes and e-scooters with a maximum speed of 25 km/h are not required
to be registered or to have a driver's license. As a result, riders of these vehicles are not

subject to license and registration checkpoints. However, this exemption comes with

limitations regarding where e-bikes can be used to ensure the safety of riders. This policy

was later updated which was featured in an article by Pagkatotohanan (2024), which

references the LTO Administrative Order No. VDM-2024-044. This order mandates that

all electric vehicles on public highways must be registered, thus superseding the earlier

provisions. The new requirements apply to e-bikes, personal mobility scooters, electric

kick scooters, and e-motorcycles. The government's decision to require a license for e-

bikes is supported by data showing 556 crash incidents in Metro Manila last year.

Additionally, drivers and riders of all two-wheeled e-vehicles must wear helmets.

[Link]
e-bike-riders?fbclid=IwY2xjawINm4ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHVNBiD-
9I0v8O0o2nzXOwVY8Y0Gt-
xf_3KHuKzBsKTi_4XeAMgz3GjP92w_aem_MZwyL1j9pOBc3Mq-pjwzxw

[Link]

In addition to these positive aspects, participants shared that e-bikes are accessible to

people of all ages, from teenagers to seniors. Their ease of use and operation makes them

an ideal choice for individuals who find it challenging to handle and maneuver traditional

motorized vehicles. This is justified by the following responses:

“…Pwede siyang gamitin ng mga bata, na kahit minor age. Hindi katulad sa mga
motorcycle na 18 and above lang yata ang pinapayagan.”
(It can also be used by anyone, even those that are in minor age, unlike motorcycle that
allows 18 years old and above only.)
“…maayos ang mga gay’an, hindi na kailangan ng gasolina. Mas mabilis silang
magamit kesa sa ibang sasakyan. Sa kagaya kong hindi marunong mag-motor, yon…
mas maalwan ang e-bike… na gamitin. ‘Yon lang.”
(E-bikes are better since it does not need any gasoline. It was easier to use compared to other
vehicles especially with me, who does not really know how to drive a motorcycle.)
“…sa daily experience ko sa ano having an e-bike is very easy na sa’kin when it
comes sa transportation kasi ano ahm… sarili ko siya and also madali din siyang
gamitin.”
(Based from my daily experience, e-bike is very easy to use especially when it comes to
transportation.)
Aligning with these responses, e-bikes attract people of all ages and do not have age

limits. They make long rides easier and outdoor adventures more enjoyable. Younger

people consider e-bikes because they are eco-friendly and have advanced features. These

vehicles offer comfort and freedom, helping young users develop a passion for

sustainable transportation early on (Wahl, 2024). Moreover, recent technology

improvements have made e-bikes easier to use, especially for seniors with varying fitness

levels. This makes e-bikes a fun and accessible option for older adults, encouraging them

to stay active (Gyger, 2024).

[Link]

embrace-e-biking

[Link]

activity-and-heres-why#:~:text=First%20and%20foremost%2C%20advancements

%20in,individuals%20of%20varying%20fitness%20levels.

On the contrary, participants also shared a number of negative aspects related to their

experiences with e-bike usage. They raised concerns about the limited battery capacity

and the lack of charging infrastructure. Many expressed frustrations with the battery
range, particularly how quickly it drains and the inconvenience of it running out during

their commute. This is justified in the following responses:

“Ang main concern ko is yung sa battery kapag na lowbatt siya while using it in the…
halimbawa, jan sa pagba-byahe ganyan. Pagna-lowbatt siya so syempre, mag-aakay
ka talaga. Wala naman siyang—hindi naman siya pwedeng pakargahan tulad ng mga
motor na may… gasoline diba? Magpe-pedal ka talaga or else mag-aakay ka pauwi.”
(My main concern is about the battery, especially when it runs out of charge while using it,
for example, during travel. If the battery runs out, of course, you'll really have to push it
manually. It does not have—unlike motorcycles that you can refuel with gasoline, right?
You'll have to pedal it yourself, or else you'll end up pushing it all the way home.)
“Mayro’n din. Minsan kasi nung ano kasi minsan na-lowbattan kami ang layo-layo pa
ng pinuntahan namin. Hindi masyado nagpa-function yung ano… halimbawa, sa e-
bike ‘di tama yung percent nung battery niya.”
(There are some instances where the battery rans out while we are travelling on longer trips.
Sometimes, the percentage of the battery does not function really well, like it does not show
the right amount of battery health left.)
“…ang laki ng problema ko d’yan kasi may mga instances na hindi ako makagala
kasi nga low batt yung battery. Parang pagdating sa battery ng e-bike, ang hassle-
hassle niya. ‘Pag may gusto kang puntahan tapos hindi gano’n yung… ka-full yung
battery mo, and also habang nasa galaan ka ta’s biglang na low batt yung e-bike mo,
ano siya ang laking ano niya… ang laki niyang… parang ano inconvenience very ano
siya kasi hindi ka naman basta-basta makakapag-charge ng battery ng e-bike eh kasi
nasa bahay mo lang talaga yung charger.”
(It’s one of my biggest problems in e-bikes. There are some instances where I cannot go out
with my e-bike since it is at low battery. It was really hassle. If you’re going out and the
battery is not that full or worst scenario is when you’re at the middle of your trip then the
battery suddenly ran out, it would cause a big inconvenience since you cannot just charge it
up somewhere, only at your home.)
In relation to this, a study by Custodio et al. (2024) entitled, “From Frustration to

Innovation: Exploring the Lived Experiences of E-Bike Users on Limited Charging

Infrastructure,” discusses the challenges faced by e-bike users in Noveleta, Cavite. These

challenges include battery problems and a lack of charging stations, which relate directly

to the experiences shared by the participants in this study. The study found that users deal

with several battery issues, such as quick battery drainage, limited battery range, and
vulnerability to water damage. These problems cause stress and frustration for e-bike

users and affect their overall commuting experience. Additionally, the lack of charging

stations in the area is a major concern for these users. However, despite this challenge,

they view the development and establishment of charging stations as beneficial. They

believe these stations would solve problems during long trips or emergencies, provide

more charging options, and reduce their concerns and frustrations.

[Link]

[Link]#page=3.35

Furthermore, participants also shared that e-bikes have a limited travel distance,

primarily due to battery limitations that restrict their efficiency for longer commutes. This

is justified by the following responses:

“…e-bike mo’y talagang yung battery ay mumurahin. ‘Pag hindi mo papalitan ng


original, wala—hindi malayo ang mararating mo. Ano lang? Kung baga’y hanggang
bayan lang, hanggang Cotta. Gano’n lang, ta’s malo-lowbattan ka pa.”
(If your e-bike battery was cheap and not legitimate or original from stores, it would drain
easily. Your driving range would be limited like from here to Bayan, or to Cotta.)
“…Kapag malayo yung pupuntahan mo, hindi kaya. May limitation din don yung e-
bike.”
(And also, its limited driving or traveling range, it cannot afford to go to longer trips.)
“…hindi mo magagamit ng malayuan talaga ang e-bike. Hindi mo magagamit ang e-
bike ng hindi ka makakapunta ng… hindi ka makakapunta ng ibang malayong lugar
gamit ang e-bike. That’s it.”
(Maybe the downside is that you cannot really use an e-bike for long distances. You cannot
use an e-bike to get to faraway places.)
In the same way, e-bikes are improving their range, but they may still fall short for

users who need to cover large areas or long distances (Chub, 2024). Furthermore, e-bikes

have limited battery life and range due to their compact design, which includes smaller
batteries compared to traditional models. This results in shorter distances on a single

charge, potentially making long commutes and extended trips inconvenient. Moreover,

riders may find themselves needing to charge frequently, which can disrupt daily use

(Tesway, 2025).

[Link]

bikes#:~:text=They%20have%20a%20limited%20range,components%2C%20potentially

%20leading%20to%20malfunctions.

[Link]

%20fold%2Dup%20e%2D,bike%20for%20long%20distance%20touring

In line with this, participants revealed encountering various technical and structural

issues with their e-bike experience. These issues include a malfunctioning braking

mechanism, uneven driving, a lightweight structure that lacks stability, and bearing

malfunctions, as highlighted by the following responses:

“Siguro yung pag-ano sa e-bike, yung sa—pagka… preno niya. ‘Pag hindi okay,
maaksidente ka talaga…”
(I think it would be for the break of the e-bike. Sometimes it was not working well that it
might cause an accident.)
“… ‘Pag minsan naman ay… nagamit sila ay napapa… yun natagilid. Naano din ang
bearing… minsan… naaano siya… pero okay naman… nagagamit naman siya.”
(There are also instances where we encounter tilted driving and also, we have issues with its
bearing. But it was okay to use since it can serve its purpose.)
“Ayun… mahihina ang body. Nauga kasi ‘pag minsan napupwersa…”
(The main body of the e-bike was not that durable. Sometimes it becomes shaky whenever
you force it to drive.)
Aligning with these responses, according to an article by E Movement (2024), e-bike

brakes wear out over time, which makes them less effective. Dirt and debris in the brake

system, worn brake pads, damaged rotors, and misaligned brakes can also cause brake

malfunctioning. Moreover, the article by InTheAir Bikes (2023) highlights several factors

that can lead to instability in an electric bike, particularly related to the front wheel shaft

and bearing malfunctioning. These factors include tight or loose shaft, worn wheel

bearings, and front brake failure which can cause driving instability.

[Link]

solutions#table-of-contents-22

[Link]

how-to-avoid-detailed-guide#:~:text=If%20the%20ebike%20front%20wheel

%20bearings%20are%20worn%20and%20loose,a%20bicycle%20shop%20for

%20repairs.

Moreover, participants mentioned how inconvenient it is to use e-bikes in rainy

conditions. They revealed that exposure to water could damage batteries and other

electrical components, and the lightweight structure makes them unstable during the rainy

season. This is justified by the following responses:

“‘Pag nababasa yung e-bike yon. Dapat hindi mababasa yung battery. Or
pinakamahalaga kasi sa e-bike is yung ano… pinakanghuli kasi nandon yung… mga
parts talaga na mga ano… bawal mabasa. Kasi kapag nabasa ‘yon, wala na, apektado
na lahat, hindi na ‘yon aandar. Kaya mahirap din magka-e-bike kasi… ‘pag nga
maulan, hindi mo siya magagamit. ‘Pag naman may bubong, liliparin ka…”
(When there are some instances that e-bike gets wet, the battery must not get wet, especially
the back since it has the crucial parts of an e-bike. Once it gets wet, it will affect the overall
structure of the e-bike and it might cause the e-bike to malfunction. Sometimes, e-bike
presents challenges especially during rainy season. If you have roof on your e-bike, the wind
can blow you away, so it was hard to use.)
“…minsan ‘pag nababasa, na… nabago ang… minsan nawawalang ang ano ng
battery.”
(There are some instances during rainy season, when it gets wet, the battery eventually goes
off.)
“…parang mas mahirap siyang gamitin ‘pag maulan kasi nga yung e-bike, ang harang
lang niya is mga plastics.”
(It can be difficult to use during rainy season as e-bikes are made of plastic or light-weighted
materials.)
Similarly, an article Warwood & Sutton (2024 states that e-bikes can be used in the

rain, but it is important to take careful precautions and prepare accordingly. E-bikes with

internal batteries are vulnerable to moisture, and extended exposure to rain can lead to

damage and system malfunctions. Heavy rain can cause water to seep into electrical

components, while wet roads can transform once-safe surfaces into slippery hazards,

increasing the likelihood of falls and accidents.

[Link]

Part II – Perceived Effects of Using E-bike in Lucena City

Table 2 examines the broader effects of e-bike usage in Lucena City, focusing on its

major benefits and drawbacks. Based from the interview responses, the perceived effects

of using e-bike includes budget-friendly and cost-efficient, promotes eco-friendly

transportation, and traffic congestion and road issues.

Table 2. Perceived Effects of Using an E-bike in Lucena City

Perceived Effects Participants Exemplars


Budget-friendly and “Oo naman, mas makakatipid ka pero yung…
cost-efficient kasi, diba wala yung—hindi mo siya
kailangang gasulinahan…”
P1
(It was more affordable than other vehicles and
saves up some money. And it does not require any
gasoline.)
“Sa financial, mas affordable siya sa mga
katulad namin na mga nasa lower class ng
pamumuhay.”
P2
(When it comes to financial aspect, e-bike was
pretty affordable especially for us who are in the
lower class.)
P3 “Sa pamasahe… malaking bagay ‘yon. Sa
mahal ng pamasahe ngayon sa tricycle, kaya
mas maganda yung may… ganitong e-bike
service gano’n.”

(With the service that e-bike offers, it aids with


transportation fees especially nowadays that the
transportation fees were really pricey.)
“…Mas… mas okay siyang gamitin kesa sa
ano… sa tricycle. Kasi mas tipid siya eh.”

(It was okay, it’s much better to use rather than


tricycles since it was cheaper.)
“Malaking bagay rin sakin eh, wait… number
one sa… uhm… pa… pamasahe kasi mahal
ngayon ang pamasahe. Ta’s mas magandang
may service e-bike.”

(It was really a big help for me. For the


transportation fees, you know how pricey it is
nowadays and the service that e-bike offers, it was
really good.)
“Sa service, papuntang SM, pamalengke,
malaking tulong. Bawas pamasahe.”

(When going out to the mall or market or running


errands, it was a big help as it lessens fees for
transportation and fare.)
“Sa financial naman… sa tingin ko, ayos lang
eh kasi mura ‘pag sa e-bike talaga eh ‘pag
gagamitin mo, hindi ka na maggagasolina,
‘yon… charge ka na lang nang charge.”
P4
(When it comes to financial benefits, e-bikes were
affordable and very economical to use since it
does not require any gasoline, you just need to
charge it from time to time.)
P6 “…dito kasi sa Lucena, maraming pasahero,
and also ang mahal ng ano bayad sa mga
transportation so parang naging ano ko is
bumili na lang ako ng e-bike para—bukod sa
mura na nga, bukod sa wala na nga akong
babayarang pamasahe, hawak ko pa yung oras
ko kung kailan ko gustong lumayas gano’n.”

(For me, there are lots of public transportation


commuters here in Lucena and also the rising cost
of transportation fares prompted me to buy and
adopt an e-bike. Aside from its affordability and
saves up some money from paying high fares, it
was also convenient for me whenever I want to go
somewhere.)
“When it comes to financial benefits, I think
ahm… ano nale-less yung gastos natin, imbes
na… imbes na yung pangpamasahe mo…
yung ipapangbayad mo sa ibang sasakyan,
naiibili mo pa siya ng iba’t-iba mong
pangangailangan. Yun lang naman.”

(When it comes to financial benefits, I think


expenses are reduced. Instead of spending on
transportation fare or paying for other vehicles,
you can use that money to buy your other
necessities.)
“…nakakatulong yan sa ‘kin as a student kasi
nga ano (pause). Nakakatulong siyang
makaano maka-less ng mga gastusin kasi ‘di
ba ‘pag… if you have your own ano if you
have your own sasakyan, syempre hindi ka na
magbabayad ng pamasahe.”

(It helps me as a student because it helps reduce


expenses since if you have your own vehicle, of
course, you do not have to pay for transportation.)
“Iwas pollution din. Diba, walang usok,
walang noise pollution, bukod sa ingay—
hindi siya maingay, hindi rin siya mausok.”
P2

(It does not emit any pollution. It does not


Promotes eco-friendly
produce any smoke nor noise pollution.)
transportation
“Ay wala naman. Kasi wala naman yung usok
eh.”
P5
(I do not think it has any pollution effects as it
does not emit any smoke.)
Traffic congestion and “…‘pag yung nasa highway ka, ang… ‘di mo
road safety Issues masyadong ano yung mga… yung mga
makakasabay mo, mahirap… mahirap ano…
tignan.”
P4

(Whenever you were in the highway, it was really


hard to keep up with the other vehicles. It was
really hard to anticipate other vehicles.)
P5 “…mahina siya sa highway. Hindi pwedeng i-
ano mo sa highway… kasi delikado. Malalaki
ang sasakyan. Dati nagagamit… ay ngayon,
hindi ako makapag-ano… kasi ang lalaki ng
mga sasakyan ngayon. Delikado. Hindi ka
pwedeng makipagsabayan sa mga ano… yun
lang.”

(It was really hard to use an e-bike in a highway


since it's too risky plus the large vehicles that
you’ll travel with. It was really hard for me.)
“Okay naman kaya nga lang ay ‘pag
halimbawa kagaya ko, ako ang gagamit eh
ako ay mahina ang loob. ‘Pag gamit sa
highway, kasi nga malalaki ang sasakyan.”

(As for my age, it was really hard to use it in the


highway especially that I’m weak-spirited when
travelling with large vehicles in the highway.)
“I find it difficult when it comes sa ano…
sa… sa mga traffic siguro. Kasi ano eh, hindi
naman kayang makipagsabayan ng e-bike sa
bilis ng mga ano tapos hindi rin naman basta-
basta makakasuot sa mga gilid-gilid ‘pag may
traffic ‘di ba?”

(I think I find it difficult when it comes to traffic


regulation because sometimes e-bikes cannot keep
up with other transportation vehicles. You cannot
also drive it on the sides when there’s a traffic.)
“When it comes sa mga road road kineme
naman, ang e-bike… parang isa siya sa mga
P6 naging issue wherein ang e-bike din is ang
nagca-cause ng traffic kasi ‘di ba minsan may
mga e-bike na ahm ano may mga e-bike na
nagmamagaling ‘pag nagda-drive… ang hilig
nila sumingit which is nagca-cause ng ano
nagca-cause ng… iba’t-ibang road problems
gano’n.”

(When it comes to road-related matters, e-bikes


seems like they’ve become one of the issues that
causes traffic because, there are times when some
e-bike drivers act like they’re so good at driving?
They love cutting into lanes, which causes
different road problems like that.)

Based on the interview, participants revealed that e-bikes are budget-friendly and

cost-efficient, highlighting its affordability and serving as a practical solution for low-

income families, significantly reducing their daily transportation expenses. This is

justified by the following responses:


“Sa financial, mas affordable siya sa mga katulad namin na mga nasa lower class ng
pamumuhay.”

(When it comes to financial aspect, e-bike was pretty affordable especially for us who are in
the lower class.)

“…dito kasi sa Lucena, maraming pasahero, and also ang mahal ng ano bayad sa mga
transportation so parang naging ano ko is bumili na lang ako ng e-bike para—bukod
sa mura na nga, bukod sa wala na nga akong babayarang pamasahe, hawak ko pa
yung oras ko kung kailan ko gustong lumayas gano’n.”

(For me, there are lots of public transportation commuters here in Lucena and also the rising
cost of transportation fares prompted me to buy and adopt an e-bike. Aside from its
affordability and saves up some money from paying high fares, it was also convenient for me
whenever I want to go somewhere.)

“…nakakatulong yan sa ‘kin as a student kasi nga ano (pause). Nakakatulong siyang
makaano maka-less ng mga gastusin kasi ‘di ba ‘pag… if you have your own ano if
you have your own sasakyan, syempre hindi ka na magbabayad ng pamasahe.”

(It helps me as a student because it helps reduce expenses since if you have your own vehicle,
of course, you do not have to pay for transportation.)

In line with this, an article by Buzz Bicycles (2024) features the financial advantages

of owning an e-bike, highlighting how this vehicle lowers your expenses significantly.

The articles states that owning an e-bike helps save money on fuel, maintenance,

insurance, and registration fees. Although they cost more initially than traditional

vehicles, they can be cheaper in the long run, even mid-range models. Operating costs are

also low, with charging usually costing $0.40 to $0.60 per full battery, and spare batteries

generally range from $200 to $500. Additionally, e-bikes require less maintenance due to

fewer moving parts, mostly needing checks on brakes, tires, and battery, with tune-ups

averaging around $150. Best of all, you don’t need to pay for insurance or registration,

making them a smart financial choice. In addition, E-bikes have gained popularity

worldwide, particularly in the Philippines, as they provide a more sustainable and

convenient alternative to crowded public transportation. They are cheaper to purchase,


operate, and maintain than motorbikes or cars. A full battery charge costs between ₱6 to

₱10, allowing for a travel range of 50 to 80 kilometers, which is convenient for most

commuters in the country (E-velo, 2021).

[Link]

%20electric%20bike%20is,of%20insurance%20and%20registration%20expenses.

[Link]

%20cheaper,or%20to%20pay%20for%20registration.

Aligning with the above mentioned theme, Participants mentioned that e-bikes

promote eco-friendly transportation. They explained that because e-bikes do not emit

smoke, they do not contribute to air or noise pollution, as highlighted in the following

responses:

“Iwas pollution din. Diba, walang usok, walang noise pollution, bukod sa ingay—
hindi siya maingay, hindi rin siya mausok.”

(It does not emit any pollution. It does not produce any smoke nor noise pollution.)

“Ay wala naman. Kasi wala naman yung usok eh.”

(I do not think it has any pollution effects as it does not emit any smoke.)

In line with this, Van de Meer (2024) affirms that E-bikes have significant

environmental benefits by reducing carbon emissions since they produce no tailpipe

emissions. This makes them a cleaner alternative for short to medium-distance travel

compared to cars, which emit large amounts of pollutants. In the same way, Ukpanah

(2024) states that e-bikes provide a sustainable, cost-effective, and health-promoting

alternative to traditional vehicles. They help reduce carbon emissions, alleviate traffic
congestion, and decrease dependence on fossil fuels, being up to six times more efficient

than trains.

[Link]

of-e-bikes#:~:text=Reduced%20Carbon%20Emissions,short%20to%20medium

%2Ddistance%20travel.

[Link]

On the other hand, participants raised concerns about e-bikes contributing to traffic

congestion and road safety issues. The lack of dedicated bike lanes forces e-bike users to

share the road with larger vehicles, which poses safety risks. Furthermore, participants

also noted that reckless driving by some e-bike users adds to traffic congestion. This is

justified by the following responses:

“…mahina siya sa highway. Hindi pwedeng i-ano mo sa highway… kasi delikado.


Malalaki ang sasakyan. Dati nagagamit… ay ngayon, hindi ako makapag-ano… kasi
ang lalaki ng mga sasakyan ngayon. Delikado. Hindi ka pwedeng makipagsabayan sa
mga ano… yun lang.”

(It was really hard to use an e-bike in a highway since it's too risky plus the large vehicles
that you’ll travel with. It was really hard for me.)

“I find it difficult when it comes sa ano… sa… sa mga traffic siguro. Kasi ano eh,
hindi naman kayang makipagsabayan ng e-bike sa bilis ng mga ano tapos hindi rin
naman basta-basta makakasuot sa mga gilid-gilid ‘pag may traffic ‘di ba?”

(I think I find it difficult when it comes to traffic regulation because sometimes e-bikes cannot
keep up with other transportation vehicles. You cannot also drive it on the sides when there’s
a traffic.)

“When it comes sa mga road road kineme naman, ang e-bike… parang isa siya sa
mga naging issue wherein ang e-bike din is ang nagca-cause ng traffic kasi ‘di ba
minsan may mga e-bike na ahm ano may mga e-bike na nagmamagaling ‘pag nagda-
drive… ang hilig nila sumingit which is nagca-cause ng ano nagca-cause ng… iba’t-
ibang road problems gano’n.”
(When it comes to road-related matters, e-bikes seems like they’ve become one of the issues
that causes traffic because, there are times when some e-bike drivers act like they’re so good
at driving? They love cutting into lanes, which causes different road problems like that.)

In the same way, a literature review conducted by Ma, et al. (2019) entitled, “Risk

Riding Behaviors of Urban E-Bikes: A Literature Review,” discussed that risky riding

behaviors among e-bike users, such as illegally occupying motor vehicle lanes, running

red lights, and speeding, are the primary causes of e-bike traffic accidents, which account

for over 90% of such incidents. These behaviors often result from a lack of knowledge

about e-bike safety and insufficient awareness of road safety. Furthermore, a literature

review conducted by Oyeyemi, et al. (2024) entitled, “Integration of E-Bikes in Public

Transportation Based on Their Impact, Importance, and Challenges: A Systematic

Review,” revealed that the integration of e-bikes into public transportation faces several

challenges. Key obstacles include inadequate infrastructure, such as insufficient bike

lanes, parking, and charging stations. Regulatory frameworks vary by jurisdiction,

complicating the incorporation of e-bikes into transit systems due to differing rules on

riding locations, licensing, and speed limits. Safety concerns also hinder widespread e-

bike adoption, with risks of collisions involving vehicles and pedestrians. Additionally,

many developing countries struggle with basic public transportation systems and often

overlook e-bike usage in infrastructure planning. This neglect leads to competition for

road space between e-bike users and motorists, negatively impacting e-bike safety.

[Link]

[Link]

Positive Negative
 Convenient to use  Limited battery capacity and a
 A safer option than other vehicles lack of charging infrastructure
 Low maintenance  Lower travel distance
 Exemption to licensing and  Technical and structural issues
checkpoints  Inconvenient to use in rain
 Accessible for all ages  Traffic congestion and road
 Budget-friendly and cost-efficient safety issues
 Promotes eco-friendly transportation

Figure 3: Thematic Analysis on the Lived Experiences of E-bike Users in Lucena City

Part III – Research Output – Informative Campaign Video

The main output of this study would be an informative campaign video titled “E-bike

Diaries: The E-bike Experience,” which aims to showcase the lived experiences of e-bike

users in Lucena City, emphasizing both the positive and negative aspects of e-bike usage.

The objective of this output is to boost public awareness about the advantages of utilizing

e-bikes while addressing the common challenges that e-bike users encounter throughout

their daily commuting. By presenting real-life experiences, the output intends to promote

e-bikes as an effective and eco-friendly option for transportation while suggesting

improvements in infrastructure, policies, and public support.

The development of the output will be based on the thematic analysis of the lived

experiences of e-bike users in Lucena City. From the thematic analysis, many users

consider e-bikes to be easily accessible and convenient to use, making them a useful and

effective mode of transportation, particularly for short to medium-distance travel. Unlike

other traditional vehicles, e-bikes offer a more carefree commuting experience given that

they are easier to use and do not require gasoline, making them a preferred option for

students, elders, and workers who commute daily. Furthermore, e-bikes are viewed as a
safer option than motorcycles and other fuel-powered vehicles because the majority of e-

bikes have lower travel speeds, allowing their users to navigate more easily and making

them less prone to accidents. This makes e-bikes preferable for individuals who do not

have prior experience in operating motor vehicles yet still need a reliable mode of

transportation.

Another positive aspect of using e-bikes is their low maintenance. They require just

regular battery checks and occassional cleaning, making them a practical choice for those

looking to save money on vehicle maintenance. Additionally, e-bikes are accessible for

all ages, making them a viable mode of transportation for everyone, from teenagers to the

elderly. Their lightweight structure, ease of use, and automatic functions make them a

feasible option for individuals who struggle to operate motorized vehicles.

From an economic standpoint, e-bikes were widely identified as being budget-

friendly and cost-efficient. With rising fuel prices, e-bike users save significantly as these

vehicles rely on rechargeable batteries rather than gasoline or diesel. This makes e-bikes

a more economical mode of transportation for daily commuting and enables users to allot

their budgets to other important expenses. Moreover, e-bikes play a role in promoting

eco-friendly transportation, contributing to reducing carbon emissions and pollution in

communities.

In line with this, one of the most appealing advantages of e-bikes as identified by the

respondents is their exemption from licensing and checkpoint requirements. Unlike

motorcycles and other motorized vehicles, e-bike users have no obligation to get a
driver's license or register their vehicles. This exemption allows users to commute

without dealing with government fees, licensing policies, or compliance with imposed

regulations. However, this may vary depending on the user's location, and while it may be

perceived as an advantage, it also raises issues about the lack of road safety regulations

for e-bike users.

Despite these benefits, several negative aspects were identified in the lived

experiences of e-bike users in Lucena City, presenting challenges and limitations on their

overall commuting experience. Key drawbacks include limited battery capacity and a

lack of charging infrastructure. As e-bikes depend solely on battery power, users

frequently face travel limitations, especially for longer distances. The lack of charging

stations in the city contribute to this issue, making it difficult for users to recharge their

batteries when needed. Consequently, many users must carefully plan their commuting

journeys to avoid running low on battery power.

In line with this concern is the lower travel distance limit, making e-bikes less

suitable for individuals who need to commute long distances. Users have also asserted

technical and structural issues regarding their vehicles' sturdiness and long-term use.

Battery and mechanical malfunctions can occur during use, impacting the commuting

experience and resulting in emergency repairs or replacements. Moreover, weather

conditions also pose significant challenges for e-bike users; many find it inconvenient to

use e-bikes in the rain due to their susceptibility to water damage. Furthermore, the

lightweight structure of e-bikes can lead to instability on wet roads, raising the risk of

accidents during the rainy season.


Traffic congestion and road concerns further limit e-bike users commuting around

Lucena City, as the roadways are primarily designed for larger vehicles. Users often

encounter road-sharing issues and safety concerns, particularly in congested areas where

they navigate limited road space with larger vehicles. The lack of designated bike lanes or

e-bike-friendly routes increases the risks associated with urban commuting.

Given these insights the researchers created this informative campaign video to

educate and promote a better understanding of the practicalities of e-bike use in Lucena

City. The output aims to encourage the public to consider e-bikes as a viable, cost-

effective, and eco-friendly mode of transportation by providing a balanced overview of

both the positive and negative aspects of e-bike usage while advocating for improvements

in infrastructure, policy regulations, and public awareness. By incorporating user

interviews that represent their actual experiences, this output will provide an insightful

perspective on the advantages of e-bike use while addressing the challenges it poses for

everyday commuting, fostering public awareness and promoting a supportive community

that acknowledges both the opportunities and challenges of e-bike transportation in

Lucena City.

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