Air travel with an e-bike
In 2016, international airline restrictions (IATA) were imposed prohibiting air travel with lithium-ion batteries of greater than 100 W.h capacity. Since virtually all e-bikes use lithium-ion batteries well above this capacity limit, this ruling essentially meant that people could not air travel with their e-bikes (unless they sent their battery ahead by other means).
As a solution for our customers, we now have a loner battery that allows Pedal Easy users to continue to air travel with their bikes. For a nominal charge we have a loan program that provides a special battery meeting IATA air travel requirements for lithium-ion batteries. As far as we know we are the only e-bike manufacturer offering this service.
Due to its light weight, the Pedal Easy bike itself is treated by the airlines as a normal bike (the battery must be detached and carried in cabin luggage). Bikes travel as oversized luggage, for which there is typically an extra charge. Pedal Easy e-bikes are robust, so they travel well partially disassembled, in a cardboard bike box. We do have several hard-shell cases for loan to customers (nominal fee). The disadvantage of such cases is that they must be stored somewhere while you are cycling, and you must return to the same airport to pick them up for your return flight. Most airlines “official” policies require protective packaging. The uncertainty of being rejected at the gate discourages most people from trying to go with an unprotected bike.
Different countries have different rules regarding e-bike power, speed, and control. The Pedal Easy bike is set up for North American rules. Ensure that you ride in a manner consistent with the rules of the country and, as a tourist, you will probably be OK.
