Why has the Step-Through Electric Bike become so popular with older riders?

If you have been researching electric bikes in recent years, you will no doubt have seen many brands offer step-through electric bikes, alongside crossbar frames, as part of their core range. Ebikes are a common sight on today’s roads and footpaths, however, more and more riders are opting for the step-through frame as opposed to a crossbar. Step-through frames were traditionally synonymous with ‘Ladies’ bikes’ and demand has always been far lower than crossbar alternatives. Most manufacturers would product around 80% crossbar frames to cater for male riders, whereas step-through and folding variants made up the remainder. Now, however, their recent growth in popularity is driven by low-step being more popular with men and women. But why the change?

The introduction of electric bikes has been a great benefit to many people who have been unable to enjoy cycling for various reasons, whether due to a lack of fitness, confidence or restriction of movement due to old age. For many, these factors have meant that riding a crossbar bicycle is no longer achievable, as they are more difficult to mount and dismount. Cycling brands, such as Wisper Electric Bikes, have responded by introducing a range of step-through and low-step electric bike frames, with greater appeal to the male rider. Moving away from the elegant, curved low crossbar that was a common feature on traditional ladies’ bikes, modern step-through designs tend to be pretty robust in appearance. As well as providing a more masculine look, the boxy frame allows the battery to be concealed. And the new step-through bikes don’t just appear more solid – the thicker tubing adds greater strength, so they are just as capable as their crossbar counterpart when riding on rougher terrain, too!

Step-through eBikes Offer Greater Access To Exercise

Following the lead of Wisper, other brands such as Eskute and Cube, have adopted this style into their own ranges. Whereas step-through bikes used to be a rarity in comparison to crossbar models, they now make up almost 50% of the production of the big electric bike brands. This is because new manufacturing techniques, tougher materials and the addition of suspension forks, have given more people the ability to get back onto the saddle. 

Thanks to the technology applied to contemporary electric bikes, there is little difference in agility and handling between Crossbar and step-through frames. Several brands now offer low-step frames kitted out with typical off-road features, such as front suspension forks, disk brakes and chunky all-terrain tyres. You only have to look at Wisper’s Step-through Electric Bike range to witness the sheer choice of frame styles available.  

Are Low-Step Frames A Fad Or Here To Stay?

With more riders opting for a more accessible frame style, the Victorian perception of step-through frames being made solely for female riders in long skirts is very much a thing of the past. As their appeal continues to grow, the number of step-through e-bikes on the roads and footpaths of the UK continues to rise dramatically. 

Improving access to exercise is great news for everyone, as those suffering from ill health have an enjoyable way to improve their fitness once more. Whereas many felt cycling was a thing of the past, the roads and footpaths have been opened up to them again. With more reliable motor technology and longer-range batteries, even the least confident riders can hit the trails. And it’s not just leisure riders that are making the change, open frame designs are increasingly popular with commuters too. As more people move away from conventional transport to get to work, fewer cars on rush-hour roads can only be a good thing. As long as the weather holds up, that is! 
So, to summarise, the future for step-through and low-step frames appears to be very rosy indeed. With greater choice and wider appeal, it’s all-around positive news for a style of bike that was once considered a niche market choice. As technology continues to improve, we foresee many more people opting for this style of frame, whether its for commuting, social or leisure use.