Low Speed Electric bikes are human-powered vehicles with an added battery-powered electric motor. Although capable of pushing you along without your help, electric bikes perform noticeably better when you pedal. Electric bikes typically travel at top speeds of 15 to 20 miles per hour and go up to 20 miles per charge. Charging an electric bike for four to six hours uses 5 cents worth of electricity from common 110 VAC wall outlets. An e-bike's power can give you a break from pedaling or supply more power when you're pulling a child-carrying cart or going up hills. Best of all these emission-free vehicles are easy on the environment. But you save about $5 to $6 in gas and maintenance costs for every 8 to 10 miles if you use the bike instead of your car.