Electric Bike Buying: Choosing Your Perfect E-Bike

Electric bikes are making cycling more accessible, but the sophisticated technology they use can confuse the buying process. There are three classifications of bikes with an electric motor: Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph; Class 2 e-bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph, but are throttle-assisted; and Class 3 e-bikes have a maximum speed of 28 mph, and are throttle-assisted. When buying an e-bike, it's important to have a clear idea of what you want from the bike, as this will make the buying process much easier. You should also be aware that, just like when you buy a normal bike, there are accessories that you need to buy when you own an e-bike, such as a pump and inner tubes.

The different types of electric bikes

Electric bikes are a great way to make cycling more accessible. There are several different types of electric bikes, each with its own unique features and benefits.

One type of electric bike is the road bike. These bikes are designed for riding on roads and often have features that make them more comfortable and efficient for longer rides. They may have a different motor placement and power delivery system to other types of electric bikes.

Another type of electric bike is the hybrid bike. Hybrid bikes combine features of both road and mountain bikes, making them a versatile option for riding on a variety of surfaces. They may have a different pedalling resistance system to other types of electric bikes.

Mountain bikes are another type of electric bike. These are designed for off-road riding and can handle steep and technical terrain. They often have a more powerful motor and a higher torque delivery system to help with climbing hills and riding over rough terrain.

There are also e-road and e-gravel bikes, which are designed for riding on roads and gravel paths, respectively. These bikes often prioritise range and weight over acceleration and torque, as the rider may not want the bike to do all the work on hills.

Finally, there are folding electric bikes. These bikes offer the convenience of being able to fold up for easy transport, while still providing the benefits of an electric motor and battery. They can be a great option for commuters who need to take their bike on public transport or store it in a small space.

The buying process

There are three classifications of electric bikes: Class 1 bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. Class 2 bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph but are throttle-assisted.

When considering which type of electric bike to buy, it is important to think about the type of riding you will be doing. For example, will you be riding on the road, off-road, or in the city? Different types of bikes are better suited for different types of riding. You should also consider the range and weight of the bike, as well as the motor placement, power, and torque delivery.

In addition to the bike itself, there are also accessories that you will need to purchase. These include a pump, inner tubes, and a multi-tool for maintenance.

Accessories you'll need

When buying an electric bike, you should consider the accessories you'll need. Just like with a normal bike, there are some accessories that you will need to buy. For example, you will need a pump and inner tubes, as e-bikes can get punctures. You will also need a multi-tool for maintenance, although you rarely have to do any maintenance on the motor or battery system.

There are three classifications of electric bikes: Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. Class 2 e-bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph but are throttle-assisted. Acceleration and torque are potentially less important on e-road or e-gravel bikes than range and weight. Brands are very specific when it comes to e-bikes, and will spec different systems for different jobs, including motor placement, power and torque delivery, and pedalling resistance.

Having a clear idea about what you want from the bike will make the buying process much easier. You should consider whether you want to conquer miles on the road, tackle steep and technical terrain off-road, or glide your way through town. Electric bikes are making cycling far more accessible, but the sophisticated technology they use can confuse the buying process.

The benefits of an electric bike

When buying an electric bike, it's important to have a clear idea of what you want from it. There are three classifications of electric bikes: Class 1 bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum speed of 20 mph; Class 2 bikes have a throttle and a maximum speed of 20 mph; and Class 3 bikes have a throttle and can go faster than 20 mph.

Electric bikes have many benefits. Firstly, they allow you to commute further with less effort and less sweat than a normal bike. This is especially useful if you're tackling steep hills or technical terrain. Electric bikes can also be folded, offering the portability of a folding bike with the increased distance provided by a battery and motor.

Another benefit of electric bikes is that they require very little maintenance. While you will need to buy accessories such as a pump, inner tubes, and a multi-tool, you rarely, if ever, have to do any maintenance on the motor or battery system.

Electric bikes also offer a more accessible way to cycle. Whether you want to conquer miles on the road or glide your way through town, an electric bike can help you do so with ease. They are also becoming more advanced, with brands developing systems for different jobs, including motor placement, power and torque delivery, and pedalling resistance.

How to get the right type for your riding

There are three classifications of electric bikes: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. Class 2 e-bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph but are throttle-assisted.

When choosing the right type of electric bike for your riding, you should consider the type of terrain you will be riding on. If you plan to ride on the road, you might want to consider an e-road bike, which tries to replicate the 'ride feel' of a normal road bike. If you want to ride off-road, you might want to consider a mountain e-bike. You can also get electric folding bikes, which are portable and can increase the distance you are able to travel.

Frequently asked questions