Choosing Your Perfect Electric Bike: A Guide

Electric bikes are a great way to get around, but with so many options, it can be tricky to know which one to choose. There's a lot to consider, from the purpose of your bike to the level of motor assistance you need, and of course, the price. E-bikes are an investment, with prices ranging from around $1,000 to over $6,000, so it's important to make the right choice. In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know to select the perfect electric bike for your needs.

Price

The price of an e-bike is influenced by various factors, including the class of the bike, the type of motor, and the battery capacity. The battery typically costs about 1/3 of the price of the e-bike, so choosing a smaller capacity battery can help reduce the overall cost. However, it's important to ensure that the battery capacity meets your needs, as a smaller battery may not provide sufficient range for longer rides.

When considering the price, it's also worth thinking about the purpose of the bike and the features you require. For example, if you plan to use the bike for commuting, you may want to invest in a model with a longer-range battery or additional features such as cargo capacity. On the other hand, if you're primarily looking for a leisure bike, a lower-priced model with a shorter range may suffice.

It's worth noting that the price of an e-bike can also be influenced by the brand and the quality of the components. Higher-end brands and models may offer improved performance, durability, and additional features, justifying their higher price tags. However, it's important to weigh these factors against your budget and specific needs to determine if the extra cost is justified for your particular use case.

To get the best value for your money, it's recommended to visit a local bike shop and seek advice from an expert. They can guide you through the various options and help you find an e-bike that suits your needs and budget.

Bike class

Electric bikes are divided into classes that denote their level of motor assistance. The electric bike class system is a classification that has been developed only in the U.S. by People For Bikes. E-bikes initially break down into the same categories as conventional bikes: mountain and road, plus niches like urban, hybrid, cruiser, cargo and folding bikes.

The first step in choosing an e-bike is to consider what you need it for. This will help determine which class of e-bike is right for you. For example, if you plan to use your e-bike for commuting, you may want to consider a folding bike that can be easily transported and stored. If you live in a hilly area, you may want to choose an e-bike with a more powerful motor that can assist you on steep inclines.

Another factor to consider is the level of maintenance required. E-bikes require regular maintenance, such as keeping the battery charged and ensuring that the motor is functioning properly. It's important to consider whether you are able to keep up with the required maintenance or if you will need to rely on a professional for assistance.

Finally, price is also a consideration when choosing an e-bike. E-bikes can range in price from around $1,000 for an entry-level model to over $6,000 for a higher-end e-bike. Buying certified, pre-owned models is an option to find cheaper electric bikes on the market.

Maintenance

Electric bikes are a great investment, but they do require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly, efficiently and safely.

First, it's important to keep your e-bike clean. This will help to prevent dirt and mud from increasing wear on components, which can decrease efficiency and quickly wear through parts. You should also regularly lubricate the drivetrain, as this is subject to greater forces and increased wear. Keep the tyres properly inflated and regularly check for loose bolts, spokes and broken parts.

It's also important to look after the battery. Keep it partially charged and store it in a cool, dry place. The battery is expensive, so this will help to prolong its life.

Some other things to keep an eye on include the rear mech, which may need tweaking when the cable stretches, and the brake pads, which may wear down more quickly than on a non-electric bike. You should also check bolt torque once in a while.

Finally, it's worth noting that the electrics don't have any user-serviceable parts, so if you want to keep your warranty, you'll need to take your e-bike to a professional for any repairs or maintenance. However, many shops will do this for you for free for a stated period after purchase.

Bike categories (e.g. mountain, road, urban)

Electric bikes are a great way to get around, and there are a few things to consider when choosing one. Firstly, you need to think about what you need it for. This will help you decide on the category of bike that's right for you.

Electric bikes are divided into the same categories as conventional bikes: mountain, road, urban, hybrid, cruiser, cargo, and folding bikes. If you're planning on riding off-road, a mountain bike is a good choice. If you're mainly riding on roads, a road bike or an urban bike might be a better option. Hybrid bikes are a mix of mountain and road bikes, and they can be a good choice if you want to ride on a variety of surfaces. Cruiser bikes are designed for comfort and are good for casual riding, while cargo bikes are built for carrying extra weight, and folding bikes are designed to be easily transported.

In addition to the bike category, you'll also want to consider the class of the electric bike, which denotes the level of motor assistance. The electric bike class system is currently only used in the U.S. and was developed by People For Bikes. The battery is another important consideration, as it can affect the cost and performance of the bike. The most common batteries on the market today are between 400Wh and 700Wh.

Battery capacity

When choosing a battery capacity, it's important to consider how you will be using your electric bike. If you plan to use it for long distances or hilly terrain, you may need a larger capacity battery to ensure you have enough power to get you through your journey. On the other hand, if you only plan to use your bike for short distances or flat terrain, a smaller capacity battery may be sufficient.

It's also worth thinking about the weight of the battery. A larger capacity battery will typically be heavier, which can affect the handling and performance of the bike. If you're looking for a lightweight and agile bike, you may want to opt for a smaller capacity battery.

Finally, consider the charging time of the battery. A larger capacity battery will take longer to charge than a smaller one, so if you're looking for a battery that can be quickly charged between rides, a smaller capacity option may be a better choice.

Frequently asked questions