Electric Bike Buying Guide: Key Features To Look For

Electric bikes are a great way to get around, but there are a few things you should consider before buying one. Firstly, think about what kind of assistance you want: manual pedalling, pedal assist (pedelec), or electric only (throttle) modes. You should also consider the volts and amp-hour of the bike, as these will give you an idea of the real-world range. Other things to look out for include the bike's looks, power, range, price, motor type, max supported weight, battery brand, and real-world results. It's also a good idea to check reviews and videos to see if the bike's performance matches up to its claims.

Motor type: pedal, pedal assist, full electric

Electric bikes can have some combination of manual pedalling, pedal assist (pedelec), and electric-only (throttle) modes. If you have bad knees or simply don't want to pedal, make sure your electric bike can propel itself forward with just the throttle.

Pedal assist is a mode that allows you to dial in the perfect amount of power for your riding style. You can decide how much effort you want to put in and how much assistance you want from the motor. This mode is ideal for those who want to get some exercise but still want a bit of help on hills or when accelerating from a stop.

Full electric mode means the bike's motor does all the work. This is a good option if you want to take it easy or are recovering from an injury. However, keep in mind that using full electric mode will drain your battery faster than using pedal assist.

When choosing an electric bike, it's important to consider your needs and preferences. If you want the option to pedal manually, look for a bike with pedal assist and manual pedalling modes. If you prefer to let the bike do all the work, make sure it has a full electric mode. Some bikes, like the Murf, offer both options, allowing you to switch between modes depending on your needs.

Battery brand and quality

When it comes to electric bikes, the battery is an important consideration. It's worth looking for a brand name battery, as these tend to have much longer lives (charge cycles) due to more stringent testing. For example, Murf electric bikes use Samsung cells in their batteries.

You should also check the volts and amp-hour are listed, as these will give you an idea of the real-world range of the bike. A high-capacity battery will have a higher amp-hour, which means it will last longer between charges. The Fat Murf, for instance, has a high-capacity 15.6 amp-hour battery.

If you're looking for a bike that can go full electric, you'll want to make sure the battery is powerful enough to support this. The Fat Murf and the standard Murf both have 750-watt motors, which are powerful enough to propel the bike forward without any pedalling.

Price

When considering the price of an electric bike, it's important to take into account the cost of the battery. Brand name batteries tend to be more expensive but can offer longer lives due to more stringent testing. For example, Murf electric bikes use genuine Samsung cells, which are likely to be more expensive but offer a longer lifespan.

The price of an electric bike can also depend on the motor type. Electric bikes with more powerful motors, such as the 750-watt motor found in the Fat Murf model, will likely be more expensive than those with less powerful motors. The motor type also determines the level of assistance provided, with pedal-assist and full-electric modes offering different levels of support.

It's important to consider the overall value of the electric bike. While a lower-priced bike may seem appealing, it's important to ensure that it has the necessary features and quality. Checking reviews, videos, and other evidence can help determine if the bike is worth the price. Additionally, testing the bike in person can provide valuable insight into its performance and whether it justifies the cost.

Warranties can also impact the price of an electric bike. A longer warranty period, such as the industry-leading two-year warranty offered by Murf, provides added peace of mind and may justify a higher price point.

Durability

You should also consider the battery brand and its reputation. Brand name batteries tend to have much longer lives (charge cycles) due to more stringent testing. For example, every Murf battery is built using genuine Samsung cells.

The volts and amp-hour of the battery are also important. These numbers give you a general idea of what the real-world range can be. For example, the Fat Murf has a high-capacity 15.6 amp-hour battery.

You should also consider the weight of the electric bike. If you live on an island or somewhere flat, you might want to opt for an electric bike with bigger tires and a carbon fibre frame to reduce maintenance.

Top speed

When it comes to the top speed of an electric bike, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it's important to understand the different modes that electric bikes can have: manual pedalling, pedal assist (pedelec), and electric-only (throttle). The top speed you can achieve will depend on the mode you're using. If you're using manual pedalling, the top speed will depend on how fast you can pedal. With pedal assist, the motor will help you reach higher speeds, and with electric-only mode, the bike will propel itself forward without any pedalling required.

Another factor that affects top speed is the power of the motor. Electric bikes typically have motors ranging from 250 watts to 750 watts. A more powerful motor will generally allow you to reach higher speeds. Additionally, the battery capacity plays a role in top speed. A higher capacity battery will provide more power to the motor, potentially enabling faster speeds.

It's worth noting that the top speed of an electric bike may not always be listed as a specific number. Manufacturers often provide a range or an estimate, as real-world performance can vary depending on factors such as rider weight, terrain, and wind resistance. Therefore, it's a good idea to check reviews, videos, or other evidence to get a better understanding of the top speed you can expect.

When considering the top speed, it's also important to think about your own needs and preferences. If you plan to use the electric bike for commuting or long-distance rides, a higher top speed may be desirable. However, if you're using it for leisure rides or in an area with speed limits, a lower top speed may be sufficient. Additionally, keep in mind that higher speeds may impact the range of the bike, as faster speeds tend to consume more battery power.

Lastly, remember to check the local regulations regarding electric bike speeds. There may be speed limits or restrictions in your area that you need to abide by. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about the top speed that suits your needs and ensures a safe and enjoyable riding experience.

Frequently asked questions