E-bikes come with plenty of health benefits. You’ll get more exercise and can use it for eco-friendly commuting. However, there are so many options when it comes to e-bikes that it can be challenging to make a final decision.
So, if you’re ready to travel with torque, you’ll want to keep reading. This guide will help you choose the right e-bike for your journey.
Table of Contents
1. Think About Where You’ll Ride
The terrain you ride on the most often will change what e-bike frame you need to get. For example, if you plan on riding the bike to work and your route will consist of mostly paved paths, you should get a city bike. It’s best for riding on flat surfaces and can turn quickly.
Are you planning on taking the bike on off-road adventures? You’d want to consider a mountain bike instead. Cruiser e-bikes have a low step-through frame, which is more comfortable. Cargo e-bikes have tons of storage space, making them great for grocery trips.
There are plenty more types of e-bike frames to consider. If you’re unsure or want the bike for a few reasons, you can always get a hybrid bike that combines the city and mountain bike frame styles.
You should check out an electric rickshaw as well. They’re a three-wheeled e-bike, so the frame can offer you more support. You still get the same benefits as riding a standard two-wheel bike, making them great for a broader range of people.
So, before you buy an e-bike, you’ll want to think about where you’ll ride it the most. If you do, you can choose a model that will suit your riding style.
2. Check the Motor and Battery
Next, you’ll want to choose a bike with a motor and battery that suit your needs. Otherwise, it’ll be more of a hassle to ride.
Start by thinking about what kind of motor you want. E-bikes come with either a hub or mid-drive motor. Hub motors are more common and less expensive but need more maintenance and don’t offer as much power. Mid-drive motors are pricey but are more efficient and are in the bike’s center, so they don’t disturb the balance of the frame as much.
Now, you’ll want to consider the motor’s power. Most e-bikes have a wattage between 250W and 750W. You can find options that go higher but might be restricted where you live, so make sure you’re familiar with local regulations on e-bikes.
250W is popular on entry-level e-bikes. You won’t get a lot of power from their pedal-assist features, making it not a good choice if you live in a hilly area. It can be a good choice if you only plan on riding it over flat surfaces.
500W motors are the next most popular option. They’re more powerful and can handle hills. 750W motors are the most powerful but can quickly drain batteries and aren’t legal everywhere.
The motor and battery impact the range you get out of the bike. You’ll want to check what range the company lists online for their e-bikes and pick one that can get you where you want to go.
It’s usually better to get a bigger battery since the actual range you get from it can vary depending on your bike settings and weight.
3. Select the Right Gears
The gears on your e-bike are what you use to control the bike’s resistance. You can change the settings to alter your workout and biking speed.
You’ll want to check the number of gears that the bike comes with. Generally, you want to choose one that comes with at least seven. You can choose one with more if you live in a place with steep hills.
A stronger motor can compensate for fewer gears, even if you’re going up a slope. Most people prefer more gear options so they have more control over their cycling sessions. So, how many gears you think you’d benefit from is up to you.
4. Check Out Online Reviews
Next, make sure that you read plenty of online reviews about e-bikes that interest you. You’ll learn much about what others have experienced with that model, giving you an insider’s perspective before you’re locked in.
You’ll want to learn more about the actual range on the bike, if it often has motor or battery problems, and how good the company’s customer service and warranty are.
You can also make a post on an online forum to ask questions. Many people online are willing to share their experience with specific e-bikes and brands to help you make a final choice.
5. Don’t Forget To Think About Its Weight
Many people don’t think about the bike’s weight until they already have it. E-bikes can be incredibly heavy, making transporting them a hassle. You’ll want to ensure you know how much it weighs first and whether you can lift it occasionally.
There are lightweight e-bikes made from carbon fiber, although they are pricier than those with frames made from other materials.
The size of the bike also changes where you can store it. If you have limited space at home, consider getting a foldable e-bike instead. They’re also easier to put in your car or take on a bus.
6. Know the Maintenance Requirements
You must understand the maintenance requirements of the e-bike that you buy. Different models have different needs. If you’re uncomfortable tuning up the bike, you’ll want to know where the local bike shop is. Someone there will be able to help you.
All e-bikes will need regular cleaning, chain maintenance, and brake inspections. You’ll also need to keep the tires inflated at the correct pressure.
Keep in mind that some e-bikes do need more maintenance than others.
Travel With Torque Today!
E-bikes are great to have. You can go anywhere, exercise, and enjoy a fun ride. Once you have the right e-bike, you’ll never want to stop riding it.
