The use of e-bikes in urban transport has grown over the years. E-bikes make cycling easier and more comfortable than traditional transport. Thanks to this amazing technology, you can enjoy longer cycling miles.
If you have ever used an e-bike, then you will know how comfortable it is to ride one. However, choosing your first bike is no easy task. In this e-bike buying guide, you will learn about the types of e-bikes and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Over the years, the use of e-bikes in urban transport has grown. E-bikes make riding easier and more comfortable than traditional transport. Thanks to this amazing technology, you can enjoy longer riding miles.
If you have ever used an e-bike, then you will know how comfortable it is to ride one. However, choosing your first bike is no easy task. In this e-bike buying guide, you will learn about the types of e-bikes and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Understanding e-bike classes
There are 3 classes of e-bikes: Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3. Each class represents a different level of motor assistance. The table below lists the differences between each class of e-bike.
- Class 1 E-Bike
Pedal assist only
Maximum speed 20 mph
Can share lanes and paths with traditional unassisted bikes
Allowed on mountain bike trails in some states - Level 2 e-bikes
Pedal assist and throttle
Maximum speed 20 mph
Can share lanes and trails with traditional unassisted bikes
Allowed on mountain bike trails in some states - Level 3 e-bikes
Pedal assist only
Maximum speed of 28 mph
Higher carrying capacity and climbing ability
Maximum speeds are limited on most bike paths and mountain bike trails
What types of e-bikes are available?
There are different types of e-bikes to suit specific rider needs. Folding e-bikes are known for their lightness and portability. Wide tyre e-bikes can traverse off-road terrain. In this e-bike guide, we'll cover the basics of each type of e-bike.
Folding electric bikes
Folding electric bikes have a folding frame that you can fold in half to increase their portability. The folding mechanism is usually located in the centre of the frame. Folding frames allow you to store them in compact spaces such as flats, offices and vehicles.
Wide tyre e-bikes
Wide-tire e-bikes have larger diameter tyres with a wider tread profile. Their typical sizes are 24x4 inches to 26x4 inches. They offer excellent puncture resistance and shock absorption. Wide tyres are best suited for off-road riding. However, you can also use them on flat terrain.
Commuter e-bikes
Commuter e-bikes are best suited for urban and suburban riding. They usually have durable and lightweight frames, sturdy suspensions and medium to large tyres. Many commuter e-bikes have rear luggage racks. You can attach storage baskets to these luggage racks and transport items.
Electric Mountain Bike (eMTB)
Electric mountain bikes are designed for heavy-duty off-road riding. They usually have wide tyres, dual suspension and long travel. These features allow you to maintain stability and control on difficult terrain. Examples include sand and snow.
Straddle e-bikes
Straddle e-bikes are designed for maximum ease of boarding and disembarking. They either have no top tube or are angled diagonally downwards. This design makes it easier for the rider to get on and off the bike.
Originally designed for women wearing long skirts, straddle frames are now universally accepted.
Key considerations when choosing an e-bike
Here are some key considerations when choosing an e-bike.
Style and Design
The style and design of your bike can have a big impact on your riding comfort. You can choose a sleek, modern bike or one with a more classic look, depending on your taste.
When you buy an e-bike, you will come across different frame styles, sizes and lift positions.
Motor Torque
The torque of the motor of your e-bike will determine its efficiency when carrying a heavy load. The range is from 40Nm to 80Nm. The riding torque may change when you switch the pedal assist setting.
Riding range and efficiency
When fully charged, e-bikes have an average riding range of 15 to 35 miles. This depends on terrain, average speed, battery size, weight, and more. While a powerful motor can produce more power, the battery drains faster.
When you compare e-bikes, most e-bikes have a 20 to 100 mile ride specification. Battery capacity is the number of hours a battery can last before it runs out of power.
While many people prefer an e-bike with a high battery capacity, the number of hours a battery can sustain one watt of power before it runs out of juice varies. For example, an e-bike with a 500W battery and a 200W motor uses more power than an e-bike with a 500W motor and a 500W battery. Do you understand?
Pedal Assist Level
The pedal assist level on an e-bike is a mode that helps you get more power from the motor and travel faster. Once you switch it on, the motor will provide a specific amount of power. You will feel the push as you ride.
Most e-bikes have 3 or 4 levels of pedal assist. You can use them as needed for more torque and speed or to conserve battery power.
Transport and storage
When comparing different e-bikes, you should pay attention to features such as wheel size, wheelbase and foldability. Can you hang your bike on a bike rack? You should make sure these features fit your lifestyle.
Cost
Do you want to know how to choose an e-bike and get value for money?
One factor that determines the total cost is the motor. For example, a 250-watt motor is cheaper than a 500-watt motor. However, the latter offers a more responsive and agile riding experience.
Another factor that determines the cost is the battery power. How many miles can it travel before it runs out of juice? But things can be a bit tricky. Battery range depends on the terrain and the weight of the rider.
The drivetrain will also determine how much you pay for the bike. The basic configuration of an e-bike means you'll get a more complex drivetrain. Another factor that affects the overall cost of a bike is the mix of non-motorised bike components.
However, spending a lot of money doesn't necessarily mean that you'll get a high-quality e-bike. That said, you need to keep the above parameters in mind to ensure that you get value for your investment. You may want to confirm how the warranty works and what parts it covers.
Safety.
Safety is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an e-bike. Common safety features to look for include UL-listed batteries, front and rear lights, and headlights.
UL Listed batteries are rigorously tested to meet the highest safety standards. All Bodywe models are UL 2849 listed. Rest assured that your e-bike is guaranteed to provide optimal safety and performance.
Every Bodywel model comes with essential safety features. These features include front and rear lights as well as a headlight. They enable you to see (and be seen) in poor visibility conditions, especially on foggy days and at night.
Summing up.
Upgrading to an e-bike is exciting. However, the sheer number of models and features can be dizzying. We hope the information in this article will help you make an informed buying decision.
Ready to upgrade your ride? Explore Bodywe's entire line of electric bikes today.
