Buying an electric bike should be as much about buying into a bike shop as it is about the product itself. You should judge your place of purchase on three points: vibe, commitment, and quality. The vibe is the feeling you get when you walk into the shop. Is the staff friendly, knowledgeable and helpful? Commitment refers to the shop’s visible enthusiasm for electric bikes. Do they have many e-bikes or just a few stuck in the back of the shop? Knowing that the shop is committed to the electric bicycle movement means they will be willing and wanting to help you make the most of your electric bike years down the road. Quality, refers to the types of bikes that the retailer is selling. Are they brand names that you can research or are they bikes on which information is hard to come by? You want to be sure your retailer is in the business for the right reason and not just to make a quick buck.
With gas prices rising, many people are considering alternative modes of transport to get to their destinations. Electric bikes are one option attracting attention, given they enable to save money and provide a durable and quick method for getting around.
Riding an electric bike offers great health and fitness benefits, as well as being good for the environment. They enable people to leave their car or motorbike at home and cover greater distances than regular bicycles, given the addition of a motor and battery.
There are a variety of electric bike models on the market, meaning there’s an e-bike out there for everyone. We advise considering the following factors before purchasing an e-bike and taking it out on the road or offroad trails.
The functionality of your electric bike will depend on the model you purchase. Ensure you pick an electric bike that matches your needs and lifestyle. For example, if you prioritize comfort, you can look at models with comfortable seating and high handlebars, like a breach cruiser e-bike. Some e-bike models have added features like anti-theft and space to put your luggage.
Man biker sitting on electric bikeSome customers prioritize e-bikes that deliver top speed. E-bikes have a derailleur system that allows riders to switch their gears and take the strain off their legs. The gear system makes it easy to navigate urban areas and offers complete control over speed. If this appeals to you, browse models with gear systems that suit your preference and lifestyle. There are also many safety options built into the bike to prevent accidents.
The most important part of an electric bike is its motor. Earlier models of electric bikes had the motor fixed close to the front wheel. However, as manufacturers prioritized performance, they switched to a pedal-cased motor system. With the advancement of technology, some new models even come equipped with built-in sensors that can measure the bike’s speed, pressure, and rotation.
When deciding on a model, check whether the motor’s position will hinder your travel. Some bikes even have motors of different sizes, with some going a step further with customized electronic bikes with cool motors.
An electronic bike is powered by a battery that you can easily charge at most power outlets. It’s important to ensure your electronic bike model has a high-quality battery that won’t drain quickly. If using your electric bike for long commutes, consistently charge the battery so you don’t get stranded.
When choosing your model, look at the battery’s range, as this will determine how long it can run before it needs a recharge. E-bikes come with three types of batteries:
Nickel-cadmium batteries: Very light and come with their issues, especially when it comes to memory.
Lead-based batteries:
The most affordable option , but are very heavy. They also react strongly to different weather conditions, which could require more hands-on maintenance experience.
Very consistent when providing power, but they are more expensive, so only consider these if they match your budget.
If you plan to use your bike in urban areas, consider buying a lighter model. City e-bikes or folding e-bikes are highly convenient for people living in small spaces or navigating through busy streets. Also, factor in your own weight when picking an electric bike, and choose a model that will support you comfortably.
Modern rental electric bikes standing a row during charging on a bright day with a selective focus on the vertical payment terminal with a mock-up of informational or an ad banner placeholder on itElectronic bikes are the future, giving so many people an alternative means of transport. You can use them to skip traffic and arrive at all appointments on time, and they offer a sustainable mode of transport that cuts down your carbon footprint. As technology develops, it’s exciting to think about the future of electronic bikes and their features in the long run.
If you’re ready to join the e-bike revolution, research your purchase by discovering how to choose an electric bike and check out our guide to the best e-bikes of 2023.
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