It is easy to become overwhelmed when you look at the sheer number of Electric Bicycles out in the market today. Not so long ago, there were just a few E-Bike manufacturers out there, but today we are faced with an expanding market that is constantly blooming and pushing out new players in the E-Bike sphere. So, the choice available today can make it harder and more confusing to choose an Electric Bicycle. When it comes to buying an Electric Bicycle, there are two main differentiators that will help you narrow down the field: Style and Price. Both of these factors will help you cut through the noise and find the right E-Bike for your specific needs.
With their ease of use and thrilling performance, E-Bikes are drawing more and more first riders. If you’ve been considering getting your own Electric Bicycle but don’t know where to begin, then this guide is for you!
HOW TO CHOOSE AN ELECTRIC BICYCLE
TYPES OF E-BIKES AVAILABLE IN THE MARKET:
Electric Bikes
Electric Bikes is a very broad category and includes several different types, ranging from Performance to Leisure E-Bikes with multiple options in terms of wheels sizing, speed options, gearing, mode of assist etc. Most share several characteristics, including narrower tires, a more upright frame geometry, narrower saddles and an emphasis on a lightweight design.
If your goal is Cycling as a hobby and you ride mostly on the streets, an electric road bike is an excellent choice. These bikes are designed for the most efficient pedaling and are often the lightest options. They can often be ridden easily without any E-Assist, which is great for Cyclists that only want help on the hills. If you plan to use an E-Bike as a commuter vehicle and not necessarily for pleasure riding, you’ll likely want to look at E-Bikes with gears.
E-Bikes with Pedal Assist and a Throttle can help remove costly components and focus more on rigid frames that allow proper pedaling form combined with enough motor power to keep pedaling optional. That can be nice after a long day of work when you just want to zoom home without pedaling.
Folding Electric Bikes
Folding E-Bikes are popular for their extreme portability. Most Folding E-Bikes have a folding point in the middle of the bike and on the handlebar. This collapses the bike into a package usually no larger than a suitcase. If you plan to put your E-Bike in a car or you plan to carry it onto the bus or train, then a Folding E-bike is the most convenient. A small downside to many Folding E-Bikes is that they are often heavier than regular sized E-Bikes.CONSIDER YOUR USAGE AND NEEDS
Electric Bicycles are designed for different people and different purposes. It’s up to you to decide what features are the most important. If comfort is key, then a step-through frame may be best. If hill climbing is crucial, a mid drive motor system or high torque hub motor may be the best. If riding long distances is your cup of tea, then a battery with a long charge range is most appropriate. Understanding your personal needs will help you pick what features matter most on your electric bike.
ASK QUESTIONS
Perhaps the most important—and fun—part of buying an Electric Bicycle is choosing a perfect E-Bike for you. The most basic question is: ‘Do I love this bike?’ If yes, then start asking a few other questions: ‘Does it climb hills in the way I need it to?’; ‘Does the bike fit me in the way I would like it to?’, ‘Does it have the quality and functionality I would like?'. It is important to think of all questions you may have about a particular bike and ask them before you make your purchase.
SET YOUR EXPECTATIONS
The Electric Bicycle is a revolutionary form of transportation. Quality E-Bikes are here at last, and they are reliable, powerful, useful, and a joy to use. All in all, an Electric Bicycle can be life changing. That being said, not all Electric Bicycles are created equal. There are many E-Bikes out there that are far from the ideal of a modern, quality machine. It is up to you as the customer to set your expectations high and demand the best.
Conclusion
Electric Bicycles have become the fastest growing segment of the Bicycle industry. While standard pedal bike sales are either flat or falling in nearly every category, Electric Bicycles continue to see double- or triple-digit growth year over year.
