In 2021, the North American e-bike market was estimated to be worth USD 0.80 billion. By 2027, it is anticipated to be worth USD 1.62 billion.
Almost every cyclist knows ebikes, or electrically-assisted bicycles, are the best of the best. Electric bikes are popular among commuters and leisure riders alike, who value their assist feature, which takes a load off the rider.
So if you’ve been thinking about one but aren’t sure it’s worth investing in, read our definitive guide to buying an e-bike below.
Consider the Style of the Electric Bike
When choosing an electric bike, you will come across different options when it comes to the style of the electric bikes. Here are some common e-bike styles to choose from.
A commuter e-bike is useful for traveling around town, traveling to work, or quickly reaching a distant destination. Commuter ebikes often have upright designs for comfort and big, narrow tires optimized for efficiency. Also, they have comfy seats; however they are typically not as broad as cruiser seats.
The cruiser ebikes are best for leisure riders who prefer comfort while cruising. They are mostly intended for flat surfaces like paved roads and bike paths. They are made with wide tires and a suspension system to minimize shock on the seat and front fork, and the handlebars are raised to provide a more upright and back-friendly ride.
Road electric bikes are the same as cruiser bikes which are made for recreational riding on paved surfaces. These lightweight bikes are for those who want to ride fast. What differentiates them from cruiser bikes is that they have narrow tires and are designed with drop handlebars for fast riding.
Mountain e-bikes are designed for thrill-seekers who wish to explore off-roading areas and enjoy themselves while quickly climbing steep hills. To assist riders in navigating rough terrain and dirt trails, they have flat handlebars and wide tires.
Select From the Different Classes of E-Bikes
Selecting from the different classes of e-bikes can be daunting, but this guide will help you make the best decision for your needs. There are three main classes of e-bikes: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3.
Class 1 ebikes are known to be pedal-assist only, this means that the motor provides assistance when you pedal, up to a max speed of 20 mph. Class 2 electric bikes are pedal-assist also, but the motor can assist up to 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes are throttle-only, meaning that you can use the motor to go up to 28 mph without pedaling at all.
A Class 2 or Class 3 e-bike will be the best choice for most people, as they can get you up to speed without too much effort. If you plan on doing mostly off-road riding or need the extra power to get up steep hills, then a Class 3 e-bike might be the best choice.
Choose the Right Size When Buying an E-Bike
Consider the terrain you’ll be riding on and your riding style. For example, a smaller, nimbler bike might be a good choice if you’re riding on bike paths or city streets.
But a larger bike with more powerful pedals might be a better fit if you’re riding off-road. Consider your height and weight when selecting an e-bike, too. You want a bike that you can control comfortably.
Decide on the Battery You Want
It is essential to decide on the battery you want. This can be a difficult decision because there are many different types and brands of batteries out there.
Do some research to find out which battery would be the best fit for you and your needs. Once you have decided on the battery, be sure to read the reviews to see what others think about it. This will help you make a more informed decision.
Think of Your Preferred Motor Placement
Decide where you want the motor to be placed. Do you want it in the front wheel, the back wheel, or in the center of the bike? Each option has its own set of pros and cons.
If you want the motor in the front wheel, you’ll enjoy better stability and handling. However, this placement can make the bike less efficient and harder to pedal when you’re not using the motor.
If you want the motor in the back wheel, you’ll enjoy increased power and efficiency. However, this placement can make the bike more difficult to handle, and you may experience wheel spin in wet conditions.
If you want the motor in the center of the bike, you’ll enjoy increased stability and a more natural riding experience. However, this placement can make the bike heavier and more difficult to pedal when you’re not using the motor.
This DIY cyc motor can also be a good option for you, so check it out. Ultimately, the decision of where to place the motor is up to you and your personal preferences. Consider how you’ll be using the bike and what’s most important to you in terms of performance and riding experience.
Compute the Cost of Accessories
While the initial price of the bike itself may be relatively low, the cost of accessories can quickly add up. Some of the most common accessories include a helmet, lights, reflectors, and a lock.
Other less common, but still important, accessories can include a basket or bag, a pump, and a kit to repair an electric bike. Be sure to compute the cost of all the accessories you will need before making your purchase.
Are You Ready to Invest in an Electric Bike?
There are several electrifying reasons why you should be buying an e-bike. If you use this as a ride to work instead of your car, you can eventually save some cash that you would have spent on 99-RON premium unleaded to fill your vehicle.
Another great thing about having an e-bike is you won’t have sweaty commutes. You’ll leave your house fresh and arrive in the office still looking fresh. Now that you know how to choose an electric bike to buy, maybe it’s about time to visit the store or order one online and enjoy the benefits that electric bikes can offer.
Do you want to learn more about this type of transport? Check out the rest of our site to learn all you can.