You’ve seen bicycles around your neighborhood. They looked like they were having so much fun! You want one! But e-bikes come in a wide variety of specifications and prices. Here’s what I would consider, in your position.
Can I build my own bike?
Many affordable bikes are now shipped directly to consumers—meaning they come pre-tuned or partially assembled in the box. Like Peter Flax recently recorded IN Cycling magazine, these bikes are not nearly as inspected or inspected as larger manufacturer’s bikes. Unless you don’t ride a lot or put in a lot of miles or have experience modifying your own bike, I recommend working with a reputable manufacturer with a dealer network. I also don’t recommend a smart ebike. As we can see with VanMoof’s recent explosionYou may have difficulty getting your smart electric bike repaired if the company closes down.
Why do some bikes cost more?
They have more premium ingredients. Batteries and motors from premium brands like Bosch and Shimano are often more powerful and go longer distances, with a range of 90 or 120 miles, compared to the 15-20 mile range you’ll find on bicycles. more affordable price. However, this may not be a problem if you have a short commute.
What terrain do you live in?
If you live in a flat area, you may be satisfied with a 250-watt motor, which is the European speed standard. However, if you live near hills or haul a lot of stuff, you might consider a 500-watt or 750-watt motor and some additional accessories, like hydraulics. disc brakeThis will help you avoid slipping in traffic.
I would also look for a mid-drive motor instead of a hub-drive motor. The mid-drive motor is located in the center of your bike and provides a more natural feel. A hub drive sits on your rear axle and shifts your center of gravity rearward, which takes some getting used to. It can cause you to lose your balance when climbing steep hills.
Follow some basic safety tips.
Not sure where to start? Cycling advocacy group PeopleForBikes recently released their safety education program, Smart electric bicyclewhich they created in partnership with the League of American Bicyclists and Colorado Bicycles. Don’t charge your bike battery overnight and Don’t let your child ride a bike unsupervised. An 80-pound child should not be riding a 65-pound bike, even if the motor allows them to do so.
