Some things to consider before buying an ebike

More and more people have understood the advantages of using an electric bicycle, identifying it as a sustainable alternative to the most polluting means of transport. Thanks to the increasing availability of models and the incentives of legislators, it is an excellent time to proceed with the purchase. Now ebikes are more affordable because many wholesale electric bikes are imported from China to our country.  However, due to the great variety on the market, it may be useful to clarify a key point: the difference between e-bikes and pedal assisted bikes.

E-bike or pedal assisted bike: what changes?

E-bikes are self-contained battery-powered bicycles, without the need for pedaling. In fact, this makes the operation of electric bikes of this type comparable to that of a scooter. On the contrary, in pedal assisted bicycles the pedal assist is activated only when you pedal, by means of an engine that helps you uphill or on steep terrain. The pedal assisted bike is the best-selling version in North America and Europe, thanks to the regulations that equate it to the traditional one. Models with pedal assistance boast various levels of assistance, even up to four or five for high-end products, which adapt to a variety of needs.

What kind of electric bike to buy

For commuters or for all those who are looking for a means of transport suitable for long and itinerant journeys, such as those for cyclists, the folding version allows you to count on two great advantages, transportability even on trains and ferries and the ” pedal assistance on longer days or on the most difficult terrain. However, perhaps the most common model is the electric city-bike: it is a comfortable vehicle for short city trips, such as those between home and work. One thing is for sure, make sure you buy from an electric bike manufacturer that has a high reputation for producing quality ebikes.

The electric version of the traditional city-bike is very convenient to get to the office without sweating excessively, or to go home, relieving the stress of the day without making too much effort. Furthermore, it is also particularly suitable for people who want to move in a healthy and sustainable way, while having the certainty of being able to count on support when necessary. Finally, electric MTBs are the most expensive models: these are mountain bikes with wide, toothed wheels and a sporty set-up, which can tackle steep and bumpy routes, even on steep terrain, thanks to their structure. Added to this is the ability to come to your aid in times of need with a “push” to pedal.

Engine, battery and performance

The engine is undoubtedly one of the factors to be carefully evaluated before purchasing an electric bicycle. This is a central feature for this means of transport, especially for the price, which increases in proportion to the power. According to current regulations, an electric bicycle cannot support an engine with a declared power of more than 250W and lighter ones are rarely found on the market. The motor has evolved over the years, passing from the alternating current one, common on the first models put on the market and now being discontinued from the market, to the direct current one, light and silent. 

Most of all, particular attention must be paid to the position of the motor: in an electric bicycle this component can be on the front wheel, on the rear one or in the center, precisely at the coupling point between the two pedals. This factor greatly affects the driving experience: if the front position guarantees a smooth pedaling, some complain of an uneven weight distribution. The motor positioned on the rear wheel, on the other hand, creates greater anchoring and does not alter the traction of the bicycle. However, it can be uncomfortable in some situations, such as when a wheel gets punctured. The compromise of the central position is certainly the best solution: in this way the motor does not hinder any type of operation, whether it is pedaling or changing a wheel. Battery range and charging speed are other elements that must be carefully evaluated, especially if you plan to make long journeys. 

Conclusion

There are many factors that should be considered in buying an electric bicycle but what has been described above are the main factors. However, if you are faced with a few choices, you are advised to focus on the engine, battery, and performance. An electric bicycle that is not very fashionable may be annoying at first but the one that does not have a high quality engine, battery and performance will continue to be annoying all the time.