After all, what kid wouldn’t love the idea of having a bike with its very own motor? But is buying an e-bike for kids a good idea?

Well, the truth is that it all depends.

Whether or not you should buy your child a kid’s e-bike depends on multiple factors. Your state’s laws, the age of the child, rules about safety gear, and the size and speed of the bike are all things that you should take into consideration. 

Here you’ll find some of the top questions (along with our best answers) that you’ll want to consider when deciding whether your child is ready for an e-bike of their own.

State Laws

The first thing you’ll want to make sure of before buying your child an e-bike is that they’re legally even allowed to ride one in your state.

While many states have laws and restrictions regarding electric bicycles and who can operate them, they vary considerably on a state-to-state basis.

Some states, for instance, group e-bikes into one broad category, while others utilize a three-class system.

Here’s a breakdown of the various styles of e-bikes you should know if your state went the three-class route:

• Class 1: Bikes that are equipped with motors that provide assistance only when the rider pedals, and that will only provide such assistance up to the speed of 20 mph.
• Class 2: Bikes that come with a throttle motor that will provide assistance when pedaling up to the speed of 20 mph.
• Class 3: Bikes equipped with a motor that provides assistance when pedaling up to 28mph.

Photo Courtesy: [Pixabay]

• Does your state have a minimum age requirement for the operation of an electric bicycle and, if so, of which class or classes of e-bikes?
• The helmet laws in your state regarding e-bikes. Many states require riders under the age of 14 to wear a helmet at all times.
• Whether e-bike riders are required to have insurance or obtain licensing and/or registration before operating an e-bike.
• What the traffic laws are in your state regarding e-bikes and where they are allowed to be operated.

If this all sounds overwhelming, don’t worry. While some states have relatively strict e-bike laws, others have very few, if any.

To find out where your state stands on the issue, visit this handy guide on BikeBerry that breaks down e-bike laws from state to state.

Age Considerations

While state laws may provide answers to the questions of some parents, several states haven’t addressed the issue of age as far as e-bikes are concerned.

So, how young is too young to ride an electric bike? Unfortunately, there as many opinions out there as there are parents.

In general, unless your child can already ride a regular bike with no problems, then it’s best to wait until they can before bringing a motor into play. Realistically, you’ll be a bit hard-pressed to a bike that goes very fast for a child under around 13- 14.

Photo Courtesy: [StacyC]

• Low/Training mode- up to 5mph
• Med/Standard mode-  up to 7.5mph
• High/Advanced mode- up to 13mph

If you’re an avid rider with a child who learned to ride right after he learned to walk, then bikes like these are a great way to help them test the motorized waters.

If your child is super young or isn’t yet experienced enough to ride an e-bike of their own, then your best bet is to look for a great kid’s seat for your own e-bike. That way, your kids can still enjoy the thrill of riding, without the responsibility of piloting the bike itself.

Safety

Among the most important things you can do when purchasing an e-bike for kids is to make sure that your children understand that the bike is not a toy.

Don’t be afraid to be overly cautious when ensuring that they are familiar with the bike and where they can ride it before unleashing them onto the streets.

Safety gear is also an important consideration, as the right helmet and other safety equipment can make a huge difference if your child should take a spill.

Photo Courtesy: [StacyC]

If your child is riding an e-bike that goes over 20 mph (even as a passenger), try to find a helmet that meets Dutch NTA 8776 safety standards, or even a light DOT approved motorcycle helmet.

Try to look for a brightly colored helmet, preferably one that your kid thinks looks super cool. Not only will they be more likely to wear it, but it will also help make them more visible on the street.

What To Look For In A Kid’s e-Bike

When it comes to buying bikes for older kids and teens, the good news is that the options open up considerably. Here are some of the things you’ll want to look for when searching out the best bike for your kids:

Size- This is a big one, as trying to drive an e-bike that’s either too large or too small can be a lot more difficult for a rider. Several reputable brands, such as Haibike and Raleigh, offer different frame sizes and have sizing charts to help you fight the right fit.

Another great option is to look for an adjustable bike. Rad Power Bikes has several great options, such as the RadMini 4 Folding Bike, which fits riders from 5’2” – 6’2” or the RadMini Step-Thru, which fits riders from 4’10”- 5’10”.

Photo Courtesy: [Rad Power Bikes]

Motor output/ Max Speed- If you live in a state with the three-class e-bike system, then you’ll need to keep the bike’s max speed to 20 mph or less unless you want to venture into class three territory. A motor with 750 watts or less should do the trick.

Break system- The importance of reliable breaks cannot be overstated!  Opt for hydraulic disc brakes if you can, but if you can’t, then make sure you insist on a test drive before making a purchase. Do your worst as far as seeing how the brakes handle, as this is something you’ll want to be certain of before handing it over to a child.

Security- Let’s face it, even the cheapest electric bikes for kids still aren’t all that cheap. If you’re going to drop anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars for an e-bike, then make sure to protect your investment.

Some e-bikes, such as the VanMoof X3 (which fits riders from  5’- 6’5” come with built-in alarm systems and GPS tracking that make them incredibly hard to steal.

Even if the bike you select doesn’t come with security features, you can still find plenty of alarms that are sold separately. Among the best is the Onvian Upgraded Wireless Anti-Theft alarm, which is operated by a wireless remote.

Woe to the thief who should attempt to tamper with your kid’s e-bike when this thing is activated. Its vibrational sensors will blare out a 113dB alarm that will send them running for the hills.

Safety Features- Make sure that you’re child’s e-bike is outfitted with enough features to ensure that drivers can see them, especially if they ever plan to ride in the evening or at nighttime.

While many e-bikes come with reflectors, they’re definitely an investment you want to make if your’s doesn’t.

If you want to go all out, you can even get this cool interactive tail light from Garmin.

It’s equipped with a radar that will warn the cyclist when a vehicle is approaching from up to 140 meters behind. It also increases rider visibility, as the tail light unit flashes to alert approaching traffic that there’s a bike ahead.

Trust Your Instincts

Keep in mind that your own experience as a parent should count for just as much as any advice you’ll find here or anywhere else.

Say, for instance, that your child recently landed in the ER after constructing a ramp for the sole purpose of rocketing his regular bike over the top of your garage.

In this case, presenting him with an even more expensive bike, complete with a motor strapped to its gears, may not be the best course of action for you.

Photo Courtesy: [Pixabay]

Another important note is that if you aren’t already familiar with electric bikes yourself, then make sure you take one for a test drive before purchasing one for your child.

While they may seem relatively harmless, falling off of pretty much anything at 20mph is going to hurt and can cause more substantial injuries than falling off of a regular bike.

It’s important to know exactly how much responsibility you’re entrusting your child with before taking the plunge.

If you found this info helpful, then feel free to share it with other parents of potential e-bikers! As always, feel free to reach out with any questions, comments, or concerns you may have. Otherwise, feel free to explore our other topics such as:

How fast can electric bikes go? A quick guide to battery size and speed

Electric bikes for beginners: Everything you need to know before you buy

Happy pedaling! 

The post Should I Buy My Kid An Electric Bike? A Parent’s Guide To e-Bike Safety appeared first on eRide Guides.

Who could blame them?

It’s typically sunny and warm outside, making for a gorgeous and fun bike ride.

However, when winter comes around, we see lower temperatures and longer nights. Many cyclists store their bikes away and opt for other modes of transportation to stay warm. However, that doesn’t need to be the case for you with your electric bike!

Yes, you can safely ride your e-bike in the colder months, though it will take a little bit of extra work on your end to make sure your ride is fun but safe.

So how can you prepare your electric bike for winter? 

From the appropriate tires and clothing to have as well as safety tips for cycling on the slick roads, this guide will break down everything you need for your electric bike in the winter!

How Can You Keep The Battery Running On Your Electric Bike During The Winter?

Even though there will be significantly lower temperatures outside, you can still use an e-bike as a means of transportation or for exercise in the winter.

These bikes will work just fine, but you will have to pay extra attention to the battery, specifically, to cycle safely.

Charge The Battery More

For rides in warmer weather, most cyclists typically only charge the battery a few times a week for trips.

In winter, it’s important to charge the battery more frequently.

During the cold weather, the battery is unable to store as much energy as it typically does in the warmer months.

Keep a close watch on your battery charge so that you don’t run out of juice while riding on the road.

Properly Store The Battery

If you don’t plan on using your electric bike as much in the winter, it’s important to store the battery correctly. You can buy a neoprene battery

Neoprene Ebike Battery Covers for Cold Weather

It’s fine to leave the battery fully charge for up to a week if you’re not riding. However, if you won’t be riding for a long while, you should lower the voltage of the battery down to lower than a charge of 90% (typically around 70%). You won’t have to replace your battery for a while if you don’t store it at a full charge.

Don’t Leave The Battery Out In The Cold

The battery for your electric bike will not last long if you leave it out in the cold. It will ultimately have less power than it typically would, which means your bike won’t have high performance.

If you do happen to leave the battery outside for a while, you may be tempted to charge the battery straight away. However, charging it at a low temperature will lessen the quality of the battery over time. Bring the battery inside and let it warm up for a bit before charging.

Photo Courtesy: [Alaska John/YouTube]

Other Ways To Prepare Your E-Bike For The Winter Months

Get Winter Tires

The primary thing you need to do, if you plan to ride during the winter regularly, is investing in a pair of snow tires for your electric bike. Bike tires that function well on a slick, rainy day will, most likely, not fare well when it’s cold and snowing.

There are many winter bike tires out there, including studded tires, which can be very helpful when the roads are icy. Studded tires should be used only for heavy snow days, while regular winter tires should be used on lighter days.

The studs on the tires can be worn down quickly if you ride on the bare pavement, which will slow your e-bike down.

It’s ideal to have two complete sets of tires with rims, though it can be a little costly. A winter tire, regular or studded, can range from $75-mid $100s.

There is an incredible collection of winter tires for your e-bike on Amazon.

Do A Maintenance Check Before You Ride

You should always check out your bike before you ride, but especially during the winter months. With the roads potentially slicker than they usually would be, it’s vital that the parts on your bike are up to par.

In addition to keeping the battery charged for a ride, regularly inspect the chain, brakes, rotors, tire pressure, and other parts and ensure that they are working properly.

Also, be sure to clean your bike periodically! Dirt and debris that has built up in the e-bike will harm the bike’s motor and performance in the long run.

Protect Your Bike Against Rust

Another tip for preparing your e-bike for the cold is to protect it from rust. Due to the water and moisture in the air, the e-bike is at risk of rusting.

There are many products to help prevent or fix rust like the Finish Line 1-Step Bicycle Chain Cleaner & Lubricant, which can be found online or at automobile stores.

These can be sprayed on the exposed metal parts but not the electronic parts!

Invest In Bright Lights

While riding your e-bike in the winter, there is a big chance that you may be riding in the dark while commuting to work or heading home.

To ride safely, you should buy some bright lights for your bike to see any obstacles ahead.

Here is a collection of lights for electric bikes, many of which are under $20!

Photo Courtesy: [Cyrusher]

Best Electric Bikes For The Winter

While there are many great e-bikes out there, there are some that are more suited for riding in the winter months.

These four bikes come at a hefty price but, with their features, will certainly help you manage the rough terrain during the freezing season.

Check them out below.

Safety Tips When Riding In The Snow

Of course, conditions on the road can be unpredictable at any given time but especially during winter. Here are a few tips to keep you safe out there!

Ride Slowly

This should go without saying but avoid riding fast in winter. Not only are the roads slippery, but it also gets pretty dark earlier, thanks to Daylight Savings Time. This makes it difficult for drivers to see you as well, and they are unable to stop as quickly as you can.

Riding slowly on your e-bike will not only allow you to foresee any potential accidents or danger ahead, but you also won’t have to deal with so much of the winter air hitting your face.

Lower Your Seat

Another tip: lower your seat on your electric bike to help keep your feet closer to the ground in case you catch yourself on a slippery road.

If you find yourself losing control, all you have to do is stop pedaling and hover your feet close to the ground for an emergency stop in case a tire slips.

Don’t Ride Through Slush

We previously discussed checking your e-bike for rust regularly. During the winter, riding in the snow is perfectly fine with the right bike and tires. However, riding through wet slush is a definite no-no.

It’s highly likely that slush can find its way into hard-to-reach areas of your bike and cause rust. If you can’t avoid it on the road, then take the time to clean your bike and lubricate the chain and metal parts once you get home.

Another good investment to avoid slush from getting on the bike (or in your face) while riding, is to invest in front and back full fenders. If you want to use your e-bike still to commute each day to work, fenders will help with a more comfortable ride.

Dress Appropriately

Staying warm in the cold weather is vital if you expect to ride your e-bike regularly. Windproof clothing, specifically jackets and windbreaker pants, will help keep you warm as you cut through the wind.

You should probably layer up a bit, especially if you’re heading out for an early morning ride.

Other accessories you should keep handy are gloves with a windshield outer layer as well as anti-glare sunglasses or goggles (for improved vision and protection from debris).

It’s also recommended that cyclists get a pair of waterproof shoes to keep their feet dry. These shoes can cost from $15-$100, depending on your taste and budget. However, they’re definitely worth the investment, since it would suck to get your feet wet when wearing regular shoes.

Of course, be sure to wear a helmet to protect your head during your ride. A full hood or face mask that covers your ears and face can also be worn under your helmet to keep your head warm.

Also, while you’re on your ride, rock some bright colors with reflective strips so that others can see you, especially at night time.

There’s no reason why you can’t still have a great (and safe) ride even in the winter months. Just be sure to keep all of these tips in mind as you’re out and about.

Also, leave a comment below on what other safety and maintenance tips you may have for fellow riders for the winter ahead! 

The post How To Prepare Your Electric Bike For Winter appeared first on eRide Guides.

You see people riding electric scooters, bikes, and mopeds all the time on their commute to work or while running errands around town.

With all of these modes of electric transportation out there, some people are still confused about the differences between them all, specifically when it comes down to riding an e-bike and a moped.

What are the real differences between an electric bike and a moped? 

Which one is more expensive?

Which one takes more energy to ride?

What are the pros and cons of each?

We’ll answer all of those questions and more in this piece, so keep reading!

Photo Courtesy: [BikeMatters/YouTube]

What Is A Moped?

Mopeds have been around much longer than electric bikes. Though the term “moped” was used until around the 1950s, motorized bikes have been around since the early 1900s.

A moped is a lightweight open vehicle typically powered by an engine instead of electricity (though there are a few that are electric). Experimental mopeds in the early days were just engines attached to regular bikes. However, most of today’s mopeds don’t have any pedals at all.

In fact, mopeds typically don’t have a platform for your feet. Riding a moped is much like riding a motorcycle that has a little less power (mopeds typically only have a maximum speed of about 35 miles per hour).

Since mopeds are considered motorized vehicles, cyclists have to receive a special license as well as pay for registration and potentially insurance to ride a moped.

A moped is actually seen as a motorcycle in different states if the engine is over 50 cubic centimeters (running beyond 35 miles per hour). Because of this, users may also have to pay for insurance just like they would for a vehicle.

As they are regulated by state and federal laws, you will want to research the laws in place for mopeds in your state.

With a decent speed out on the road, mopeds also typically use gas (though some have switched over to battery to reduce the carbon footprint of users).

How Do Electric Bikes Differ From Mopeds?

Electric bikes differ significantly from mopeds in how they run and the regulations behind them.

For one, riders have to put in more work to ride an e-bike than they would with a moped. While electric bikes have motors, they do actually require some pedaling (reference our previous post, “Do You Have to Pedal an Electric Bike?“), which can be a great workout. When cyclists get a little tired of pedaling, they can rely on the motor a bit more to do the heavy lifting.

Most e-bikes also don’t typically go as fast as mopeds (usually about 20 miles an hour for a standard bike, maybe 30 mph for a more high-end model). Because of that, cyclists don’t need e-bikes to have a license, insurance, or registration to ride their e-bikes on the road.

Another significant difference is that many mopeds require gas to run. Electric bikes have always run off of a battery, requiring cyclists to physically charge their e-bikes for trips. This is seen as more environmentally friendly than mopeds, which has prompted different users to make the switch.

Photo Courtesy: [Cyrusher]

Are Mopeds Safer Than Electric Bikes?

In looking at key differences between mopeds and e-bikes, the next obvious question is which one is “safer?”

To be honest, there is no sure answer.

When it comes to safety features, many mopeds have shock absorbers and automatic braking systems that can add another level of safety for motorists on the road.

However, in terms of accidents, a 2019 study showed that an estimated 108,229 moped-related accidents occurred within adults, leading to hospitalization or death.

Electric bikes, though deemed by experts as safe as traditional bikes, also have their share of issues. There have been accidents due to cyclists speeding and underestimating the time they have to brake and avoid crashes.

Also, when the lithium batteries have not been properly cared for or charged, the batteries are susceptible to catching fire.

The fact of the matter is that there are always risks in riding a moped, electric bike, or any other mode of electric transportation. There are risks in driving just a regular car or riding a traditional bike.

However, the majority of these issues have been due to cyclists getting too comfortable in riding their electric vehicle of choice.

To diminish those risks on either a moped or an e-bike, you should be sure to ride safely and defensively. Obey all traffic laws and signs at all times, including the speed limit, no matter how experienced you are.

Wear a helmet to protect yourself in case of an accident better, even if your state doesn’t require one.

Also, be aware of the weather forecast that may impact your ride on either a moped or an e-bike.

What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Each?

So should you buy a moped or an e-bike for your transportation needs? Honestly, it all comes down to your personal preference, but here are some things to consider about each so that you can make the best decision for you.

Mopeds typically require gas, and e-bikes don’t. Unless you buy an expensive electrical moped, most mopeds require you to pump gas at the gas station.

The average moped holds 1 gallon of gas at one time, which can last for up to 100 miles. That’s certainly less than a car. However, e-bikes only need to be charged, typically through a wall outlet.

With each charge, you can expect your bike’s battery to last between 35 to 100 miles (reference our previous post, “The Best Long-Range e-Bikes“). Depending on the battery, it can cost 5-8 cents for each charge, which is still less than gassing up at a station for a moped.

Mopeds require less energy to ride. While e-bikes are powered by a motor, they require some work on the cyclist’s part to get moving. Meanwhile, with a moped, all a motorist has to do is turn on the engine and ride without doing any type of pedaling.

Some motorists may prefer this over having to physically pedal on their commute into work or while traveling to other places. However, some cyclists may prefer to pedal to their destinations to burn off some calories.

E-bikes allow you to travel further out. An e-bike is considered to be a bicycle in most states. That means that you can legally ride them on different sidewalks or bike trails in your neighborhood or in a park, places that are off-limits to mopeds.

You can even buy a specialized e-mountain bike for harder trails in the woods or on dirt roads. Mopeds don’t have that advantage, unfortunately, because they are designed for city streets.

Photo Courtesy: [Future Lab]

Mopeds aren’t moving as fast as cars, but you will certainly go a bit faster as they travel at least 35 miles per hour.

Mopeds cost more overall.  A standard electric bike typically costs about $1,500, though it may be more depending on the model and brand. However, a new moped is much pricier.

Due to the power and speed of mopeds, as well as great features like shock absorbers, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 easily. You also have to factor in the price of getting a license and other paperwork to ride the moped on the road legally.

E-bikes have more tech options for riders. With e-bikes, riders can download different apps that get you details about your bike, like how much charge your battery has left and where you parked your bike.

In this fast-paced world that we live in, it’s convenient to have information about your various rides at your fingertips. Mopeds typically don’t offer that.

Mopeds can cost more to park or store. Mopeds are basically like small vehicles. When you’re out and about, you need to find a place to safely park them either on the street or within a parking garage.

Depending on where you live, that can be expensive. You may even have to pay for parking where you live. With e-bikes, you have more options for storage.

If you live in a metropolitan area, many places offer bike lockers, stalls, or racks where you can safely leave your bike (most times, without having to pay money).

Some of these electric bikes are even foldable, so you can easily store them in your car or inside your house when you’re not using them.

Whether you decide to go with a moped or an electric bike, they both are excellent modes of transportation. Hopefully, this article helped you in making the best decision for you in purchasing one of these!

Please feel free to share this piece and drop a comment below with your thoughts.

You can also check out more about electric bikes on eRideGuides.com, including Six of the Best Electric Bikes for Commuting to Work or School.

The post What’s The Difference Between an Electric Bike and a Moped? appeared first on eRide Guides.

One main concern for many people, however, is exactly how far you can get on a single charge.

After all, if you’re going to run out of battery before you reach your destination, what’s the point?

A variety of factors will determine how far any specific electric bike (e-bike) can travel on a single charge, but you can expect to get anywhere between 30 miles (~50km) and 90 miles (~145km). Some e-bikes boast a range even greater than this.

Determining Factors

It can be helpful to understand why certain e-bikes will have a greater range than others, and what these things will mean for your overall user experience.

There are a lot of things that can influence the exact range of any given e-bike, but the following are some of the major factors that you can keep an eye out for.

The Battery

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The first and most obvious thing that will impact how far the bike can travel is the battery. If you don’t have a background in electronics, a lot of the figures and terms can be pretty confusing to figure out.

The two main terms you will come across are volts, which will be represented by ‘V’ and amp-hours, which will be represented by ‘Ah.’

A fair bit of complicated math is involved in exactly how that correlates with battery life but generally speaking the higher those two figures are, the further you’ll get on a single charge.

Weight

Photo Credit: Unsplash / Vincent Ghilione

Another influential feature is the weight. How much the electric bike, cargo, and rider weigh combined will impact the overall maximum distance that you can travel.

Electric bikes tend to be a fair bit heavier than their non-electric counterparts, so it is important to pay attention to how much the e-bike you are purchasing weighs.

Depending on the type of e-bike you are looking at, you will encounter heavier and lighter models. For example, off-road e-bikes, or e-bikes designed to carry a decent amount of cargo will tend to be heavier than e-bikes designed for commuting.

Pedal Power or Throttle

Photo Credit: Flickr

If you’re looking at an e-bike that is either Class 1 or Class 3, you don’t need to worry about this section too much, as these bikes don’t come with a throttle. If you’re looking at a Class 2 e-bike however, this will be important.

It will reduce the overall range of the e-bike if you use the throttle for long periods of time. This is because it takes more power from the battery than when you are pedaling.

Many e-bikes also gain some battery charge from the energy of your pedaling, which does not happen when you’re only using the throttle.

Terrain

If you’ve ever had to pedal a regular bike up a steep hill you know just how painful it can be and just how much energy it takes to get to the top! The same principle applies to your electric bike.

If you’re going over rough terrain, or there are a lot of hills and obstacles in your way, that can reduce the overall range that your e-bike can attain.

On the other hand, if you have smooth city streets to ride on or plenty of downhill on your journey then your e-bike will likely get you quite far!

Environmental Conditions

Things like wind and weather can also impact how far you can get. A strong tailwind can help you, and a strong headwind will hold you back.

Temperature is also an important factor. Cold weather will make the battery drain faster than it would in a warmer environment.

Similarly, wet weather can impact your overall range. If your e-bike has to work harder to propel you over slippery surfaces or through puddles, that can reduce your range.

Other Factors

A variety of other factors also influence the total range of your e-bike. These include tire pressure, the type of tire, the age of the battery, and your average speed.

All of these factors and even more will have an impact one way or another on your total range. There is no concrete formula that will tell you exactly how far you’ll get on any given electric bike until you take it for a test run.

Most manufacturers and retailers will have a range listed on their website when you’re looking at an e-bike. This range is a good starting point to figure out how far you can get, though when you get the final product, it is a good idea to take it for a test run and see for yourself.

Photo Credit: Visme

How to Find a Good E-bike

With all of those factors to consider, it can be daunting to even start looking at e-bikes. Luckily, there are a few easy tricks you can use to make sure it will be a good bike for you.

As stated above, the higher the figures listed on the battery, the further you’ll get on a single charge. Most e-bikes you’ll come across will be between 36 and 52 volts. The higher the voltage batteries tend to be on heavier duty e-bikes.

While weight can have an impact on the total range, most website estimates will have factored this in when measuring their range.

The main thing for you to focus on is how much cargo you intend to carry on the bike, along with yourself. If you plan to do grocery shopping and carry it home on your e-bike, for example, this will impact your total range.

If your e-bike comes with a throttle, it’s important to note that most range estimates will have been made based on pedal power. If you want to get further, favoring pedaling over the throttle will help.

Terrain and environment are largely out of your control, however, there are e-bikes designed specifically to tackle rougher terrain so if you are concerned that your local area will have a big impact on your range, one of these e-bikes might be best.

It is also a great idea to make sure that once you have your e-bike of choice, that you stay on top of basic maintenance and ensure that you’re riding on the recommended tire pressure for maximum range.

The higher the pressure, the further you’ll get, but this will give you a much rougher ride. If you don’t need to maximize range, slightly lower tire pressure can really give your joints a break.

We’re Here to Help!

We know that getting into the world of electric bikes can be a little daunting, so we are always available to help!

We have tons of great articles to answer some common questions and to give you some great advice on things you might not even have thought about.

If you have a question that we haven’t answered yet, feel free to get in touch or leave a comment and we will do our very best to help you out!

Feel free to share this article with any friends who might be interested in this great form of transport.

After all, the only thing more fun than getting out into some fresh air on your electric bike is doing it with a friend!

The post How Far Can an Electric Bike Go On a Single Charge? appeared first on eRide Guides.

Electric bikes function in several ways that all aim at providing the rider with assistance. They achieve this with the use of an electric motor that’s powered by a rechargeable battery.

Although the technology behind e-bikes trails back to the 1890s, there’s still a lot of confusion about what exactly they do and how they do it.

One question that’s commonly asked is, do you have to pedal an electric bike?

Yes, you still have to pedal an electric bike. The e-bike is simply a bicycle with a motor that you can regulate in assisting the pedaling effort. This means pedaling is required, but easier to do thanks to the e-bike’s motor support.

I’ve found that you don’t always have to pedal every type of electric bike. Some electric bikes only assist the pedal at a controlled rate while some rely on the throttle to attain a sustainable speed.

Some e-bikes combine the two mechanisms – pedal-assist and throttle.

The basic understanding of these different kinds of systems in e-bikes is necessary to proceed.

Let’s quickly get through them.

Different kinds of electric bikes

Electric bikes are commonly classified based on the mechanism(s) they employ to assist your riding – by pedal-assist, power-on-demand (throttle), or a combination of both devices. Let’s dive deeper into these classes of e-bikes;

Pedal-assist

These are bikes that use an electric motor for the added effort, which is regulated by pedaling. Pedal-assist e-bikes are commonly called pedelecs (from the pedal electric cycle), and they function with a sensor that monitors your pedaling force. 

You’ll also find e-bikes in this category that detect pedaling speed instead to control the dispelled force from its electric motor. A regular pedelec is a bicycle with relatively low motorized assistance that withdraws once the bike gets to 25km/hr. 

A variation of the pedelec is the S-Pedelec, an abbreviated form of Schnell-Pedelec, which is German for “Speedy-Pedelec.”

They are commonly classified as motorcycles or mopeds as they provide relatively high motorized assistance, even at speed above 25km/hr.

S-Pedelecs have motors that produce high electric power – up to 750 watts – as compared to regular pedelecs with a maximum continuous rated power of 250 watts. 

You may be familiar with the famous saying, “with great power comes great responsibility.” Well, it applies here too.

S-Pedelecs riders in most states in the U.S are required to use helmets while carrying some form of identification or driver’s license. 

Throttle Type

On the other hand, the throttle type is the kind that employs the use of a power-on-demand variety of electric motors, which is controlled by a throttle. For most e-bikes, you’ll find the throttle around the handle, just like in motorcycles.

Typically, the e-bike moves faster when you hold the throttle longer.

It’s common for the electric motors in throttle-type e-bikes to produce more power than that of S-Pedelecs. These kinds of e-bikes come in different designs, which can either include a pedal or not. 

Hybrid Type

Yes, you guessed it correctly. These are the electric bikes that combine both mechanisms -Pedal-assist and throttle. This design helps batteries last longer for greater distances. Some hybrid e-bikes are designed to require pedaling even when you’re operating the throttle. 

So, when is pedaling compulsory?

I’ve found through extensive research on e-bikes, that even the various kinds of electric bikes come in separately unique designs. You’ll discover some pedal-assist types of electric bikes with regulators for the level of assistance offered by the motor.

What that means is that you can control how much pedaling you want to do with or without support. 

There are also hybrid type e-bikes that are made to put pedaling at priority. With this kind of e-bikes, you’ll have to pedal before getting any motorized assistance.

As regards when you need to pedal, the answer is “whenever you like,” for most e-bikes as you’ll always have the option to ride without an assist from the electric motor. 

An exception, however, would be some types of electric bikes without pedals on any kind. These are commonly grouped as mopeds or motorbikes. 

Some things to note

By now, you’re probably trying to piece the information together to help you decide what works best for you. For your reading pleasure, here are some things to note to get you what you need.

Specific Usefulness: 

It’s a common mistake to view electric bikes as an “easy way out” of traditional cycling. This notion neglects the health and safety of many people who are in conditions that would make pedaling impossible without motorized assistance. It is especially true for old folks and people who aren’t super fit, as they wouldn’t be able to ride a bicycle otherwise.

Another primary usefulness that electric bikes provide is that they are great for people who ride roads with hills. Riding an e-bike uphill is lesser of a hassle than if done on a regular bicycle. The way a particular kind of electric bike provides the extra push depends on the mechanism it uses. 

The Key Parts of the Electric Bike

The batteries are one of the significant parts of the e-bike to look out for. They’re the powerhouse of the whole operation and are usually rechargeable. They’re constituent of materials like nickel-cadmium (NiCad), lithium-ion polymer (Li-ion), and so many others.

The length of its battery life is affected by several factors. These factors include the efficiency of the electric motor, the frequency of hills driven over, and the driving electronics.

The battery capacity and weight of the rider also play a role in determining just how long the battery lasts. In case you might be asking yourself whether a more massive battery means more power, the answer is “not necessarily.”

Some e-bikes have a regenerative braking system, which is proven to elongate battery life. In such a situation, the motor would act as a generator and reduce the speed of the electric bicycle before the brake pads are activated.

However, the force produced from the reverse motion of the motor in the wheel is not near enough to fully recharge its battery. 

Most electric bikes have their electric motor installed into the hub of a (back or front). The hub motor, also referred to as brushless motors, contains an arrangement of coil that uses the electricity from the battery to power a spin into the wheel.

Some e-bikes make use of a mid-driver engine instead, which accommodates more shifts to shift through than hub motors.

It’s also important to look out for the frame of the e-bike. This part is typically made from materials such as aluminum alloy. As we’ve seen, the lighter the framework of the e-bike, the longer the battery would last. 

Overview of: Do You Have to Pedal an Electric Bike?

Electric bikes are bicycles with a unique feature – motorized assistance, and it’s become a worldwide sensation. It’s an energy-saving means of transportation that’s also environment-friendly.

By now, you should understand that it’s a simple misjudgment to think that e-bikes are for” lazy people who aren’t serious about cycling.”

To hold this belief is to completely disregard the people who wouldn’t be able to ride a regular bicycle without suffering any complications.

We’ve seen that it provides specific gains, such as for easy-riding uphill and helping older people and those with health conditions to enjoy cycling safely.

One more remarkable benefit of e-bikes is that they reduce the chances of sweating, especially when cycling in regular or even work clothes.

The post Do You Have to Pedal an Electric Bike? appeared first on eRide Guides.

According to a 2018 industry analysis, e-bike sales were up 83% between May 2017 and May 2018.  These bikes will undoubtedly continue to gain traction in America as the years go on.

But, of course, safety is a significant factor to consider while riding these bikes. In fact, in a 2015 survey, 72 percent of Americans stated that was their top concern.

It’s understandable. Electric bikes are newer and do differ from traditional bikes, so it’s understandable.

So how can you stay safe while riding an electric bike?

From properly riding the bike on the road to the maintenance it requires, we’ll break down all of your safety concerns in this post before you purchase your new electric bike.

How Does An Electric Bike Compare To A Regular Bike?

If you’re making the switch, it’s important to know the differences between electric bikes and your standard bicycle to prepare yourself for a safe ride better. So let’s break it down.

Battery

Unlike traditional bikes, which simply require you to hop on and pedal, e-bikes need to be charged, typically through a wall outlet. With each charge, you can expect your bike’s battery to last between 35 to 100 miles, depending on the model.

It’s important to know your model’s charge time (and the number of charges the battery will get) so you don’t run out of juice while on the road!

Pedaling

Though there are electric bikes that are run by simply twisting a throttle (no pedaling involved but is significant wear on the battery), most electric bikes still take a bit of pedaling, though much less effort than a traditional bicycle.

With these newer bikes, cyclists can pedal and activate the electric motor with a battery-powered boost to get through tough terrain or hills without overexerting themselves.

That’s helpful when hauling cargo or going long distances!

Speed

Another major difference (which can also be a safety concern, but we’ll discuss that in a minute) is the speed. The average cyclist will go up to 9.3 mph while pedaling on a traditional bike.

However, with an electric bike, riders can move at speeds typically around 18 mph, with some models even going towards 40 mph. The motor, not the wattage, will usually determine how fast these bikes can go.

Cost

For the previous reasons mentioned, e-bikes cost more than conventional bikes. The average pricing is between $1,000-$3,000 but could cost upwards of $10,000 depending on the model of the bike. That’s in comparison to an average cost of $1,000 average for a mid-range traditional commuter bicycle. So it’s certainly an investment.

How Do You Ride An Electric Bike Correctly?

So, since these e-bikes are a bit different from the bike you learned to ride as a kid, it’s crucial to have the proper technique. You should take things slow and learn your new bike before going out on the road.

Pedal Faster

It may seem counterintuitive for an electric bike, but it’s better to pedal faster for a smoother ride, especially if you are climbing hills.

A slower pedaling rate is fine, but you will also get better battery life by pedaling faster.

Use The Eco Boost When You Can

Most e-bikes come with a switch to allow you to change the boost setting during your ride. Those settings typically range from eco (low) to turbo (high).

Though it may be tempting to use the turbo boost to go as fast as possible, riding in eco mode is safer when you’re first starting as a rider.

Riding at a lower speed will also help you save your battery. Or you can turn the electric motor off entirely and go manual.

Brake Earlier

Cyclists will need to brake a little earlier than they may anticipate avoiding collisions. e-bikes are much heavier than a traditional bike, and you are operating with a lot more speed and power.

If you wait too late to brake, you may end up hurling yourself from the saddle. To work on the correct braking technique for your bike, practice on an open stretch before riding around.

What Are The Best Safety Tips When Riding In Public?

While out on the road, it’s vital to practice safe habits as you ride your electric bike.

Always Check The Bike Before You Head Out

Charge your battery before you head out for your ride. Clean, lube, and inspect the chain on your bike regularly and make sure your brakes are working properly. Replace your brake pads and rotors when needed.

Making sure your tire pressure is at the right level is vital too. On the casing side of the tires, you will find the minimum and maximum pressure for your specific bike. Otherwise, you’ll have a pretty rough ride.

Wear Protective Gear

This may seem simple, but it’s a must. Wearing protective gear is a must. At the very least, you should wear a helmet. You will be riding at a pretty fast speed for a bike alongside other cars and pedestrians.

In case of a collision, you want to make sure your body is as protected as it can be. Trust us; you’re not too cool to be safe.

Be A Defensive Driver

Just like when you’re driving a car on the road, you need to anticipate what other drivers and pedestrians will do.

Some drivers may take a turn in front of you or come dangerously close to sideswiping you as you ride in the bike lane. Pedestrians may jaywalk across the street at any moment, and you need to be prepared to stop or move for anything.

Obey Traffic Laws

Just because you’re a cyclist doesn’t mean that you are not responsible for following traffic laws. It may very well save your life.

Cyclists sometimes forget to obey traffic lights and signs because all they’re doing is riding a bike. However, when you’re on the road with other cars, you need to follow the same rules that they do.

Otherwise, you may get into a tragic accident.

Using Warning Lights and Sounds

Something else that will be very helpful in keeping you safe with your electric bike is using warning lights and sounds.

You should install both a bell and a horn on your bike. For the record, bells are for warning pedestrians, and horns are for warning cars (no pedestrian wants to be honked at while in the zone as they walk).

Cyclists should also use a blinking front light and rear LED light on the e-bike, especially if you plan to ride at night.

Bottom line: try to stick to a lot of the same rules and protections of the road as when you’re driving.

Lock Up Your Bike In Public

If you are commuting to work or running errands, always make sure to lock your bike! Some electric bikes have a pre-installed battery lock that is easy to use.

If your model doesn’t have one, the best external lock to use is a U-Lock, which goes around the front tire to lock at a bike rack. Get as small a U-Lock as you can. If there’s not a lot of space in between the lock, thieves will struggle to break the lock with a crowbar or other tools to make off with your e-bike.

How Do You Properly Maintain Your Electric Bike?

In addition to checking your brakes and other parts of your electric bike regularly, it’s vital to be proactive about maintenance on the bike. That’s not only in regards to the life of your battery and bike but also when it comes to safety on the road.

Regularly Clean The Bike

This may seem obvious, but giving your e-bike a good clean will help to keep dirt and other particles out of the engine and potentially messing up the motor.

E-bikes should be washed once or twice a week using a low-pressure water stream or simply a wet rag. Just make sure you dray it off when you’re finished.

You can also use an air duster to clean any dirt from the e-bike’s controller and display.

Protect The Battery

The battery is vital to the life of the bike, so it’s essential to care for it as well. Store your battery at room temperature instead of really hot or really cold temperature.

This may affect the battery power and, ultimately, your ride. Just avoid taking your bike out in extreme weather conditions entirely.

Check Your Handle Bars

Every few months, check to make sure that your handlebars and stem are tight on the e-bike.

Vibrations while riding can cause the handlebars and stem to become loose. You don’t want to lose control out on the road!

Transport It Safely

If an e-bike is going to be transported by car using a bike rack, remove the battery and any other removable components. This will help make sure it’s not damaged.

Because the bike is so heavy, experts suggest using a rear-mounted bike rack instead of a roof carrier system to transport the bike on trips. Also, bring waterproof protective covers as well to protect the bike in case it does rain.

Find A Quality E-bike Shop

Having a regular maintenance schedule at a bike shop that knows how to fix e-bikes will be essential for the life of the bike. Not all shops are equipped to handle these bikes, so do some deep research into places around your area.

If you ride regularly, it’s a good idea to get a full tune-up on your bike from a qualified shop every 6-12 months. If you only ride seasonally, then bring your bike into a professional at the start or end of the season.

Be mindful, though, that if you attempt to convert a regular bike into an electric one with a kit or buy from a shop with only online service, it may be harder to find a shop to help in times of need.

And there you have it! This guide will certainly help you have a safe and comfortable ride with your electric bike.

Be sure to leave a comment below on what you think about these safety and maintenance tips! You can also read one of our other articles to help determine which electric bike may be the one for you! 

The post How To Ride an Electric Bike Safely: Everything You Need To Know appeared first on eRide Guides.

Although e-bikes can help expand the sport to a new audience, there is some confusion about how fast they can actually go, and how fast is too fast.

So, how fast is an electric bike?

E-bikes have the capacity to go faster than 28 mph (45 km/h), but there are laws in place to prevent them from doing so. There are many other ways to increase the speed of a 500w e-bike, 1000w e-bike, and a 1500 bike without rigging the motor.

To ensure that you’re buying an e-bike that’s within the law, pay attention to the legislation in your country or state. Before we discuss the legality of speed, let’s examine how to get the fastest bike possible no matter your bicycle’s weight or size.

How Fast Can A E-Bike Go?

The most common questions concerning e-bikes are about their speeds. Since e-bikes have a motor, they can reach higher speeds than a pedal bike where the average cyclist can reach 12-15 km/h (7.5-9.3 mph) from pedaling using their own weight.

In Europe, an e-bike can have a maximum power of 250 watts and a maximum speed of 25 km/h (15.5 mph). E-bikes in the US can have a maximum power of 750 watts and a max speed of 32 km/h (20 mph).

Most of these speeds are reachable with assisted pedaling, but some more expensive e-bike brands will reach that speed without it.

Not all e-bikes can reach speeds of 30 km/h (18 mph) or more because its motor doesn’t support it. To determine how fast your e-bike can go, a three-class certification method was developed to properly legislate the speed to which an e-bike can have on the sidewalk or road.

Motors Assistance to Speed

The motor will almost always determine electric bicycle speed. Most people think the higher the wattage, the faster the bike, but that’s far from the truth.

Determining your motors’ assistance to speed requires you to calculate your weight versus power. 

Let look at the example of a 110-pound woman who plans on biking up a hill. She won’t need a lot of power under the hood, because she is light enough to get up the hill without much peddling or throttle. 250-watts would be more than enough to suit her needs.

On the other hand, a 155-pound woman who wants to ride up a steep hill may need something better than 250-watts. If you don’t live in the United States, a cyclist that weights 155-pounds could use a 500-watt motor, but a 750-watt is ideal.

Battery Capacity and Calculating Range + Speed

* Green is within legal limits, red is considered illegal by many US states

Although it’s common to find batteries that range from 500w – 1500w for electronics, e-bikes battery sizes commonly come in 250w, 500w, and 750w. As lithium-ion batteries power most e-bikes, we can assume that yours will too.

Watt-hours is one way to measure the energy capacity of a bike, and calculating it is simple. To start, multiple the voltage by the amp hours of the battery back. If a battery is 36-volt with 10-ah battery pack, multiply the two (36×10=360) to get 360. Therefore, you can get up to 18 miles with a 360 watt-hour pack.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common battery fits for an e-bike:

How Fast Does a 250w Electric Bike Go?

A 250w electric bike goes approximately 20 mph (32.19 km/h) on flat ground.

How Fast Does a 500w Electric Bike Go?

A 500w electric bike goes approximately 25 mph (40.23 km/h) on flat ground.

How Fast Does a 750w Electric Bike Go?

A 750w electric bike goes approximately 28 mph (45 km/h) on flat ground.

How Fast Does a 1000w Electric Bike Go?

A 1000w electric bike goes approximately 35 mph (56.32 km/h) on flat ground.

How Fast Does a 1500w Electric Bike Go?

A 1500w electric bike goes approximately 40 mph (64 km/h) on flat ground.

Peddling

Not all e-bikes give you the option to pedal, but those that do give you more opportunities to reach top speed. Depending on your purchase, you will need a different pedaling effort, and some will assist you more than others.

If you want full assistance while riding your bike, opt for a Class 2 or 3 (more on that later), but if you’re going to work out while cycling, try the Class 1. If you do use a Class 1, you won’t be able to go as fast as Class 2 or 3 assisted. 

Use a Class 2 or 3 with pedaling with the throttle on, so when you use the pedals, the e-bike will propel farther than if you completely automize your commute—biking as hard as you can make it less likely to wear you out because the e-bike will do most of the work for you.

Type of Terrain

E-bikes are separated between two types of terrain: rough trails and leisure. Most e-bikes are geared towards leisure activity because consumers use these to go to and from work. Mountain bikes are useful for rural communities where cars are expensive or inaccessible.

Rough Trails:

Like a traditional bike, e-bikes are capable of cycling up steep hills for an extended period with the proper battery and motor (750w minimum preferred). These bikes are available with hardtails or full suspension. The full suspension is better for rougher ground.

Photo Courtesy: Maxfoot / Pixabay

Leisure and City:

All e-bikes can function spectacularly on flat land or in a cityscape because they were initially designed for this purpose. To get the most out of the battery and motor, calculate your weight against the wattage of the battery. For example, a 110-pound woman can use a 250w battery to its fullest extent, while a 150-pound woman should use a 500w or more for better results.

The US Laws and the Lack of Regulation

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission regulates e-bikes from a federal level to protect product safety for manufacturing at the original sale.

Without clear guidelines, many states adopted counter-productive rules governing e-bikes that treat them as an extension to human-powered bikes or motorcycles.

Some have no regulation what-so-ever, so individual states tend to suggest a 20 mph (32 km/h) max speed. This loose approach has led to multiple injuries that were easily avoidable. From 2000 to 2017, 245 million injuries occurred from electric scooters or bicycles.

The Rapid Need for Legalization of the 3-Class System

Since 2014, the national bicycle advocacy group PeopleForBikes helped over 25 states pass standardized regulation for e-bikes with the use fo the 3-Class System. This model legislation defines three standard classes of e-bikes based on wattage, speed, and operation.

Class 1 and 2 are usually allowed where traditional bicycles are allowed, but Class 3 bikes are typically reserved for road use only. In Europe, a cyclist must place a visible reflective sticker on the body to indicate an e-bike’s Class.

In 2015, California was the first of many states to adopt the 3-Class System, but since then, 26 states now define e-bikes in a Three Class structure. The graphic below outlines where states have proper legislation, which are acceptable and problematic and need work.

Photo Courtesy: Katrina Dent

Legislated states use the 3-Class System. Acceptable states have no age limit, no licensing registration, and e-bikes are treated as bicycles. Finally, problematic states treat e-bikes as motor vehicles and have confusing laws and practices that aren’t found in state law.

The 3-Class System

Here is a breakdown on which e-bikes classify for Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 under the legislation. 

• Class 1: Assists pedaling but not your throttle, these e-bikes are passive and are allowed to function on bike paths. Pedal-assist only (absolutely no throttle), and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph (32.19 km/h).
• Class 2: Known as low-speed throttle-assisted e-bikes. These e-bikes have motors that proper the cyclist without pedaling. The rider cannot exceed more than 20 mph (32.19 km/h) like Class 1, accept Class 2 e-bikes must be throttle-assisted.
• Class 3: Known as speed pedal-assisted electric bikes and provide assistance to the rider if they’re pedaling. Cannot have a throttle. Class 3 e-bikes can have a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). However, the US only allows bikes on the road that have a maximum of 20 mph (32.19 km/h).

All e-bikes, no matter the Class, limit the motor’s power to 1 horsepower (750W).

The Dangers of Superfast E-bikes

It’s tempting to retro-fit an e-bike to go faster than 20 mph (32.19 km/h) to get from point A to B as quickly as possible. However, because there isn’t proper legislation in place in all 50 states, riding a bike that exceeds 20 mph (32.19 km/h) is dangerous for you and other pedestrians.

Superfast illegal e-bikes fall into three categories:

• Chipping/Tuning: Older e-bikes could remove the speed limiter and/or turn the wheel spokes sideways to disable it. The user would then fit a small electronic device to make it run illegally fast. While these bikes generally won’t go any faster than 28 mph (45 km/h) it’s still enough to seriously hurt or kill a person.
• Off-The-Shelf-Models: Some companies will advertise bikes that exceed speeds of 28 mph (45 km/h) even though they can’t be sold as e-bikes legally. To sell these e-bikes, companies won’t elude that bike speeds exceed legal limits.
• Retro-fit kits: Customers will buy ready-made-kits that allow them to change the motors’ top speed with the software. Legal kits are available to the public, but some or most of them can be rigged to reach illegal speeds.

While faster e-bikes have their place, it’s important to have legislation so chipping or retro-fitting vehicles are harder to access. Or as an alternative, these bicycles could be classified similarly to mopeds or motorcycles if they go much faster.

Proper legislation can effectively avoid a lot of accidents, some of which have resulted in death. In Europe, a cyclist modded a legal e-bike to exceed speeds of 28 mph (45 km/h) and killed a Hackney pedestrian.

It was the first prosecution of its kind, but many more deaths could occur is e-bikes aren’t registered, or those who use them aren’t licensed to do so. 

Are you an e-bike enthusiast?

Are you interested in legislating e-bikes to maintain proper speeds in all states?

Visit PeopleForBikes for more information, and share our article to get the word out.

Before you go, leave a comment on what you think about the 3-Class System, or read one of our other articles about how to determine if an e-bike is waterproof.

The post How Fast Do Electric Bikes Go? A Quick Guide to Battery Size and Speed appeared first on eRide Guides.

Depending on where you look, you’re likely to see wildly different price tags ranging from $500 to well over $10,000!

How can you tell whether you’re getting a good deal?

There are a variety of features and aspects to consider when making your purchase, but a general rule of thumb is that an electric bike between $1,000 and $3,000 will give you a good balance between performance, quality, and price.

That being said, there is a lot of variety between different types of electric bikes and their intended purposes. There are specialty eBikes for a whole variety of tasks and activities, and the specific demands of each of those activities can impact the final price.

Before I purchased my first electric bike, I was at a loss for what I needed and how that should reflect in the price, but you can reap the rewards of my trial and error!

Below are some of the most important things to consider before you buy your first eBike.

And more importantly, how much those things will impact the final price!

The first thing you’ll need to know is the difference between the three classes of electric bikes.

Class One:

Class one electric bikes have no throttle and only offer pedal-assisted power. The max speed of these bikes is 20mph (32kph). These bikes are typically regulated the same as non powered bikes.

Class Two:

Class two electric bikes have both pedal-assisted power and throttle, with a max speed of 20mph (32kph) just like the class one electric bikes. In most places, these bikes are also treated the same as regular bikes.

Class Three:

Class three electric bikes are only equipped with pedal-assisted power but have a greater max speed of 28mph (45kph).

These bikes have varying legislation governing how they are treated, with some places treating them the same as motorbikes. It is important to find out about local legislation before purchasing a bike of this kind to avoid fines.

So, once you’ve decided on the class of eBike you’re going to purchase, it’s worth taking a look at some other features that can have a big impact on price and quality.

Folding or Non-Folding

Electric bikes come in a huge amount of different shapes and sizes. The main decision you’ll want to make before you pick out a specific body type is whether you want a foldable eBike or a non-foldable model.

Folding eBikes

The main draw for folding eBikes is the ability to keep it stored out of the way. It’s a great path to explore for people living in apartments, or if you’re planning on taking it to work with you.

The compactibility of these models also makes it much more viable to take with you on public transport or even in the back of your car if you want to take it for a leisure ride far from home.

These benefits don’t come without their downsides of course. Foldable bikes tend to have much smaller wheels than their non-foldable counterparts, which can make a bumpy road quite a bit less comfortable than it would be otherwise.

The impact that smaller wheels have on speed is less severe than it would be on a standard bike thanks to the electric motor, but if you plan to use pedal power to get above the speed cap that electric bikes have, you will have a tougher time on a foldable bike than you otherwise might.

Non-Folding eBikes

Much like a regular non-folding bike, there is plenty to recommend a non-folding eBike. If you want to take your eBike on trails, you’ll definitely want to invest in a non-folding model. The increase in stability that the rigid frame and larger wheels afford are indispensable when you’re riding on anything other than paved roads or manicured grass!

Another feature that these models have over the folding variety is their ability to carry cargo. The lack of hinges and locking mechanisms mean that non-foldable eBikes can carry more weight along with the rider without risking something coming loose.

The obvious downside to non-foldable eBikes is their size. It is a lot easier to store an electric bike when you can fold it up and stick it in a corner. If you’re living in a small place, or you need to take it inside with you to keep it safe at work, things might get a little crowded with the addition of a larger model.

What Else to Consider?

There are so many other little bits and pieces that you could worry about when you’re buying your bike that it could stop you from buying it altogether.

Luckily, you really don’t need to focus on most of it. Once you’ve picked out what class and general body type you’re happy with, there are only a couple of other things to think about.

Range:

Knowing how far you’re going to get on a single charge will save you a whole lot of sweat and leg pain. Once the power cuts out of your eBike, it’s still ridable but the added weight of all those electronics can definitely be felt when you’re doing all the work!

Most manufacturers will have a range listed on their websites, and you can expect to get anywhere from 20 miles (32km) up to around 40 miles (64km).

Once you have your bike, it’s always a good idea to give it a full charge and then go see for yourself how far you can get. There are plenty of factors that can impact the range of the product you receive and you don’t want to overestimate how far you’ll get!

Intended Purpose:

Having a good idea of what you want to do with your electric bike will inform a lot of the decisions you make about the final product you purchase.

If you plan to go offroad, you’ll likely want a big wheel eBike with good suspension.

If you’re planning to use it as your main commuting vehicle, it might be wise to go for a model with disk brakes and high-quality lights to avoid accidents.

If you want to carry a lot of goods with you, it is a good idea to look at bikes with racks and bag slots to make certain you don’t have to leave anything behind.

Generally speaking the details sort themselves out once you’re clear on how you intend to use the eBike. Once you’ve sorted that out, the marketing buzzwords and extra fluff that companies try to sell you won’t seem so daunting!

How Will These Factors Affect the Total Cost of Your eBike?

Naturally, these wide varieties of differences will impact the total cost of your eBike. The table below will cover the main varieties of eBike and their adjusted value.

Cost After Purchasing

Like any mode of transport, there will likely be some additional costs after you purchase your new eBike.

The only upfront costs will be any extras you decide to pick up to add to the utility of your new set of wheels.

Optional Extras:

These are the fun aftermarket expenses that can really add to your experience.

The first thing you’ll want to get your hands on is a helmet. Okay, this one isn’t all that fun. Speaking from experience, however, I can attest that coming off a bike moving at 20mph (32kmh) and landing square on your head is a whole lot less fun!

After that, you might want to look at getting some storage if it doesn’t already come with enough. A backpack is a great way to go with this, but there are also plenty of bags made specifically for bikes and eBikes.

A repair kit and tire pump are also some less exciting investments to make, but when you’re on your way home from a long day at work and you ride over a shard of broken glass, a quick patch and pump up will potentially save your evening!

A water bottle holder will also go a long way to increasing your user experience if the bike isn’t already fitted with one. They’re pretty cheap, and the relief you get from that first mouthful of water when you come to a stop is priceless.

Repairs and Maintainance:

These are a little less fun, but essential to keeping your eBike in good condition.

Getting your eBike serviced regularly will keep it running at peak efficiency and will generally keep it going for a whole lot longer. It is recommended to get it serviced approximately every six months when you’re actively riding it, or around every 500 miles (800kms).

This will likely cost somewhere around $150 for a basic service, and it will help flag any major problems that might be creeping up without your notice, like battery wear and tear, or rust.

Of course, there is basic repairs such as changing tires and tubes, though it is worth noting that depending on the way your eBike is configured, this may require some extra tools. Depending on your tire type, this can cost anywhere between $20 and $60.

Finally, there is likely the biggest repair cost, which is replacing the battery. The battery should last for a long time, but if at any time it does fail, it will cost between $500 and $800 to replace. The battery should last for 3 to 5 years, however, and can last even longer with proper care.

Overall, in a ten-year span, including maintenance, battery replacements, and an annual tire and tube replacement you will be looking at an additional $3,000 – $5,000 in repairs and maintenance.

As time goes on, eBikes will only continue to advance and become more mainstream. Their significantly lower cost to run and maintain than traditional motor vehicles are a major draw, and armed with this knowledge you stand to spend as little as you need to for a quality product.

Take a look around the site to find more great tips and recommendations!

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