Electric Bicycle Buying Guide 2022
Electric bicycles are becoming more and more common in the vast majority of cities and towns in our country, as they offer a large number of advantages. Among them, we can highlight that they offer a great comfort to move around and that they are a totally clean type of transportation. If you want to know what are the main features to look out for when buying one, read on. In this post you will find a complete guide to buying electric bicycles.
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Points to consider when buying electric bicycles
The e-bike sector is growing steadily. In fact, sales are expected to triple in the next five years worldwide. And this is not surprising, as the urban electric bicycle offers the necessary balance between exercise and transportation. For example, if you’re commuting to work, you don’t want to arrive completely sweaty. In this case, the best solution is to use the electric power of your bike.
If you are thinking of buying an electric bicycle, these are the most important points to look out for.
Electric power supply
First of all, it is essential that the manufacturer of the electrical system offers you maximum guarantees. In this way, you will avoid possible breakdowns and your vehicle will have a longer service life. Some of the most recognized are Shimano, Bosch, Fazua or Bafang. However, other electric bike manufacturers also incorporate their own motor. This is the case of Yamaha or Giant.
You should take this point very seriously, as the electric motor and battery are the most expensive elements of the whole bike. Therefore, if the manufacturer does not inspire the necessary confidence in you, it is better to consider other alternatives.
2. Power and type of electric motor
Current European regulations do not allow electric bicycles to exceed 250W. Likewise, they may not exceed 25 kilometers per hour. Otherwise, we would be talking about a moped, which would imply the corresponding registration and homologation.
In addition, you have to think about the use you are going to give to your electric vehicle. If you are going to use it on a regular basis, it is recommended that you opt for a high-performance electric road bike. These incorporate the electric motor in the bottom bracket area, which provides more resistance and greater reliability.
If, on the other hand, it is an electric touring bike, it is better to have a wheel-hub type electric motor (the power unit is in the hub of the rear wheel). This is a much more economical solution, but very valid if you are going to use the vehicle occasionally.
Battery size and type
The type of battery is another important aspect to consider. Remember that there are bicycles that have a removable battery. This will make you gain in convenience, as you will be able to charge it in many different places.
The size of the battery is also directly related to its durability. There are some that approach 1000 Wh capacity. Thanks to this, they can assist the cyclist up to 200 kilometers. However, not everyone needs such a large capacity. As with the type of electric motor, it is important that you think about the use you are going to give it and the needs you want to satisfy. Depending on this, you can choose a smaller, more economical battery or a larger one that can support you for more kilometers.
4. Type of electric bicycle
Generally speaking, we can find up to four types of electric bicycles. Each of them is adapted to different needs:
- Mountain bikes: Of much more recreational use, they can even be used for downhill or off-road routes. They are the type of model that has a larger battery size, as well as a much stiffer geometry.
- Road bikes: Their weight is much lighter than mountain bikes. Consequently, the battery size is also smaller. However, this is not a problem, since the rider who chooses this kind of bike only wants electric support at specific times.
- Trekking bicycles: They are designed for those cyclists who wish to combine road and dirt roads. The size of the routes is usually longer, so on these bikes it is important that the battery has more capacity.
- Urban electric bicycles: This last group includes the most common models. They can be used to go for a walk, to exercise or simply to travel from home to the office or place of study and then return home. In this regard, both the size of the battery and the type of electric motor can vary considerably from one model to another.
5. Storage capacity and autonomy
Finally, you should pay attention to the battery life, a key point to achieve maximum performance. Those made with lithium or ion are usually the most efficient, while the most economical ones are made with lead.
On the other hand, the range you can achieve is also directly related to your weight and the type of terrain you will be riding. For example, a person who weighs 90 kilos and has to climb a hill will not achieve the same efficiency as someone weighing 75 kilos facing a flat terrain. In addition, don’t forget that you can adjust the level of electrical support you want to receive.
In short, these are the most important aspects that you have to evaluate in order to make the right choice when buying electric bicycles. If you follow these recommendations, you are sure to find the model that best suits your needs and interests. Visit our website and discover the great variety of electric bicycles electric-powered bicycles we have for you. Also, don’t forget to take a look at our offers. You will be surprised!
