As electric bikes continue to grow in popularity, more manufacturers are coming out with their own versions and models. You might think it’s already hard to figure out what the best e-bike for you is, and it’s going to get even harder as more e-bikes are released. While we’re always happy to answer any questions you might have, we do have some suggestions of things to think about before selecting an e-Bike.
Try to Consult a Local Retailer First
While buying online is always an option, looking to see if you have a community e-bike shop will make things a lot easier. Not only will you have experts willing to help you out, but you’ll be able to try out the bikes before purchasing. You’ll be well off with a specialized store, but some big chains like Walmart and Dicks also have e-bike sections as well in some areas!
Determine what you need an E-Bike for
Most e-bikes are optimized for specific purposes, so you’ll want to know what you need an e-bike for before purchasing. Are you trying to conquer a tough mountain biking trail, or do you need something to get you to work? Do you want something fast for racing down the highway, or something you can cruise on with a partner on a boardwalk? Knowing what you need an E-bike for will greatly aid you in picking the best bike for you.
Select either a Hub Motor or Mid Drive Motor
Something else that will further reduce how many e-bikes you have to consider is whether you want a hub motor or a mid drive motor. While there are plenty of differences between the two, hub drive motors are generally easier to deal with and are better suited for city riding. If you’re wanting something that offers you more control over your speed and is better suited for climbing, a Mid Drive is the better choice for you.
Understand the Capability of Your Battery
You might see that the e-bike you’re looking at has a huge voltage or a ton of amps. That doesn’t necessarily guarantee you’ll be able to go farther with it; try to pay attention instead of the total watt hours offered by the battery. Generally, the more watt hours you have, the longer you’ll be able to use your e-bikes powered mode. Just be aware that the motor, weight, and other factors of the e-bike can also influence your total powered riding capability.
Look at more than just the Specs
Depending on your needs, you might want to consider more than just the pure design specifications of your e-bike. Did you know that many e-bikes have smartphone and GPS integration? Or that you never have to worry about finding a bike rack if your e-bike has battery powered wheel locking? How about built in lighting displays or LCD screens that can tell you how fast you’re going? The accessories that are built into your e-bike can be a big factor in your purchasing decision.
Find the Right Place to Store your E-Bike
While an E-bike isn’t much different than a traditional bike, you’ll still want to think about a safe and secure place to store it. You’ll also need to recharge your E-bike after use, with many E-bikes allowing you to plug in your battery without having to remove it from the bike frame. Finding a place to both safely store your E-Bike and having easy access to a charging spot should be among your considerations.
Read up on the Company and Warranty Policies
At a bear minimum, you’re probably going to be spending at least a few thousand dollars for a brand new E-bike. You want to go with something that’s dependable, but also backed by a company that will help you out when something goes wrong. Reading reviews of the manufacturer is just as important as reviews of the E-bike itself.
Know what your Local Laws Say
Because of how new E-bikes are, governments and communities throughout the world are still trying to figure out how to regulate E-bikes. While not a universal system, most E-bikes are currently classified within 3 categories based upon their speed and throttle type. Class 1 E-bikes are almost universally accepted, while Class 2 E-Bikes are generally accepted in most metropolitan cities. Class 3 E-bikes are legal in some cities, but require a license to operate in many others. Always check with your local authorities to determine the requirements of operating an E-bike in your city.
Conclusion
Have any other questions? Unsure of where to start? Then feel free to either ask a question below or send us an email, and we’ll be happy to help you find the best e-bike for you!
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