E-bikes, or electric bikes, have become increasingly popular due to their eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. Buy an electric bike if you want to commute, try out a new activity, or simply upgrade your current bike. Before jumping in and making a purchase, there are several crucial factors to consider.
In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps and factors to consider when buying an electric bike.
A list of things to consider before purchasing an electric bike:
The first thing that you will have to do is decide what you want to utilize your electric bike for. Maybe you need a commuter bike for your daily way to work, a recreational bike for your weekend rides, or something for off-road cycling.
Knowing all this will assist in narrowing down the search area and guarantee you select a bike that fits your needs.
Electric bikes are affordable, and the costs can vary from $300 to $3000 depending on the quality of the bike. This means that there must be a planned budget before going to the shops to avoid a situation where one is forced to buy an electric bike, a product that they don’t need because they cannot afford any other product.
The cheaper models are likely to have fewer features or lower-end components, while the more expensive models tend to have improved battery power, stronger motors, and the latest features.
A midrange e-bike has costs ranging between $700 and $1,500 and is known to deliver fairly well in terms of performance. For those that are a little out of your price range, you can decide to buy one of the e-bikes available at Buymoreway. They have sturdy and amazing electric bikes that could benefit you in the long term.
The motor is the most crucial component of the electric bike because it determines the performance of the bike when in use. The motors that are widely used in most e-bikes are known to range between 250W and 750W in some models.
This means that motor size is determined by the terrain and the speed one wants to attain on the terrain. This makes 250W motors adequate for riding in flat terrains and gently inclined regions. Compared to 350W motors, 500W motors are capable of climbing slopes that are also steep and achieving higher speeds.
It’s important to consider that 750W motors and above are best suited for rough terrain and off-road purposes. There are also two main motor types: hub motors (integrated with wheels) and mid-motor drive systems, which are mounted close to the pedals.
Hub motors are less noisy, and the system is simpler and requires little maintenance, while mid-drive motors have better performance, especially up inclines.
Another aspect that cannot be overlooked when you buy an electric bike is the battery capacity in a specific model. This means that the capacity of the battery will let you know how many miles you can cover on a single charge, and this is important when you have long commutes or are going for a long bike ride. Consider the battery energy, which is usually expressed in watt-hours (Wh).
The 300Wh batteries are best for shorter journeys, including those that are up to 25 miles in length. The batteries rated at 400-500 WH can provide you with a range of around 40 to 60 miles. Those with 600Wh and above are suitable for use when riding long distances.
Do not forget to find out how easy it is to replace or charge the battery. E-bikes differ in design, and some models come with removable batteries since they are easier to charge and replace.
It is always advisable to take a test drive of a few of them before actually purchasing an e-bike. This will help you understand how the bike balances, its weight, and how comfortable it would be to ride it.
While e-bikes can be roughly as heavy as normal bicycles since they are primarily made from similar components, the battery and motor make them more substantial. The motor assists in pedaling; however, you still need to steer the bicycle by tilting it and carrying its weight when storing or moving it from one place to another.
The average weight of an e-bike ranges between 40 and 70 pounds. Check the heaviness of the object, particularly in instances where you might have to carry it up a flight of stairs or put it in restricted areas.
It is important to note that most e-bikes have pedal assistance modes that help when pedaling, and some come with a twist and go throttle, meaning you can ride them without pedaling. The amount of assist or throttle control that you would like to come into play depends on your desire as the rider.
However if you foresee having to do most of the work on the bike, then a pedal-assisted e-bike will be more suitable for you. However, if you wish to be able to control the scooter without having to pedal, then go for a model with a throttle.
The manufacturer's warranty is another factor that you need to consider before making the final decision. There are usually warranty provisions for the motor, battery, and frame of a good electric bike.
Another factor to consider is the availability of after-sales service in case you experience some difficulties with repairing, maintaining, or getting spare parts for your appliance. Some companies provide certain freebies under separate warranties or service contracts; therefore, one must consider them.
Electric bikes are not cheap, and therefore, if one is planning on making such a purchase, it is important that one takes their time and gets it right. The variables such as the power of the motor, battery capacity, and your requirements will get you closer to a perfect bicycle. Whether you are traveling for work, riding for exercise or pleasure, going to the forests, or riding through the streets of a large city, an electric bike can improve your cycling and your mode of transport.
