Are you thinking about investing in an electric bike? The appearance of e-bikes is no different than standard bicycles; only these are equipped with a battery and an electric motor. Although pedalling is still required, the assistance you gain by the motor is indispensable when riding on long distances or uphill.
Given cycling is one of the greenest means of transport, investing in an e-bike is not just cost-effective but environmentally friendly as well. Nowadays, there is a variety of mens electric bikes online, available in different styles, battery power ratings, sensors, and add-ons.
You might find the following buyer’s guide helpful.
Choose a style
Prior to analyzing the features of electric bikes, buyers are expected to opt for a style depending on the terrain they plan to ride on. Classic e-bikes are mainly chosen for the purpose of communing, as they’re designed for flat terrains. These models are specific for their narrow seats and tires, low assistance levels, and no suspension Also, the number of gears is significantly lower when compared to the rest of the styles.
Hybrid electric bikes are designed to be ridden on different terrains, providing a pleasurable ride when ridden in town as well as on rugged terrain. These e-bikes are equipped with suspension, slightly wider tires, and sturdier frames. Hybrid power-assisted bicycles are ideal for individuals whose lifestyle involves a combination of commuting and mountain cycling.
Mountain e-bikes are perfect for bikers fond of off-road biking but hate overstraining themselves when riding uphill. These models come with suspension, crucial when riding a bicycle on bumpy terrain, as well as a solid construction and wide tires.
Ultimately, folding electric bikes have become a trend among commuters, campers, and anyone struggling with a lack of storage space. The portability of these bicycles is what mostly contributes to their popularity, as their size is similar to that of a suitcase when folded. There are two folding points on such e-bikes, one located in the middle of the power-assisted vehicle, while the other is found on the handlebars. The only drawback of foldable e-bikes would be their heavyweight. Read more about the history, folding methods, size, and portability of folding bikes.
Consider the type of motor
The performance of electric bikes is determined by the type of motor. Not only the type but also the position of the motor affects the entire cycling process. Hub motors are suitable for urban cyclists riding their e-bikes on flat ground, as bicycles with such motors have no gears. The motor can be secured to both the front and rear wheel, hence making one of the sides heavier.
Mid-mounted motors, on the other hand, provide better balance and come with multiple gears. The models with such motors are more powerful and efficient but also pricier. Most of them are equipped with sensors whose function is to match assistance with pedalling levels.
Check the battery
Another vital feature to analyse when shopping for an electric bike is the battery. The distance that a cyclist can cover with an e-bike is determined by the size and quality of the battery. Make sure you check the power rating of batteries, expressed in Watt-hours (WH). The approximate distance can be calculated by dividing the battery power capacity by twenty.
Nevertheless, numerous other factors affect the capacity such as the ruggedness of the terrain and the wind. Cyclists can track their battery level by looking at the LCD display on the handlebars, showing how much battery one has left. In terms of recharging, you are only supposed to remove the battery from the bicycle and plug it in a socket. Check out this link, https://www.wikihow.com/Charge-an-Electric-Bike, for some handy tips about charging an electric bike.
Consider the sensors
When buying an e-bike, cyclists are expected to choose between pedal and torque sensors. Models with pedal sensors turn the motor on and off depending on when the cyclist starts pedalling. Conversely, models with torque sensors adjust the power of pedalling to the electrical assistance the biker needs. The latter are consequently more expensive to buy.
Final thoughts
E-bikes are the future of commuting and eco-friendly transport.
Invest in one!