You’ve seen the bikes around your neighborhood. They look like a lot of fun! Want one! But electric bikes have many different specifications and prices. This is what I would consider, in your position.
Can I build my own bicycle?
Many affordable bikes now come direct to the consumer, meaning they are pre-tuned or partially assembled in a box. Like Peter Flax recently noticed in Bicycling Magazine, these bikes do not receive the same testing or research as bikes from a larger manufacturer. Unless you don’t ride much or ride a lot of miles, or have experience modifying your own bike, I recommend working with an established manufacturer that has a dealer network. I also don’t recommend a smart electric bike. As we can see with VanMoof’s recent implosionYou may have difficulty getting your smart electric bike repaired if the company goes out of business.
Why do some bikes cost more?
They have high-end components. Batteries and motors from high-end brands like Bosch and Shimano are typically more powerful and cover more distance, with a range of 90 or 120 miles, compared to the 15- to 20-mile ranges you’ll see on more affordable bikes. However, this may not matter if you have a short trip.
What land do you live on?
If you live in a flat area, you’ll probably be better off with a 250-watt motor, which is the European speed standard. However, if you live near hills or haul a lot of stuff, you may want to consider a 500 or 750 watt motor and some extras, like hydraulics. disc brakeswhich will help prevent you from skidding into traffic.
I would also look for a mid drive motor instead of a mid drive motor. The mid-drive motors are located in the center of the bike and feel more natural. There is a hub drive on the rear axle that shifts the center of gravity rearward, which takes some getting used to. It can cause you to lose your balance when climbing steep hills.
Follow some basic safety tips.
You’re not sure where to start? Cycling advocacy group PeopleForBikes recently launched its safety education program, Smart electric bike, which they created in collaboration with the League of American Bicyclists and Bicycle Colorado. Don’t leave your bike battery charging overnight and don’t let your children ride their bikes unsupervised. An 80-pound child should not ride a 65-pound bike, even if the motor allows him to do so.
