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Top Factors When Buying an Ebike

Ebikes are one of those novelties that when you see someone with one, you want one too. It’s easy to get excited, jump online, do a quick research and order the first Chinese import ebike for under $1,000. But, when it arrives, and you test out a few rides, it starts to fall apart a month later. You don’t want this to happen! Take your time, do your due diligence, and ensure you’re getting the best e-bike for you, especially since an ebike is a mode of transportation you want to be safe.

Consider How You’ll Use Your Ebike

Ebikes come in all shapes and sizes for specific uses. The ebike you choose will depend on what you want it for:

 

  • Road biking — Electric road bikes are lighter and best for riding on paved roads or paths.
  • Commuting — Electric commuter bikes are similar to road bikes but comfier for longer trips.
  • Mountain biking — eMtbs (electric mountain bikes) are heavier, have bigger tires, long-travel suspension, and high-powered brakes to descend steep, technical hills.
  • Cruising — Similar to commuter bikes, but with added style for your ride around town
  • Space savers — Folding bikes are perfect for city dwellers who need to save space and money.
  • All-terrain — Electric fat bikes are similar to mountain bikes but have larger tires and broader forks to handle all types of trail conditions, including sandy or snowy trails
  • Carrying cargo— Electric cargo bikes are perfect for those who want to turn their ebike into a delivery machine or kid carrier.
  • Laidback biking— Recumbent bikes keep comfort a top priority. Add a conversion kit onto a supportive recumbent bike, perfect for those who require additional back support while riding.

 

No matter how you plan to use your ebike, whether for the mountain, road, commuting or leisure 

you’ll need to invest in an ebike suited for your lifestyle.

Where To Buy An Ebike

Where you buy your ebike can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. An authorized dealer is the best option when you need maintenance, typically two years down the road or help with a warranty. While buying online may offer additional options for entry-level ebikes with cheap components, buyers who get a bike from a shop often receive other perks such as discounted helmets, tools, and apparel. Additionally, by going to a local shop, you have the option to test ride the ebike, so you know first hand how it’ll feel. You’ll also be able to ask the sales rep which bike is best for the local trails and conditions as they will have first-hand knowledge. They may also be able to help point you in the direction of riding groups or coaches for those who are new to riding.

Ebike Price Points

When you see the latest model roll past you on the bicycle pathways, it can be easy to want it right away. But, it’s best to avoid impulsive buying and research what bike will fit your budget. Make sure to balance your investment against your needs, wants, and how often you will be riding. If it will be your daily commuter, it’s best to invest in something reliable. If you’re buying for occasional recreation, you’ll be able to save yourself some money with an entry-level ebike.

 

Generally, bikes under $700 won’t last long. These ebikes are imported from China and made with the cheapest components available. Buyer beware. Ebikes from $700 – $1500 are aimed at entry-level riders. These bikes are made to do their job for quite some time. They’ll have better components than China imported models but won’t entirely be top-of-the-line. For $1,500 – $2,500, you’ll get yourself a bike with more reliable components from brands that make high-quality parts. These bikes are best for people who use their bikes most of the week.

At the $2,500 – $4,000 price point, consumers who buy in this range will have some of the best bike parts available and can be sure to rely on their trusty steed day-in-day-out. Spending above $4,000 will get you an ebike where everyone will turn their heads. This price point is for die-hards who want the top-of-the-line ebike for technical rides and ultra-reliability. When buying at these price points, do your homework to ensure you aren’t being scammed by a reseller or dealer trying to make an extra buck on buyer incompetence.

Fitting Your Needs And Abilities

Size, weight, and power are essential to consider when buying an ebike. You’ll want to make sure the size and weight of the ebike match you. A dealer can recommend the correct size based on your height and usage. You’ll also want to make sure that the bike matches your fitness level. Not only will you need to be strong enough to lift the bike off the ground, but you’ll also want the ebike to have enough power to get you up hills. For this reason, ebikes are great. They allow people whose fitness might not be the best to get up and enjoy the great outdoors with their families. If you’re looking at lengthier, steeper ascents, you may want to consider a 500W motor for your ebike. The downside of greater power is a heavier motor and a more expensive battery. Make sure to consider the range of the bike, which is measured in Watt Hours (WH). The WH for a particular bike may change based on the level of assist used, rider weight, and age of the components. If you usually ride long distances, a battery of 400 WH or more should meet your needs.

Protecting Your Ebike

After spending a hefty amount on a new ebike, you’ll also want to invest in protecting your ebike when you’re not using it. Unfortunately, bike theft is common as thieves can easily cut most cheap bike locks. Make sure you have a secure garage or storage where you can keep the bike and lock it up properly. Even while running errands on your ebike, it’s best not to leave your bike unattended if you can avoid doing so. Never leave any valuables. Bike thieves are well-practiced at cutting locks and can steal a bike in only a few minutes. Getting insurance or having it covered under home insurance to protect your investment can be a good idea, depending on the ebike’s value.

 

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Click here to access our Knowledge Base, or hit this link to fill out a contact form.

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