One of the most important and fun parts of buying an electric bike is taking the most interested models out for a test ride. Just like buying a car, once you have narrowed the selection down, a test ride will help you finalize your decision.

Visiting several bicycle shops that carry the e-bike brands you are most interested in will allow you to put aside skeptics, reviews, and research. Helping you answer the most basic question, which e-bike do I love the most?

So put on your helmet and go for a ride. Check your list, then test-ride the best electric bike for you. Also, don’t forget to bring your driver’s license and a credit card along. Some shops may require you to leave your identification card with them. Or, they may want to swipe your credit card if some damage happens on your test ride.

Does the electric bike you are looking at climb hills, haul cargo, or help you keep up with friends the way you expect?

While test riding an e-bike:

• does the bike climb hills the way you need it to
• will the e-bike fit you the way you would like it to
• And finally, while riding, is the quality and functionality what you expected?

Now that you are back from your test ride, does the e-bike you like the best fit into your budget, and is there a warranty? Buying an electric bike is a significant investment, regardless of whether the e-bike is $1,500 or $10,000. Make sure the purchase comes with a warranty so you can rest assured that your investment is somewhat covered. Two-year warranties on parts, motor, and battery (with no exclusions for regular use) are reasonable to expect from most electric bike manufacturers.

Most of these questions can be answered at the bike shop that carries the model you are interested in buying. Or have the experts at the E-bike Challenge Minneapolis answer those questions. So, make your list and come prepared to test ride some of the best e-bikes available in the market.