E-bikes (electric assist bikes) are a fun and eco-friendly way to travel, offering a new way to get around and encouraging various non-commuting activities, like grocery shopping. They are game-changers that provide flexibility for navigating heavily populated areas or touring scenic countryside routes. With the growing popularity of the e-bike, here are some key questions to consider when making a purchase:

• What e-bike types, styles, and battery/motor options are available
• What range or distance can you expect to travel on a single charge
• Can you ride in the rain and snow
• And what maintenance tips or repair options should you consider?

After reviewing the following tips, we suggest visiting several bicycle shops that carry e-bikes to narrow down the right bike for you. Ask them the specific questions we have below. Then, like buying a car, test-ride different e-bikes until you find an e-bike that is right for you.

Top 10 questions asked when selecting an e-bike.

1. What do e-bikes cost, and what is the MN E-bike Rebate?

There are many variables when buying an E-bike, including the distance you can ride and how you will use it; the number of times you can charge the battery; its weight (bike and battery); the warranty; and whether you will need to take out a loan to finance the bike. Along with a good warranty, the quality of standard parts or upgraded parts on the e-bike can increase the price from $2,000 to $6,000 or more. Plus, having adequate insurance coverage for possible damage, theft, and liability can increase the cost.

See more information on the cost of buying an e-bike here.

What’s the latest on the MN Electric-Assisted Bicycle Rebate?

The Electric-Assisted Bicycle Rebate (e-Bike Rebate) reduces the cost for Minnesota residents to buy a new e-bike at eligible retailers. 

The e-bike rebate provides a discount of up to $1,500 on a qualifying e-bike. The discount is 50-75% of a buyer’s qualifying e-bike expenses, depending on their income. The rebate value cannot exceed the price of the e-bike. 

• The limited number of e-bike rebates started going out in July and are good for two months
• Around 1,300 rebates will be available in 2025, and they should apply when the application opens again next year.
• Sign up for email alerts to learn about 2025 developments, or visit the MDOR website. Keyword: e-bike

Current 2024 updates:

The credit maximum is $1,500, depending on your income. To qualify, an individual must assign the credit at the time of purchase after July 1st to an eligible retailer in the rebate program. If you qualify, this will reduce the cost of purchasing an e-bike. For more information on the rebate, contact your local bike shop or see Minnesota Tax Changes.

2. What sort of payment options do I have?

To get an electric bike that will fit your needs over the next two to five years, find out if the bike shop or bike manufacturer (if buying online) offers a no- or low-interest loan. Some lending institutions, like Affinity Plus, offer low-interest bicycle-specific loans and let you borrow 120% of the cost of the bike, allowing you to buy accessories like helmets, locks, baskets/panniers, lights, etc.

See more information on financing here.

3. What should I know about warranty and insurance options?

Many bikes come with limited or full warranties. Typically, e-bikes may come with a 2-5 year warranty on parts, motors, and batteries. Some e-bike brands have a 5-year, “no questions asked” comprehensive warranty. Learn what sort of warranty is being offered before you buy. A reputable e-bike company will have its warranty information on its website.

It is recommended that you Insure your new bike. Check if your car’s, renter’s, or homeowner’s insurance plan can bundle an e-bike into your policy. If not, look at an insurance company that often covers theft and collision protection for your e-bike, similar to automobile insurance. Many companies, like AAA and Velosurance, even offer roadside assistance for bicycles and e-bikes.

See more information on warranties and insuring an e-bike here.

4. What are the different types and classes of e-bikes?

There are so many types of e-bikes available! First, what is your primary use when buying an e-bike? Is it for commuting, hauling cargo, off-road riding, touring, or riding in winter conditions? Once you know how you will use the bike, check out the nationally defined classifications below and your state DOT statutes for e-bikes:

• Class 1: e-bikes are pedal-assist only, no throttle, with a maximum speed of 20 mph
• Class 2: e-bikes with pedal assist and throttle, with a maximum speed of 20 mph
• Class 3: e-bikes are pedal-assist, with or without a throttle, with a maximum speed of 28 mph.
  Most states consider e-bikes with a maximum speed of 20 mph “OK to use all non-motorized bike routes.”

See more on the types and speeds of e-bikes here.

5. What’s the battery’s range, and how do I recycle my bike battery?

The general rule is that a 36-volt, 10.5Ah (ampere-hours) battery should get 20 to 40 miles per charge. This is with a rider’s weight, gear, and cargo under 200 pounds in ideal weather conditions. You’ll get fewer miles if the assist level you use is higher or the weight of the rider, gear, and cargo is increased. You may enjoy 50 miles or more on a single charge on low assist. But the range greatly varies from bike to bike. Several e-bike models now allow for longer ranges with increased total weight of rider, gear, and cargo. No matter what, to maximize the life of your e-bike battery, try to charge it before it is close to empty.

Recycling your battery: Call2Recycle is helping e-bike owners recycle their batteries. On the right side of their website, enter your zip code to get a list of places that will recycle your e-bike battery for you when it’s time to replace it.

Click here for a more in-depth look at how volts x amps = watts can give you an approximate range.

6. What are the weight limits of e-bikes, people, and gear?

Most manufacturers of non-cargo bikes recommend a maximum combined weight of around 275 pounds for a rider and gear on an e-bike. Cargo bikes are meant to carry several small people or big loads. They can also accommodate riders, gear, and cargo up to 400 pounds or more. Typically, e-bikes can handle total weights more than described by manufacturers’ specs. However, increased weights may reduce the range or increase maintenance, including wheel spokes repairs.

Most e-bikes weigh between 30 and 65 pounds, with the battery weighing anywhere from 5 to 15 pounds. The battery’s weight increases with voltage, but its capacity (range) also increases.

For more on weight limits and restrictions, click here.

7. What maintenance and e-bike repair options should I consider?

Like a regular bicycle, always start with an ABC’s (Air, Brake & Chain) check before you ride to maximize your e-bike investment. You should schedule a tune-up every six months or every 1,000 miles you have ridden. This will protect your warranty. Check the manufacturer’s service recommendations to what they specify.

If you’re buying an e-bike online, see what sort of repair service or online support the company provides, or make sure your local or favorite bike shop can fix the electrical components of the e-bike you select. Bikes with Bosch drivetrain systems are well respected and offer the following information for care and longevity. 

For more information on maintaining our preparing an e-bike, click here.

8. Can I ride my e-bike in the rain or snow?

Like most standard bicycles, e-bikes are water-resistant and can be used in all weather conditions. You may need accessories, like rain gear or studded tires, to ride safely. Most e-bike models also provide a high-quality, water-resistant casing to protect your battery when wet and cold. You can ride an e-bike at any temperature, but the colder it is, the more it may impact the battery’s range. Bring your battery (or the entire bike + battery) inside if you’re not riding it. Do not leave the battery on the bike if parking the e-bike outside at any time in the winter.

Click here for more information on riding an e-bike in rain or snow.

9. How do I keep my e-bike safe and secure?  

To protect your e-bike investment, consider using a U-lock with a cable lock when locking your bike outside and also inside public storage areas. Another anti-theft device to consider is a GPS track tag. Ask your local bike shop for their recommendations. Again, having adequate insurance coverage for possible damage, theft, and liability is wise.

For more information on securing your e-bike, click here.

10. What else should I do before purchasing an e-bike?

Have fun and test-ride the e-bikes you want to focus on. One of the essential parts of buying an e-bike is taking the models you are interested in for a test ride. Like buying a car, test-riding several e-bikes will help you finalize your decision once you have narrowed down the selection. Visit several bicycle shops that carry the e-bike brands you are most interested in. Then, grab your helmet and go for a test ride. Consider these questions while test-riding that new e-bike:

• Do the components adjust the way I like to ride on the e-bike?
• Do I feel comfortable climbing or going down hills on the e-bike?
• Does the quality and functionality meet my expectations while riding?

Now that you are back from your test ride, does the e-bike you like fit into your budget? Does the bike have a warranty?

An e-bike is a significant investment, whether $1,500 or $15,000. With a warranty, you can rest assured that your investment is well covered. For more information on scheduling a test ride, click here.

Have fun on your new e-bike. We would enjoy hearing about your experiences here at HaveFunBiking!