E-bikes (electric-assist bicycles) 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 in navigating heavily populated areas, hauling cargo or children, and touring the scenic countryside. 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 do I need
- What range or distance can you expect to travel on a single charge
- Can I 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 to ask when selecting an e-bike.
1. What do e-bikes cost?
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 upgrades on an e-bike can increase the price from $2,000 to $6,000 or more. Additionally, having adequate insurance coverage for potential damage, theft, and liability can also increase the cost.
2. What are the different types and classes of e-bikes that are legal?
There are numerous types of e-bikes available. First, ask yourself what your primary use is 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 Department of Transportation statutes for e-bikes:
- Class 1: e-bikes are pedal-assist only, no throttle, with a maximum speed of 20 mph
- Class 2: are 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
- Not Legal: bikes (e-motos) that go faster than 28 mph, and/or do not have pedal power as part of the bike.
See more on the types and speeds of e-bikes here.
3. 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 based on a rider’s weight, gear, and cargo, all 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. However, the range varies greatly from bike to bike. Several e-bike models now allow for longer ranges with increased total weight of rider, gear, and cargo. Regardless, to maximize the life of your e-bike battery, try to charge it before it reaches a low level.
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 × amps = watts can provide an approximate range.
4. 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 designed to carry either several small people or large loads. They can also accommodate riders, gear, and cargo up to 400 pounds or more. Typically, e-bikes can handle total weights exceeding those described by manufacturers’ specifications. However, increased weights may reduce the range or increase maintenance, including repairs to wheel spokes.
Most e-bikes weigh between 30 and 65 pounds, with the battery typically weighing between 5 and 15 pounds. The battery’s weight increases with voltage, but its capacity (range) also increases.
For more on weight limits and restrictions, click here.
5. What maintenance and e-bike repair options should I consider?
Like a regular bicycle, always start with an ABC (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 determine their specifications.
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 and will fix the electrical components of the e-bike you select. Bikes equipped with Bosch drivetrain systems are highly regarded and offer the following information for optimal care and longevity.
For more information on maintaining and preparing an e-bike, click here.
6. 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 feature a high-quality, water-resistant casing to protect your battery from wet and cold conditions. 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) inside if you’re not riding it. Do not leave the battery on the bike if parking the e-bike outside or in an unheated garage at any time in the winter.
Click here for more information on riding an e-bike in rain or snow.
7. 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.
8. 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. This allows you to purchase accessories such as helmets, locks, baskets/panniers, lights, and more.
See more information on financing here.
9. 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 about the type of warranty being offered before you make a purchase. 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, renter’s, or homeowner’s insurance plan allows for bundling an e-bike into your policy.
If not, consider an insurance company that often offers theft and collision protection for your e-bike, similar to automobile insurance. Many companies, like AAA and Velosurance, even provide roadside assistance for bicycles and e-bikes.
For more information on warranties and insuring an e-bike, please see here.
10. What else should I do before purchasing an e-bike?
Have fun and test-ride the e-bikes you’re interested in. One of the essential parts of buying an e-bike is taking the model 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 allow me to ride the e-bike in the way I prefer
- 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!
Leave a Reply