Do you ever find yourself stuck in traffic, wishing you could just zip past all the cars and get to your destination faster? Those pesky stop-and-go traffic jams are enough to make anyone frustrated. What if there was a way to avoid traffic altogether, while also getting some exercise in? Sounds too good to be true, right?
Wrong. With an electric bike, or e-bike, you can have the best of both worlds. These nifty two-wheelers are becoming increasingly popular as a mode of urban transportation, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re environmentally friendly, efficient, and fun to ride. So, if you’re looking for an alternative to your daily commute, buy electric bike to revolutionise your ride.
What Are the Three Types of Electric Bikes?
Since e-bikes are basically regular bikes with a little extra motorised oomph, they come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride around the park or a full-on race machine, there’s an e-bike out there to suit your needs. Here are the three main types to look out for:
Class 1: Pedal-Assist Only
This particular type is the most popular on the market. You’re required to pedal, hence the name, but the motor will give you a little helping hand when it comes to climbing hills or powering through a strong headwind.
In this way, Class 1 e-bikes provide a workout while still getting you to your destination quickly and without breaking a sweat. These are perfect for commuting shorter distances, running errands around town, or enjoying a random weekend ride.
Class 2: Throttle-On Demand
With Class 2 e-bikes, there’s no need to pedal if you don’t want to. They come with a motor paired with a throttle that you can use to give yourself a power boost whenever you need it. Whenever you want to increase your riding speed, simply give the throttle a twist and away you go.
These models are perfect for those who want to ride without pedalling, or for those who may need assistance getting up a particularly steep hill. They’re also great if you have joint pain or any other condition that makes pedalling difficult.
Class 3: Pedal Assist 45 km/h
This type of e-bike is technically classified as a “speed pedelec.” They come with all the features of a Class 1 bike, but with a more powerful motor that can get you up to 45 km/h.
These models are great if you want a workout, but also need to get from A to B in a hurry. Thanks to their speed, they’re perfect for commuting longer distances or even racing, if that’s your thing.
How Do You Choose the Right Electric Bike?
Now that you know a little more about the different types of electric bikes, it’s time to figure out which one is best for you. Below are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:
Motor Type and Size
The motor is the heart of any electric bike, so it’s important to find one that’s well suited to your riding style and needs. If you’re mostly riding on flat, smooth surfaces, a smaller motor should do just fine. If, on the other hand, you’ll be tackling hilly terrain or need help getting up to speed, a larger motor is a better option.
You should also consider the type of motor when making your decision. There are two main types available: hub motors and mid-drive motors. Hub motors are located in the wheels, while mid-drive motors are situated in the middle of the bike, near the pedals.
Mid-drive motors tend to be more expensive, but they offer a number of advantages. For one, they provide better balance and handling since the weight is evenly distributed. They also offer more convenient pedalling and more torque since they’re powered by the bike’s gears.
In contrast, hub models are simpler and generally more affordable. They’re also easier to install since you don’t need to make any modifications to the bike. However, they can make the bike feel heavier since all the weight is concentrated in the wheels, and they offer less torque, making them less ideal for hills.
Battery Performance
Unlike cars, electric bikes don’t use gas or oil to power the motor. Instead, they rely on batteries. The performance of an electric bike is directly related to the performance of its battery.
The two most important battery performance factors to keep in mind are range and recharge time. Range refers to the distance an electric bike can travel on a single charge. This will vary depending on factors such as terrain, weight, speed, and weather conditions.
On the flip side, recharge time is how long it takes to recharge the battery once it’s been depleted. The time it takes will depend on the battery’s capacity as well as the type of charger you’re using. The number of units you have will also play a role, as each additional battery will take longer to charge.
Controls and Monitoring
Most electric bikes come with some form of control system that lets you change the bike’s speed and power output. The most basic models will have a simple on/off switch, while more advanced options may include a digital display that shows the bike’s current speed, distance travelled, and remaining battery life.
Some models even have heart monitors and other fitness tracking features. If you’re looking for a more basic option, though, any of the controls and monitors should do the trick.
Ergonomics
When you decide to buy electric bike, you should also think about how comfortable it is to ride. This includes everything from the position of the handlebars and seat to the bike’s overall weight and size.
You’ll also want to make sure that the bike is easy to control. If you’re not used to riding a regular bike, an electric bike can be a bit tricky since you have to deal with the throttle and brakes. Look for a model with intuitive controls that are easy to reach and use.
Storage Racks
And finally, if you’re planning on using your electric bike for commuting or running errands in more remote and far-off locations, you’ll need bike rack carriers that attach to your vehicle. These are different from the average roof or trunk racks as they are made to accommodate the extra weight of an electric bike.
The most important factor to consider when choosing a rack is compatibility. You’ll need to make sure that the rack you choose is compatible with your vehicle as well as your electric bike.
