Which electric bike is right for you? Our advice!
To choose the right electric bike, you first need to ask yourself why you want to buy an EAB. The answer to this question will help you choose the right type of electric bike. Then, your budget will be an important criterion to take into account. Finally, once you've decided on a model, you'll need to make sure you choose the right size bike. In this article, you'll find all the advice Upway needs to help you buy your future electric-assist bike.
1. Determining the use of your electric bike
To begin with, the most important thing is to define the type of activity you're going to do with your electric bike. This is the criterion that will most determine your purchase.
The electric city bike
The urban bike is perfectly suited to regular use on short and medium-distance road trips. We particularly recommend it for commuting. It can also accommodate a basket or child seat. In a word: practical!
The electric All Road bike
If you use it in town but also want to go for longer-distance weekend rides, including on dirt roads, the electric mountain bike is for you. This type of electric bike stands out for its great versatility.
The electric mountain bike (MTB)
The choice of MTB electric is recommended for off-road sports. On these models, everything has been designed with performance in mind. Frame, fork, electric components, pedaling position... These bikes are designed to go fast, very fast!
The electric folding bike
Perfect for transporting or simply storing at home, the electric folding bike is ideal for short- to medium-distance use on the road. It's your ideal partner if you use public transport for part of your journey, for example. Numerous grants and subsidies are available for the purchase of this type of assisted bike.
The electric cargo bike
If you want to transport several children or larger volumes, the cargo bike allows you to carry heavy loads in comfort and safety. It's ideal for parents, delivery drivers and anyone who's used to traveling with a load.
2. Check the size of your electric bicycle
For maximum comfort, it's important to buy an electric bike electric bike in your size.
For each bike refurbished offered for sale on Upway, we specify the minimum and maximum recommended sizes in the description of each model. The seat height and handlebar adjustments will then enable you to adapt the bike precisely to your position.
3. Choose the battery life you need
The capacity of your battery determines the distance you can cover on a full charge. It's important to bear in mind that your battery's autonomy may vary according to the weight of your load (luggage, children), the relief of your route, the wind or the pressure of your tires. That's why manufacturers give you a range of expected autonomy in average conditions.
Obviously, the greater the capacity, the more expensive the battery. That's why it's a good idea to choose a range adapted to your needs. The range of electric bikes is a subject in its own right.
4. Identify motor and battery location
When your motor is located in the wheel, it may offer easier starting, but the accompaniment will be less smooth and linear. So, even for non-sporty uses, bottom bracket motors are becoming more common on power-assisted bikes, as they are more progressive.
There are two battery options: on the luggage rack or on the frame. A rack-mounted battery is perfectly suited to a city bike, although frame-mounted batteries can also be found on these bikes.
A battery placed on the frame allows a slightly lower center of gravity. This is essential for sporting activities such as MTB. This feature makes the bike more responsive, easier to handle and more agile. On electric road bikes, the battery is sometimes integrated into the frame to enhance aerodynamics.
5. Define your budget
Electric bike manufacturers offer ranges from €500 up to the very top of the range at over €3000. Design, the quality of the electrical components, the finesse of the materials and the brand will all influence the price. So how do you decide?
New electric bikes from €500 to €1200
These are theentry-level models from the manufacturers. Their equipment is basic, battery life is short, the electronics are visible outside the frame, and the design is simplistic and sometimes a little obsolete.
Suitable for light use over short distances, especially in town, they will be less robust over the long term or when used over long distances. If they are affordable, they are not necessarily good investments, as they will quickly lose their value.
New electric bikes from €1200 to €1800
In the mid-range, the choice and quality of electric bikes increases. Equipment is more durable and finishes more refined. You'll find a wider range of choices, from elegant city bikes to versatile mountain bikes.
New electric bikes from €1800 to €2500
You enter the premium ranges. You get access to the most reliable historic brands, with longer battery life and a more responsive, comfortable motor. With these bikes, you have access to the latest, top-quality equipment.
New electric bicycles over €2500
These are top-of-the-range power-assisted bikes, adapted for specific sports use (VTTAE, electric road bike, gravel) or for premium positioning due to their design, for example. They are generally equipped with state-of-the-art components. Electrical components and cables are integrated and virtually invisible.
Most of the time, it's the giants of the bicycle market who offer bikes of this quality.
We hope this article will help you find THE electric-assist bike you need. If, however, you need more information on how to choose the right electric bike for you, don't hesitate to consult our dedicated page.