How Much Do Electric Bikes Weigh?
Electric bikes weigh more than regular bikes thanks to the extra components fitted to them. The weight of an electric bike is important as it affects its performance, agility, and range. So, how much do electric bikes weigh? Typically, an electric bike weighs between 15 and 30 kg. However, the weight is affected by what the bike is designed to do, the size of the battery and motor, and the frame material.
In this article, we will discuss what makes an electric bike heavy and what to expect from the different types.
An Overview Of What Affects The Weight Of Electric Bikes
The Motor And Battery
Electric bike batteries weigh between five and 10 kg, and their motors weigh roughly 5 kg. Electric bikes with powerful motors and high-capacity batteries weigh much more. This is due to the extra metal, wiring and chemicals used.
The Bike's Frame And Components
Electric bikes are engineered to cope with the forces generated when riding with electrical assistance. Electric bike frames are often more chunky than regular bikes, partly because they house the battery. However, the material the bike frame is made from will also affect its overall weight. For example, some bikes have frames made from aluminium, which is cheaper than carbon fibre but heavier.
The electric power also means the bike's components must be more robust. This means suspension components will be over-engineered, and the bike will have stronger brakes and more rugged tyres. All this contributes to the electric bike's weight but improves durability.
Is A Lighter Electric Bike Better Than A Heavy One?
The weight of the best electric bike should be a consideration before you buy one for a few reasons. Firstly, a lighter electric bike is more agile and easier to control. In addition to this, if you have to carry it or load it onto a bike rack regularly, it's best to choose a lightweight electric bike.
However, lightweight electric bikes have less powerful motors and lower-capacity batteries. Therefore, you may not be able to ride as far as you want to before you need to recharge. So, before buying an electric bike, check that its range suits your needs. But a lightweight bike will be fine if you only want an electric bike for a short commute.
If you require an electric bike with a powerful motor, you must expect it to weigh more. These larger motors produce lots of torque, which helps you to accelerate faster, climb up hills and haul more weight.
How Electric Bike Weight Affects You As A Rider
You won't feel the weight even when riding a heavy electric bike in a straight line. In fact, the extra weight gives you more momentum, helping you roll along with ease. If you are used to riding a bike, getting used to the weight of an electric bike won't take long. However, it's worth taking the time to learn how the bike feels to manoeuvre in tight spaces, as it is slightly more challenging.
Depending on where the motor is mounted on your bike will affect its handling. Electric bikes with mid-mounted motors have more predictable handling. This is thanks to a lower centre of gravity and how the weight is distributed. In contrast, an electric bike with the motor mounted in the rear wheel hub makes the back of the bike heavier. This is fine when riding around cities. However, you will notice an imbalance when riding technical off-road terrain.
Typical Weights Of Different Types Of Electric Bikes
If the weight of an electric bike is a priority for you, it's a good idea to understand the weight of the different types available. So here's a rundown of the various types of electric bikes and their average weight.
Folding Electric Bikes
A folding electric bike is easy to store and incredibly portable. These are designed for commuting and are compact enough to be stored away in a convenient place or carried in your car or on public transport. How much a folding electric bike weighs depends on its design and components.
Some mini folding electric bikes weigh between 13 and 18 kg, making them incredibly easy to carry. However, you can buy folding mountain bikes that weigh between 18 and 31 kg.
Commuter Electric Bikes
An electric commuter bike is comfortable and efficient for riding through town. These bikes share characteristics with some road and mountain bikes and often have large batteries, allowing you to ride further. The larger batteries contribute to the bike's weight, putting them between 22 and 31 kg.
Electric Road Bikes
Electric road bikes are designed to be incredibly light and fast. Some have dropped handlebars to give you an aerodynamic advantage, while others have flat handlebars for comfort. Depending on the model, motor, and battery combo, an electric road bike can weigh as little as 18 kg. Check out the lightweight electric road bike options from Fiido.
Electric Mountain Bikes
Electric mountain bikes are among the heaviest as their components are robust, so they can withstand off-road terrain. You'll find that most electric mountain bikes weigh between 18 and 32 kg. However, you can also buy fat-tire electric mountain bikes. Their wide wheels and heavy-duty frame increase the weight to between 27 and 36 kg.
Electric Cargo Bikes
You should also expect electric cargo bikes to weigh a lot. Their chunky frames and other components are designed to carry heavy loads. To make hauling loads and riding up hills more manageable, cargo bikes have large motors and batteries, further adding to their weight. Depending on the style of electric cargo bike you're interested in, you can expect it to weigh between 35 and 65kg.
How Much Do Electric Bikes Weigh? - Answered!
As you can see, there is no one simple answer to the question, "How much do electric bikes weigh?" There are many different types of electric bikes available, each with its own set of variables that affect their weight. Still, now you have a good idea of what affects the weight of an electric bike and what to expect regarding each type when you go to an electric bike shop.
Before buying your electric bike, you need to consider your priorities regarding budget range, power, and weight. No matter which bike you choose, you'll have to compromise on something, but it is possible to strike a balance between the most important characteristics to you.
The Fiido website is a great place to start when looking for quality electric bikes. You'll find a full range of bikes, from lightweight commuters to heavy-duty cargo bikes.