The best electric bikes perfectly fit in with the rider's needs. Each electric bike manufacturer does its best to design their products with features that enhance ownership. But with so many different types on the market, deciding which electric bike is best for you can be tricky. So, in this article, we'll tell you how to choose an electric bike.
What Is An Electric Bike?
An electric bike has a motor mounted in a wheel hub or between the cranks, which assists your pedaling. The motor is powered by a battery mounted on or in the bike's frame. You can choose how much assistance the motor gives you via a controller on the handlebars. The controller is often built into an LCD, which displays vital information about your ride.
The electric motor engages when you pedal and amplifies your effort. This makes riding uphill and into headwinds much more manageable than riding a regular bike. Additionally, you can ride further before you feel tired.
Understanding Pedal Assistance
Most electric bikes have 3 or 4 assistance levels. They will be named differently depending on the manufacturer. For example, some electric bike manufacturers simply number the assistance levels, with "1" being the lowest and "4" the highest. Alternatively, the levels will be called "Eco," "Tour," "Turbo," or "Boost."
Riding in lower assistance levels means exerting more effort on the pedals. This uses less battery power, allowing you to ride further. Higher assistance levels make pedaling much easier but drain the battery faster.
Why Do You Want An Electric Bike?
When choosing an electric bike, consider what you want it for. There are electric bikes to suit everyone's needs, such as commuters, mountain bikes, cargo bikes, hybrids, and road bikes. Therefore, carefully considering what you want from your electric bike is essential. Do you want to use it for going to work, making deliveries, or off-road adventures?
Be Aware Of The Different Electric Bike Classes
Electric bikes fall under three classes, and you need to know what they are before you buy one. Due to safety concerns, local laws often dictate what electric bike class you can ride in public.
Class 1
Sometimes, Class 1 electric bikes are called "pedelec" bikes. These only assist you when you pedal and have a limited assisted top speed of 20mph.
Class 2
Class 2 electric bikes are also restricted to a limited assisted top speed of 20mph. However, these bikes have a "throttle mode," which allows you to ride a bit like a scooter without needing to pedal.
Class 3
Class 3 electric bikes operate in the same way as those in Class 1. However, the main difference is that their assisted top speed is restricted to 28mph.
If you're new to riding electric bikes or are nervous, we recommend choosing a Class 1. These electric bikes are often the most affordable and meet most local laws. Therefore, you can ride them on cycle paths and roads. Depending on where you live, you can ride Class 1 and Class 3 electric bikes on some mountain bike trails. However, sometimes electric bikes are not permitted, so you should check before taking yours to a trail center.
High Power Vs. Lightweight Electric Bikes
Every electric bike manufacturer varies their product lineup by offering burly and powerful electric bikes alongside lightweight ones. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Electric bikes with more power give you smoother and more responsive power delivery. They make riding uphill easier and accelerate faster. The extra power and torque are also better for heavier riders and those carrying cargo.
On the other hand, a lightweight electric bike is easier to handle and usually cheaper. These electric bikes are suitable for riders who don't weigh much or live in flat areas, as they won't benefit too much from the extra power. The lightness makes these bikes more manageable to live with, too. For example, you may need to carry yours upstairs, on public transportation, or load it onto a bike rack.
Important Electric Bike Features To Consider
The best electric bikes have features that enhance their ownership and riding experiences. Some features are essential, while others are nice to have. Here are some features to consider when you choose an electric bike.
Frame Design
Electric bike frames come in various shapes and have specific features to suit the riders' needs. For example, a folding electric bike is ideal for those with limited storage space and people who need to carry their bikes in the car or on public transport. A great example is the Fiido X, a compact and stylish folding commuter bike.
Another useful frame feature is the step-thru design. These frames are low, so you can mount and dismount without lifting your leg up high. Step-thru electric bikes are ideal for people with mobility issues and those who wear long, flowing clothing.
Lights
Most good electric bikes will either come with lights or have them built into the bike's frame. If yours doesn't, we recommend budgeting for front and rear lights to stay safe when riding in low-light conditions.
Brakes
These days, electric bikes mostly have mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes. Most people will find that mechanical disc brakes suit their needs. However, hydraulic disc brakes are more powerful, reducing stopping distances. Hydraulic brakes are also easy to modulate through the brake levers, giving you more control. If you ride technical off-road trails or want extra safety, choose an electric bike with hydraulic disc brakes.
Final Thoughts On How To Choose An Electric Bike
You need to choose an electric bike that meets your needs. While someone may recommend a particular bike, you must look at its features, design, and cost to see if it suits you and what you want to use it for.
Why not check out the Fiido website? Here, you'll see a wide range of electric bikes that cater to most people's needs. They are all stylish, well-made, and reasonably priced, making Fiido a good starting point for choosing an electric bike.