How to choose an e-bike: 4 main things to know

The electric bike is on the rise. If you, too, dream of overtaking cars and effortlessly climbing hills, you need yours! But choosing your first e-bike when you don't know anything about it is not easy. From city e-bikes to e-trekking bikes, mountain bikes or road bikes, discover our guide to help you learn how to choose an e-bike.

What kind of cyclist are you?

The answer to this question will help you navigate the choice of the type of electric bike. First, think about how you plan to use this car: will it be used for commuting? Rather for long weekend walks? Will you be using the bike for sports activities or are you planning to transport children on it?

• For urban use there is folding electric bikes (ideal for those using public transport) but also city ​​electric bicycles comfortable and efficient or even electric cargo bikesto accommodate all your kids and / or packages!
• If you want to drive off-road, your choice will be more deliberate. un Electric VTC, or speed bikespecially designed for speed lovers.
• Cycling enthusiast? Electric mountain bikes и gravel bikes, created for you!

How to try on an e-bike?

To buy an electric bike, you need to make sure you enjoy riding it. In most cases, bike shops allow you to test the model that seduces you in the shop. One way to make your own choices and better direct your choices.

Here are the points to watch out for during the test:

• Position: in an upright or inclined position, depending on your preference and comfort;
• the size : each VAE model comes in several sizes to suit each cyclist;
• frame: choose a low frame if you want to facilitate the lifting and lowering phases
• help level: Ideally, test the e-bike on a slope to make sure the level of electric assistance is right for you. Shift several gears and make a few turns, straight-ahead driving is not enough to achieve the characteristics of the motorcycle;
• brakes: brake gradually, evenly and on the descent, and give a sharp blow to check the quality of the braking system;
• the weight : if you cannot lift your bike, you will have to choose a lighter model!

What type of motor to choose for an e-bike?

Bicycle motors can be located on the front wheel, rear wheel, or crank arm. Depending on its location, your sensations will be radically different. There are currently three main configurations: 

• The motor is integrated in the front hub : the driving is flexible, simple, practical, especially in the city. However, there is more weight in this direction.
• The motor is integrated into the rear wheel: driving is more dynamic, responsive. This type of bike is recommended for sports cyclists.
• Crank motor: The cranks used in nearly all top-end models provide more progressive driving assistance thanks to torque, cadence and speed sensors. The weight is also better balanced as the engine is in the center of the bike. If it is more expensive than wheel motors overall, many e-bike enthusiasts find this solution ideal.

E-bikes powered by Bosch, Shimano or Yamaha engines are considered the most successful on the market. They will undoubtedly be the preferred choice if you want an electric bike to become a regular practice. More affordable, Bafang also offers good value for money.  

Which bike battery should you choose?

One of the criteria for choosing an e-bike can also be the autonomy and durability of its battery.

Almost all e-bike batteries today use lithium-ion technology, but there are still large differences in capacity. Typically, the battery capacity of an electric bike is 300 to 600 Wh. The actual range of your electric bike will depend on the efficiency of the engine as well as the weight of the rider and the level of assistance you use.

Our tip: Choose from Bosch, Shimano or Yamaha batteries that have proven their worth. Like motors, these three suppliers work with most e-bike manufacturers. If you need more range, some models run on two batteries (but they are heavier).

What is the price to invest in an e-bike?

From less than 500 euros to 2 or even more, there are electric bikes at any price. In addition to the quality of the electrical components – the motor and the battery – it is also often the equipment of the bike part that justifies the difference in price.

Our advice: If you want an electric bike to become commonplace, don't invest less than € 1000 to € 1200 on an urban model at the risk of being disappointed in reliability. As far as mountain electric bikes are concerned, it is worth counting 2 euros for a quality model. Significant investment, which can be partially covered by a premium for the purchase of an electric bike and some financial aid provided locally.