Some tips to know how to choose the best electric bike

More and more people want to move around the city in a sustainable way, avoid the classic rush hour traffic jams and save gas. Characteristics that define bicycles, especially electric ones, as they are committed to a new, more sustainable transport option. If you are thinking of getting one, you probably have doubts about which electric bike to buy, since it is an alternative to conventional transport that is still very recent.

Will you be able to cycle safely around the city? Will you have enough battery? Can you take it by public transport? Let’s talk about how to choose an electric bike.

Types of electric bikes

To decide which electric bike to buy, you first need to know that there are several options and types to choose from, for example:

    Foldable.

    Bicycles with pedaling assistance.

    Electric bikes with accelerator.

    Electric mountain bikes.

    High speed electric bikes.

What electric bike to buy?

Taking this detail into account, it is normal that even more questions arise about how to choose an electric bicycle that suits your needs and helps you lose the fear of circulating in the city. Before making a decision, consider these  questions.

How to calculate the bike size according to my height

Believe it or not, there are different sizes of electric bicycle, even today you can easily find an electric mini bike. So it is very important that you know which one is the one that fits your height. To calculate your bike size you must measure the height of the crotch, standing barefoot with your legs straight and measuring from the ground to the groin. Multiply the result by 0.665 if you are looking for a road bike, or by 0.21 if it is a mountain bike. This way you will know which electric bike to buy according to the size.

What autonomy does the electric bike have?

Depending on the amount of time you are going to spend on the bike, or the kilometers to travel, the autonomy of the electric bike will have more or less relevance. The battery of an electric bicycle usually has enough autonomy for about 40-50 km. Although there are models that can provide you with more autonomy, up to over 200 km on a single charge.

What type of battery to choose?

In addition to autonomy, it is important that you look at the type of battery that your new electric bike has. Lead-acid batteries are cheaper, but they weigh a lot and their lifespan is quite short. Lithium batteries last longer and are lighter, although they cost slightly more than lead batteries. Most electric bicycles incorporate the latter, although it does not hurt to know which one it carries. It is also important to know if you have a fixed or removable battery. The latter have the advantage that you can prevent your bike from being stolen if you leave it on the street, and that you can carry it anywhere.

How are you going to pedal?

One factor that e-bike sales are increasing is that you don’t have to pedal. Well, actually some work with an accelerator and others have pedaling assistance, which is a system that starts the engine when you put your foot on the pedal and when you reach the maximum speed (25 km / h) this engine is for. There are models that exceed this speed, although the DGT considers them L1e category vehicles, such as mopeds, and they must meet the same conditions as these to drive them.

Can you get on public transport?

If you plan to take your electric bike on the train or bus, you better look at which folding electric bike to buy, since in some transports it is considered hand luggage and it must be folded and stored in a cover. Folding electric bikes are usually light and easy to move, so they are also a good alternative if you want to take it home or leave it at the office when you arrive.

However, although riding a bike is beneficial for many aspects, it is advisable to have certain aspects that protect you against any incident.