E-bike is a popular option for people who are conscious of improving their riding experience and need bikes with more powerful motors to enhance their performance.
Beginner riders are often awed by how much easier it is to use e-bikes than traditional bikes. The pedal assist in electric bikes help you have a smooth ride, plus the pedaling power is almost unbeatable.
There are different types of electric bikes on the market, and if you aren't careful, you'll end up with an option that doesn't suit your needs in terms of convenience and transportation.
In this buyer's guide, we'll give you adequate information on the different classes and types of electric bikes, so you can select from the several different styles available.
What Is An Electric Bike?
Think of an electric bike (e-bike) as your traditional bike but just with the addition of a motor to help with increased speed and make your ride easier.
The battery-powered electric motor in your e-bike does half the work, while the other half of the power comes from you; unlike traditional bikes where the full power comes from the rider.
Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular because of their better battery technology, improved range and speed.
What Are the Different Types of E-Bikes?
When selecting the best e-bikes or electric bicycles, think about your needs first. Bike manufacturers produce electric bikes for specific purposes, so weigh your option as though you are buying your first traditional bicycle.
Generally, electric bike batteries differ, so you need to consider the battery capacity and of course how much power it can give.
Let's go over a few types of e-bikes and their specifications, so it can be convenient for you to make a choice.
E-bikes for Commuting
The most common type of electric bikes are commuter bikes because they can accommodate almost anybody, and are perfect for people who run errands frequently and daily.
They have one of the best ranges, and some models can speed up to 28mph without any difficulty.
With this type of bike, commuters don't need to do anything special; get on and ride.
There's a huge variety of commuter bikes available for you depending on your preference and needs;
Hybrid E-bikes
Hybrid e-bikes are designed to be fast, and in terms of speed, it's considered one of the best electric bikes. It's perfect for commuting to work and even going for daily errands. If you are looking for a quality e-bike that'll keep you in an upright riding position even when riding on paved roads you can check out hybrid electric bikes.
For your comfort, you can purchase one with a rack for keeping groceries or other necessities.
FAT E-BIKES
This might probably be your first time hearing the term "fat ebikes" however, you'll find it super easy to identify when you see it, due to its fat tire size.
They come with fat tires, usually between 4-5 inches, and this is almost two times the size of a normal e-bike tire. These bikes are perfect for unusual bike paths, and they do well in snowy and sandy environments. Regardless of its tires, it can maneuver steep hills, and with the right motor power, you'll definitely be steady.
CRUISER E-BIKES
Cruiser e bike is the best electric bike if you desire comfort, as it comes with wide tires and a comfortable seat. Also, cruiser e-bikes have a suspension system that'll prevent you from feeling the full shock when on rocky roads.
Most cruiser bikes come with handlebars, so even when you are riding at top speed, your back posture is not compromised.
CITY E-BIKES
City e-bikes are designed for commuters who engage in short-distance movements. It has the features of hybrid bikes, plus it's designed to make the rider's position upright. City bikes usually have step-through frames, and there are other accessories you can use to make riding in the city streets more enjoyable.
If you are not particular about speed but just need to get to your destination, stop at a bike shop and purchase a city e-bike!
Performance E-bikes
You don't expect a traditional bike to possess the same power as ebikes. If you desire assisted speed for training, then you need to consider performance ebikes.
Unlike commuter bikes, they have more weight, provide more power, and they are better equipped for long hours of usage.
When it comes to speed, performance electric bikes are perfect. We have listed three types you can make a selection from;
ELECTRIC ROAD BIKES
Unlike cruiser bikes, road bikes feature drop handlebars that make riding very much faster. Due to their narrow tires, they can supply more power and you won't have to do much to get it to maximum speed.
A road bike is faster and lighter than a regular bike, and it generally performs better.
ELECTRIC MOUNTAIN BIKES
E-mountain bikes come with flat handlebars and narrow tires, making them perfect for off-road riding and climbing steep hills.
The motor and battery are usually fixed at the bottom bracket, thereby providing you with more stability.
An electric mountain bike is perfect if you are looking for an electric assist in climbing hills.
ELECTRIC GRAVEL BIKES
Gravel bikes are just a show of upgraded technology. Its design and style is a combination of different disciplines of e-bikes.
Similar to mountain bikes, it has a relaxed frame, however, its speed is unrivaled. They come with tires as wide as 47mm, and can comfortably navigate dirt trails and graveled surfaces.
Utility E-bikes
Most utility e-bikes fall into the class 2 and 3 realms, making them very powerful. Some people make use of it for public transport because it's capable of carrying an extra passenger.
Depending on the model, you can use utility bikes to carry more than one person, however, for proper weight distribution and easy riding, you'll need hydraulic disc brakes to help with the extra oomph.
Whether you need the right utility e-bike to take your kids to classes, or for transportation, you'll find the right category below;
FOLDING
Folding bikes as the name implies can be folded and easily put into the back of your car. Depending on your needs, you can get a folding e-bike that is dedicated to road travel and even offloading.
So, if you are concerned about your e bike taking up a lot of space, the folding ebike might just be right for you.
CARGO
Cargo bikes are perfect if you feel you'll be needing a bike for more than just moving around. Due to its large bike frame, it'll be a waste to purchase it just for daily errands.
This bike's frame incorporates storage boxes for heavy loads, and extra spaces to accommodate 1/2 passengers. With just a single charge, they can travel longer distances than a traditional bike.
HUNTING - MOUNTAIN/FAT TIRE BIKE
The only significant difference between electric mountain bikes and fat ebikes is their tire size. However, they both have the capacity to navigate rough surfaces, without you having to use more energy than normal.
If anything, these bikes will make your cycling lighter and still push through patched roads, hence why cyclists think it's perfect for hunting in any environment.