An electric bike can be said to be similar to a regular bike but with the addition of a motor to aid your progress. However, an electric bike is also a hybrid form of transportation, which means that part of the power will be generated from the rider, and the remaining part from the motor.
An electric bike can also be said to be pedelecs, which is a different name for e-bikes that have their power being activated on pedalling rather than throttle. Most of the ebikes we have today are pedelecs, which means they are not completely similar to mopeds or motorbikes, considering the fact that you will have to pedal in order to activate the motor.
Meanwhile, if you are in the market for an electric bike, one of the initial steps to take is selecting the appropriate type of e-bike. This means the understanding of how you intend to use the bike and your preferred e-bike style is essential. Let us now look into some of the e-bikes available in the market.
4 Different Types of E Bikes
Fat-Tire Electric Bikes
Fat-tire electric bikes are designed with bigger tires that are about three or four inches wider. They are built to conveniently ride through every kind of terrain, from sand and mud to ice and snow. The wider contact patch offers improved traction and functions as a secondary suspension through the absorption of bumps on rough trails.
Fat tires on a bike can help enhance grip and disperse weight more evenly, thereby giving room for improved stability. They provide a more comfortable riding experience on off-road terrain, and they are perfect for seniors as a result of the fact that there is reduced risk of injury, thanks to increased stability. This increased stability reduces the risk of joint stress, falls, and are more low-impact, unlike other styles.
Folding Electric Bikes
If you are in search of a commuter e-bike to ride around town, you should consider a folding electric bike. This type of e-bike is characterized by a folding frame that gives room for you to carry it upstairs or neatly stow it away in your garage or apartment. Generally, they provide an upright position for riding and a kind of cargo storage that looks like a rear or front rack.
A folding e-bike is built to fold, making it compact for easier storage and transportation. The handlebars fold down and the tires neatly tuck together, thereby giving room for it to be stored under your desk or loaded into a small-sized sedan.
Meanwhile, the speed of a folding e-bike is dependent on its class. For example, clasebike-bikes attain maximum speeds of 29 miles per hour (mph) with electric assist and do not feature a throttle. Class 2 e-bikes have pedal assist nodes, a throttle, and attain high speeds of about 20 mph. On the other hand, class 3 e-bikes can attain a speed of 28 mph with the aid of throttle and pedal assist.
Folding electric bikes are built for comfort. Apart from the provision of an upright riding position, they also offer cushioned seats and handlebars that can be adjustable, so as to customize the fit. They are perfect as city bikes, and are best for people who want a portable e-bike that can be easily stowed away when not in use. They are also a good option for those who want to skip driving to work or using the bus for errands.
Step-Through Electric Bikes
These bikes have a frame without a top bar, which makes it easier to mount and dismount the bicycle. Meanwhile, since they are designed with more long-lasting materials to compensate for the absence of a top frame tube, they are often a little bit heavier, compared to other conventional bikes.
It is important to note that step-through e-bikes are constructed for every gender and age, with men being included. While women have traditionally taken pleasure in this style of bike because it is easy to ride in a skirt or dress, men will be attracted to its ease of usage, as well as its sleek design.
However, to select a step-through e-bike, you should critically consider the size and style of the frame. This is because step-through electric bikes are designed in various styles, from fat-tire e-bikes to commuters. Hence, after choosing your preferred style, you should ensure you examine the size of the frame. You would also want to pay attention to the step-over height especially if you are short, so that you’ll be able to get on and off the bike with ease.
Electric Mountain Bikes (eMTB)
Electric mountain bikes are an exciting way to get around if you intend to ride on single track trails to the office. These e-bikes include characteristics such as suspension to smoothen rough rides and hydraulic disc brakes for optimal halting power. Although other electric bike categories majorly have rear hub motors, eMTBs usually feature a mid-drive motor for improved traction and hill climbing.
These are perfect for mountain biking since they enhance accessibility and make riding much more fun. Besides, they take the sting out of steep climbs for a faster and longer riding experience. They also have a range that varies according to the battery motor and power, but can typically be up to 80 miles. Meanwhile, other factors like riding style, weight of the rider, and terrain can affect the range.
Your Ideal E-Bike Is Waiting
Knowing the various types of electric bikes that are available, coupled with their advantages and capacities, provides the way to a well-informed acquisition process. Hence, whether your priority is a thrilling mountain escapade, a dependable method of hauling loads, or an effective urban navigation system, there is an electric bike tailored to meet your requirements.
Besides, when you align your lifestyle with the appropriate type of bike, you will be set to reap the whole spectrum of benefits electric bikes provide, ranging from health and wellness improvements to an increased eco-friendly commute.
Thus, it is time to embark on your electric bike journey!
