Electric bikes are increasingly popular. They look and feel like traditional bikes, but they have a built-in motor that propels you forward as you peddle, making them a popular choice for both recreation and commuting.

Electric bikes come in a wide range of styles and configurations. Unfortunately, they are also not the easiest things to shop for. If you'd like to buy a new electric bike, here's what to look for.

1. Class

Electric bikes are divided into three classes. The class of a bike determines both its top speed and whether or not there's a throttle. It is, therefore, one of the first features that you should consider.

• Class 1: Class 1 bikes have a top speed of 20mph, and power is only delivered via peddle assist. This means that the motor only turns on when you peddle the bike.
• Class 2: Class 2 bikes also have a top speed of 20mph. But along with peddle assist, they are also equipped with a throttle that allows you to propel the bike forward at the touch of a button.
• Class 3: Class 3 bikes have a top speed of 28mph and do not have a throttle.

It's important to note that the class of a bike also determines where you can ride it. Class 3 bikes are the most powerful, but they aren't always allowed on bike paths.

2. Type of Bike

Electric bikes are also categorized according to their overall design and suitability for different terrains. While the exact names vary depending on the manufacturer, most eBikes fall into one of the following four categories:

• Road Bikes: These bikes are designed for use in urban areas. They aren't suitable for going off-road, but they are light and easy to handle. They are also the cheapest option.
• Mountain Bikes: These bikes are designed for rough terrain. They are much more versatile and have better suspension. The downside is that they are heavier and often more expensive.
• Hybrid Bikes: Hybrid bikes are suitable for both urban and off-road riders. They are usually lighter than mountain bikes but still suitable for rough terrain.
• Folding Bikes: Many electric bikes, like the Fiido D11, are designed to be folded and carried onto trains/into apartments. They are ideal for commuting but often have smaller batteries.

3. Weight

Electric bikes are heavier than traditional bikes. The added weight of the motor and battery means that they typically weigh between 10kg and 25kg. If you plan on carrying your new bike up a set of stairs or onto a train every day, keep this fact in mind when deciding which one to buy.

Unfortunately, there is a trade-off between weight and power. If you want a powerful bike, getting something light may not be practical.

4. Mid-Drive or Hub Motor

Electric bikes have two types of motors, namely, mid-drive or hub.

• A mid-drive motor is positioned in the middle of the bike in between the pedals.
• A hub motor is positioned in the middle of one of the wheels.

Hub bikes are the cheapest option. They are not as efficient as mid-drive motors but are considered ideal for driving on flat roads for long periods.

Mid-drive bikes are more expensive, but they are also more powerful. The central position of the motor not only increases torque, but they also make the bike more balanced overall. If you plan on riding up hills regularly, it may be worth spending more to get a mid-drive motor.

5. Battery Life

All electric bikes come with an advertised range. This explains how long you can ride the bike on a single charge. Unfortunately, because range depends on so many factors, it's often highly variable.

If you'd like to compare bike ranges, it's important to look at the battery size and the motor size.

Batteries are measured in watt-hours. This refers to how many hours a battery can produce one watt of electricity. Motors are measured in watts,, which refers to how much power they require to run.

The bikes with the longest ranges have the largest batteries and the least powerful motors. This causes a trade-off where the most powerful bikes also have the lowest ranges.

6. Power

Electric bike motors range in size, typically from 250 to 750 watts. 250-watt bikes are the most popular because, along with being affordable, they offer more than enough power for flat surfaces and small hills. They also allow you to maximize your battery range.

If you'd like to spend more, however, a higher wattage will provide better acceleration and additional assistance while riding up steep hills.

7. Add-Ons

eBikes are sold with a range of add-ons that make them easier to use. Here are a few things to look for.

• Lighting: Electric bikes are often sold with lights, or you can add your own. They are a safety requirement if you plan on riding at night.
• Racks: The added power of eBikes makes them ideal for carrying cargo. If you want to take advantage of this, you'll want a rack over the rear wheel.
• LCD: An LCD is often installed over the handlebars. They are useful for illustrating battery usage, top speed, and pedal assist information.
• Smartphone Integration: Some eBikes offer smartphone integration. This allows you to pair the bike with your smartphone and install apps that provide useful information, such as GPS coordinates.
• Security: Electric bikes are expensive and, therefore, a popular target for thieves. A strong lock is obviously a requirement, but you should also consider GPS tracking, which can help you find your bike if it is stolen.

8. Serviceability

All bikes, including electric bikes, require regular maintenance. While it can be tempting to purchase from a small manufacturer, it's important to consider serviceability when doing so. It's much easier to find replacement parts for big-name brands.

You may also want to consider purchasing from a high street store rather than an online retailer for the same reason. Having a physical location to take your bike to for repairs is potentially worth paying a higher price for.

How Much Should You Spend On an Electric Bike?

Electric bikes range widely in price from $400 to over $8,000. Some people suggest avoiding bikes under $1,000 because they are usually cheap for a reason. There are, however, many bikes immediately above that price point that offer excellent value.

Like traditional bikes, you get what you pay for when buying an eBike. You should expect to pay more for those features if you want the largest battery, the most power, or strong off-road capabilities.