If you’re reading this, it’s likely you’re looking to buy a beginner e-bike. Congratulations! E-bikes are great for beginners because they make riding easier and more comfortable, and they can help with your fitness goals.
But before you get too excited, there are several things you need to keep in mind before choosing a folding electric bike:
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First, how much do you weigh?
If you’re under 200 pounds, we recommend getting a bike that has an engine between 250 watts and 500 watts. But if you’re heavier than 200 pounds, look for an engine that can handle around 750 watts or more.
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Second, how far do you want to ride?
A good rule of thumb is that everyone should be able to comfortably go at least 10 miles per hour (16 kilometers per hour) on their e-bike without feeling sore or exhausted afterward. If that sounds like a lot for where you live, don’t worry—there are plenty of models on our website with smaller engines!
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Buy from a well-known manufacturer
A good place to start is by looking for an e-bike that has been designed by a reputable brand and has a good reputation for quality. This will help you avoid any problems that could arise from buying a cheap, poorly made product.
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Keep it simple and smooth – your electric drive system
When it comes to the electric drive system, you want something that’s going to be reliable and smooth. This will give you confidence in your e-bike and peace of mind when riding it.
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Stable and flexible bike fit
Another important consideration when buying an e-bike is how it fits on your body. You need a stable, comfortable ride that will let you enjoy the ride without feeling uncomfortable or awkward at all times out there on the road ahead of you. If possible, try before you buy so you can make sure the bike fits correctly before committing any money towards purchasing one online.
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Low maintenance and easy gears
Next choose a low-maintenance e-bike with easy gearing so that no matter what kind of terrain you’re riding on or how long your ride is supposed to be (and if there’s any chance of rain), your bike will hold up through all kinds of weather conditions without needing much maintenance or repair work.
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Big enough battery
If you’re a beginner, you might be tempted to go for a bike that has a small battery. But when it comes to e-bikes, bigger is better. Smaller batteries can take up to 6 hours to charge and only give you about 30 miles of range before they die. If you’re just starting out, this will leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere with no way to get home!
The Bottom Line
Electric bikes are fantastic for a variety of different reasons; they’re great for commuting, they’re great if you enjoy recreational riding, and they’re fun. Above all else, though, electric bikes are advanced transportation devices that have the potential to transform your daily commute and enrich your life.
Author Bio-
Matthew Bell from Crooked Path eBikes is an engineering major with over 25 years experience in heavy industry including nuclear power, rail, oil & gas and infrastructure. Worked closely with high profile clients both domestic and abroad to ensure customer satisfaction.