Electric Bike Buyers Guide
Electric Bikes are revolutionising cycling, captivating a broader audience than ever before. It’s common to spot individuals zipping by, sporting smiles and windswept hair.
Amidst the plethora of ebike options available, navigating the market can be overwhelming.
At Espokes, we’re independent allowing us to steer you towards the ideal electric bike tailored to your lifestyle, guaranteeing contentment instead of garage clutter.
Below, we’ve detailed essential considerations for purchasing an electric bike.
What is an Electric Bike?
An Electric Bike bears a resemblance to a regular bike; nevertheless, it’s enhanced with an electric motor. This motor, once activated, delivers a cycling experience akin to riding with a tailwind.
Functioning as pedal-assist bikes, movement requires pedalling. The motor provides assistance until reaching 15.5mph, at which point it disengages, necessitating your exertion. Furthermore, it ceases operation when pedalling stops.
Powering the ebike is a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. Conveniently, this battery can be charged from a mains socket, whether it’s attached to the ebike or not.
The Law
The legal age requirement for riding an electric bike is 14 years old.
In Europe, EN15194 stands as the official standard for electric bikes. You can rest assured that all our ebikes undergo thorough testing and fully comply with this regulation.
It’s important to note that the motor’s power output should not exceed 250 Watts, and it must disengage once the speed reaches 15.5mph.
Additionally, the motor should only provide assistance when you are pedalling.
Given the potential for changes in rules and regulations regarding ebikes, it’s advisable to stay informed. For any updates, please refer to this link: https://www.gov.uk/electric-bike-rules
Batteries
E-bike Battery Options
When it comes to e-bike batteries, we offer various options tailored to your specific requirements. All our batteries feature a minimum voltage of 36V and can be measured in either Ampere-hour (Ah) or Watt-hour (Wh). This level of flexibility ensures that you can select the ideal battery for your e-bike.
Versatile Battery Placement
In contemporary e-bike design, battery placement offers remarkable versatility. Gone are the days when batteries were confined to one standard location. Nowadays, they can be situated in multiple positions on the bike. Furthermore, cutting-edge designs seamlessly integrate the battery into the bike itself. This innovative approach not only enhances the bike’s aesthetics but also improves weight distribution and handling.
Estimating Single-Charge Range
When considering an e-bike, a common question riders often ask is, “How far can I ride on a single charge?” Answering this isn’t always straightforward due to various factors such as terrain, rider weight, weather conditions, tyre pressure, and more. However, we can provide a rough estimate to give you a general idea.
Typically, a 10Ah/375Wh battery can provide a range of 25 to 35 miles, while a larger battery offers an impressive 100 to 150+ miles. It’s important to note that these figures are approximate and subject to variation depending on the aforementioned factors.
Bosch Range Calculator
If you’re interested in e-bikes with Bosch batteries, we recommend exploring the Bosch range calculator. By inputting detailed ride data, this tool provides a more precise estimation of your single-charge range. You can access the Bosch range calculator via the following link: Bosch Range Calculator.
Battery Care Guide
Furthermore, to ensure the longevity and peak performance of your e-bike battery, we recommend consulting our comprehensive battery care guide. This resource offers valuable insights on how to effectively care for and maintain your battery, ensuring it remains a reliable power source for your rides over the years.
Dependable Riding Experience
By selecting the appropriate battery and maintaining it correctly, your e-bike will deliver a dependable and enjoyable riding experience. This will enable you to explore new territories while simultaneously reducing your carbon footprint.
Motors
You have the option to choose between a centre-driven crank motor or a hub motor for your e-bike.
When it comes to hub motors, notable choices include TranzX and Bafang. Positioned in either the front or rear wheel, they function via cadence sensors. This feature enables you to select your preferred level of power assistance, ensuring consistent support regardless of your pedalling style. Hub-driven e-bikes are particularly suitable for riders seeking effortless riding experiences. Our hub motors are available starting from £1,099.
On the other hand, when considering crank motors, noteworthy options encompass Bosch, Shimano, Oli, and Yamaha. Located in the middle of the bike frame, where the bottom bracket typically sits, these motors operate via torque sensors. Unlike hub motors, torque sensors offer a more intuitive riding experience. By detecting the pressure exerted on the cranks, they provide the necessary power, thereby enhancing efficiency and preserving battery life. This results in a smoother ride for the rider. Our range of crank motors starts from £1,570.
Style
Exploring E-Bike Styles
When selecting an electric bike (e-bike), it’s important to consider the style that aligns with your needs and preferences. Within these styles, there are four main categories of e-bike designs to explore:
1. Step-Through (Low-Step):
In the category of Step-Through (Low-Step) e-bikes, you’ll find a classic “sit-up-and-beg” design. These ebikes offer effortless mounting and dismounting, making them exceptionally accessible. This style is particularly suited for individuals who may struggle with lifting their leg high when getting on a bike, ensuring both ease and comfort.
2. Cross-Bar:
In contrast to Step-Through e-bikes, Cross-bar e-bikes feature a traditional diamond frame design. To mount and dismount, riders must swing their leg over the bike. This style typically encourages a more leaned-over riding position, catering to individuals who favour a sportier and aerodynamic stance.
3. eMTB (Electric Mountain Bike):
As electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) gain considerable traction, they’re increasingly sought after for off-road excursions. Specifically engineered for challenging terrains, including red routes, they’re well-equipped to handle rugged trails. eMTBs come in two main configurations: hardtail, featuring front suspension, and full suspension, boasting both front and rear suspension. With powerful motors and sturdy frames, they effortlessly conquer rough trails.
4. Folders:
Compact and practical, folding e-bikes offer convenience and versatility. With smaller 20-inch wheels and a folding frame, they’re perfect for those with limited storage space or seeking a portable commuting solution. This folding capability is particularly advantageous for urban commuters, allowing seamless integration with other forms of transportation, such as stowing the e-bike in a car boot.
Hybrid E-Bikes: A Versatile Option
Moreover, in addition to the four primary styles, hybrid e-bikes offer a versatile option for riders seeking a bike suitable for both trail and road use. Typically equipped with 700C wheels, these ebikes provide a balanced ride across various terrains.
Considerations When Choosing Your E-Bike Style
Furthermore, wheel sizes vary depending on the e-bike style: 20-inch wheels are common for folders, while hybrid and road bikes often feature 26-inch or 700C wheels. For mountain biking, wider tyres are favoured, typically paired with 28 or 29-inch wheels. Additionally, trapeze-style frames, also known as trapezoidal frames, are frequently available in step-through designs, providing easier access while still having a sporty look and feel.
Finding Your Perfect E-Bike
When selecting the ideal e-bike style, it’s essential to take into account your intended use, comfort preferences, and any physical limitations you may have. Therefore, carefully considering these factors will help you find the perfect e-bike that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
Sizing
An integral aspect of selecting your ebike is ensuring you get the correct size to ride comfortably. With the added assistance, you’ll likely want to enjoy long rides.
The suitable frame size varies depending on the style of the ebike and your height and inside leg measurements should also be considered. The table below provides an approximate guide to hybrid sizing, but it’s recommended that you visit our showroom to personally try out the different sizes.
Height 4’10’’ – 5’2’’ 148cm – 158cm Frame Size 13” – 14” 33cm – 37cm XSmall ebikes
Height 5’2’’ – 5’6’’ 158cm – 168cm Frame Size 15” – 16” 38cm – 42cm Small ebikes
Height 5’6’’ – 5’10’’ 168cm – 178cm Frame Size 17” – 18” 43cm – 47cm Medium ebikes
Height 5’10’’ – 6’1’’ 178cm – 185cm Frame Size 19” – 20” 48cm – 52cm Large ebikes
Height 6’1’’ – 6’4’’ 185cm – 193cm Frame Size 21” – 22” 53cm – 57cm XLarge ebikes
Height 6’4″ – 6’6″ 193cm – 198cm Frame Size 23″ – 24″ 58cm – 61cm XXLarge ebikes
The above information is for guide purposes only. For more info on ebikes specific to your requirements please contact us via email info@espokes.co.uk alternatively call us on 01963 824700 where we will be more than happy to assist you.