How to choose an electric bicycle?

Choosing an electric bicycle is the ideal way to combine ecology, economy and physical activity. With so many different models to choose from, here are some fundamental tips for selecting the electric bike best suited to your needs.

What is an electric bicycle?

An electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that assists pedaling. Electric assistance usually activates when the cyclist begins to pedal, providing additional support to reduce physical effort, especially when climbing or covering long distances.

The electric bicycle is equipped with a rechargeable battery that powers the motor. Battery capacity determines the bicycle's range, i.e., the distance that can be covered on a full charge. Electric bicycles are designed for a variety of uses, including urban commuting, countryside trips and evenmountain biking. They offer an ecological and efficient alternative to traditional motorized transport, while maintaining the benefits of a traditional bicycle, such as easy parking and physical exercise.

What are the advantages?

An electric bicycle requires pedaling effort to activate the motor. Motor assistance stops as soon as you stop pedaling or when the bicycle reaches 25 km/h. This type of bicycle stands out from a traditional model for its superior performance.

Here are some specific advantages:

Long-distance travel without fatigue: trips become less tiring, eliminating the sweaty arrival at the office. Thanks to its power, climbing hills and fighting the wind becomes easier.
Facilitated sport: whether it's mountain biking or road cycling, the electric bicycle offers a better sporting experience.

Ideal for seniors: Perfect for all types of activities, such as leisurely rides, commuting or countryside excursions. Assisted pedaling is particularly useful for cyclists with joint problems.

Overall, electric bicycles are becoming increasingly popular, allowing you to avoid constraints such as difficult climbs and battles against the wind.

What are the different types of electric bicycles?

Currently the market offers a wide range of fast electric models, suitable for specific use. Moreover, among those that meet your needs, there is anelectric bicycle for every occasion. Here are some of the most popular eBike categories:

The urban electric bike: offers optimal comfort for daily trips up to 30 km.
The folding electric bike: Practical and easy to store thanks to its ability to fold.
The electric touring bike : Equipped with special accessories for outdoor activities.
The electric cargo bike : Ideal for transporting children or heavy loads.

There are also bicycles for more specific uses:

Electric mountain bike: suitable for outdoor adventure and mountain climbing.
Electric road bike: suitable for professional cyclists, including delivery drivers.
Electric all-terrain bike : hybrid model for forest trails and urban paths.
Fast electric bike : capable of reaching a speed of 45 km/h (compared to 25 km/h for a standard model).

Attention: driving an electric bicycle is subject to specific regulations. For example, with a fast electric bicycle it is forbidden to exceed 25 km/h on cycle paths.

As for folding bicycles, they are extremely practical in large cities to avoid using a car. They can also be carried on public transport, if necessary, and do not require special parking. However, for safety reasons, it is essential to use an anti-theft device, especially when parking in busy areas.

How do you choose an electric bicycle?

When choosing an electric bicycle, it is essential to select a model that matches the intended use and needs. The key elements to consider are:

Brand: choose a reputable brand to influence the design and quality of your electric bicycle.
Motor: choose the motor position (rear wheel, front wheel or crankset) and the type of assistance (on/off or progressive).
Battery: battery quality is essential for range. Lithium batteries are very common, but other types are also available. Find out about capacity and components.
Brakes: an effective braking system is necessary, especially for heavier bicycles. Options include mechanical and hydraulic brakes, with pads or discs.
Derailleur: as for gears, systems integrated in the hub require less maintenance, while cassette derailleurs offer greater precision.
Display: the latest electric bicycle models can include a console that provides useful information. Choose between a removable or fixed display.

How far can an electric bicycle travel?

A frequently asked question is how many kilometers an electric bicycle can travel. The range is generally dictated by battery capacity, measured in Watt-hours (Wh) or Ampere-hours (Ah). It is important to find out what this capacity is, as it is not always explicitly stated by manufacturers, so you can choose a bicycle that meets your needs.

The range varies depending on the type of electric bicycle and its characteristics. Here are some useful averages:

An urban electric bicycle has a range of 40-60 km with a battery of about 300 Wh.
An all-terrain electric bike can travel 60 to 80 km with a 400 Wh battery.
A mountain bike can travel up to 100 km with a 500 Wh battery.

To maximize the range of your electric bicycle, we recommend some tips. Limit luggage weight, pedal regularly at constant speed, travel on well-maintained paths and make sure tires are well inflated.

It is better to prefer well-maintained routes and keep tires well inflated for optimal performance. Additionally, most electric bicycles are equipped with an "eco" mode which, if activated, can potentially double the bicycle's range.

What budget should I plan for a pedal-assist bicycle?

The cost of a pedal-assist bicycle varies considerably depending on performance and technology. For a basic or entry-level model, prices start at around 500 euros.

If you want a greater number of accessories, you need to pay between 800 and 1,400 euros. This price range covers a variety of models, from city bikes to mountain bikes, offering good value for money. However, the quality of finishes can vary.

For a fully equipped and high-performance electric bicycle, a budget of at least 1,400 euros is required. The most advanced models can cost up to 3,000 euros. Beyond this threshold, you enter the top of the range category, which includes fast bikes and other sophisticated models.