The Ultimate Electric Bike Buyer’s Guide:
How to choose the right eBike?
Discovering the perfect e-bike entails navigating through a myriad of options. Uncover the essentials—budget, usage requirements, and bike types—to streamline your decision-making process and ensure lasting satisfaction.
There are more and more electric bikes on the streets of Winnipeg. There are different brands and types of e-bikes. So how do you know what is the best one for you?
We will help you overcome the unknown and make sense of what is available. Whether you're a first-time e-Bike buyer or you're looking to upgrade your current e-Bike, read on for everything you need to know about choosing the perfect e-Bike for you.
What is an e-bike?
Sure you've heard the term, and likely seen people zipping around on e-scooters, e-mopeds, and bikes that aren't being pedaled. But what really is an e-bike? Simply an e-bike is bicycle with an electronic motor powered by a battery meant to offer you some boost. However, the motor isn’t meant to do all the work — it’s there to support your journey.
What to consider when buying an e-bike.
Figuring out which e-bike you need is tough. There numbers are overwhelming, which bike you need is hard to know, and whats the best bike for you. As Winnipeg's e-bike experts we hear these questions everyday. So let's break it down and make it simple.
What is your budget?
We have heard many times in life that you get what you pay for. This old adage proves to be true when it comes to e-bikes. A slightly higher initial investment in a higher-quality bike will actually help you save in the long run. More expensive e-bikes have high quality components, and are more repairable long term. We suggest a great starting point is $2500 or more. At that level you get a battery made by a reliable manufacture (ie Samsung, LG, Panasonic), a well built motor, and durable drivetrain components.
What are your needs?
It's good to figure out what you plan to do with your e-bike. Do you need an e-bike with a lot of battery for long rides, or are you looking to do shorter trips? Perhaps you are planning to carry more cargo, so a more powerful motor such as 500W or higher should be considered. Maybe you tend to venture off the path and a electric mountain bike is what you need.
A question we like to ask is "Where will you be riding 75% of the time?". This will help you find the right e-bike with the features you need.
Power: If you plan to use your e-Bike for commuting or running errands, you'll need an e-Bike with enough power to help you get around. More watts = more power. This is why bikes with larger cargo capacity have larger motors. It's not just for speed or getting up hills. Keep in mind e-bikes in Manitoba are not suppose to be more powerful than 500W.
Range: The range of an e-bike is determined by the size of the battery. If you plan to use your e-bike for long rides, you'll need an e-bike with a long-range battery. Some e-bikes do have an option to add an additional battery to them. There are many other variables that effect range but we can discuss those when you stop into our Winnipeg bike shop.
Weight: e-bikes can be heavy. If you plan to carry your e-bike up stairs or store it in a small space, you'll need to choose one that is lightweight. There are some great options. Usually this means a smaller battery and motor, but not less range. We even offer folding e-bike models!
What Are the Different Types of E-Bikes?
Settling on buying an electric bike is one thing, and trying to figure out what type of one you want is another. There are several types of e-bikes you can choose from, such as:
Electric Cargo Bike: This type of e-bike is useful for transporting cargo or kids. Some brand names have the option of either a front or back cargo box.
Electric Commuter Bike: This e-bike is built for riding on the road, with added comfort and wide tires to support rider weight and the battery and motor.
Electric Cruiser Bike: This e-bike is designed for a more comfortable and casual bike riding experience.
Electric Fat Bike: This e-bike option entails wider tires (hence the “fat” bike) which are almost three inches wider than a mountain bike and are used primarily for heavier rides on the sand, soil, and light snow.
Electric Folding Bike: This e-bike provides the option of portability, as you can fold it and take it with you anywhere. It can also fit into more compact places, allowing you to maintain space in your garage or home.
Electric Mountain Bike: This e-bike is a great option for biking on rough terrains or long trails but can still operate smoothly on the road.
Electric Recumbent Bike: This e-bike allows for a different riding experience, in which the rider is in a seated position with lower back support and three wheels instead of two.
Your electric bike choice will depend on what you’ll be using it for. Will it be for commuting through the city or going on trail rides? Perhaps you’ll need it for transportation purposes or casual riding. Once you’ve decided which type of e-bike you want, then you can move on to researching what you need to know about them.
Supercharge your ride with us.
Once you’ve considered these factors, you’re equipped to find your dream e-bike. That said, it can still be intimidating to search through the seemingly endless option online. That’s where we come in. Northern Bicycle Co is your go-to source for e-bikes, accessories and e-bike repairs in Winnipeg!
Our expert team has curated a selection of e-bikes (of all styles and prices ranges) We can help make the process of finding the perfect e-bike an easy (and fun) one! Please reach out to our team at 204-837-6785 or stop by the bike shop for a free sales consultation. We not only promise to help you find the right e-bike, but we’ll also be there to help make sure you get the most out of your new bike for years to come!