More and more of you are choosing of the electric bike.
Indeed, the eco-mobility revolution is underway and you want to be part of it to enjoy the many bike lanes that are blossoming in our urban areas.
Thanks to the electric bike, you will no longer have any difficulty reaching your destination. All this without emitting a single gram of CO2.
You want to take the plunge but don’t know which electric bike model to choose.
In this guide we give you the 8 essential criteria to consider when buying your electric bike. How choose your bike with electric assistance?
An electric bike for what use?
Whether you move around the city or travel on country paths, you will always find electric bikes suited to your needs. But in one case or another, the technical characteristics of electric bikes can vary and should therefore influence your choice.
An electric bike for city use
If your electric bike needs to take you from point A to point B every day, for example between your home and your workplace, it is interesting to select an electric bike combining practicality and good performance.
A folding electric bike, easy to store, can be a good solution in a case like this. Generally the folding models are lighter which makes them practical to store at home, carry them on a train, or even park them at work.
Electric bikes for all-terrain use
If you want to choose a bike with a classic frame that can ride both on roads and country paths, it is better to choose a VTC, a all-terrain electric bike. This type of electric bike is the good compromise between a city bike and a mountain bike type.
It is advisable to opt for a model equipped with 26-inch wheels and which have all the necessary accessories for city use such as mudguards, a luggage rack, or even a front light.
Electric bikes for off-road use
The last category includes electric mountain bike (or Fat Bike), these are intended for more sporty use. They are generally equipped with bigger tires to ride on the most difficult surfaces (like forest paths).
All-terrain electric bikes (electric mountain bikes) are not equipped with special accessories but it may be relevant to have mudguards.
Choose your electric bike based on its power
Once you have made your choice on the type of battery you want, it is time to focus on the power of the motor. Indeed, if the battery will define the range of the electric bike, the motor will be the element that delivers the speed of the vehicle.
In France, the power of electric bikes is regulated by law, so all bikes have the same maximum power of 250W.. Even if the battery allows delivering higher power, manufacturers are forced to limit the motor to 250W (250 watts).
Indeed, above 250W an electric bike is legally considered a moped. Also called Speedbike, it must therefore be registered and insured. This loses all the simplicity of use advantage of the electric pedal-assist bike.
The second legal constraint concerns the maximum speed of the electric bike. It is set to a maximum of 25 km/h. Once this speed is reached, the electric assistance must cut off automatically. The same applies if the rider brakes or stops pedaling. It is therefore not legal to use a throttle to avoid pedaling on public roads, even below 25 km/h.
Most electric bikes can be derestricted to exceed 25 km/h but in this case, the vehicle can only be used on private roads. It is then impossible to ride it on public roads.
8 important criteria in choosing an electric bike
1. The type of electric assistance
There are two main technologies:
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The rotation sensor : assistance starts as soon as you pedal. It is the most common, easy to maintain, and more affordable, but acceleration is often abrupt and less natural.
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The torque sensor : it adapts the assistance to the force you apply on the pedals. It’s smoother, more energy-efficient, and more pleasant to use, especially uphill. It is mainly found on high-end bikes.
2. The riding position
Comfort depends a lot on the frame geometry:
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Upright position : ideal for the city and daily trips. The back is straight, the arms relaxed.
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Sporty position : more inclined forward, it offers better speed sensations, suitable for mountain biking or touring bike.
3. The gear system
Two main types of transmission:
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By derailleur : classic, light, efficient, perfect for dynamic riding. However, it requires a minimum of maintenance.
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In the hub : more discreet and protected, allows shifting gears at a stop, ideal for urban use or without constraints. No derailment, less maintenance, but often heavier.
4. The type of brakes
With speed andthe increased weight of an electric bike, good braking is essential:
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Mechanical disc brakes : powerful and reliable.
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Hydraulic disc brakes : even more efficient, with better grip and more comfort in use, especially on wet terrain or downhill.
5. The battery autonomy
It varies according to capacity (in Wh), the level of assistance used, the user's weight, the terrain relief, etc. A battery of 500 to 750 Wh generally allows you to travel 50 to 120 km. It is essential to choose based on your usual trips (city, countryside, long distances…).
6. The weight of the electric bike
A criterion often overlooked but important:
An electric bike weighs on average between 20 to 30 kg.
The heavier it is, the more stable it is when riding, but the harder it is to carry (stairs, public transport...).
Also check the supported weight (often up to 120–150 kg depending on the models).
7. Riding comfort
For daily or long-distance use, comfort is essential:
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Suspensions (front or full) to absorb shocks.
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Wide and padded saddle, ergonomic handlebars, comfortable handles.
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Wide tires for more stability and grip.
8. Availability of spare parts
Find out before buying:
Does the seller offer the spare parts (battery, motor, controller, etc.)?
In case of a problem, will it be easy to repair or replace?
Some batteries have a specific shape not compatible with other brands: this can make their replacement difficult if the model is rare or imported.
