10 Essential Tips for Buying Your First Electric Bike

Buying an electric bike for the first time is an exciting experience. You finally get to join the electric revolution and discover what all the hype is about. However, with so many brands on the market – and conflicting advice online –, it can be hard to know where to start.

This is where the experts at Heybike come in. Since 2021, we’ve released over a dozen unique models and have over 170,000 active riders. We understand the challenges that first-time riders face when buying an electric bike, and we are here to help.

In this article, we’ll share 10 essential tips to help you buy electric bikes for the first time. You’ll learn to set a budget, choose the right specs, take a test ride, and more. Let’s get started!

1. Determine What You Need

When buying an electric bike, determine what you need to get the most out of your riding experience.

Where do you intend to ride? If you live or work in an area with a lot of hills, then you may need an electric bike with extra power to climb steep inclines. Will you go off-road riding? If so, you may need fat tires and dual suspension for extra shock absorption and comfort.

Explore the full electric bike range to get a better understanding of what each electric bike has to offer. Carefully read the product descriptions and specifications. This information will help you narrow your options and choose the best electric bike for you.

2. Evaluate Battery Life and Range

Ebike battery life determines how far you can ride on a single charge. The average travel range on an electric bike is between 45 to 65 miles. Some have dual-battery systems that go up to 85 miles or longer, like the Heybike Hauler Ebike.

Most electric bike manufacturers clearly outline the travel range of each product. You can use this information, along with the average travel range of your routes, to decide the right battery life for you.

Consider the safety of your Ebike batteries as well. All Heybike Ebike batteries are UL 2849 certified and undergo rigorous testing to meet the highest safety standards.

3. Set Your Budget

Setting a budget is vital to buying a quality electric bike at the right price. Just because there are expensive models on the market that does not mean you have to spend a fortune to get the best riding experience.

With so many Ebike manufacturers on the market, companies are working hard to appeal to the mass market. As a result, you can find quality budget electric bikes at affordable prices.

When setting a budget, save money for accessories like helmets, storage baskets, bike pumps, and bike locks

4. Consider the Speed Limits

Almost every state in the United States enforces speed limits on electric bikes. Most states categorize electric bikes into the following classes:

• Class 1: Pedal assist only (20 mph top speed)
• Class 2: Pedal assist and throttle (20 mph top speed)
• Class 3: Pedal assist and optional throttle (28 mph top speed)

When buying an electric bike, become familiar with your local Ebike laws – especially the allowable speed limits. Of course, you can still adjust the top speed of each pedal assist (PAS) level on your electric bike.

FURTHER READING: 5 Best Class 3 Electric Bikes

5. Consider the Motor Power

Electric motor power determines your acceleration and top speed. The two most common types of motors are hub and mid-drive. Hub motors are installed in the hub of the rear wheel, while mid-drive motors are installed in the centre frame.

Since hub motors are installed on the rear wheel, they deliver superior torque conversion. But they can be difficult to remove and replace. The rear position can also cause uneven weight distribution.

Mid-drive motors are lightweight and deliver a smooth power transition. This means there is minimal lag between when you use the pedals and when the electric motor kicks in.

6. Check Weight and Frame Size

The weight and frame size of your electric bike determines how hard it is to carry and control. Generally, the more powerful the motor and the higher capacity the battery, the heavier the bike will be.

Carbon fibre is the most lightweight frame material, much lighter than aluminum. However, frame and tire size are also important. Ebikes with large frames and fat tires are typically heavier than electric bikes with a compact frame and slim tires.

7. Look for Safety Features

Electric bikes have various features to make the e-cycling experience safer. These include reflectors lights, headlights, brakes, and suspension systems.

Pretty much all electric bikes have these safety features. The only exception to this rule is headlights; not every brand-new electric bike has built-in headlights.

Fortunately, every Heybike model has a built-in LED headlight and taillight. This means you avoid the hassle of buying and installing bike lights yourself.

8. Take a Test Ride

Are you buying from a local bike shop? If so, go for test rides. Doing so will help you get a feel for each electric bike. Does the motor perform well? Are the brakes responsive? Is the seat comfortable? And most importantly, is the riding experience fun?

Are you buying online? Choose a manufacturer with a fair return policy. Heybike offers a detailed refund method for the different situations of returning your electric bikes after purchase.

9. Review Warranty and Support Options

Review the warranty and support options for each manufacturer. Most manufacturers offer a minimum 2-year warranty, excluding wear and tear, for new electric bikes. This is the case for Heybike.

For support, choose a manufacturer that offers comprehensive support services.

Look for online resources, including how-to guides, FAQs, and phone, email, and ticket support options. These services will give you the assurance that your electric bike is in capable hands.

10. Trust Your Instincts

There is more to buying an electric bike than reading spec sheets and reviews. There’s also an emotional element. Therefore, it’s important to follow your head and heart to make an informed decision.

Do your research. Go for test rides. Read or watch reviews. But at the end of the day, what matters most is that you love what you ride.

Choose an electric bike that gets you excited at the prospect of riding. And choose a manufacturer that will have your back, and that will make you feel confident with reliable products and services.