Choose an Electric Bike Type That’s Right for You
On any given day, people around the world are riding hundreds of thousands of electric bikes.
The electric-assist bicycle has become a vital tool for delivery service riders, but also for road bike enthusiasts and daily commuters.
While electric bikes have been mainstream for a few years,
2019 reported one of the biggest ever year for sales, and 2020 is expected to surpass it.
As people seek alternatives to public transportation and eco-friendly travels, an electric bike offers a great range of options for all types of riders.
Before you invest and head out for a ride, here’s what you should know about electric bikes.
What exactly is an electric bike?
Electric bikes, also known as power-assisted bikes or e-bikes,
look similar to a traditional electric bike but come with the additional power of an electric motor.
While you still have to pedal, you can choose how much physical effort you exert while getting an extra boost.
Different versions of these battery-operated bikes were actually invented in the 1880s, though they didn’t pick up much traction until recent decades.
E-bikes have become increasingly popular in densely populated places,
like New York City, where delivery service riders sometimes ride for up to 10 hours a day.
They’re also ideal for people who want to commute back and forth to work without getting sweaty.
How do I find an electric bike that’s good for me?
Electric bikes come in varying styles and with different add-on accessories for all types of lifestyles and terrains.
You can find a bike that’s right for you based on factors like weight, range of use, or cost. Below are some of the e-bike types you can research:
Classic
Commonly used for everyday riding, classic electric bikes are great for casual trips and leisurely risers.
Many of these bikes come with fewer gears and pedal assist, making them ideal for riders of virtually any age or experience.
RIDEL’s CRUZER is a classic, with a deep step-through frame and wider tires so riders can sit more comfortably in an upright riding position,
made world-famous by the growing popularity of Dutch-style bicycles.
Hybrid
Hybrid electric bikes offer advantages of road bikes, mountain bikes, and touring bikes, making them a general-purpose bike.
any type of terrain, from flat surfaces to steep hills to rugged mountain routes are perfect for hybrids,
making them ideal for everything from errands around town to a half-day backroad adventure
Many of these bikes also come with front and rear suspension to deliver traction and comfort for a far range of 38 miles.
Folding
Folding electric bikes are a popular choice for city dwellers who commute to and from work.
Imagine preparing to ride home from the office in a rainstorm — you can always fold your bike in half and easily transport it on the subway instead.
It’s also convenient to fit in the car for a camping, fishing, or backpacking trip.
In general, people living in small quarters will benefit from those bikes.
Not to mention, they match the average road bike for speed so you can still get where you’re going faster than a traditional bike.