The electric bike boom is accelerating – Why is an electric-assist bike worth it?
Electric bikes, or more precisely pedal-assist bicycles, have conquered roads and trails in Finland – and for good reason! They offer a revolutionary way to get around: you can enjoy the benefits of cycling, such as fresh air and exercise, while the electric motor eases pedaling uphill and against the wind. An electric bike is not only an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to a car in the city but also an excellent tool for longer trips and fitness.
The vast market selection can make choosing the right electric bike challenging. How to find the best electric bike for yourself? This guide is designed to help you navigate the electric bike jungle. We cover key factors from motor type to battery life and frame features so you can make an informed and satisfying purchase decision.
Before diving into the technology: define your needs
Before diving into wattage and battery capacities, take a moment to consider your own usage needs. By answering these questions, you'll better understand what kind of electric bike will serve you best:
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What do you mainly use the bike for?
- Commuting and city riding: Do you need a nimble and comfortable bike for asphalt roads, perhaps equipped with fenders and a luggage rack? (Keyword: city e-bike)
- Off-road and trail adventures: Are roots, rocks, and challenging terrain your target? Then a durable frame, grippy tires, and effective suspension are important. (Keyword: mountain e-bike)
- Touring and longer rides: Do you want to cover tens of kilometers comfortably, perhaps also on gravel roads? (Keywords: touring e-bike, hybrid e-bike)
- How long are your typical rides? This directly affects the required battery size and range.
- What kind of terrain do you ride on? On flat terrain, less power suffices, but hilly terrain requires more torque from the motor and a wider gear range from the transmission.
- What is your budget? Electric bike prices range from about a thousand euros to over five thousand euros. Quality and features often go hand in hand with price.
Once you know your primary use, you can start examining the technical features more closely.
The heart of the electric bike: motor and battery
The motor and battery form the core of the electric bike's pedal-assist system. Their features significantly affect the riding experience and the bike's usability.
Motor power, torque, and location
- Power (Watts): In most electric bikes sold in the EU, the motor's continuous rated power is limited to 250 watts and assistance stops at 25 km/h. Peak power can be higher. This is sufficient for most uses. Torque is often a more important measure than power.
- Torque (Nm): Torque indicates how strongly the motor can assist, especially when starting and climbing hills. City bikes may have 40-50 Nm torque, while the most powerful mountain bikes can exceed 85 Nm. Higher torque means easier progress in challenging spots.
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Location:
- Mid-drive motor: Located between the pedals. This is the most common and often recommended option. It offers the most natural pedaling feel as the motor assists directly with pedal power. The center of gravity is low and central, improving bike balance and handling especially off-road. Well-known manufacturers include Bosch, Shimano, Yamaha, Brose.
- Hub motor (front or rear hub): A cheaper and simpler solution often found in less expensive electric bikes. The rear hub motor is more common and offers better traction than the front hub motor. The feel is not as natural as with a mid-drive motor.
Tip: Try test riding different motor types to find the riding feel you like best.
Battery capacity, range, and charging
The battery determines how far you can go on a single charge (range).
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Capacity (Wh - Watt hours): Battery capacity is stated in watt hours (Wh). The larger the number, the more energy the battery holds. Common sizes range from 300 Wh up to over 750 Wh.
- Short city trips: 300-400 Wh may be sufficient.
- Longer commutes and touring: 500-625 Wh is a common and good choice.
- Long distances and off-road riding: 625-750+ Wh provides the most confidence in range.
- Range (km): Manufacturers often state the theoretical maximum range, but many factors affect reality: assistance level, terrain, rider's weight, tire pressure, outside temperature, and wind. So don't just focus on the stated kilometers, but relate it to the battery size and your own riding needs.
- Placement: The battery can be placed on top of the frame's down tube, integrated inside the down tube (the most stylish and best protected), or less commonly on the rack or behind the seat post. A battery placed inside or on top of the frame offers the best weight distribution.
- Detachment and Charging: Most batteries can be removed with a key, making it easier to charge indoors. The battery can usually also be charged while attached to the bike. Fully charging typically takes 3-6 hours depending on the charger's power and the battery size. Fast chargers can speed up the charging.
Frame and riding position: Comfort and control
Frame material, geometry, and size affect ride feel, durability, and comfort.
Frame materials and geometry
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Materials:
- Aluminum: Most common, a good combination of lightness, stiffness, and durability at a reasonable price.
- Steel: Durable and flexible (comfortable), but heavier. Less commonly used in electric bikes.
- Carbon fiber: Very light, stiff, and effectively dampens vibrations, but significantly increases the bike's price. Common in more expensive mountain and road bikes.
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Geometry: Frame design determines riding position and bike behavior.
- City bikes: Often an upright and relaxed riding position, easy to mount (low standover height).
- Mountain bikes: A lower, forward-leaning (more aggressive) riding position improves control off-road. Often a longer wheelbase adds stability.
- Hybrids/Touring bikes: A middle ground that combines comfort and performance for versatile riding.
The right frame size is everything
This is one of the most important things! A bike that is the wrong size is uncomfortable and can cause overuse injuries. Most manufacturers specify recommended frame sizes based on rider height (e.g., S, M, L, XL or in centimeters).
- Find your size: Use the size chart as a guide.
- Fine-tune: Saddle height and distance as well as handlebar position also affect comfort. A skilled salesperson will help with choosing the right size and initial adjustments.
- Test ride! The only sure way to ensure the right fit is a test ride.
Components: Gears and brakes
Reliable gears and effective brakes are essential for both performance and safety.
Gear system: hub gears vs. external gears
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Hub gears: The shifting mechanism is protected inside the rear hub.
- Advantages: Low maintenance, neat appearance, can shift gears while stationary.
- Disadvantages: More limited gear range (not as good for steep hills), heavier. Well suited for city riding and smoother terrain.
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External gears (Derailleur gears): Traditional system where the chain moves between different sprockets at the front and/or rear.
- Advantages: Wide gear range (suitable for hilly terrain and varying speeds), lighter, usually cheaper to repair.
- Disadvantages: Requires more cleaning and maintenance, more prone to damage. A popular choice for mountain and touring bikes.
Brakes: Safety first
Electric bikes are often heavier and faster than regular bikes, so effective brakes are absolutely essential.
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Disc brakes: The most common and recommended brake type on electric bikes.
- Hydraulic disc brakes: Offer the best braking power and feel with little finger force. Work reliably in all weather conditions. Almost standard on higher-quality electric bikes.
- Mechanical disc brakes: Operate with a cable. Cheaper than hydraulic, but require more hand force and are less sensitive. A clear improvement over rim brakes.
- Rim brakes: Squeeze brake pads against the sides of the rim. Lightweight and simple, but performance decreases significantly in wet conditions and they are not as suitable for heavy electric bikes as disc brakes. Rare in modern electric bikes.
Remember: Also check the ergonomics of the brake levers. Adjustable levers improve comfort and control.
Riding comfort and ergonomics
Small details can have a big impact on riding enjoyment on long rides.
- Handlebar: Width and shape affect riding position and control. City bikes often have a backward-curving handlebar for a more upright position, while mountain bikes have a straighter and wider handlebar for better control. An adjustable stem allows fine-tuning of the riding position.
- Saddle: The right shape and width of the saddle is a personal matter. A saddle that is too soft can chafe on long rides. Try different models if the standard saddle doesn't feel good. The saddle height and tilt should be adjusted precisely to suit you.
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Suspension: Smooths the ride on uneven surfaces.
- Front suspension (suspension fork): Common and often sufficient in city, hybrid, and touring bikes. Absorbs shocks to the hands.
- Full suspension (front and rear suspension): Essential for demanding off-road riding. Significantly improves comfort and grip on uneven trails.
- Rigid fork: The lightest option, suitable for smooth asphalt. Some city bikes and gravel-type electric bikes have rigid frames.
- Tires: Wider tires offer more comfort and grip but can be heavier to pedal without assistance. Tire pressure greatly affects rolling resistance and comfort.
Accessories and practicality
Consider what accessories you need or want for your bike.
- Lights: Legally required in dusk and darkness. Integrated lights powered by the main battery are convenient. Make sure the light output meets your needs.
- Fenders: Essential if you ride in all weather conditions. Effectively protect against mud and water.
- Rack and Baskets: Convenient for commuting and shopping. Ensure the rack's load capacity if you plan to carry heavier items.
- Display and Control Unit: Shows basic information such as speed, distance, battery charge level, and selected assistance level. More advanced models may have a color display, navigation, fitness tracking, and connection to smartphone apps (e.g., route planning, settings adjustment).
- Lock: An electric bike is a valuable purchase, so invest in a quality U-lock or folding lock. A GPS tracker can provide extra security.
- Others: Compatibility with child seat or trailer, kickstand, water bottle holder.
Test ride and price – Final touches
- Test ride is king: By test riding, you can ensure the right size, suitable riding position, and pleasant riding feel. Try different assistance levels and test the brakes. If possible, ride the bike in terrain similar to where you mainly intend to use it.
- Price vs. Quality: The cheapest electric bike is rarely the best in the long run. Higher quality components (motor, battery, gears, brakes) last longer and offer a better riding experience. Consider your budget, but be ready to invest in quality if you plan to use the bike actively. Also remember to consider possible maintenance costs and the price of accessories (helmet, lock).
Summary: Find your electric bike
Choosing an electric bike is the sum of many factors. The most important thing is to recognize your own needs and usage scenarios before diving into technical details. Compare different models calmly, pay attention to quality components (especially the motor and battery), and don't compromise on the right frame size and test ride.
When you find the electric bike that suits you perfectly, a new, easier, and more enjoyable way to move and experience your surroundings opens up before you.
- Explore our extensive electric bike selection here!
