If you want a bike that can be used each and every day but would rather not pedal all the time, an electric bike might be your dream come true. Electric bikes, otherwise known as e-bikes, have some pretty cool features. They come in all shapes and sizes, and can be used on and off the road, pedal around town, or even ridden in the snow. Even though they’re electric powered, the power comes from you pedaling the bike, so it’s a bit like pedaling a normal bike. 

Electric Bikes sold at big box stores usually have pretty high price tags and hefty government fees. An electric bike is a relatively new type of transportation, with improvements on the original design coming out almost every year. Electric bikes are environmentally friendly and a great way to get around. However, there are certain things you need to know about an electric bike before you buy one. Here are seven expert tips and things to consider when planning to purchase an electric bike.

• Motor Type

Two main types of electric bike motors are hub and mid-drive motors. Hub motors are typically installed in the front wheel, which helps you move easier through traffic, while mid-drive motors are installed in the back wheel and can be less expensive, but harder to install.

• Brakes

E-bikes come with different braking systems made to work in different ways. All electric bikes have either drum brakes or disc brakes, which function differently depending on the model you buy. Since electric bikes are heavier than normal, they need to use stronger brakes. You will probably have better braking abilities with disc brakes, but drum brakes are not necessarily bad.

• Drivetrain

The Drivetrain is the name given to the system used to move the bike’s wheels. In some e-bikes, the Drivetrain has been integrated, while in others, it has been made into a separate unit like a bicycle. You can find out which Drivetrain you have by looking at the bike’s chain, gears, and crank arms. A single piece is an integrated Drivetrain; if there are multiple pieces, it is a separate unit.

• Battery

The battery life on an electric bike will depend on how much power you want. For example, if you want to use a 2000-watt motor and the bike has a 250-watt battery, it will drain quickly and might not be the best choice for your daily commute. On the other hand, if you have the money to spend on a good battery and want to go fast, an electric bike might be your best choice.

• Cost

The price tag on an electric bike can vary greatly. You can get a cheap one for about $1000-$1200, or a very expensive one for $2000-$5000. The price difference will depend on how much attention it has received from the manufacturer and how long it’s been in the stores. The more attention it has received, the more money a manufacturer will charge.

• Battery Location

The location of the battery on an electric bike is incredibly important to consider. For example, if your battery is located in the front and you want to go faster, you might run into some stability problems because it is centered and may cause you to lose control. On the other hand, if you’re going off-roading with your bike, it’s best to have your weight centered in the middle, making it more stable.

• Maneuverability

Look at your bike and see if it has a shorter or longer wheelbase, which can help you determine how it will maneuver. A longer wheelbase will give you more room and make your bike easier to handle, while a shorter wheelbase will make your bike more maneuverable and agile. Depending on what you’ll be using the bike for, it’s best to have a longer wheelbase. A short wheelbase will give you a smaller turning radius, while a longer one will increase the turning circumference.

If you want your money’s worth, consider some of these features before making your purchase, even more so if you’re not an expert in electric bikes. Electric Bikes are an amazing way to get around, but if you’re not careful, you can spend a lot of money getting started.