From Novice to Expert: How to Choose the Right Electric Bike for You?

Every urban commuter wishes for one thing: a way to navigate through traffic jams without feeling drained. If you share the same sentiment, an electric bike can be the solution. Electric bikes are gaining widespread popularity in urban centers because of their comfortable ride, easy maneuverability, and economic efficiency. 

Moreover, you can also take these electric bikes on rugged terrains and pedal to far-off destinations that might feel unreachable on a regular bike. However, the process of selecting the right ebike is not as simple as it sounds. 

The sheer number of options on the market, as well as the technical details, can make it a daunting task. Fortunately, you don't need to look any further; in this article, we will discuss key factors in the ebike selection process and help you in making the right choice. 

Pedal Assist & Throttle

Electric bikes use a battery and motor to assist rider’s pedaling efforts. Typically, ebikes come with about 3-5 pedal assist levels. The ebike gauges the rider's pedal speed, and the motor provides suitable assistance based on the rider’s selected level. 

The latest ebikes are equipped with torque sensors that detect the rider's effort and offer corresponding assistance. Additionally, some ebikes feature a throttle mode that allows the rider to ride solely based on the battery power without the need for any pedaling effort.

Three Classes of Electric Bikes

Electric bikes are divided into three classes based on their speed limits and pedal assistance. Class 1 bikes have a top speed of 20 mph at the highest pedal assist level. Class 2 ebikes also support motor throttle to a top speed of 20 mph; these bikes are generally more expensive than class 1, but they allow you to travel longer distances. 

Class 3 ebikes are the fastest, with a top speed of 28 mph with pedal assist. The ebike's speed limit plays an important role in their usability. 

While class 3 ebikes enable you to keep up with the pace of traffic in urban centers, they aren't allowed on bike-only off-road tracks due to their high speed. Hence, it’s important to decide your preferred class based on your usage. To delve deeper into comprehending the 3 classes of ebikes,, take a look at our blog ‘What Are E-bike Class Differences?'.

Batteries

An electric bike's battery is another crucial factor to consider when making the right decision. Popular electric bike battery types include Lithium-ion, Lithium-polymer, and Nickel-Metal Hydride. However, the latest ebikes mainly utilize lithium-ion batteries, rendering the other two types largely obsolete.

Opting for a higher-rated Li-Ion battery generally provides a longer range, allowing you to travel further without worrying about charging frequently. Understandably, a higher-rated battery comes at a higher price. 

Recently, top companies have started using LG/Samsung cells in their batteries, which has significantly enhanced the range, charging time, and overall battery longevity. It's worth noting that the battery specification may also vary between a step-through electric bike and a step-over electric bike. For a more extensive understanding of the batteries, check out our blog ‘Everything You Need to Know about E-bike Batteries'.

Motors

An ebike's motor significantly impacts its performance; a higher-rated motor generally provides a higher top speed and a more comfortable riding experience, especially during longer journeys. An all-terrain ebike typically comes with a motor rated 500W or higher. 

Moreover, the motor's location also affects the riding experience of an ebike. A mid-drive motor is positioned at the bottom bracket, providing a natural and stable drive. On the other hand, a hub-drive motor is positioned at the rear wheel, pushing your pedaling movements, which can be particularly helpful while riding in rugged terrain.

Riding Ranges

The riding range of an ebike is determined by its battery and motor; generally, a high-powered battery and a low-rated motor offer the best range. An all-terrain ebike usually has a maximum range of 60 miles, but this can vary depending on multiple factors, including riding speed, pedal assist, throttle usage, and the weight of the rider.

Different companies provide riding range estimates based on diverse experiments, and you can use these estimates to compare different ebike models.

Type of Electric Bikes

Mokwheel Power Station Ebikes are an innovative take on the off-road ebike experience; they come with a power station to cater to the power needs of electric bikes. Thanks to the unique inverter compatibility design, the ebike turns into a power backup and allows you to charge your devices anywhere. 

Mokwheel is the pioneer in this category; we took it a step further by including a power station within an all terrain ebike. Power station ebikes, such as Mokwheel Basalt, Basalt ST, and Scoria, come with multiple socket charging ports like DC Port, AC wall outlets, Type-C, and USB. The 960wh battery capacity and 1000w peak output enables the ebikes to keep your devices fully charged at all times even outdoors.

Fat tire bikes, also known as fat bikes, are designed to conquer rugged routes. They come with wider tires, typically broader than 3.8 inches. Fat bikes offer more traction and stability while riding on soft and unstable terrains, such as snow and mud. 

Mokwheel Basalt and Basalt ST are perfect examples of fat bikes; they use 4.0" wide tires that provide a comfortable ride in all terrains.

Commuter bikes are arguably the most popular type of ebikes. They feature an upright frame, comfortable saddle, wide tires, and lower gearing, making them ideal for everyday travel. City ebikes are designed specifically for urban commuting and are available in all three classes.

Good examples of city and commuter ebikes include Mokwheel Asphalt, Asphalt ST, Mesa Lite, and Mesa Lite ST. These ebikes provide a comfortable ride and are perfect for daily use.

Low seat cruiser bikes are designed for riders seeking a pleasurable and comfortable experience. These ebikes come with a low seat height, making it easy to get on and off; some companies also offer step-through ebikes for added convenience. A bike with a comfortable seat allows the rider to enjoy their journeys without feeling fatigued. 

Mokwheel Scoria is an excellent choice for those who prefer low seat bikes; the saddle has a minimum height of 29.9”, providing a comfortable ride even on longer journeys.

Speed

Typically, an ebike rider isn't solely concerned with the maximum speed; however, it's essential to have an ebike that aligns with your long-term goals. Ebike beginners often prefer Class 1 or 2 ebikes, which come with a maximum speed of 20 mph. 

On the other hand, experienced riders may opt for the exhilarating 28 mph maximum speed offered by Class 3 ebikes. Naturally, a higher-speed ebike will come with a higher cost due to the increased motor and battery strength.

Add-Ons

While base models are generally good to go, you can make them even better with the right add-ons to suit your driving style.

• Lighting: Enhance your riding experience with premium front and rear lights that not only increase visibility but also add a stylish touch. Some riders also prefer reflective sidewalls and side reflectors for added safety.

• Racks: If you plan to use your ebike for daily rides and need to carry additional items, consider getting a rack for easy storage and transport.

• Security: Ebikes are a valuable investment, so it's essential to keep them protected. Many companies offer high-quality compatible bike locks for each model.

• Mirrors: While some ebikes may not come equipped with mirrors, they are crucial for safe driving, especially in traffic.

Purchase select electric bike models on Mokwheel now and receive an exclusive accessory bundle as a special gift, enhancing your cycling experience. 

Budget

The allure of the best ebike features can be tempting, but it's essential to purchase a bike that fits your budget. You might need to trade-off some features, such as an electric bike long range, to make it more affordable. 

However, it's crucial not to compromise on necessities, like a bike with a comfortable seat. Mokwheel offers great choices, providing high-quality ebikes at about 20-40% lower prices compared to market leaders.

Final Thoughts

An electric bike offers a cheaper, convenient, and environmentally-friendly way to navigate through traffic. Likewise, an all terrain electric bike allows you to ride to the nearest camping site in style. 

Choosing the right electric bike is an important decision, and you must analyze your needs before stepping into the market. Mokwheel offers a diverse range of ebikes that cater to both urban commuters and RVers. Explore the ebike collection and make the right choice today!