Navigating an urban environment can be quite challenging – traffic jams and parking issues drive us to seek smarter solutions. An electric bike is an excellent alternative to both cars and public transport, offering flexibility, economy, and the joy of movement. But how do you choose the right model from a market offering hundreds of different options? Let’s look at the key aspects you should pay attention to.
Choosing electric bikes for city riding
Typically, an electric city bike features a more upright riding position, allowing for a more comfortable experience in urban settings. City bikes often come with a luggage rack where you can place your belongings to make the ride safer and more convenient. Among practical electric city bikes, there is a wide range of models that differ in both price and features.
User experience and method of use
Before buying an electric bike, it’s worth considering in which situations you will need it most. Someone who needs an e-bike primarily for short commutes to work and back might require a different bicycle than someone who plans to use it only on weekends in good weather. Deciding factors may include how long the trips are or whether the bike is weather-resistant, allowing for commuting even in rainy weather.
The selection of urban electric bikes is vast. A suitable model can be found for both the person who prefers the simplest e-bike and the person who wants several riding modes.
If an electric city bike is being sought for someone with less experience or who desires greater stability, an electric tricycle might be suitable. For many, it is important that the city bike is foldable and lightweight, so it can be carried up stairs if necessary.
Electric bike battery and range
The power of the electric bike's battery significantly affects the quality of the riding experience. Most modern e-bike batteries use lithium-ion technology and allow for an average range of 50–100 kilometers.
It’s important to know that the range promised by manufacturers is often measured under ideal conditions. In reality, the longevity and range of an e-bike battery are affected by many factors: wind direction, temperature, the number of inclines, and the rider's body mass. In winter, battery power can drop by up to 20–30%. The range also depends heavily on whether the user pedals or not. If you use the PAS (pedal assistant system) and pedal at the same time, achieving the specified range is realistic.
It is a good idea to choose a model with a removable battery – this allows for more convenient charging at home or in the office.
The lifespan of electric bike batteries is typically 500–1000 charging cycles, which means that with proper use, the battery should last at least three to five years. Charging time varies by model from 3–7 hours for a full charge, while models with fast-charging capabilities can reach 80% power in just a couple of hours.
Electric bike speed and power
The power of the e-bike motor determines both the maximum speed and the ability to handle inclines. In Estonia, the speed limit for electric bikes is 25 km/h and the motor power is up to 250 W.
Electric bike motors can be categorized into two groups: hub motors and mid-drive motors. Generally, mid-drive motors are used for more expensive electric bikes, as they offer better weight distribution and a more natural riding feel.
Electric bike weight and size
The weight and size of electric bikes are topics that not all buyers pay enough attention to before purchasing, but they become important the moment the bike needs to be carried up stairs or lifted onto public transport.
A typical urban e-bike weighs 20–28 kilograms, with the battery and motor accounting for most of that weight. Using lightweight materials, such as aluminum or carbon frames, helps reduce the e-bike's weight, but this inevitably increases the price.
The size of an electric bike can vary, and you must find the one most suitable for you. Smaller electric bikes are often 20”, 24”, or 26”, while larger ones are 27.5” and 29”.
Among electric bikes, you can also find bikes with folding frames, which are especially suited for those for whom compact storage is decisive – for example, if living in a city apartment with limited storage space or if wanting a compact model that is easy to transport (placing it in a car trunk, taking it on public transport, etc.).
Electric bike price
Electric bike prices in our e-shop start at approximately 500–600 euros and can reach up to 3000 euros.
Many factors play a role in determining the price of an e-bike: the quality of the motor and battery, the type of drivetrain, the braking and suspension systems, as well as frame materials and brand reputation. Investing in a higher-quality model pays off in the long run – through lower maintenance costs, a longer lifespan, and a better resale value.
It’s also worth considering the cost of accessories, such as a high-quality lock, fenders, a bike bag or basket, or a spare battery.
Need for additional features
Modern electric city bikes can have several additional features that make riding more convenient. The main add-onsinclude luggage racks, mudguards, bike locks, lights, smartphone connectivity, GPS tracking, and digital displays.
Smartphone apps allow you to track ride statistics, plan routes, and adjust motor settings. An electric bike with GPS tracking helps prevent bike theft.
When choosing additional features, you should base your decision on personal preferences and budget.
Ampride - Sale of the best electric bikes
The Ampride e-shop offers a wide selection of bikes that differ in both price and technical specifications. To choose the best electric bike for yourself, it’s worth doing research, thinking through your needs, and finding the best model from the selection with a suitable battery capacity, weight, and extra features.
When buying an electric bike from the Ampride e-shop, shipping across Europe is free and the goods will arrive within 3–7 working days!
