With growing awareness of climate change, making environmentally friendly choices is becoming increasingly important. Amid this shift, electric bicycles – a greener alternative to gas-powered vehicles – have gained significant momentum in recent years.
The e-bike market is currently booming, with numerous brands and models available. While this variety is exciting, it also makes choosing an e-bike challenging, especially for someone unfamiliar with e-bike technology.
That’s why we’ve put together this e-bike buying guide. It highlights the key elements of an electric bicycle and their importance for your purchasing decision. Finally, it introduces some practical commuter e-bikes that offer great value for money.
Why Buy an Electric Bicycle?
At first glance, an electric bicycle may look like a regular bike with an added motor. But there’s much more to it. Yes, it has a motor, but it’s the additional features that make it stand out. The motor not only provides propulsion but also offers various levels of pedal assistance. This way, the rider can enjoy the pleasure of traditional cycling (as a form of exercise) with the added benefit of comfort.
The frame of an electric bicycle is also lighter than that of a conventional e-bike. This makes handling and storage quite easy, making it ideal for daily commuting and leisure use.
You also have a wide range of design and color options. In addition, there are many different types and models of e-bikes to choose from. Take commuter e-bikes, for example. They are specifically designed for city riding and feature powerful motors and larger batteries to ensure adequate range in an urban environment.
Comfort is another important aspect of electric bicycles. Many models come equipped with front or full suspension, enabling smooth rides across different terrains. And of course, they are also eco-friendly and cost-saving!
Which electric bike should I buy?
Before purchasing an electric bike, you should familiarize yourself with all the available types and then make a decision. In terms of design, for example, there are step-through and step-over e-bikes. Regarding purpose, there are commuter e-bikes, electric cruisers, cargo tricycles, and mountain e-bikes.
Electric commuter bikes are generally preferred for city traffic. This is because their design is tailored to the needs of urban residents. They are compact, often foldable, and equipped with features that make navigating busy streets easier.
If you are looking for a commuter e-bike that is advanced and equipped with numerous features, we have the four best options for you: Mokwheel Asphalt & Asphalt ST and Mesa Lite & Mesa Lite ST.
Mokwheel Commuter E-Bikes-Asphalt & Asphalt ST
Asphalt is Mokwheel’s popular commuter e-bike, specifically designed for daily use and urban commuting. This e-bike is available in both step-through and step-over frame versions.
In terms of performance, the e-bike comes equipped with a 250W motor that is more than sufficient for paved roads and designated e-bike paths. Combined with torque sensors, the motor provides 5 levels of pedal assist, depending on the rider’s needs.
The 36V 14.7Ah LG battery ensures a long and uninterrupted ride through the city. When ridden with lower assist levels, you can expect a range between 45 and 65 km. The battery is fully integrated into the bike’s downtube, making it look like a regular bicycle at first glance — but a stylish one!
The e-bike features a compact and sleek design, with every element neatly arranged — from the handlebars to the rear rack. The grips are fitted with soft leather handles that help reduce fatigue during longer rides.
In addition to PAS, the e-bike also comes with a 7-speed gear system for smooth transitions between speeds, while the hydraulic front suspension ensures a bump-free ride.
Mokwheel Commuter E-Bikes - Mesa Lite 2.0 & Mesa Lite ST 2.0
Mesa Lite 2.0 is an affordable commuter e-bike priced at only €1,099. It is a simpler version of the Asphalt but includes all the essential features you need in a commuter e-bike.
It comes with a 250W motor that is sufficient for urban needs. The battery is equipped with LG’s 36V 14.7Ah cells, providing a decent range of 40 to 60 km with initial PAS. The battery is fully integrated into the frame, giving the bike a very clean and polished appearance.
The e-bike is available in both step-through and step-over frame versions. Thanks to its aluminum alloy construction, the frame is lightweight yet robust. The polished finish is designed to withstand the toughest road and weather conditions.
Like the Asphalt, this e-bike features five PAS levels. It also comes with integrated front and rear lights, enhancing the bike’s visibility on the road.
Finally, it is fitted with thin, large tires (27.5 x 2.4"), which are ideal for agile riding in urban environments. For paved streets, the solid front fork works perfectly.
What to Look for When Buying an Electric Bike
Buying an electric bike should not be an impulsive decision. It should be backed by research and careful consideration of all technical parameters, the brand reputation, and user reviews.
Basic Specifications of the E-Bike
The first thing to check is the technical specifications of the e-bike. For example, look at the motor power. Ideally, a 250W motor is sufficient for city commuting needs. Next, review the battery and its range. Choose an e-bike with a range that slightly exceeds your daily commuting distance.
Next, evaluate the price: Is it comparable to that of standard e-bikes? Typically, commuter e-bikes are available in the €1,000–1,500 range. However, compare the features of the e-bike with those offered by other brands with similar models.
Riding comfort is also important, so examine the tires and suspension of the e-bike. Check whether it is equipped with a rigid fork or a front suspension fork. A front suspension fork is best suited for handling a variety of terrains.
Also, pay attention to the PAS (pedal-assist system) sensors. Torque sensors are preferable to cadence sensors. Finally, review the braking system of the e-bike. Hydraulic brakes are significantly better and more responsive than mechanical disc brakes.
Performance and Real Reviews
As mentioned earlier, research is crucial since you are making a significant investment. Gather information from various sources to evaluate the performance of the e-bike.
YouTube is one such source. You can watch videos from real users to understand their experiences. Look for neutral, unbiased product reviews to get a realistic assessment of performance.
Joining online e-bike communities can also be beneficial. Engage with other enthusiasts to exchange opinions on different brands and models.
Customer Service
Before purchasing, inquire about the level of support provided by the seller or manufacturer. This includes warranty coverage, availability of spare parts, and repair services. Good customer service can greatly enhance your ownership experience by promptly addressing any issues that may arise.
Considering Your Needs and Budget
Being clear about your needs and budget is essential. Ask yourself: How will I use the e-bike? Will it be for daily commuting to the office or for leisurely rides? Your intended use determines the features you need, such as battery range, speed, and power.
Also, set a clear budget. This will help filter and narrow down your options. By knowing your specific requirements and financial limits, you can choose an electric bike that perfectly matches both.
Where to Buy an Electric Bike
When it comes to purchasing, you have several options. You can start with your local dealer. Simply search for “buy electric bike near me” to find nearby shops. The advantage here is that you can inspect the e-bike in person, and some dealers even offer test rides.
You can also buy electric bikes online through the official brand store. These websites often provide numerous discounts that can be financially rewarding. For those with a smaller budget, second-hand markets can be a good option. You can find used e-bikes on websites like eBay and Bike Exchange.
Conclusion
For those seeking a compact, cost-effective solution for daily transportation, purchasing a commuter e-bike is one of the best options. And for mountain hiking enthusiasts, exploring the Mokwheel fat tire mountain electric bike series is highly recommended. When buying, carefully check the core specifications of the e-bike such as motor power, battery, range, suspension, and tires. Make sure these features align with your needs.
We now have an exclusive offer for every e-bike with many benefits and surprises — don’t miss out!
