The electric bike: things to know before buying

1. ELECTRIC BIKES: WHAT ARE THEY? WHO ARE THEY FOR?

The difference between power-assisted bikes and classic bikes is their small electric motor around the bottom bracket, or the rear hub, that allows to assist you without actually replacing the need to pedal.

How? When you pedal, you activate the motor, which in turn assists you.

Did you know ?

The majority of E-bikes are recharged with a specific charger that uses a wall socket. The use remains simple and easy.

WHO ARE THEY FOR ?

Cyclists can use them in their daily commute to work and avoid traffic, pollution and perspiration. Those who like to take longer rides can go further, faster, and even choose to take on more challenging roads.

If your physical fitness level makes regular riding difficult and tiring, a power-assisted bike can give you a boost and enable you to get around more actively—while respecting your pace.

2. BENEFITS AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Electric bikes are appealing to cyclists for a reason. Depending on your needs and expectations, the specifics of your ideal bike will differ.

THE ELECTRIC BIKE MOTOR

It can be located in 3 places: at the front wheel, at the rear wheel or at the centre, in the crankset. Due to its weight, the location of the motor influences the overall behaviour of the bike. It will help you move forward in proportion to the effort you put into your pedalling.

The pedal-powered motor bike motor bike allows the motor to benefit from the mechanical advantage of the bike's traditional transmission. It offers a more natural feel and is better suited to terrain requiring more torque at the wheel. It's perfect for mountain biking or higher performance bikes.

The wheel-motor bike use quieter, more compact motors. These bikes generally have a throttle on the handlebars so you can use the electric motor without pedalling. Cyclists who use their bikes as a means of active transport or those with physical limitations will appreciate it.

What is the engine torque ?

It is the force of the engine. Measured in Newtons-metre (Nm), the electric bike torque varies between 15 and 85 Nm. The higher the number, the more powerful and efficient the engine will be on long climbs or on trails with a lot of challenges.

THE ELECTRIC BIKE BATTERY

More power or more range? Do you prefer long rides or active outings? To assess whether a battery is suitable for your riding style, it is best to use the following values:

The life of a battery is measured in recharge cycles, between 300 and 1,500 cycles depending on the model, and loses capacity as it ages. To preserve your battery, it is recommended to recharge it every month, even if it is not used.

Did you know ?

In Quebec, there are laws governing the use of electric bikes:

• Limited assistance up to 32 Km/h.
• Wearing a bike helmet is mandatory.
• The speed limit on bike paths is 20 to 25 km/h.
• The maximum power of a battery is 500W.
• The minimum age to ride an electric bike is 18.

CONTROL COMMANDS

The shifters and the control screen are easily reachable and provide a wealth of useful information.

THE BRAKES

Because they are heavier and ride faster, electric bikes are equipped with disc brakes, either mechanical or hydraulic, to optimize safe stopping.

THE FRAME

Built in aluminum for added strength, the resistance will vary according to the purpose of the bike, for example, if it is a bike for the city or the mountains.

THE ACCESSORIES

Bike racks, kickstands, rear or front lights or fenders are the perfect complement to your bike. Some models are equipped with these accessories, but you can also buy them separately.

3. PRICE AND USAGE

HOW MUCH DOES AN ELECTRIC BIKE COST?

Just as with regular bikes, the price for an electric bike varies enormously depending on the type and performance criteria desired, as well as the battery’s range. You can find them at prices between $1,000 and $20,000. When it comes down to it, how you’ll be using your bike will determine how much you should spend.

Once you’ve chosen the type of bike you’d like, think about the performance criteria you are looking for. If you use your bike mainly to travel short distances (like to go to work), you can go with a shorter battery range. If you are a keen cyclist likes to ride long distances, you’ll want a battery with an extended range of action. The motor's positioning, power and noise level are also important points to consider when choosing your electric bike. Have a good cycling season!

The eco-friendly tip

Choosing an electric bike instead of a scooter or a car is also doing something good for the environment by not producing harmful emissions into the atmosphere. It requires very little electricity to be charged. The stereotype of the electric bike as being intended only for less athletic people is far from being true. On the contrary. Particularly popular with active people who are looking for a healthy and environmentally-friendly lifestyle, e-bikes are on a roll.