Which electric bike is right for me?
Electric bikes, or eBikes, have been growing in popularity as an alternative mode of transportation and recreation. With the ability to pedal with assistance from an electric motor, eBikes can help riders go further and faster with less effort. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to determine which electric bike is right for you. In this article, we will compare road eBikes and mountain eBikes, highlighting the benefits and pros of each to help you make an informed decision.
Road eBikes
Road eBikes are designed for riding on paved roads and are great for commuters and recreational riders looking for a smooth ride. These bikes are built for speed and efficiency, with lightweight frames and narrow tyres that reduce rolling resistance. Most road eBikes have drop handlebars that allow riders to change hand positions and optimise aerodynamics, making them ideal for longer rides.
One of the biggest benefits of road eBikes is their speed. With their lightweight frames and narrow tyres, road eBikes can reach high speeds with less effort than traditional bikes. This makes them perfect for commuting, as riders can cover more ground in less time. Additionally, many road eBikes have powerful motors that can assist riders up steep hills or headwinds, making even the most challenging terrain a breeze.
Another benefit of road eBikes is their efficiency. Because they are designed for speed and aerodynamics, road eBikes require less effort to maintain their momentum. This means riders can go further and faster with less fatigue than traditional bikes.
Pros of Road eBikes:
- Designed for speed and efficiency
- Lightweight frames and narrow tyres for reduced rolling resistance
- Powerful motors to assist up steep hills or headwinds
- Perfect for commuting or longer rides
Mountain eBikes
Mountain eBikes, on the other hand, are designed for off-road terrain and are great for riders who enjoy challenging trails and technical terrain. These bikes are built for durability and stability, with wider tyres and suspension systems that provide traction and cushioning on rough terrain. Most mountain eBikes have flat handlebars that provide more control and manoeuvrability, making them ideal for technical riding.
One of the biggest benefits of mountain eBikes is their versatility. With their wide tyres and suspension systems, mountain eBikes can handle a variety of terrain, from rocky trails to steep descents. Additionally, most mountain eBikes have powerful motors that can assist riders up steep hills or technical terrain, making even the most challenging trails accessible.
Another benefit of mountain eBikes is their stability. With wider tyres and suspension systems, mountain eBikes provide a smooth ride on rough terrain, reducing fatigue and allowing riders to stay in control. This makes them perfect for longer rides and technical trails.
Pros of Mountain eBikes:
- Designed for off-road terrain
- Wide tyres and suspension systems for traction and cushioning on rough terrain
- Powerful motors to assist up steep hills or technical terrain
- Stable ride on rough terrain, reducing fatigue
What key features should I look for when choosing an electric bike?
Battery: The battery is the energy source for the electric motor, and it is usually located on the frame of the bike. We use Samsung 36V Batteries, which has a battery life that allows you to ride for up to 60-80 K per charge and a charge time of 3 – 5 hours. It also offers 9 different levels of assistance and includes a power indicator, to ensure you don’t run out of steam when riding.
Display: Having a display on an e-bike can greatly enhance the rider’s experience, providing them with valuable information, navigation, and safety features. Our eBike display offers a 3.5” comfortable screen, can be installed in two different directions and connects seamlessly to Bluetooth app Key-Disp, allowing you to track your rides, benchmark your performance and enjoy a range of stats as you cycle.
Gears: Gears are essential for navigating different terrains and achieving the desired speed. Quality gears can improve the bike’s performance and provide a smooth ride.
All our eBikes are equipped with Shimano components, which offer a wide range of gears for effortless shifting and high-performance. With the dual control levers, braking and gear shifting functions are all easily actioned.
Tyres: Your riding experience on an eBike may be significantly improved by selecting the correct tyre. Equipped with Kenda tyres, Avaris eBikes provide e-bike riders with the reliability, as well as a massive amount of grip and control on all terrains, both on the straights and in the turns.
Frame: The frame size of an eBike is an important aspect you need to think about as it provides both comfort and performance whilst you ride. All our eBikes have frame features that are specific to that model. Our 3.6 model for example, has built-in mudguards, a larger screen and more advanced technical components, to make riding smoother and easier.
Which is best: Road eBike or Mountain eBike?
Ultimately, the decision between a road eBike and a mountain eBike depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are a commuter or recreational rider looking for a smooth, efficient ride on paved roads, a road eBike is likely the best choice. However, if you enjoy off-road terrain and challenging trails, a mountain eBike is the way to go.
When choosing an electric bike, consider the terrain you will be riding on, the distance you will be travelling, and your level of experience. Additionally, be sure to test ride several different models to find the one that best suits your needs and riding style. With the right electric bike, you can enjoy the benefits of cycling with less effort and more fun.
Your eBike questions answered
What are long range electric bikes?
Long range electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, are bicycles that are equipped with an electric motor and a rechargeable battery, allowing riders to travel longer distances without getting as tired. They can be used for commuting, touring, or recreational purposes, and are becoming increasingly popular as a more sustainable and efficient mode of transportation. They are typically more expensive than traditional bicycles, but they offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel longer distances without relying on cars or public transportation.
Can you have more than one battery?
Yes, an electric bike can have more than one battery. Some electric bikes are designed with the option to add an extra battery to increase the range or to provide additional power. The extra battery can be connected in parallel with the existing battery, which increases the capacity and extends the range of the electric bike. It is also possible to use multiple batteries that are connected in series to increase the voltage, which can provide more power to the electric bike. However, adding more batteries can increase the weight of the bike and may affect its handling and performance, so it’s important to choose a configuration that is appropriate for the bike’s design and intended use.
What kind of motors do eMTBs use?
Most eMTBs (electric mountain bikes) use a mid-drive motor, which is located at the bottom bracket of the bike frame and drives the bike’s chain to provide pedal assistance. This design allows for more efficient use of power and a better balance and weight distribution of the bike. Mid-drive motors also offer better hill-climbing ability and control, which is particularly important for off-road mountain biking.