E-Bike Purchase

Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just starting to get into the activity, purchasing a bike can be a great way to cram in the thirty minutes of physical activity adults require daily as well as other benefits. Electric bikes are becoming famous for tackling miles on the road, gliding around town, or challenging terrains, making them a popular investment for seasoned and beginner cyclists.

Despite their apparent benefits, purchasing an e-bike is no small investment, costing anywhere from £1,000 to a jaw-dropping £10,000 depending on the model, size, and manufacturer you opt for. Due to this, it’s understandable that you want to know exactly what you’re getting into before you take the plunge.

Like any significant purchase, there are many things you should consider before committing to an e-bike purchase, which is why we’ve put together this list of considerations so that you’ll hopefully leave with a better understanding of what e-bikes are all about and whether owning one is a worthwhile investment for you.

Not All E-Bike Batteries Are The Same

Like any other battery-powered device, one of the most influential factors in your purchase is how long the battery will last on a single charge – the same factor applies to e-bikes. Most e-bike batteries are made of lithium-ion, varying between 250Wh, 500 Wh, and more. In short, the size of the battery will determine the distance you can travel with a single charge and how much assistance the motor will give you while you peddle.

Although how much distance you will get out of your battery depends on other factors like weight and terrain, if you intend to use your e-bike to travel considerable distances, you will need to fork out for the biggest battery you can afford. Depending on the e-bike you purchase, you can expect your battery to last up to three years, or one thousand total charges, before the cells, begin to deteriorate, providing you maintain it well.

Protect Yourself Against Potential Risks

Whether you’re an avid or beginner cyclist, it is well-known knowledge that bicycles are a common target for thieves – with e-bikes being no exception. Purchasing an e-bike can bring immense joy, but this happiness comes at a premium price, meaning you should ensure that it’s protected should it be damaged or stolen, with insurance for Pedego and other e-bike brands.

While most home contents insurance policies will cover bikes, including electric bikes, for a varying extra premium each year, cyclists will often purchase a standalone specialist policy. The best e-bike insurance providers will typically cover you against theft, accidental damage, personal liability, and third-party liability.

Some will offer additional features or coverages such as medical coverage, uninsured motorist coverage, worldwide coverage, and many more. One of the most attractive aspects of taking out e-bike-specific insurance is that the policies can be customized for the needs of you and your bike. In contrast, home and content insurance companies can limit how much they insure an e-bike, meaning you could be out of pocket should you have to make a claim.

Especially if you’re fortunate enough to own an e-bike manufactured by one of the leading brands in the U.S, such as Pedego, you want to ensure that your bike is protected against all odds and that you won't lose money should you have to claim. Learn more about e-bike insurance by looking at providers' websites like Velosurance, which offers a range of flexible insurance policies for different bicycles. From insurance for Pedego to insurance for Aveton, consider visiting their website to view their complete list of policies or contacting them directly for specific inquiries.

Look At Where The Motor Is Positioned

Much like you can find differences between the aesthetics of e-bikes and the battery; you can also find differences between the motor, which can affect the performance of the bike and your performance while using the bike. Therefore, before you take the plunge, ensure that you consider the placement of the motor and how it will affect your overall riding experience.

Depending on which e-bike your purchase, the motor might be fitted on the front wheel hub, the middle of the cycle, or the bike wheel. Inexpensive models tend to have front-mounted motors, a less-than-ideal placement as the motor will power your steering wheel instead of the rear. In contrast, a motor positioned towards the end of the bike is often considered to simulate a more natural riding experience and is less harsh on the chain.

The top-recommended placement for the motor is often considered to be in the bike's center since this position allows the e-bike to be more balanced, creating a more pleasurable riding experience for users. But because of these benefits, e-bikes with center-drive positioned motors are often some of the most expensive to purchase, discouraging cyclists from buying them.