How Do I Choose My Very First Electric Bike That’s Available Today?
Electric bikes have completely revolutionized the bicycle industry. Sure, motorized bikes have been around for a while, but they’re not much better for the environment than cars. They also require constant refueling.
Electric bikes, on the other hand, are easy to operate and easier to refuel. All you have to do is plug in your battery at the end of the day. They’re also better for the planet.
If you’re looking for your first electric bike, however, it can be difficult to make a decision. There is a plethora of options and various types of electric bikes available on the market.
We’re here to guide you through the process. Keep reading for everything you need to know about buying an electric bike.
Determine What Type of Electric Bike is Best for You
First, let’s talk about the different types of electric bikes you can invest in.
There are bikes designed for commuting within cities. These come with basic street tires and many of them fold up to conserve space. This makes them ideal for people who live in apartments or condos.
There are also electric bikes that are made for off-roading and trail riding. These are equipped with thicker tires and better tread.
Other options include:
- Extra seats for passengers
- Cargo accessories
- Cup holders
- Smartphone holders
- And more
What biking essentials are important to you? Is there anything you cannot live without? Check out Green Bike USA to get a look at all of the different types of electric bikes.
Talk to Other People Who Have Electric Bikes
Before investing in your first electric bike, reach out to your friends and family members to see if they have any valuable advice. You might also have coworkers or neighbors who have experience buying an electric bike.
You can even approach people you see in town with electric bikes. Most would be more than happy to tell you about their bikes and point you in the right direction. Find out what these people think of the bike they own and whether or not they would recommend it to other consumers.
Alternatively, log onto your Facebook profile and join a community page. From here, you can ask for recommendations from everyone on the page.
Use Customer Reviews to Gauge the Credibility of Each Company
Once you have a few companies in mind for your first electric bike, do a little digging to learn more about the credibility of the retailer and its products. Visit their websites to find customer reviews and testimonials.
First, look at product reviews to see if customers have any complaints about the electric bikes. What do they like and dislike about the product?
However, you should also use customer testimonials to gauge the honesty and integrity of the company. How do they handle customer complaints? Do they have excellent communication and customer service skills?
Find Out About Battery Life and Travel Range
Not all electric bikes are created equally. If you plan to use your bike frequently for traveling or adventuring, you need to make sure it can keep up with you.
Before buying your first electric bike, do some research to learn about each bike’s battery quality. How long do these batteries last on average before they need to be recharged? How many miles will the electric bike travel before it dies?
The battery life of an electric bike depends on how much power you’re using. If you max out the pedal-assist level or rely on the throttle a lot, your battery will die faster. Hills and wind resistance are also factors of consideration.
Learn About Each Retailers Product Warranties
No matter what you’re looking for in the electric bicycle industry, you need to make sure the manufacturer stands behind its products. Buying an electric bike that comes with a product warranty is non-negotiable.
The question is, what is and isn’t covered by the warranty?
The answer to this question will vary from company to company. Most retailers will replace your electric bike if it comes damaged or defective.
However, manufacturer warranties may cover the bike for the first 3 to 6 months. Others might provide a lifetime warranty.
In some cases, you can pay to upgrade the basic warranty to a more inclusive option. We recommend opting for a better warranty, as electric bikes are expensive. It’s better to pay a couple of hundred dollars for a better warranty than a couple thousand for an all-new electric bike.
Choose the Right Aesthetics
Your first electric bike needs to match your personal style and aesthetics. Don’t waste money buying an electric bike you don’t like. You won’t enjoy riding it.
Instead, look at your options and explore different brands to find a style you can personally connect with. Just as importantly, find out what colors the bike you want can be ordered in.
Consider Your Budget
Finally, take a look at your personal budget to determine how much money you can afford to spend on your first electric bike. You don’t want to put yourself under financial stress by spending too much money.
That being said, we don’t recommend looking for the cheapest electric bike you can find. An inexpensive electric bike might not last as long or be covered under a quality warranty. There’s no point investing in a product that’s going to let you down, even if it does save you money.
If you’re taking out a loan, find out how much can you get approved for. How much can you afford in monthly loan payments? What interest rates are you eligible for?
You might be able to find better deals by buying an electric bike online. However, if you choose this option, you’ll also need to account for shipping costs. Fortunately, many electric bike companies offer free shipping.
Are You Looking for Your First Electric Bike?
Buying your first electric bike is a big deal. It’s a large financial commitment and not a decision you should make lightly. Use our guide to find the best electric bike for your budget and your needs.
And if you’re looking for more consumer insight or lifestyle advice, look no further. Our website was created to help people like you find solutions and answer questions. Check out some of our other articles before you go.
