Knowing your bike is essential to enjoying it to the fullest. For urban e-bike enthusiasts, it is useful to have a deep understanding so that you can avoid too many problems and quickly find a solution when a problem arises.
In this article, the characteristics, uses, quality, and selection criteria of an electric city bike will be discussed.
By definition, an electric city bike is a bike equipped with a battery, motor, and auxiliary devices. As with all e-bikes, its engine can be located on the pedals, on the front wheel, or on the rear wheel.
For the battery, it is placed at key points such as the frame, luggage rack, or seat tube.
And with regard to the speed of the electric city bike, it is no different from the speed prescribed by the current regulations, especially the speed of 25 km/h. When this speed is reached or the rider pedals less, the power of the bike stops.
The Applications of Electric City Bikes
In fact, this type of two-wheeler is a versatile machine that can replace a car and we can use it for many things every day.
Commuting in the city
First, it’s designed for commuting around town. Its narrower and lighter tires are perfectly adapted to urban roads. Therefore, it guarantees better driving comfort and optimum comfort.
Shopping
Those who are used to shopping in town will find what they are looking for on an electric city bike. Equipped with luggage racks, the trip home from the supermarket is easy on this bike. Plus, with the right luggage rack, transporting groceries and cargo will be easier and more secure.
Applies to all occupations
The first fans of urban e-bikes were cyclists. In addition, this bike is considered an ideal ally for work, whatever the profession: nurse, lawyer, craftsman, real estate agent or others.
With traffic congestion and fuel bills on the rise, more and more people are being lured by electric vehicles in cities. Saves a lot of time and money without using fuel.
Main Features of Electric City Bikes
Electric city bikes are of great quality. In addition to versatility, this type of bike has other significant advantages.
Comfortable
Any user of this type of bike appreciates its comfort. The bike’s ergonomics, appearance and components are designed to make it an ultra-comfortable vehicle.
Stabilize
Unlike road bikes, electric city bikes are appreciated for their stability. Although the tires are light and not that wide, their thickness allows for greater stability.
Easy to maintain
It supports daily use while being easy to maintain. In general, bikes that are ridden every day require regular maintenance.
Basic criteria for choosing an electric city bike
The main components of an electric city bike include the motor, battery, and auxiliary components. However, you should know that these elements must be checked one by one when purchasing. The more efficient and powerful these components are, the greater distances e-bikes can achieve in cities.
Battery
Its capacity is measured in watt-hours. You can find city e-bike batteries of up to 612Wh with a range of up to 200km.
First, choose a lithium-ion battery. It is the most efficient and safest energy source available. Then, get into the habit of not letting the energy drain completely before charging (30%). Then, it is necessary to pay attention to the indicated charging duration.
When storing, it is best to store the battery in a safe place where the temperature is neither too high nor too low. If you don’t use an urban e-bike, don’t hesitate to charge the battery regularly to avoid damaging it.
Motor
Motor power is measured in watts. Generally speaking, the power of the motor of an urban electric bicycle can vary between 250w and 350w, and the maximum speed is 25km/h.
After confirming good power, engine position is another factor to check. On the front wheel, rear wheel or crank?
We recommend that you choose a mid-mounted motor placed on the crankset. This position provides better weight distribution and control.
Other premium components
When talking about electric city bikes, you shouldn’t just focus on the battery and motor. You should also check the forks, brakes, wheels, displays, etc. All these accessories guarantee the performance of the electric city bike.
Accessories
- Helmet – Safety should be the number one priority when riding an electric city bike. Therefore, the first popular accessory is the helmet. But wearing a helmet is not mandatory.
- Cargo Bag – After security, there is practicality. You can buy a cargo bag and put your essentials in it while staying comfortable throughout the journey.
- Rain Cover – Rain cover accessory to protect upper and lower body and shoes.