I’ve never had an ebike before and don’t really know where I should start. I’m looking for something practical and hopefully not too expensive.
Here’s a few things you should answer for yourself before you start looking:
- What kind of tires do you want? Skinny street, wide street, off-road, fat ones, etc.
- Do you want it to fold in half for better storage in an apartment, at work, or in your small car?
- Do you want good full coverage fenders that are close to the wheels for riding in the rain without it ending up all over your back and legs?
- How far do you want to be able to travel round trip?
- Are there any other important features you want?
- What’s your price range? (I know you already said not too expensive.)
I personally bought a folding bike from https://www.greenbikeusa.com/ because they are cheap, they can fold, they have full coverage fenders, they come with a rack, and I was able to attach a basket. it’s a cheap Chinese bike that arrives folded up in a box partially disassembled and the shifter needed calibrating so as long as you are OK with that it’s been a great value.
I can’t speak to the newer models (and have heard bad things about the company’s customer service lately), but a Rad Power Bike from a few years ago would probably be decent for most uses.
Probably good to specify some additional things so people can help: What country do you live in? How far is your commute? Do you need options for cargo (baskets, a rack for panniers, etc.)? Any preference for stepover frames vs standard? Does bike weight matter (lighter ones tend to be more expensive)? Storage options (apartment or house/garage)?
I’m in the USA, probably not more than 10-20 miles for my commutes. A basket would be great. No real preference on frame type or weight beyond manageable. I’ll be storing it in a garage.
I’ll second the rad power bikes, especially if you have a local store like Seattle or Denver. I just picked up a plus 3, loving it. 45 mile battery, better pedal assist up hills, old accessories moved over nonissue. I personally have had zero issues with customer service, but I’m also inclined to repair things myself vs calling for help.
For reference, I’m in a walkable score city of 35, so driving a car was my only other option to go anywhere in a reasonable time. With front and back baskets, I’m able to go shopping, bring the dogs to the dog park, even rode to the docs today 25mi commute total. Price was great too, $2250 out the door.
I’m partial to the Brompton e-bike myself, but the author of this article rides a Rad: https://slate.com/business/2023/06/e-bike-buying-changed-my-life.html
As nice as it might be, Brompton (even acoustic-only) is not in the “hopefully not too expensive” camp. Unless maybe you can get a deal on one used? (probably not given it seems to be a cult-classic sort-of-thing)
I did legitimately think about clones for a bit before finding a cheap as-close-as-I-can-get ebike, though.
I wanted a small ebike with ultra value, I ended up getting the Fiido D4S (20" wheels, folding, 45 pounds, has gears, 36v 10.4Ah, 250w). Price is $800 but I got it on sale for $720. I love the gears, but it came poorly adjusted (chain fell off first ride) so I had to adjust it myself (probably not 100% right, but the Park Tool video got me through it).
I have rode almost 100 miles, though my longest trip thus far was ~20 miles (round trip).
Other caveats:
- the charger doesn’t have a US plug, but can be replaced with a standard 2-prong cord.
- the battery meter is inaccurate, I suspect it errs way too early (maybe even by 10+ miles)
- there is no ignition system, bell (does have digital horn), mirrors, rear light
- also no front mounting (aside from headlight bolt) or bottle mount etc, rear rack is not included by default
- at 250w it is barely an ebike (also EU speed limit), still nice though (helps build muscle but get a bit of help/speed)
- even still, it has a half-twist throttle (that cannot be easily disabled/removed) so is technically class II
- tires (especially spokes) don’t seem to be great, though I suppose it’s acceptable
- battery is not quick-swap (but is an 18650 battery pack, thus likely even more replaceable than other types)
- no suspension
- says on the site (unless in error?) it’s discontinued
I purchased a bike bell for $12 from the local bike shop. I was hoping for a cheaper (or even free) mirror since I mostly use the trail, but no luck so far (though I’m a shut-in so I don’t know anybody really). Same with a storage option.
