Imagine having the flexibility to embark on your favorite off-road excursions and utility trips, all while burning calories and saving up to 75% in travel costs. Ebikes have revolutionized the way we travel, and their adoption rate has increased significantly over the years.
The conveniences, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendliness of ebikes make them an ideal mode of transportation for your everyday needs. However, selecting the right ebike isn't an easy task. Therefore, we have assembled an exciting electric bike buyer's guide that covers electric bikes’ cost, their features, and where you can purchase them. Let's dive in!
How Much Does an Electric Bike Cost?
The cost of an electric bike depends largely on its type. In general, ebikes are categorized into three major groups, each further divided into subcategories. Most ebike brands offer both step-through and step-over versions for all ebike types.
Main Types of Electric Bikes
Urban Commuter Ebikes: City commuter ebikes come in a compact shape with a solid frame and a cruiser-style riding posture. They are generally lightweight, with a focus on aerodynamics for easier maneuverability. Classic ebikes and low-seat cruisers ebikes are common forms of urban commuters.
Off Road Ebikes: Off road ebikes are characterized by their fat tires, robust suspension, powerful motor, and additional payload capacity. These ebikes are designed to tackle tough terrains, with some brands incorporating extra sensors and features to cater to rider preferences.
Fat tire ebikes are popular in the off-road category; Mokwheel has also introduced power station capabilities in off road ebikes that let you charge the battery through solar panels and an inverter while on a trip.
Hybrid Ebikes: All-terrain ebikes, also known as hybrid ebikes, combine features of off road ebikes with urban commuters. These ebikes have a sturdy structure and enhanced suspension, making them suitable for everyday travel with occasional trips to off-road locations. Their versatility adds to their appeal; cargo ebikes are often included in this hybrid category.
Average Price For Electric Bikes
Now that we have discussed ebike types, it's easier to understand the differences in their prices. City commuting ebikes are generally priced the lowest, while off road ebikes are the most expensive.
The price variation can be attributed to the additional features incorporated into off road ebikes to make them suitable for off-road use. Here are price ranges for the mentioned ebike types:
- City E-Bikes: $1200 to $3,000
- Off-Road E-Bikes: $1,500 to $10,000+
- All-Terrain E-Bikes: $800 to $3,000
The price differences between similar ebike types arise due to their specifications. An ebike's battery, motor, suspension, tires, and brand play crucial roles in determining its overall price.
How Much to Spend on an E-Bike?
The most important question in our discussion of electric bike costs is, 'How much should you spend?' The answer ultimately depends on your requirements. Your ebike selection should align with how you plan to use it.
For example, if you intend to use an ebike on various terrains, an all-terrain ebike would be suitable. Similarly, prices will vary based on your traveling distance, acceleration preference, and any add-ons you choose to purchase with the ebike.
Therefore, when you buy an electric bike, you need to consider its potential uses and then create a budget based on those considerations. If you’re wondering ‘where to buy an electric bike near me', we will also share our suggestions shortly.
What to Look for When Buying an Electric Bike?
Determine Your Electric Bike Type Needs and Budget
If you've given our above discussion some thought, the first step in your electric bike purchase is almost complete. When you are looking to buy an ebike, you first have to analyze why you need it.
Consider your speed preference, the usual terrain, and the regular distance you'll travel. This analysis will help you decide on the type of ebike you need.
However, keep in mind that each ebike type has thousands of options, so the first filter to shortlist them is by applying your budget range. Identify how much you're looking to spend on the ebike, and then move on to our next step.
Research and Gather Information
Once you are monitoring ebikes within your budget, you will come across a variety of specifications and features. Different brands offer a range of features at different prices. Therefore, it's important to conduct a thorough analysis to have a comprehensive understanding of the best options. Here are some features you should look out for:
Sensor: Ebikes often come with either a cadence or torque sensor. The torque sensor is advanced technology that ensures a comfortable ride and assists your riding experience.
Motor: Brands often incorporate motors with diverse ratings into their ebike fleet based on the riders’ preferences. While motor rating is important, you should also check its efficiency and acceleration to make the right decision.
Battery: Ebike batteries are its most important component, and you wouldn't want your rides to be marred by range anxiety. Therefore, it's crucial to choose an ebike with an appropriate battery that provides sufficient range. Refer to third-party reviews of a battery’s performance before making a decision.
Suspension: Ebikes can have a variety of suspension systems; generally, city ebikes will come with front fork suspension as they are intended for use on paved roads. On the contrary, advanced fat tire ebikes will have a four-bar linkage or air rear shock system that makes riding easier.
Price: When you buy an electric bike online, you have a great opportunity to compare ebikes based on their features and price. Check if the brand has included any add-ons in the existing price. Also, see if the brand is charging an extra premium for their name. If that's the case, you might want to opt out of the deal.
Watch Real-Test Reviews and Compare
Specifications are on paper, but test reviews tell you the real story.
Once you've found your preferred ebike options, start watching their real-time tests and reviews. General tests include speed, brake, hill, and suspension tests. Independent reviews put an ebike’s specifications through a real-time test, providing a fair picture of what to expect.
It's advisable to watch at least 3-5 videos for each ebike to get an objective view of its performance. You can also read about an ebike’s performance and durability on social media communities.
Consider after-sales service and warranty
The final filter in our electric bike buyers guide is the after-sales service and warranty. Electric bikes are an expensive purchase, and you would want them to be your long-term partner. Hence, you should check the warranty and refund process of the brands before opting for an ebike.
If you buy an electric bike from a dealership near you, it’s best to consult the agent about their warranty services and if there are any conditions you should know about. You can also check for the warranty experience of existing customers through brand reviews.
Conclusion
After running through our electric bike buying guide, you will have an ultimate winner. Now, the final question is ‘where to buy the electric bike?’. You can either opt to buy an electric bike online or from a nearby dealership. You should be confident in your purchase and buy from a brand that you can trust.
Mokwheel has emerged as a customer-oriented brand with options for everyone. Our ebikes fleet offers all types of ebikes, including urban commuters, classic, cargo, fat tire, all-terrain, and softail. We have a 15-day refund policy and a 2-year warranty period, which is the highest in the industry.
Best of all, our ebikes are about 20-25% more affordable than other similar ebikes, and they come with free add-ons. Please check out our current deals page to learn more about promotions. Hence, if you are considering buying an electric bike, Mokwheel should be your next stop.
