Types of e-bike
A cursory glance at any manufacturer's range or the contents of a bike shop will demonstrate that there are lots of different styles and designs of e-bike. Here's an overview of the broad categories.
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Electric cargo bikes are designed specifically to carry heavy and/or bulky loads, with extra-long frames and fully-integrated load bays.
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Electric trekking bikes are very versatile, with a comfortable yet efficient riding position and coming ready-equipped with practical accessories like mudguards, lights and racks.
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Urban e-bikes are designed specifically for town and city conditions, with a good view of the road ahead and a high level of comfort. Some have small wheels for manouevrability and compact size.
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Folding e-bikes are great for mixed commutes with some use of public transport. They're also much easier to store than a full-size bike.
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Electric road bikes take the traditional drop-bar "racing" bike and boost it with a motor and battery, so you can ride further. Some also work well as open-road commuters.
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Electric mountain bikes are designed for off-road fun - let the motor take the strain uphill so you can focus on the descents!
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Electric gravel bikes sit between road and mountain - they're like road bikes but with fat tyres and more stable frame geometry for extra confidence off-road.
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Electric tricycles have three wheels for stability. They're mostly easy-to-load cargo carriers but there are also trikes designed for riders with balance or mobility issues who couldn't ride a two-wheeler.
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You can even get e-bikes for children!
Key takeaways
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There are lots of different styles of e-bike that excel at different things.
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Some categories have quite a bit of crossover.
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Trekking e-bikes are the best first point of call if you're not sure what type you need - they're the most versatile.
If you'd like to find out more, read our comprehensive guide to types of electric bike.