Other considerations

You and your needs are the main things to think about, but there are several other aspects you need to take into account.

Storage

  • Think about where you're going to keep your e-bike. They're best stored indoors, or at least undercover.

  • E-bikes are expensive so storing them securely is essential. It's worth investing in a good lock (even if the bike's inside).

  • Most e-bikes don't take up any more space than a regular bike, but cargo bikes are extra-long.

  • The batteries and motor make an e-bike significantly heavier than a conventional bike, so bear that in mind if you need to lift it up any steps. Removable batteries help.

  • If space is really tight, consider a folding e-bike. Some are designed to fold as small as possible with some compromises to the ride, but others are intended to ride like normal bikes with a semi-fold so they take up less space when not being ridden.

Maintenance

  • Most aspects of e-bike maintenance are the same as for conventional bikes. Routine tasks include cleaning and oiling the chain, checking and inflating tyres and checking brakes. These are all fairly straightforward.

  • Consumable items on e-bikes include brake pads, tyres, chain and sprockets. How often they need replacing varies enormously with frequency of use and weather conditions.

  • Some bikes have internal hub gears and toothed belts instead of exposed gear sprockets and chains. These are as close to zero maintenance as you'll get.

  • The actual drive units on an e-bike aren't typically user-serviceable. Often they'll go for years without needing any attention but you'll need to call on a professional if and when they do.

Charging

  • The most convenient method of charging is to park the bike near to a power outlet and plug it in directly.

  • This may not be possible, in which case you'll need to remove the battery (usually easy, but designs vary) and take it to wherever you're charging.

  • Always use the supplied charger and charge away from anything flammable. Unplug everything when not charging. If any cables or the battery itself are damaged, or anything gets hot or smells funny, disconnect it immediately and get everything checked by a professional.

Budget

  • E-bikes are always going to be more expensive than conventional bikes due to the added cost of the motor and batteries.

  • Very cheap e-bikes should be approached with caution - they're likely to be based on very cheap bikes with low-quality components and good motors and batteries aren't cheap.

  • £1,500-£2,000 is a realistic entry level for a good-quality e-bike. Mid-drive motors are typically more expensive than hub motors.

  • Cargo e-bikes start at about £4,000, which is a lot, but many people have found that such a bike can replace a car but with extremely low running costs.

Key takeaways

  • Make sure you've thought about where you're going to keep your e-bike and choose appropriately.

  • Budget is inevitably a consideration - be realistic about how much you'll need to spend. Going cheap up front is likely to lead to further costs down the line.

  • Recognise that e-bikes do need some simple maintenance.

If you'd like to find out more about how to maintain your e-bike, read our maintenance guide.


Next unit: Types of e-bike

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