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    How to choose an e-road bike?

    Alice Huot
    Alice Huot
    Dec 12, 2024 11 min
    How to choose an e-road bike?

    The electric road bike is revolutionizing cycling by allowing a combination of sports performance and motorized assistance. Whether you are a long-distance enthusiast or a casual cyclist looking to climb hills with less effort, a well-chosen e-road bike can meet your needs. Here’s a detailed guide to help you pick the perfect model.

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    Electric road bike: Start by identifying your needs

    Before purchasing, identify your goals:

    • Sport use: prioritize lightweight and high-performance models.
    • Daily commutes: Focus on comfort and autonomy.
    • Mixed cycling: choose a versatile bike.

    Before buying an electric road bike, it’s essential to consider your specific needs. A bike designed for long, sporty rides will differ from one intended for daily commutes. There are various types of cyclists, each with different requirements based on their intended use.

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    What type of cyclist are you?

    The first question to ask is: What type of cyclist are you? If you are a sporty cyclist, you will probably seek a bike that helps you push your limits and improve your performance, especially on varied terrain.

    "In this case, a lightweight and performance-oriented model with a central motor would be ideal for you, as it allows for better weight distribution and offers more natural assistance." - Alice Huot @buycycle

    On the other hand, if you're a casual cyclist, you may need a more comfortable model that's easy to use and maintain. In that case, a bike with a rear wheel motor might be a better choice, as it is generally less expensive and just as effective for urban commutes.

    What are your practice goals?

    Your reason for purchasing will also influence your decision. If your goal is to improve your endurance and go on long hikes, you likely want a bike that offers good autonomy and geometry that allows you to maintain a comfortable position for hours.

    However, if you are using an electric road bike to replace your car for daily travel, you will need to look for a versatile model capable of navigating easily through streets while being robust enough for daily trips.

    See electric road bikes on buycycle

    Motorization: an essential technology of a VRE

    How to choose your electric road bike?
    BMC Roadmachine AMP ONE

    Motorization is undoubtedly one of the most important criteria when choosing your electric road bike. The motor will largely determine the quality of the assistance and thus the riding experience. There are two main types of motors for electric bikes: central motors and rear-wheel motors.

    Types of motors

    The central motor near the bottom bracket is often considered the most efficient. It allows for a more balanced weight distribution and provides a more natural assistance, which is particularly beneficial when climbing hills or for cyclists who regularly ride.

    It is also often quieter and offers better battery management, improving the overall range of the bike.

    On the other hand, rear wheel motors tend to be more affordable and provide a smoother ride for urban trips. However, these motors can make the bike more challenging to balance, especially on steep terrain. They are more suited for cyclists looking for a daily-use bike or for short distances.

    See electric road bikes on buycycle

    Factors for choosing an electric road bike

    The power of the motor is also an essential element. Generally, a 250W motor is sufficient for most electric road bikes. This provides solid assistance while complying with legal standards in Europe. However, a motor with high torque is crucial for more rugged terrains.

    Torque measures the strength of the assistance; the higher it is, the more you can climb slopes with less effort. A torque of 50 to 75 Nm is ideal for rough terrain.

    The battery: Range and performance

    How to choose your electric road bike?
    Trek Domane+ SLR

    The battery is another crucial element when choosing your electric road bike. The range of an electric bike largely depends on the capacity of its battery, as well as the intensity of the motor and the terrain you’re riding on.

    Capacity and range

    The battery's capacity is measured in Watt-hours (Wh). The higher this value, the more energy the battery can store and the greater the range it can provide.

    "A 400Wh battery can cover a distance of 60 to 100 km, depending on the level of assistance and the type of terrain." - Anja Benson @buycycle

    A 500Wh or 700Wh battery is recommended for longer rides or if you need greater range. This will allow you to ride long distances without worrying about recharging.

    • 400-500 Wh: sufficient for medium trips (50 to 80 km).
    • 600 Wh and above: ideal for long outings or demanding terrains.

    It's also important to consider the battery's lifespan. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in electric bikes, have an average lifespan of about 800 to 1000 charge cycles. However, this can vary based on how you maintain the battery. To maximize its longevity, avoid letting the battery discharge completely and don't keep it plugged in constantly when fully charged.

    The frame of an electric road bike: materials and geometry

    The bike frame is another essential factor to consider. It should be lightweight and sturdy to ensure a pleasant ride while providing enough strength to support the motor and battery.

    Frame materials

    Aluminum frames are the most common for electric road bikes. They are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and relatively affordable. Carbon frames are the best option if you're looking for an even lighter and higher-performing bike. Although more expensive, carbon is an ultra-light material that reduces vibrations and improves comfort during long rides.

    A steel frame might also be a good choice if you prioritize durability and comfort.

    It's less common on electric road bikes but offers a smoother and more robust ride. However, it is heavier than aluminum or carbon.

    • Carbon frame: ultra-light and stiff, ideal for competitions, but expensive.
    • Aluminum frame: more affordable and fairly light, a good compromise for mixed use.
    • Total weight: An e-road bike typically weighs between 26 and 40 lbs. Be cautious if you need to transport it frequently.
    See electric road bikes on buycycle

    Geometry of the frame

    The frame's geometry also plays an important role in the riding position. If you are a sporty cyclist, a more aggressive position with a lower frame and sharper angles will help you optimize your performance. Choose a frame that allows you to adopt a more upright and comfortable position for more relaxed trips or long rides.

    Transmission, brakes, and wheels: the essential components

    How to choose your electric road bike?
    Ribble All Road SL R e

    Besides the motor and battery, components like the transmission, brakes, and wheels are key elements that impact the quality and safety of your bike.

    The transmission of the electric road bike

    The transmission of the electric road bike typically consists of derailleurs and shifters. Shimano and SRAM groups are popular and offer gear that is perfect for various situations.

    A derailleur with a small gear range will suffice if you ride on flat terrain. However, if you plan to climb slopes or traverse varied terrain, use a wide-range cassette that allows easy shifting between gears.

    • Mechanical transmission: simple and reliable.
    • Electronic transmission: precise and modern, but more expensive.
    • Number of gears: 10 to 12 gears are sufficient for versatile riding. Choose a wide gear range for easy climbing.

    Brakes

    Brakes are also a crucial element for your safety, especially when descending. Hydraulic disc brakes are highly recommended for an electric road bike. They ensure reliable braking power even in rain or difficult conditions. If you are on a budget, mechanical disc brakes can be a more economical alternative, though with slightly lower performance.

    • Hydraulic brakes: precise and effective, even in the rain.
    • Mechanical brakes: less expensive, but require more maintenance.

    Wheels and tires of the electric road bike

    Your bike's wheels should be adapted to your use. If you want performance, choose lightweight carbon wheels that improve aerodynamics and speed. Tires are also important: tubeless tires reduce the risk of flats and allow you to ride at lower pressures, enhancing comfort.

    Comfort and ergonomics

    Comfort is crucial for fully enjoying your rides. A well-designed electric road bike will allow you to ride for several hours without excessive fatigue.

    Riding position

    Your position on the bike depends on your style. A more aggressive position will help you maximize your efficiency if you are a competitive cyclist. Conversely, to enjoy the scenery, choose a bike that offers a more upright position, reducing pressure on your wrists and back.

    Saddle and handles

    A suitable saddle is fundamental for comfort. Some saddles are wider, while others are narrower, and the choice will depend on your body shape. Ergonomic handles reduce strain on hands and arms during long rides.

    Price and budget for an electric road bike

    Electric road bikes are a significant investment. Prices range from $2000 to over $10,000, depending on components and brands. Define your priorities to optimize your purchase:

    • Entry-level ($2000-$3000): Sufficient for occasional use.
    • Mid-range ($3000-$5000): a good compromise for regular rides.
    • High-end ($5000 and above): Designed for enthusiasts and competitors.

    Maintenance and durability

    Regular maintenance is essential to maximizing the lifespan of your electric road bike. Clean the chain and brakes, check the battery, and keep your bike in good order. If a problem arises, do not hesitate to call a professional.

    Electric road bikes, the future of cycling accessible to all

    How to choose your electric road bike?
    Pinarello Nytro E x TQ e-Road

    Electric road bikes provide a smoother and more accessible riding experience, regardless of your level. The combination of high-performance motorization, an appropriate battery, and quality components allows you to push your limits while offering optimal comfort.

    Whether you are a sporty cyclist or looking for an eco-friendly and practical means for your daily commutes, an electric road bike can transform your rides.

    At buycycle, we are already at the forefront of this revolution, with a selection of electric bikes available today. And in 2025, we will continue to expand our offerings with even more models to meet all your needs so that everyone can find their ideal bike. Don't wait any longer to discover the future of cycling!

    Need an electric road bike? Look here!

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