So you’re interested in buying an electric bike. That’s great news because e-bikes are a fantastic way to get from A to B, and they have so many benefits. They’re compact, portable, affordable, fun, and more environmentally friendly than other forms of transportation.
If you’re new to the world of e-bikes, though, it can all be a little overwhelming. Where do you even start? How do you know if an e-bike is right for you? How much power should it have? Are 250 watts (the maximum legal power output in Australia) enough for an electric bike?
These are the sort of questions that might have been churning away at the back of your mind but didn’t really surface until now. Well, if that’s actually the case, just read on and you’ll get your answers.
How to Select the Right Electric Bike?
The key to selecting the right electric bike is to carefully think about its future use case. For instance, if you plan to take your bike on public transit, you should go for a folding e-bike.
Folding e-bikes are great for crowded areas where you need to be able to get around. They are also great for people with limited storage space in their homes. Another advantage of folding electric bikes is that they are easy to carry. Most folding electric bikes weigh between 15 to 25kg, so they are easy to transport.
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On the other hand, if you plan to explore local trails, you’ll be better off with a mountain electric bike with huge knobby tires and sturdier frame components. Likewise, fat-tire electric bikes (those with 4” tires) are great for riding on sand and rough off-road tracks.
Electric mountain bikes are perfect for those who want to hit the trails but don’t want to deal with the hassle and weight of carrying an extra battery. These bikes are also great for commuters who need a little help getting around, or for anyone who wants an eco-friendly way to get around.
Are 250 Watts Enough for an E-Bike?
The next most important thing, after selecting the type of electric bike, is to decide its power output. Since the max power output of e-bikes in Australia is capped at 250W, many wonders if 250 watts are even enough.
Well, it depends on your use case and the type of motor.
If you plan to use your e-bike on urban roads for commuting to work/ school, then yes, a 250-watt motor, such as on the Engwe C20 Pro, is more than enough. But if you plan to explore rugged tracks on private lands, you might be better off with a more powerful option.
The main advantages of limiting yourself to 250W electric bikes are (usually): low price, compact size, low weight, and legal compatibility.
For most everyday users, a 250W electric bike is a perfect solution for getting around on a budget. It costs less than other options and is particularly good for first-time riders, who want to try an e-bike without breaking the bank.
However, keep in mind that the type of motor also plays a significant role in determining whether or not 250 watts would be enough.
While 250W hub motors are quite humble (and are recommended for urban commuters), the 250W mid-drive motors can be used to climb even the steepest hills due to their incredibly high torque output!
We hope we’re able to answer your question.
When Should You Buy a Higher-Power Bike?
There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether or not to purchase a higher-power bike. Here are some things to consider:
- Riding style: If you plan on using your bike for high-speed riding or racing, a higher-power bike may be more suitable for your needs.
- Experience level: If you are an experienced rider with a lot of time on the road, you may be able to handle the power of a higher-power bike. However, if you are a beginner or less experienced rider, you may want to start with a lower-power bike to get a feel for the road and improve your skills before moving up to a more powerful bike.
- Physical fitness: Higher-power bikes tend to be more physically demanding to ride, so you should consider your physical fitness level when deciding whether or not to purchase one.
- Budget: Higher-power bikes tend to be more expensive than lower-power bikes, so you should consider your budget when making a decision.
Overall, it’s important to carefully consider your needs and abilities before deciding to purchase a higher-power bike.
