Choosing an e-bike

What counts as an electrically assisted bicycle?

An electrically assisted bicycle is treated as an ordinary bicycle in traffic when the motor's rated power is at most 250 W and the assistance cuts out at 25 km/h. The motor only assists while you pedal. Faster bikes that assist up to 45 km/h are classed as mopeds and different rules apply.

Choose by how you will use it

• Commuting and everyday use – mudguards, a rack, lights and a comfortable position. A low step-through frame makes getting on easy.
• Touring and long distances – a bigger battery and comfort features such as a suspension fork or wider tyres.
• Off-road (e-MTB) – full suspension, grippy tyres and a strong motor for steep climbs. Lighter "light" models feel closer to a regular mountain bike.

Motor: mid-drive or hub motor

A mid-drive motor sits at the pedals and uses the bike's gears, so the assistance feels natural on climbs too. It is the most common solution on quality e-bikes. A hub motor sits in the rear or front hub; it is simple and more affordable, but the assistance does not benefit from the gears.

Motor torque (Nm) tells you how strongly it assists, for example on a steep climb. Off-road and with heavy loads, more torque helps.

Battery and range

Battery capacity is given in watt-hours (Wh). A bigger battery gives more range but adds weight. Range depends a lot on the assistance level, terrain, rider weight, tyre pressures and temperature – a battery delivers less in the cold. Think about how far you ride on one charge and choose the battery accordingly.

In winter, store the battery indoors and charge it at room temperature.

Servicing an e-bike

An e-bike is heavier and faster than a regular bike, so brakes, chain and tyres wear faster. Ride More recommends a first service after 20–30 riding hours. On request we also update the system software during the annual service – see prices on our service page.