Types of Ebikes: A Buyer's Guide to Electric Bicycles
October 17, 2024
If you’re in the market for an electric bike, one of the first steps is choosing the right type of ebike. That means understanding how you plan on using the bike and the ebike styles you prefer. For some people, the best choice is an ultra-light and fast road bike, while other riders may prefer a fat tire ebike or cargo hauler.
To pick the best one for you, it’s important to understand the different ebike types. Here, we’ll cover eight different types of electric bikes including:
1. Folding Electric Bikes
If you’re looking for a commuter electric bike to ride around town, consider a folding ebike. This ebike type is characterized by a folding bike frame that enables you to carry it upstairs or stow it neatly away in your apartment or garage. They generally offer an upright riding position and some sort of cargo storage like a front or rear rack.
What Is a Folding Bike?
A folding bike is designed to fold, making it compact for easier transport and storage. The handlebars fold down and the tires tuck neatly together, making it easy to store it under your desk or load into a small sedan.
How Fast Can a Folding Ebike Go?
Depending on the folding ebikes’ class, they can go up to 28 mph.
Class 1 ebikes reach maximum speeds of 20 miles per hour (mph) with electric assist and don’t have a throttle. Class 2 ebikes have a throttle, pedal assist modes, and reach top speeds of 20 mph. Class 3 ebikes can go as fast as 28 mph with pedal assist and throttle.
The Aventon Sinch.2 is a class 2 folding ebike with a top speed of 20 mph. It has a thumb throttle and four levels of pedal assist.
Are Folding Electric Bikes Heavy?
The weight of folding ebikes varies depending on the construction of the bike as well as add-on features, such as battery and motor-type. In general, folding ebikes weigh between 30 and 60 pounds, with carbon fiber frames weighing less than aluminum frames.
Are Folding Bikes Comfortable?
Folding ebikes are designed for comfort. They offer an upright riding position, cushioned seats, and adjustable handlebars to customize the fit.
Who Should Buy a Folding Bike?
This electric bike style is perfect for people who want a portable ebike that’s easy to stow away when they aren’t riding it. They make perfect city bikes and are a great alternative for people who want to skip driving to work or taking the bus to run errands.
Folding bikes are a good choice for people who don't have much space, such as those living in smaller apartments or who travel frequently, especially those with an RV because fat tires make it easier to go off road.
Are Foldable Bikes Expensive?
There are foldable bikes for just about any budget. These bikes can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. For example, the Aventon Sinch.2 costs $1,699 MSRP, which makes it an affordable option.
Can You Get Fit on a Folding Bike?
Riding an ebike is a great way to get some exercise while still getting support when you feel you need it. Use lower pedal assist modes to put in more effort and get a better workout if your goal is to get fit.
How Do I Choose an Electric Folding Bike?
When choosing a folding ebike, it’s important to check for:
- 1. The bike’s weight
- 2. Tire size
- 3. Folding capacity
Folding ebikes should weigh around 40 to 70 pounds. The lighter the bike, the more portable it will be. You’ll also want to check the folding capacity to see how compact the bike becomes when folded up. Some folding ebikes only have handlebars that collapse into the frame, while others offer a great degree of foldability, tucking the frame and tires together in a smaller package.
Most folding bikes have 20-inch tires for easy folding, but you may want a model with wider tires to be able to ride on all types of terrain. For people who want to stick to city streets, narrow road tires are a better bet.
Among the options on the market, the Aventon Sinch.2 is a top choice. It easily compacts into a small, folded frame for simple transport and storage. Weighing 68 pounds, it boasts 4-inch fat tires, a 500-watt motor, and an up to 55-mile range for long adventures.
2. Fat-Tire Electric Bikes
Fat-tire electric bikes feature bigger tires that are three or four inches wide. They’re designed to easily ride through all types of terrain, from mud and sand to snow and ice. The wider contact patch provides better traction and acts as a secondary suspension by absorbing bumps on rough trails.
Are Fat Tires Better on an Ebike?
Fat tires on a bike improve grip and disperse weight more evenly, helping to improve stability. They offer a more comfortable riding experience on off-road terrain.
Are Fat-Tire Ebikes Good for Seniors?
Fat-tire ebikes are good for seniors because there’s less risk of injury due to better stability, reducing the risk of falls, joint stress, and are more low-impact compared to other electric bicycles. They tend to offer comfortable frame designs with step-through options that are easy to mount and dismount.
Are Fat-Tire Bikes Harder to Pedal?
Fat-tire bikes may be harder to pedal since they tend to be heavier than a regular bike, especially once the battery power runs out. The wider tires also create more resistance, requiring more effort to get going from a stop and when pedaling up steep hills. This may be counteracted by choosing a fat-tire ebike with a powerful motor.
The Aventon Aventure.2’s throttle makes it easier to pedal, creating fast, effortless mobility. However, since it’s a fat tire ebike, make sure you have plenty of battery power to get you where you’re going and back again.
Can You Ride a Fat-Tire Ebike on Pavement?
Yes, fat-tire ebikes can be ridden on all types of surfaces including pavement on bike paths and surfaced streets. These types of bikes are also capable of going off-road trails, and can roll over rocks, roots, snow, and everything in-between.
How Much Do Fat-Tire Electric Bikes Weigh?
Fat-tire ebikes weigh anywhere from 50 to 80 pounds or more. To accommodate bigger tires, manufacturers have to build larger frames, which weigh more than traditional bicycles. For reference, the Aventon Aventure.2 weighs 77 pounds.
Why Would You Want a Fat-Tire Electric Bike?
A fat-tire ebike is ideal for riders who want to be able to take their bike on a variety of terrain. They’re suitable for cyclists who are looking for more stable rides and for people who want to ride in all weather conditions, like rain, snow, or even on ice.
How Deep of Snow Can You Ride a Fat-Tire Bike In?
A fat-tire ebike can ride in 2 - 4 inches of snow, no problem. But the type of snow will impact how deep you can ride a fat-tire bike. Heavy wet snow may be limiting when it’s four or more inches deep, while you may be able to get through over a foot of powdery snow without any problems.
How Do I Choose a Fat-Tire Electric Bike?
When choosing a fat-tire electric bike, consider:
- 1. Motor power
- 2. Battery range
- 3. Tire specifications
- 4. Frame construction
Fat-tire electric bikes generally have large 750-watt motors and tires that are at least 3- to 4-inches wide. Designed for rough terrain, they have robust frames made of materials like aluminum and boast high payload capacities. For riders who want to go further, consider the bike’s range to ensure it meets the demands of your excursions.
One great option is the Aventon Aventure.2. This fat-tire ebike has 4-inch wide tires with knobby tread that provides firm grip on all types of surfaces. The durable single-butted aluminum alloy frame is tough and built to last. Plus, an up to 60-mile range means the fun never has to stop.
3. Cargo Electric Bikes
Cargo electric bikes are designed to haul it all, from kids to sports equipment like surfboards. These ebikes have powerful electric motors and large ebike batteries to carry heavy loads over long distances.
What’s the Difference Between a Cargo Ebike and an Ebike?
A cargo ebike typically has a larger payload capacity than a normal ebike and features a frame design that increases space for hauling gear and passengers. Cargo bikes are also designed to maintain stability when carrying heavy items.
They typically are more efficient for hauling heavier loads over longer distances, carrying over 400 pounds, while a standard ebike generally has a maximum weight capacity of 300 to 375 pounds. The Aventon Abound can carry up to 440 pounds and has incredible safety features, such as integrated lights with built-in turn signals.
What’s the Difference Between a Cargo Bike and a Cargo Ebike?
The main difference between a cargo bike and an e-cargo bike is that an e-cargo bike has an electric motor. It also typically has a pedal-assist feature that helps make riding uphill easier, for long commutes, transporting heavy cargo, or for people with mobility limitations.
What’s the Weight Limit for a Cargo Ebike?
The exact weight limit of a cargo ebike varies based on the brand, build, and manufacturer. They usually can carry anywhere between 300 & 500 pounds. For reference, the Aventon Abound & Abound SR cargo ebikes can carry up to 440 pounds.
What Are Cargo Ebikes Good For?
Cargo ebikes are great for hauling all kinds of gear and passengers. They’re also great for carrying big loads more comfortable and climbing hills easier, basic transportation like running errands, grocery shopping, or transporting kids and friends to school or other events
Some cargo ebikes, like the Abound, are designed for passengers and include features like footboards and rear seats. Others are outfitted to carry gear on racks over the rear wheel, over the front wheel, or using side rack attachments.
How Fast Does an Average Cargo Ebike Go?
Depending on the ebike classification, cargo ebikes can have a maximum speed from 20 to 28 mph using motor assistance. Class 1 and class 2 ebikes are limited to 20 mph, while class 3 ebikes max out at 28 mph. The Aventon Abound is a class 2 cargo ebike with a throttle, four pedal assist modes, and a top speed of 20 mph.
How Do You Transport a Cargo Ebike?
Since cargo ebikes weigh more than other ebikes, you’ll want to use a heavy-duty hitch bike rack or a special trailer to transport your bike.
Tips for adding on a bike rack/trailer:
- ✓ Remove the battery before loading: This makes the bike lighter and easier to load.
- ✓ Use a hitch/receiver-mounted, tray/platform-style rack: These racks are more likely to be rated to hold the weight of an ebike.
- ✓ Make sure the bike carrier doesn't block the license plate
- ✓ Make sure the rear and brake lights work.
Keep in mind, you may have to lift your ebike to load it on the rack, so look for trailers that have ramps for loading or hitch racks with a tilting system for easier loading.
You can also transport your ebike inside a vehicle. Here’s a few tips:
- ✓ Remove the front wheel and battery: This makes the bike lighter, easier to fit, and easier to lift
- ✓ Lay the bike drivetrain side up: This protects the components.
- ✓ Secure the bike to internal cargo mounting points: Use the T-shaped mounts on the sidewall or U-shaped loops in the floor.
- ✓ Protect the bike with a blanket: This protects it from damage.
How Do I Choose an Electric Cargo Bike?
When choosing an electric cargo bike, it’s important to look at the bike’s:
- 1. Motor power
- 2. Payload capacity
- 3. Battery life, and
- 4. Storage features
Cargo bikes need powerful motors (750 watts or more) and long-range batteries so you have the power to carry gear over further distances. Choose a bike that can handle the weight of the cargo you want to carry, and look for features like storage bags and racks that are suitable for your gear.
Also, check the manufacturer’s warranty, like Aventon's 2-year warranty, for added peace of mind. Make sure the bike has UL certification, or UL-equivalent certification, indicating it meets safety standards. Additional features such as turn signals and accessories can improve safety and convenience while riding.
Among the options available, the Aventon Abound is a strong choice for electric cargo biking. It combines a powerful motor, ample payload capacity, reliable battery life, and practical storage solutions, making it a great investment for anyone looking for an electric cargo bike.
4. Electric Mountain Bikes (eMTB)
Electric commuter mountain bikes are a fun way to get around if you plan on riding single track trails to the office. These ebikes include features like suspension to smooth out rough rides and hydraulic disc brakes for optimal stopping power. While other ebike categories mainly feature rear hub motors, eMTBs often have a mid-drive motor for better traction and hill climbing.
Are Electric Bikes Good for Mountain Biking?
Electric bikes are great for mountain biking because they improve accessibility and make riding more fun. They take the sting out of steep climbs so you can ride faster and longer. The additional weight can affect maneuverability on technical trails and make balance and control more difficult in steep terrain.
With the electric motor, you don’t have to put in as much effort, which means you can ride further without getting as tired.
What's the Difference Between an Electric Mountain Bike and an Electric Hybrid Bike?
The main difference is that hybrid bikes don’t always have a motor, while eMTBs do. Electric mountain bikes typically have a small mid-drive motor that sends power to the chainring. Most electric mountain bike batteries are integrated within the downtube of the bike's frame, while some are mounted externally.
Because of that, hybrid bikes are lighter, and they require more effort to ride. This motor provides varying levels of assistance, making it easier to tackle hills, long distances, or challenging terrains.
Hybrid bikes are usually lighter than a mountain bike but sturdier than a road bike. They also have upright seating, similar to a mountain bike, for enhanced comfort on longer rides.
How Far Can an Electric Mountain Bike Go?
The range of electric mountain bikes varies based on the battery power and motor, but can generally go up to 80 miles. Other factors like terrain, rider weight, and riding style can also impact range.
Some eMTBs can only go 20 miles, while others—like the Aventon Ramblas—can go up to 80 miles or more without needing a charger.
Are Electric Mountain Bikes Fast?
Depending on the class of the ebike, some eMTBs can go up to 28 mph, while others are limited to 20 mph. Most eMTBs are class 1 or class 2 ebikes since many areas have restrictions on class 3 bikes that go faster than 20 mph. While they can go 28 mph, it's often prohibitive to ride on select trails as they restrict to Class 1 ebikes.
Aventon’s Ramblas has a top speed of 20 mph and a range of up to 80 miles on a single charge, and is capable of going on most roads and trails regular bikes use.
Why Is Mid-Drive Better for Electric Mountain Bikes?
Mid-drive motors are more efficient than other ebike motors, meaning they can go further. Mid-drive motors have a lower gear ratio, providing better power for climbing steep hills and starting from a dead stop.
The mid-drive motor offers a more balanced and natural ride feel, as its centralized position provides better weight distribution and better handling of hills and varied terrain than hub-drive motors.
How Do I Choose an Electric Mountain Bike?
When choosing an electric mountain bike, evaluate the model’s:
- 1. Motor power
- 2. Torque
- 3. Suspension
- 4. Battery range
Among the most important specs on an electric mountain bike are motor power and torque. eMTBs should have powerful motors, but you also want to still get the feel of putting in the effort. In general, eMTBs should have motors with 250 watts of power, and the potential for higher peak output to make steep inclines easier to ride.
Torque controls acceleration on an eMTB by rotating the back wheel. The more torque you have, the more power you’ll get when starting on an incline. Most eMTBs have anywhere from 40 to 80 Newton-meters of torque.
Electric mountain bikes usually come as full suspension (a front and rear fork) or a hardtail (just a front fork). Full suspension ebikes are ideal for enduro rides since they absorb big drops and impacts, while hardtails are better suited for climbing.
Finally, consider the range of the bike so you can pick a model that will go as far as your favorite trails.
If you’re in the market for an eMTB, the Aventon Ramblas is a great option. It boasts 100 Newton-meters of torque and a 250-watt sustained power motor, which delivers 750 watts of peak power. The hardtail has a front suspension fork with 130mm of travel and a long range of up to 80 miles.
5. Commuter Electric Bikes
Commuter electric bikes are suitable for most riders, offering a fun and easy way of getting around town. They often include storage accessories and blend urban design with comfortable style elements.
What Is a Commuter Ebike?
A commuter ebike, also known as an urban ebike, is designed for your daily commute, leisure activities or long rides on paved and hard surfaces like packed gravel. It’s an all-around ebike with pedal assist modes and motors to make riding easy.
What Are the Characteristics of a Commuter Ebike?
Electric commuter bikes focus on convenience and comfort, available in step-over and step-through styles. They typically include accessories like rear racks, safety lights, and fenders to enhance usability. These bikes usually have larger tires for better stability and are powered by medium-sized motors around 500 to 750-watts, providing ample power without being too much.
Commuter ebikes can reach speeds of 20 to 28 mph and have a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge. Their wide tires offer stability and support the extra weight of the motor and battery, with many models featuring puncture-resistant treads to reduce flat tires.
The frames are often made from lighter materials like aluminum alloy, making them more resistant to rust than steel. Designed for an upright riding position, commuter ebikes help reduce strain on your back and shoulders for a more comfortable experience.
Safety features include reflective elements, front and rear lights, and hydraulic disc brakes for better stopping power. Many models also come with practical accessories like rear racks for cargo, fenders to guard against splashes, and battery-powered lights for visibility in low light.
Is an Ebike Worth It for Commuting?
Yes, investing in an ebike for commuting is a smart choice for several reasons. Ebikes are usually cheaper than regular cars and need less maintenance, making them cost-effective over time. They also help the environment by promoting sustainable transportation. Plus, riding an ebike is a fun way to get exercise in your daily routine.
Using an ebike for commuting lets you avoid traffic jams and the hassle of finding parking, making your travel more efficient. Ebikes help you maintain your desired speed, which can shorten your commute. They are particularly useful in hilly areas, making cycling easier. Riding an ebike can burn 300 to 400 calories per hour, providing great health benefits.
Additionally, many ebikes can carry cargo, making them suitable for transporting kids or other items, which adds to their versatility as a commuting option.
What’s the Difference Between a Street Bike and a Commuter Bike?
The main difference between street bikes and commuter bikes is their design and purpose. Commuter bikes focus on comfort and practicality, offering a relaxed ride, while street bikes are built for speed and performance.
Commuter bikes are heavier, with wider tires for better stability and traction on city roads. They have flat handlebars for easy steering and an upright riding position, making them ideal for daily commutes. Their cushioned saddle adds comfort, especially for longer rides.
Street bikes, on the other hand, are lightweight with narrow tires, built for fast rides on smooth roads. They have a more aggressive, aerodynamic riding position for higher speeds. Street bikes are designed for quick maneuvering and efficiency.
Commuter bikes are great for comfort, while street bikes are best for speed and agility.
How Do I Choose a Commuter Electric Bike?
To choose a commuter electric bike, think about:
- 1. Speed and range
- 2. Storage
- 3. Safety features
Commuter ebikes are designed to get you around town, and speed is a critical factor. Class 2 ebikes will have a top speed of 20 mph, while class 3 ebikes have a top speed of 28 mph. Range is another important consideration as you don’t want your bike to run out of juice halfway to the office.
Your commuter bike should also offer some form of storage with a front or rear rack so you can load up your work bag or school supplies. Keep an eye out for safety features, like lighting and reflectors, to make it easier for others to see you on a busy commute.
The Aventon Level.2 is an excellent commuter option as it can toggle between class 2 and class 3 modes. An integrated rear rack makes it easy to carry your bags, and safety features like front and rear lights keep you visible in traffic.
6. Step-Through Electric Bikes
Another option when it comes to commuter electric bikes is a step-through ebike. These bikes feature a frame without a top bar, making it easier to mount and dismount the bike.
Are Step-Through Bikes Heavier?
Yes, step-through bikes are often slightly heavier than conventional bikes because they are built with more durable materials to compensate for the lack of a top frame tube.
An ebike’s weight will depend on the specific bike model, how it's constructed, and its components. You can find step-through bikes in a range of weights. Some are heavier and some are lighter than similar step-over models. For example, Aventon's step-through bike models range in weight from 54 to 82 pounds.
Do Men Ride Step-Through Ebikes?
Yes, step-through ebikes are designed for all ages and genders, including men. While women have traditionally enjoyed this bike style since it’s easy to ride in a dress or skirt, men will like the ease of use and sleek design.
What Does "Low-Step Bike" Mean?
A low-step bike is a step-through bike without a top bar or low top tube. The name comes from the fact that riders can easily step through the bike without having to raise their leg high over a top bar.
Low-step bikes are useful for people who have limited mobility, such as those with injuries, height, or age-related issues that make it difficult to lift their leg over a high step frame.
Can You Put a Step-Through Bike on a Bike Rack?
Yes, step-through bikes are perfectly suitable for bike racks, just be sure to check the weight restrictions of the rack against your bike’s weight.
How Do I Choose a Step-Through Electric Bike?
To choose a step-through ebike, take a look at:
- 1. Frame sizing
- 2. Frame style
Step-through ebikes come in several different styles—from fat-tire ebikes to commuters and cruisers. Decide what style you want, and then examine the frame sizing. You’ll want to pay attention to step-over height to ensure you can easily get on and off the bike, especially if you’re shorter.
The Aventon Level.2 is a great step-through ebike for people who want a commuter style ebike. It comes in two frame sizes that fit riders between 5’3” and 6’4” tall. It boasts a comfortable saddle and has both pedal assist and a throttle for easy riding.
7. Cruiser Electric Bikes
Cruiser electric bikes are all about comfort and style. Featuring a casual build, they boast an upright riding position, comfortable handlebars, and cushioned saddles. Pedal assist, an electric motor, and features like lighting make cruising around on this type of ebike a breeze.
What's the Difference Between a Cruiser Bike and a Hybrid Bike?
Hybrid bikes blend the traits of road bikes with mountain bikes and are built to be fast, lightweight, and agile. Cruiser bikes are more durable with wider tires, hardier frames, and more comfort features like thick, padded seats.
Do Cruiser Ebikes Go Fast?
Cruiser ebikes can reach different top speeds based on their classification. The top speed of a cruiser ebike also depends on the rider's strength and ability.
Class 1 and class 2 cruiser ebikes have top speeds of 20 mph, while class 3 cruisers can go as fast as 28 mph. The Aventon Pace ships as a class 2 ebike with a top speed of 20 mph, but using the Aventon app, it can be unlocked to a class 3 ebike with a maximum speed of 28 mph. The Pace also has a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge.
Why Do People Buy Cruiser Ebikes?
People choose cruiser bikes primarily for style, their comfort, and ease of use, making them an ideal option for those who want to cover long distances while enjoying a relaxed and enjoyable ride. The upright seating position, cushioned handlebar grips, and overall stability ensure a smooth and comfortable experience, perfect for leisurely rides.
Cruiser ebikes are also known for their ease of use, making them a great choice for beginners or anyone looking for a low-maintenance, hassle-free ride. Their simple design and intuitive handling allow riders to easily maneuver through various terrains.
For casual riders, cruiser ebikes excel in providing a steady, laid-back experience, whether cruising around town or riding along paved paths. Their stable build makes them perfect for relaxed outings, with minimal effort required to maintain balance and control.
Can You Ride a Cruiser Ebike Long Distances?
Yes, cruiser bikes, known for their comfort, are an excellent choice for long-distance rides. The range you can cover depends on the specific bike model and factors like the pedal assist mode, rider weight, and riding style. For instance, the Aventon Pace 500.3 can travel up to 60 miles on a single charge.
Cruiser ebikes are also energy-efficient, designed to help riders maintain a steady pace over extended periods without exhausting themselves. Their durable tires are perfect for low-speed, low-impact rides, making them ideal for paved bike lanes and dirt paths alike.
In terms of versatility, cruiser bikes are great for a variety of terrains, whether you're riding on trails, open roads, or navigating through city traffic. This flexibility makes them a reliable option for many different types of riding experiences.
How Do You Tell If a Bike Is a Cruiser?
Cruiser ebikes generally offer an upright riding position and relaxed frame style. They often have wide swept-back handlebars, balloon tires, an upright seating posture, and a single-speed drivetrain. They may also have wider tires for better traction and puncture resistance. These bikes also tend to have larger seats for added comfort.
Can You Get Good Exercise on a Cruiser Ebike?
Yes, like all ebikes, cruisers offer great exercise—and you have control over how much effort you exert. A low pedal assist mode will give you a better workout, while higher modes offer support and an easy way to start exercising on your ebike.
How Do I Choose a Cruiser Electric Bike?
To choose a cruiser electric bike, consider:
- 1. Frame design
- 2. Comfort
- 3. Range
- 4. Motor power
Cruisers generally have an upright frame with swept-back handlebars. This allows riders to sit upright, without straining their back. Cruisers also tend to have cushioned grips and comfortable seats that are wider than on other ebike models.
Be sure to check the range and motor power of the model you’re considering. Cruisers typically have long ranges and mid-range motors that deliver enough power to get up steep hills, but not too much so it feels overwhelming.
If you’re looking for a cruiser ebike, take a look at the Aventon Pace 500.3. This ebike has a 500-watt motor and a long range of up to 60 miles. It features an upright riding position with swept-back handlebars that are comfortable to hold onto with ergonomic grips. The wide, padded saddle makes even longer rides comfortable.
8. Lightweight Electric Bikes
For riders who want speed, agility, and maneuverability, lightweight electric bikes are the perfect choice. These ebikes are designed to be light, making them easy to load onto a roof rack or carry upstairs to a second-floor apartment.
How Much Does a Lightweight Ebike Weigh?
Lightweight ebikes may be as low as 40 pounds. They have compact motors and batteries, so the motor has to work less hard to travel the same distance
However, whether a bike is lightweight to you will be subjective. You'll want to find the right balance between bike weight, payload capacity, and riding style for your specific needs. The Aventon Soltera.2, a lightweight road ebike, weighs just 46 pounds.
How Heavy Are Most Ebikes?
Most ebikes weigh between 30 and 85 pounds. Electric bikes weigh more than traditional pedal bikes because they have electronics, including a motor and battery. These can weigh around 8 to 10 pounds each, increasing the overall weight of the bike. Other factors that affect the weight of an ebike include the frame construction (aluminum, carbon fiber, etc.) and components like racks and wheels.
How Much Does an Aventon Ebike Weigh?
Aventon ebikes range in weight from 46 pounds up to 82 pounds depending on the model of the ebike. Here’s how much each Aventon bike weighs:
- ✓ Soltera.2: 46 pounds
- ✓ Pace 500.3: 54 pounds
- ✓ Ramblas: 54 pounds
- ✓ Level.2: 62 pounds
- ✓ Sinch.2: 68 pounds
- ✓ Aventure.2: 77 pounds
- ✓ Abound: 82 pounds
What Are the Benefits of a Lightweight Ebike?
Lightweight electric bikes are easier to handle and perfect for various riding situations. Their lighter weight makes it simpler to swerve around obstacles or carry the bike over gates, bridges, or stairs, which is especially useful in cities.
These bikes feel more like regular bicycles, offering a smooth, easy ride. They're also simpler to lift onto car racks or carry upstairs, making them great for transport.
Because they’re lighter, they use less energy, so the motor works more efficiently. Many lightweight ebikes also look sleeker with smaller batteries and motors, resembling traditional bikes.
For commuting, they’re practical and easy to move around, making them ideal for those who want a lighter, more manageable option.
How Do I Choose a Lightweight Electric Bike?
To choose a lightweight electric bike, take a look at:
- 1. Bike weight
- 2. Frame design
The most critical component of a lightweight electric bike is its weight. These bikes generally range from 25 to 55 pounds, with lighterweight options typically costing more money. That’s because the lightest ebikes usually have carbon fiber frames. Lightweight ebikes should also have aerodynamic frames, since they’re built for speed and agility.
The Aventon Soltera.2 is a top pick for riders looking for a lightweight road bike. Weighing 46 pounds, it perfectly blends lightweight functionality with affordability thanks to its $1,199 MSRP price tag. It boasts a geometrically laced frame built for aerodynamics and speed.
Choosing Types of Electric Bikes
There are many different types of electric bikes and choosing the right one can be tricky. Consider your budget, riding style, and preferences when selecting an ebike category. You’ll also want to look at things like motor power, battery life, and features to find the right ebike type for your needs.
Keep in mind that the class of ebike you pick can also affect how fast you can go and where you can ride your bike. It’s a good idea to find a bike shop and schedule a test ride to see how the exact type and model feels—and how well it fits.
