Updated: December 2017
Electric Bike Reviews:
Is an Electric Bike Right for You? - It's not a bike. It's not a motorcycle. It's not even a moped. So what is an electric bike? It is a bike that is powered by an electric motor. Electric bikes are starting to catch on in the United States, where about 300,000 were sold in 2010, but they are tremendously popular in China, where there are about 120 million electric bikes. India, the Netherlands, and Europe are also hopping aboard the e-bike in record numbers. Why? Gas, insurance, and upkeep of a motor vehicle are expensive undertakings, and in densely crowded areas, such as in Beijing, traffic is a nightmare. Electric bikes provide an affordable and quicker mode of transportation for millions of people. Whether you want to save money on your commute or you want greater convenience and freedom, an electric bike might be the answer you've been looking for. This guide will help you get going with the right bike so you can speed off (at 20 miles per) to your destination.


About Electric Bikes - One factor that keeps people from riding their bikes to work or on errands is that you arrive sweaty and messy - and you have to go up those big hills! An electric bike can help you get up hills, through headwinds, or start from a stop. The rest of the time, you can enjoy some exercise in bike mode. Electric bikes are slower than motorcycles; they get a top speed of about 15 to 20 mph. But this can be a perfect way to relax and enjoy the scenery as you go to the store or stop at the post office. You're saving gas and reducing green house emissions dramatically by not taking your car on short errands - and you can fit into tiny, but convenient, parking spots. Unlike motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds, an e-bike is relatively quiet and doesn't have the strong noxious gas fumes.
Another top reason why people opt for an e-bike is the laws. While laws vary by jurisdiction, in general, one doesn't need a license to operate an electric bike. This makes it a great alternative for those without licenses or those who have lost their driving privileges. Even teenagers can get back and forth to work or school without having to ask mom or dad for the car. There are very few laws regulating e-bikes, so it is much more freeing than an automobile. (Though it may be perfectly legal, you always want to be cautious to avoid accidents and injuries).
What to Look for in an Electric Bike - Electric bikes are weak and unreliable. They're heavy, ugly, and good only for a 5mph chug along a flat road. This may have been true a generation ago, but today's electric bikes have been revolutionized by companies like Hebb and Optibike. They may be slim but there is some muscle there. The most important feature of the bike is the motor. In many countries, electric bikes are not allowed to go faster than 20 to 25 mph. Because of this, and the small size of the bike, the motor is not large. These aren't Harley's, remember; they are electric bikes. The motor is supposed to give you a little boost up hills and such. 300, 350, and 750 watt motors are common. Here are some other features to look for:
*Weight rating. Many models carry riders up to 250 pounds, so make sure to get a larger model, if necessary, to avoid damaging the bike or yourself!
*Maximum speed rating. Some go up to 15 mph; some up to 25 mph.
*Comfortable design and saddle.
*High quality battery. Many models offer lithium battery technology, which provides long life.
*Miles per charge. A range of 15 - 22 miles for every charge will get you to the store and back several times before you need to plug the battery in. Make sure you have sufficient battery life for your needs.
*Style. You can find cruiser-style, mountain, and motocross styles, so choose according to your preference and comfort.
*Rear rack. This is helpful for carrying groceries or work gear.
*Cost. Electric bikes can cost from $300 to $3000; set a budget, and get the most bike you can for your money. Remember, you may want to spend a little more if you're going to be saving on gas, insurance, and other car-related costs.
Electric Bike Reviews - Want to read reviews on the latest models and get opinions and feedback from actual owners. We say go to Electricbikee.com, Electricbikereport.com, or Nycewheels.com. They all offer up comments from electric bike owners and give you professional guidance on which models are the best. We also like the selection on Amazon.com - good prices and plenty to choose from. You can browse the best selling electric bikes online here
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What to Look for in an Electric Bike - Electric bikes are weak and unreliable. They're heavy, ugly, and good only for a 5mph chug along a flat road. This may have been true a generation ago, but today's electric bikes have been revolutionized by companies like Hebb and Optibike. They may be slim but there is some muscle there. The most important feature of the bike is the motor. In many countries, electric bikes are not allowed to go faster than 20 to 25 mph. Because of this, and the small size of the bike, the motor is not large. These aren't Harley's, remember; they are electric bikes. The motor is supposed to give you a little boost up hills and such. 300, 350, and 750 watt motors are common. Here are some other features to look for:
*Weight rating. Many models carry riders up to 250 pounds, so make sure to get a larger model, if necessary, to avoid damaging the bike or yourself!
*Maximum speed rating. Some go up to 15 mph; some up to 25 mph.
*Comfortable design and saddle.
*High quality battery. Many models offer lithium battery technology, which provides long life.
*Miles per charge. A range of 15 - 22 miles for every charge will get you to the store and back several times before you need to plug the battery in. Make sure you have sufficient battery life for your needs.
*Style. You can find cruiser-style, mountain, and motocross styles, so choose according to your preference and comfort.
*Rear rack. This is helpful for carrying groceries or work gear.
*Cost. Electric bikes can cost from $300 to $3000; set a budget, and get the most bike you can for your money. Remember, you may want to spend a little more if you're going to be saving on gas, insurance, and other car-related costs.
Electric Bike Reviews - Want to read reviews on the latest models and get opinions and feedback from actual owners. We say go to Electricbikee.com, Electricbikereport.com, or Nycewheels.com. They all offer up comments from electric bike owners and give you professional guidance on which models are the best. We also like the selection on Amazon.com - good prices and plenty to choose from. You can browse the best selling electric bikes online here