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Electric Bike Buyers Guide

All you need to know about buying your first electric bike

How Electric Bikes Work

Electric bikes (e-bikes) combine the power of pedalling with assistance from a battery-powered motor. There are two main systems: pedal-assist, which provides power as you pedal, and throttle systems, which deliver power on demand.

In the UK, e-bikes must assist only when the rider is pedalling, and the motor must cut out at 15.5 mph. Some e-bikes come with a kick-start throttle that helps you get moving from a standstill, ideal for steep inclines or when carrying loads.

E-bikes amplify your pedalling power, making cycling easier and faster, whether you're commuting, running errands, or heading off-road.

What Kind of E-Bikes Are There?

Cargo E-bikes

These bikes are built for transporting heavy loads, making them an excellent choice for delivery services or families who need to carry passengers or shopping. With larger frames, powerful motors, and long-range batteries, cargo e-bikes are a practical and eco-friendly alternative to cars.

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City & Urban E-Bikes

Designed for city commuting and errands, these e-bikes offer features like fenders, lights, and racks for practicality. They usually have medium-powered motors suitable for urban terrain, and their lightweight design makes them easy to handle.

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Fat Tyre E-bikes

Perfect for rough terrain, sand, or snow, fat tyre e-bikes offer superior stability and shock absorption. Their extra-wide tyres give better grip on loose surfaces, making them popular for off-road adventures.

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Folding E-Bikes

Ideal for commuters who need a compact, portable bike that can be stored in small spaces or taken on public transport. Folding e-bikes are perfect for city dwellers with limited storage or those who combine cycling with other modes of transport.

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Hybrid E-Bikes

Hybrid e-bikes are versatile machines that can handle both city streets and light off-road trails. Combining elements of road and mountain bikes, they offer a balance of comfort and performance, making them great all-rounders.

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Mountain E-Bikes

Mountain e-bikes are built for off-road riding, equipped with powerful motors to tackle steep climbs and rugged trails. These bikes have durable frames, enhanced suspension, and fat tyres for better performance on difficult terrain.

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Step-Through E-Bikes

Offering easy mounting and dismounting, step-through e-bikes are designed for comfort and convenience. These bikes are perfect for leisurely rides or commuting, providing an upright, relaxed riding position that suits riders of all ages.

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Other E-Bikes

We also stock a wide-range of more bespoke e-bikes. Perfect for commuting, transporting cargo, or just looking plain stylish, Eskuta offer a unique approach to the typical e-bike with their SX-250 line up. These e-bikes are fully road-legal and do not require any licence/MOT/insurance/tax to use! To explore the range, click the link below.

Discover Eskuta Here

What to Look for When Buying an Electric Bike?

Buying an e-bike can seem complex, but knowing what to prioritise makes the process easier. Here are some key factors to consider:

Stay Open to Different Styles

E-bikes come in various styles, and it’s important to stay open-minded. Even if you’ve always ridden a particular type of bike, you might find that a step-through or folding e-bike is more practical. Modern advancements in materials and motor technology mean there are now crossover styles that offer the best of multiple bike types.

Anticipate More Riding

Because e-bikes make cycling easier and more enjoyable, many riders find themselves cycling more often and for longer distances. Investing in a model that is comfortable and durable enough for frequent use ensures a better long-term experience.

Ensure Proper Fit

A well-fitted e-bike is crucial for comfort and preventing strain, especially on longer rides. Carefully considering right size and geometry for your body type will make a massive difference. A comfortable riding position will make your bike more enjoyable and prevent injuries. You can find our size guide here.

Consider Maintenance

E-bikes are a long-term investment, and it’s essential to choose a brand with reliable support. Ensure that spare parts, such as batteries and motors, are readily available, and that the retailer offers solid customer service and after-sales support. Regular maintenance will extend the life of your e-bike.

Hub Vs Mid Drive

Hub-drive e-bikes are the most common category. They have the motor in the front or rear wheel, offering a simpler, quieter, and more affordable system but may struggle more on steep hills. Mid-drive e-bikes place the motor at the pedals, using the bike’s gears for better hill climbing and a more natural ride, though they tend to cost a little more and need extra maintenance.

Choose a hub-drive for a smoother, budget-friendly ride on flatter terrain. Opt for a mid-drive if you need better hill performance or plan to ride off-road.

Understanding Battery Size and Range

The size of the battery plays a significant role in how far you can travel on a single charge. Most e-bikes come with batteries ranging from 11Ah to 20Ah. A 13Ah battery typically provides a range of 60-65 miles, though terrain, rider weight, and riding style can affect this.

For longer commutes or more challenging terrain, look for a bike with a higher-capacity battery. If this is a priority, we would recommend our Himiway and Engwe collections. You can also filter by battery size on all of our collection pages.

Best Value for Money

E-bikes provide a convenient and eco-friendly way to commute, run errands, or enjoy leisure rides, saving you time and effort while reducing fuel costs. With options for city commuting, off-road use, or casual rides, you can find the right fit for your lifestyle.

When choosing an e-bike, focus on what matters most: price, power, and terrain suitability. Consider factors like battery capacity, brand, brakes, display, frame, tyres, and weight capacity. Choose the e-bike that best meets your riding needs and budget.

Evaluating Where to Make Your Purchase

While you may find cheaper e-bikes from international retailers, these savings often come at the cost of quality. Lower-priced bikes may use inferior materials and components, leading to a shorter lifespan. At Bike Yard Online, we prioritise quality, offering bikes with premium materials from trusted brands for durability and safety.

Beyond just selling bikes, we provide dedicated after-sales service with expert advice and a repair service, ensuring your bike stays in top condition. We also offer 14 days free insurance through our partner, Cycler on all EAPCs, as well as minimum 6-month warranties that you won’t find with many overseas retailers, giving you peace of mind and long-term protection.

At Bike Yard Online, we deliver a personalised experience, guiding you to the ideal bike that matches your needs and ensuring you enjoy every ride for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Buying an electric bike is a fantastic investment in your health, convenience, and the environment. By understanding key technical details like motor power and battery capacity, you can choose the e-bike that perfectly suits your lifestyle.

When you invest in an e-bike from a reputable retailer like Bike Yard Online, you're not just buying a bike - you're gaining a long-term partner in your cycling journey.

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