When considering purchasing an electric bicycle, there are several factors that can influence its cost, such as the frame material, motor power, battery capacity, and place of origin.
It is important to determine a suitable budget based on individual preferences and needs, while also ensuring that the chosen electric bike is dependable, long-lasting, and suitable for its intended purpose.
When it comes to purchasing an electric bike, it’s important to keep in mind that different price ranges can reflect different levels of quality and features. Here are some general guidelines:
While it’s possible to find electric bikes priced under $1100, typically sold in supermarkets, it’s important to keep in mind that at this price range, it’s difficult to find a bike that meets the necessary criteria for a good electric bike experience. These criteria include:
Thus, it’s recommended to invest in an electric bike with a higher price point in order to ensure a better and more enjoyable experience.
When it comes to purchasing a good quality electric bike for around $1600, it can be challenging to find one that meets the necessary criteria. However, it’s possible to find deals through promotions or clearance sales.
On the used market, good quality second-hand e-bikes can be difficult to come by due to high demand. When choosing a used electric bicycle, it’s important to consider the following criteria:
In the $1600 price range, it can be challenging to find electric bikes with integrated solutions and modern designs, but there are options available from reliable European brands with quality engines and equipment.
This budget allows access to new electric city or touring bikes, which are excellent options for those looking to explore this mode of transportation. These bikes typically have sufficient quality in design and components to support regular or occasional use for short to medium distances.
The $2500 to $4000 price range offers the largest selection of electric bikes. If the budget falls short, various bonuses and subsidies may be available to help cover the remaining cost and acquire a higher-end electric bike. It’s recommended to seek advice from a specialist store regarding financing options.
This price range features a broad selection of well-designed electric bikes, including city bikes, velotafs, VTCs, and touring bikes. Although they may not showcase the latest design innovations, electric bikes in this price range typically offer a great balance of careful integration, good range, and powerful motorization.
Mountain bikes with rigid electric assistance for extended rides on steep terrains can also be found in this range. Mustache is a brand that offers several models suitable for this practice.
For those seeking to transport children, cargo bikes at affordable prices start appearing in this range. Yuba’s extended cargo bikes, as well as Babboe’s two-wheelers and scooters, offer excellent value for money, even without additional options.
This price range offers electric bikes suitable for all types of activities, with the common feature of advanced designs capable of handling intensive usage.
In contrast to the previous price range, these electric bikes come equipped with high-end components and the latest technologies and innovations.
Electric mountain bikes with full suspension for high-altitude riding, lightweight carbon road bikes with great range, and urban bikes with integrated designs are all available in this range. Additionally, cargo bikes with dedicated options such as rain protection, saddlebags, and child seats can be found.
Finally, there are speed-bikes available, which are designed for fast and efficient city riding. These bikes are well-suited for commuting and can provide a thrilling experience for riders looking for a faster pace.
When it comes to an exceptional budget, an exceptional electric bike can be acquired. After a satisfying first purchase, individuals may desire to invest in a bike entirely designed for their intended use. A high budget allows for the combination of all necessary criteria and options, resulting in the best electric bike equipment available.
This includes a carbon frame, electronic gear systems, a belt drive, a double battery for extended range, powerful and connected motorization, and custom, professional cargo bikes.
The price of recharging an e-bike battery is dependent on the capacity of the battery and the electricity price. This cost is directly related to the distance traveled with a single charge.
A basic calculation, assuming an average battery capacity of 500Wh (or 60km range depending on usage) and the average electricity cost of $0.15 per kWh, suggests that the cost of a single recharge is around $0.075.
The battery is a vital component of an electric bike, but its lifespan is easy to predict and replacements are infrequent.
Respected electric bike manufacturers like Bosch, Yamaha, Shimano, Panasonic, and Brose design their batteries to last over time and meet stringent European durability standards. The batteries come with a two-year warranty, and after 500 charge cycles, they retain at least 50% of their initial capacity. In other words, a battery that originally offered 60km of range would still provide 30km of range after 500 cycles.
Our experience with these manufacturers shows that battery capacity does not decrease as much after 30,000km as predicted. During diagnostics, we often find batteries that have completed almost 1000 cycles and still provide satisfactory autonomy to users.
Most electric bike batteries have a 500W capacity and cost around $800 when new. Assuming 30,000km of use over 5 years, the annual cost of the battery is $160, or $13.30 per month, which equates to $0.026 per kilometer.
Electric bikes are the most cost-effective vehicles for urban and extra-urban journeys. It’s worth noting that these calculations are based on a pessimistic average consumption, and a 500W battery can cover even more kilometers for leisure, commuting, and trekking purposes.
An electric bicycle has the same mechanical components as a regular bicycle, but some brands use specific electric bike components designed to handle the extra strain of an eBike.
Electric city bikes, for example, are increasingly incorporating geared hub and belt transmissions, which have less wear than traditional derailleur systems.
The cost of spare parts, labor, and maintenance for an eBike will be equivalent to a regular bicycle, with the frequency of maintenance being the main difference. Factors affecting maintenance frequency include:
The power delivered by the motor, which can cause faster wear of chainrings, pinions, and chains. Some models have components adapted to the motor power.
The higher speeds of eBikes, which put more strain on the brakes. Manufacturers are designing braking systems specifically for eBikes.
The increased frequency and length of use of eBikes compared to regular bicycles.
The type of use, such as city riding or mountain biking, which can affect component wear.
The price of spare parts for an eBike is lower than other means of transport, and hourly labor in a bike shop workshop averages $60.
A cyclist who follows recommended maintenance intervals for a daily 30 km ride will typically have two bike check-ups per year, including the replacement of chains and sprockets, reinforced tires and inner tubes, brake pads, cables and sheaths, and other peripheral repairs or replacements. These two check-ups and replacements cost an average of $870 per year, or $72.5 per month, or 15 cents per kilometer based on an annual distance of 6,000 km.
Electric bikes offer significant cost savings as they eliminate many of the constraints associated with other vehicles:
Using an electric bike as a replacement for a car or motorcycle can result in significant cost savings for the owner. Not only is the purchase price of an electric bike much lower, but the ongoing expenses for using and maintaining it are also significantly reduced.
For businesses, investing in electric bikes can be financially beneficial. In urban and suburban areas, electric bikes can achieve an average speed of 20 km/h (compared to 15 km/h for cars) and do not require time-consuming parking. This means that more appointments can be scheduled in a day, leading to increased productivity.
Compared to other professional vehicles, the cost of purchasing and using electric bikes is much lower. The average annual cost of other professional vehicles is around $6,000, making electric bikes a cost-effective choice.
If you are considering purchasing a low-cost e-bike, such as those sold in supermarkets and with questionable origins, it is important to note that these bicycles may not be reliable. The reliability of an electric bicycle depends on the intended usage. If you are a daily commuter in an urban area, a weekend recreational cyclist, or a frequent mountain biker, the lifespan and maintenance needs of the bicycle will vary significantly.
Choosing to save on the cost of an electric bicycle may result in a reliability risk and limit its potential use. Discount electric bicycles often have low-quality spare parts and consumables that wear out quickly, requiring frequent replacements. This can ultimately be more expensive than investing in a high-quality electric bike and may also compromise the safety of the rider.
Buying a second-hand electric bike can be a cost-effective way to get one for yourself. However, there are important things to consider when making the purchase, such as asking the seller for information about the bike’s maintenance history, engine diagnosis, original invoice, warranty period, and past usage.
It’s also crucial to thoroughly test the bike before buying, especially when purchasing from an individual seller. Alternatively, buying from a store that offers reconditioned second-hand bikes with a store guarantee can provide the best value for money on a budget.
By taking these steps, you can increase the chances of finding a good second-hand electric bike at an affordable price.
There are various ways to save money when purchasing an electric bike.
Financing and long-term rentals can help spread out the investment over time. Additionally, some communities offer subsidies for electric bike purchases, which can be combined with the state’s ecological bonus. If you already own a quality electric bike, reselling it can help finance the purchase of a new one.
For daily commuters, employers may contribute to travel costs through the Bicycle Kilometric Allowance (IKV). Some companies even offer bonuses for employees who purchase electric bikes and provide repair services at the workplace, reducing maintenance costs throughout the year.
Professionals may also consider the use of electric bikes in their travel expenses, as they offer low maintenance and usage costs while saving time on the job. Electric cargo bikes, in particular, can be a wise investment for businesses such as artisans or liberal professionals.
By taking advantage of these opportunities, individuals and businesses can save money and reduce their carbon footprint.