The first point to consider is what style of bike you are looking for so whether that be a step through bike in the classic design, a crossbar version, a mountain bike or perhaps a folding bike, you may see mention of hybrids and this refers to bikes that are suitable for trail use as well as road use, wheel size may be a factor as you will get a smoother ride from a larger wheel i.e. 28″ (700c) or 26″ wheel as these are better road runners. If the hybrid will be used for more trail than road work do consider a wider width of tyre for extra stability. The step through bikes provide a much easier way to mount/dismount, Mountain bikes or E-MTB’S as they are known are great for off road use incorporating trails and rugged terrain, whilst folding bikes have the added advantage of being totally portable, our folding bikes typically fold down to the size of a medium size cardboard box and can be easily transported in even a small hatchback car.

The ampere rating (AH) or watt hour rating (WH) will determine the length of distance the bike can travel on a charge dependent on terrain, rider weight and weather related cycling conditions, as a rule of thumb the list below is an approximate distance the batteries can provide. A 10AH or 375WH Battery will give an approx. distance of 27-35 miles and a 16AH battery will give an approx. distance 60-70 miles as a general rule of thumb.

A really key factor for your comfort and riding experience is correct size of frame so below we have listed an approximate manufacturers guide for sizing by height of rider:

Height 4’10” – 5’2″ Frame Size Hybrid 14″- 16″ For MTB – 12″- 14″

Height 5’2″ – 5’6″ Frame Size Hybrid 16″- 18″ For MTB – 14″- 16″

Height 5’6″ – 5’10” Frame Size Hybrid 18″- 20″ For MTB = 16″- 18″

Height 5’10” – 6’1″ Frame Size Hybrid 20″- 22″ For MTB = 18″- 20″

Height 6’1″ – 6’4″ Frame Size Hybrid 22″- 24″ For MTB = 20″- 22″

There are two main types of electric bike drive systems being either central crank drive or hub driven systems.

Crank Driven Electric Bikes have the motor located in the middle of the bike frame, where the bottom bracket normally sits. The drive system propels the bike through the chain with the use of the gears in the rear wheel. This is a high efficiency system allowing the bike to create extra torque in effect allowing for climbing very steep hills! Crank drives are regulated as pedal assist so the rider will receive assistance as required as long as they are pedalling.

Hub Driven Electric Bikes have the motor located as a hub (mounted in either the front or rear wheel) they are very effective but will loose some efficiency compared to the crank drive bikes although typically a range of 40+ miles is common. It is cheaper to mount the motor in this location so invariably these can be purchased on a lower budget. We at e-bikestore.co.uk can offer a fully legal throttle controlled hub driven e-bike where required – please enquire on 0800 644 6700 for details.