Most Frequently Asked Questions About E-Bikes

20 Most Frequently Asked Questions About E-Bikes | Electric Bike FAQs

Electric bikes are everywhere—a popular choice for commuters, adventurers, and basically everyone else. But with this growing popularity comes a lot of questions. If you’ve been eyeing an e-bike or just wondering what all the fuss is about, you’re not alone.

In this post, we’re answering 20 of the most common questions people have about e-bikes, so you can see if they’re the right fit for your lifestyle. Let's get started.

aventon abound electric bike  ride

Your 20 Most Common Questions Answered

1. What is an e-bike?

An e-bike, or electric bike, is basically a bicycle equipped with a battery and an electric motor that assists with pedalling. It looks like a regular bike, but with pedalling assistance, it makes it easier for you to ride faster, tackle hills, and cover longer distances.

2. How do e-bikes work?

Electric bikes are powered by a motor, which activates to provide pedalling assistance and make riding easier. Some e-bikes are also equipped with a throttle, which allows you to move forward even without pedalling. 

Depending on whether your e-bike uses a cadence or torque sensor, the way it will provide pedal assistance will vary (more about these sensors below). You can adjust the level of pedalling assistance through different settings or modes. Meanwhile, a rechargeable battery powers the motor and directly impacts your electric bike’s range and efficiency.

3. What are the different types of e-bikes?

Different types of electric bikes cater to different types of riders. Here are some of the most common types to get you started:

Commuter: It is built for urban roads and typically achieves moderate speeds that adhere to most cities’ speed limits. It is also typically lighter than other e-bikes so it is easier to transport and carry around.

Cruiser: Designed for leisurely riding, a cruiser e-bike is characterised by oversized handlebars, an ultra-comfortable padded seat, and an upright riding position—all reminiscent of vintage cruiser bikes.

Fat-Tyre: For off-road riding, fat-tyre ebikes use oversized tyres and robust motors to tackle challenging terrain. Thanks to excellent stability and grip, they are perfect for riding over loose terrain like sand and snow.

Cargo & Family: With extra storage space and the option to carry passengers, an electric cargo bike is an excellent alternative to a car. They are a great choice for carrying packages, picking up groceries, or transporting kids.

Mountain: Engineered to handle rigorous riding on steep hills and rough terrain, e-mountain bikes have excellent off-road capabilities. Unlike fat-tyre e-bikes, however, they are more lightweight and manoeuvrable over narrower trails.

Gravel: Versatile and adaptable to most urban terrains, gravel e-bikes are built for mixed-terrain riding like gravel roads and light trails. Like commuter e-bikes, they are often lightweight and easy to transport.

To select the right e-bike, start by evaluating your specific needs. Think about your daily activities, the routes you take, the terrain in your area, your riding style, and any personal preferences. This will help you choose an e-bike that best fits your lifestyle.

4. What do electric bike classes mean?

There are three different classes of electric bikes:

Class 1: These e-bikes are limited to 32 KPH. They offer pedal assistance but are not equipped with throttles. They are legal in most areas where traditional bikes are allowed.

Class 2: Like Class 1 e-bikes, these e-bikes are also limited to 32 KPH and offer pedal assistance. However, they are equipped with throttles and may not be legal in areas that prohibit throttle-operated bikes.

Class 3: These e-bikes have a higher speed limit—45 KPH—and offer pedal assistance but are not equipped with throttles.

5. Can I ride my e-bike without pedalling?

Yes, but it depends on the type of e-bike. Some models, particularly Class 2 e-bikes, feature a throttle mode that lets you ride without pedalling. On the other hand, Class 1 and Class 3 e-bikes typically require pedalling to activate the motor.

6. What is pedal assist, and how does it work?

Pedal assist is a feature on e-bikes that provides a boost from the motor as you pedal. When you start pedalling, sensors (cadence or torque) detect your movement and engage the motor to give you extra power. You can also adjust the level of assistance depending on your current riding needs.

7. What is the difference between cadence sensors and torque sensors?

While both are efficient, cadence and torque sensors differ in how they control motor assistance. A cadence sensor measures how quickly you’re pedalling and assists based on your pedalling speed, while a torque sensor measures how hard you’re pedalling and assists based on your pedalling effort.

In other words, cadence sensors focus on speed, while torque sensors focus on effort. Learn more about cadence sensors and torque sensors.

8. How much does an e-bike weigh?

Most electric bikes weigh between 18 to 40 kilograms, depending on the type and design. For instance, commuter and gravel e-bikes are generally lighter for better handling and manoeuvrability. On the other hand, expect fat-tyre and cargo electric bikes to be heavier because of their robust components.

9. What range do I need for my electric bike?

The range you need depends on your specific riding needs. For example, if you’re using your e-bike for short commutes or errands, a range of 50-60 kilometres might be enough. For longer or more challenging rides, look for a range of 80 kilometres or more.

Keep in mind that factors like terrain, rider weight, and pedal assist level will affect the actual range covered by your e-bike.

10. How do I charge my electric bike for the first time?

Before riding your electric bike for the first time, make sure to charge the battery fully to 100%. Most e-bike chargers have indicators that change from red to green once charging is complete. Once charging is complete, unplug the charger. 

Remember to read the manual and follow any specific instructions provided.

11. How long does it take to charge an e-bike battery?

Charging an e-bike battery typically takes between 3 and 7 hours, depending on the battery size. Oftentimes, bigger batteries that cover longer distances require longer charging times. 

Remember to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and read our blog on good charging practices that help maximise your battery life. 

12. What is the lifespan of an e-bike battery?

Most modern electric bikes are equipped with Li-ion batteries, which are designed to withstand numerous charge-discharge cycles without significant capacity loss. Hence, you can expect them to have around 500 to 1,000 charge cycles. 

Proper care and maintenance, such as not overcharging and draining your battery, can help extend your battery’s lifespan.

13. Can I ride an e-bike in the rain?

Yes, modern electric bikes are generally equipped to handle some rain and wet conditions. However, make sure water does not penetrate the sensitive parts of your e-bike (i.e. the motor, battery, and other electrical components). 

It’s crucial to be cautious—avoid riding in heavy rains or over deep puddles, use fenders, and clean your e-bike properly. Read here to know what you need to know about water and electric bikes.

14. Can I ride an e-bike off-road?

This will depend on the type of e-bike that you have. Electric mountain bikes (or eMTBs) like the Aventon Ramblas and fat-tyre electric bikes like the Fiido Titan and the Aventon Aventure.2 can definitely handle trails and off-road riding. Ensure your e-bike is equipped with appropriate features like suspension, sturdy tyres, and high water-resistance ratings.

15. Do I need a licence to ride an e-bike in Australia?

You generally don’t need a licence to ride an e-bike in Australia, as long as it meets certain conditions. Your e-bike must not exceed 250W in terms of power output, and power assistance must stop at 25 KPH.

Check out the following pages to brush up on the legalities of riding an e-bike in your state:

16. How much does an e-bike cost?

E-bike prices can vary widely depending on the brand, type, and features. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to 5,000 for a quality e-bike. Entry-level models are more affordable, while high-end e-bikes with advanced features typically cost more. 

That said, keep in mind that since electric bikes are cost-effective, the initial investment often pays off with savings on petrol, parking, and maintenance in the long run.

17. How much maintenance does an e-bike require?

Like any vehicle, electric bikes require proper maintenance. Basically, you need to clean your e-bike regularly, perform checks and maintenance on your components, and bring it to the service centre for professional servicing.

Read our blog to learn more about electric bike maintenance.

18. Can I travel with my electric bike?

Travelling your e-bike is generally doable, but there are a few things to consider. If you’re travelling by car, make sure the e-bike fits in your vehicle – alternatively, you can use a bike rack that suits your e-bike.

On the other hand, for air travel, you need to check with your airline about their policies on transporting electric bikes. 

19. How do I choose the right e-bike for me?

Choosing the right e-bike is crucial, as it’s essential to finding one that fits your personal needs and riding style. Here’s a quick guide:

Purpose: Decide, for example, if you need an e-bike for commuting, mountain biking, or cargo hauling.

Motor Power: Select a motor with suitable power for your riding needs and terrain. Don’t forget to check your state’s regulations.

Range: Choose a battery with a range that matches your typical riding distance.

Features: Look for features like suspension, brakes, complete lighting systems, and suitable accessories based on your preferences.

Size: If the e-bike model you’re interested in is available in multiple sizes, make sure to choose the size that fits you well.

Budget: Finally, set a budget and find an e-bike that offers the best value within your price range.

Don’t be afraid to test ride a few options to find the best fit for your needs. If you need more assistance, reach out to us at 1300 054 257!

20. Where can I buy an e-bike?

Electric Kicks offers a diverse selection of electric bikes tailored to different lifestyles. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a leisurely cruiser, a weekend explorer, or someone seeking a practical alternative to the family car, we have the perfect e-bike to meet your needs.

We proudly offer only the best global brands, supported by a network of service partners nationwide. Explore our collection today to enjoy competitive prices and take advantage of free Australia-wide shipping on all products with wheels!

Fiido C21

Wrapping Up

Understanding the basics of e-bikes can help you make an informed decision and enjoy a smoother ride. If you're curious about how they work, their maintenance needs, or what to look for when buying one, having the right information makes all the difference. 

E-bikes offer a fun, eco-friendly, and efficient way to get around, and with the answers to these common questions, you're well on your way to choosing the perfect e-bike for your needs. Happy riding!

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