Electric Bike Buying Guide

E-Bike Basics: What You Need to Know

E-bike technology has gotten complicated with all the motors, classes, and features flying around. As someone who was skeptical until I borrowed my neighbor’s for a week — now I own one for commuting — I learned everything there is to know about what makes these bikes practical. Today, I’ll share the basics.

How They Work

A motor assists your pedaling. A battery powers the motor. You still pedal — the motor just multiplies your effort. Most e-bikes cut off motor assistance at 20 or 28 mph depending on class.

Probably should have led with this section, honestly. You choose how much help you want via assist levels. Eco mode extends battery life and gives light assistance. Turbo mode uses more battery but makes hills feel flat.

Motor Types

Mid-drive motors sit at the bottom bracket and power through your chain. They feel more natural because the motor uses your gears — low gear for climbing, high gear for speed. Better for hills and varied terrain. More expensive.

Hub motors sit in the front or rear wheel. Simpler and cheaper. The power delivery isn’t as refined and they work harder on steep hills. Fine for flat commuting.

That’s what makes mid-drive motors endearing to us who ride varied terrain — they respond to conditions naturally.

Battery and Range

Bigger batteries go farther but weigh more and cost more. Typical range is 30-60 miles depending on battery size, assist level, terrain, and rider weight. Real-world range is usually less than advertised — plan accordingly.

Who Should Get One

Commuters who want to arrive without being sweaty. Riders returning after time off. Couples with different fitness levels. Anyone who’d bike more if it were easier. They’re not cheating — they’re a different tool for different needs.