Find the right e-bike for you!

Part 1: This post is the first in a 3-part series to help you find the right e-bike for you.

In the hunt for an e-bike, you will find hundreds of choices and a litany of features and add-ons that may result in your head, not wheels, spinning. As a consumer, you can get so wrapped up in things like battery power, frame, throttle, speed, style and price, that you could potentially choose a bike that isn’t really suited for you as a rider. So before you look at features and add-ons, it is really important to focus on you and how you will use an e-bike.

Start by answering a few questions, it will go a long way to helping you narrow choices and help you make an informed decision.

Questions to ask yourself before you buy!

1. Why do you want an e-bike?

This might seem like an obvious question, but it is an important one! Have you just moved to a new city and are looking for alternative modes of transportation? Are you wanting a bike with more power when you are out for a ride? Are you looking to start exercising again? Are you in the physical shape you need for the type of biking you plan to do on your new e-bike?

2. What are you using an e-bike for?

Again, might seem like an obvious question, but it can help you understand what e-bike is best for you! Are you a casual rider? Do you enjoy bike paths, trips to your local farmers market, or a casual evening ride? Or do you need an everyday bike to get you to and from work or school, long distance riding, and a carrier? Maybe you are a biking enthusiast who takes on tough courses, mountain biking, and even competitions! Whatever your need for an e-bike you will be able to find one that is right for you. When purchasing it is important to keep in mind exactly what you will use an e-bike for.

3. What is your budget?

Are you starting to see a trend? Obvious, but important questions! Answering these questions before searching for and purchasing an e-bike will only help you! Majority of e-bikes hover around $2,000 – $3,000 (if you are wanting a quality e-bike with 500 watts). There are bikes under $2,000 and conversion kits which sell under $1,000.

Time to find some bikes!

Now that you have answered some important questions, it is time to search for some bikes! Our next post will categorize your answers to the 4 questions and then guide you to bike options we have found. In our last post, we will let you know what kind of riders we are and what kind of bikes we would consider. We are testing some bikes and we will give you our firsthand review of the ride!

*Check out Part 2 to help you narrow your choices

*Check out Part 3 so see how we fared on our test outing

Century Cycles is an Ohio bike shop with locations in Medina, Rock River, Shaker Heights, and Peninsula (this is where you can find us testing out their e-bikes!) If you are looking for an activity this summer, head on down to Peninsula and take a ride on the Towpath! The Century Cycles shop offers bike rentals for $12/hour to use on the Towpath (including their e-bikes!).

Happy e-biking!

Image Credit: KBO Bikes