eBIKE BUYING GUIDE
eBike Buying Guide
At LeisurExpert we are big believers in the benefits of electric bikes. In the UK over 70% of car trips are under 5 miles (source gov.uk) and the average car journey duration is around 20 minutes. You could cover 5 miles on an eBike in under 20 minutes whilst avoiding the petrol and parking charges!
There are many reasons to choose an eBike, including:
- Easier – whether travelling for work or fun, you can go further and faster without all the effort
- Environmentally Friendly – save the petrol and the exhaust fumes, just use pedal (and a little electric!) power. At LeisurExpert we also like to plant a tree – see our TREES4TYRES initiative.
- Cost Effective – with car and fuel costs rising, a daily 5 mile commute to work would cost around £50-80 per month in fuel for a car vs. around £1 for an eBike
- Healthier – As well as reducing your costs you could be reducing your waistline too! We all know regular exercise is key to good health and an eBike makes it easier and more fun.
- Range – With technology improving all the time, all our eBikes cover at least 30 miles, with some going up to 80 miles, on a single charge
How to choose the right eBike
So we know the benefits, but how do you choose the right style with so many to eBikes to choose from? Hopefully we can help, with our simple guide below or a chat via email at info@leisurexpert.co.uk or call on 0333 090 6939. Happy Shopping!
Folding eBikes
As the name suggests, Foldable eBikes can be folded and unfolded in seconds, making them easy to stash away in train compartments, next to tables and even under your desk at work.
Great for: Commuting and urban riding. They’re also a convenient option for those with limited storage space or those who take their bike on public transport.
Hybrid eBikes
Combine the best bits of a road bike and an offroad bike, making them a versatile option suitable for light trails, challenging commutes and light touring alike. Expect flat handlebars, a more upright riding position, larger wheels and a good mix of speed and comfort.
Great for: Most riding tasks (other than the toughest mountain tracks), electric hybrid bikes are equally at home on commutes as they are exploring the trails. So, if you are looking for your bike to cover a wide range of riding, an electric hybrid bike could be for you.
Step-Through eBikes
Usually following the hybrid style, Step-Through bikes lose their cross-bar for improved accessibility. If you don’t want to strain a thigh or tear a skirt a Step-through may be a good choice! They often combine the best bits of a road bike and an off-road bike, making them a versatile option suitable for light trails, challenging commutes and light touring alike. Expect flat handlebars, a more upright riding position, larger wheels and a good mix of speed and comfort.
Great for: Versatility, as the most versatile eBike they are available in both traditional and modern styles and are a popular design for all. They are equally at home on commutes as they are exploring the trails. So, if you are looking for your bike to cover a wide range of riding, and one that’s easy to hop on and off, the Step-Through may be for you!
Mountain eBikes
Mountain eBikes are transforming the world of off-road adventure and redefining what’s possible. With powerful motors and good range you can travel up steeper climbs and more of them, going higher and further than ever before.
Great for: Serious off-roading. Mountain eBikes can tackle almost any terrain. They are happy cruising the streets, but are designed to fly up your local trails, going further and faster and having more fun along the way!
Fat Tyre eBikes
Fat Tyre ebikes come in a range of styles from foldable commuters to the most hardcore Mountain Bikes. The name simply refers to the ‘Fat Tyres’ which are designed to handle the lumps and bumps of the city streets, to the beaches, trails and beyond. They look great with their chunky design and offer a more comfortable ride with their higher profile.
Great for: People looking for the cool, modern, fat tyre design and wanting to travel in comfort over more demanding terrain, whilst gaining more traction when the going gets tougher or wetter!
Legal Considerations
Important: You may be aware that there are Laws in place regarding electric Bikes or Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPC under EU law EN15194.).
If your e-bike meets the criteria below, then you can legally ride it on the roads.
- The e-bike is powered by pedalling and not just a battery and motor
- The electric motor won’t assist you if you’re travelling more than 15.5mph
- The power output doesn’t exceed 250 watts (not to be confused with watt-hours)
If the e-bike you’re looking at exceeds these regulations – for example, it has a motor over 250 watts or provides assistance above 15.5mph - then you’ll need to register it as a motor vehicle, tax it and insure it. You’ll also need a driving license to ride it, and you’ll need to wear a motorcycle helmet. See our Legal Guide for more information.
Still choosing... search across our eBikes Collection or get in touch via email at info@leisurexpert.co.uk or call on 0333 090 6939. Happy Shopping!