There are lots of reasons why people choose to ride electric bikes – maybe you’re recovering from injury or just getting older, and you want a little extra power to get you up hills and over long distances without feeling too tired and sweaty. You might have an environmental concern, or just be keen to save on petrol and train fares. Whatever the reason, e-bikes are increasingly popular and can make riding around town a breeze.
So, how do they work? Essentially, an electric bike has a motor and battery integrated into the frame, so that it looks just like a regular bike. You still need to pedal, and steer with the handlebars – but with a little added power from the motor, those hills are a breeze, and you can zip past traffic lights.
You’ll need to use the handlebar-mounted controller to decide how much power the motor provides and keep an eye on your battery level, and many e-bikes have a display that lets you see this information and also offer ride metrics and navigation functionality. The power supplied by the motor is measured in watts and the amount of torque (turning force) it can generate is measured in Nm.
A quality lithium-ion battery will allow you to ride for a decent distance before it needs recharging, and if it’s a removable model you can take it indoors to charge it, which is handy if you store your bike in the shed or garage. A premium portable or solar charger can also give you the option of charging your e-bike on the go.
Most e-bikes are pedal-assist bikes, meaning that the motor only kicks in when you are pedalling. The amount of assistance is regulated using either a speed or a cadence sensor, which detects the pedalling input and adjusts accordingly. There are also a few twist-and-go models, which use a throttle to activate the motor and can attain a higher top speed – in these cases, you’ll need to be on a quiet road or cycle path, as these bikes may be classed as mopeds and require licensing and insurance.
The best e-bikes provide a natural, seamless, and safe cycling experience. The best e-bikes for commuters will be smooth, efficient, and have gearing options that match your riding style. Our picks include the Giant Fastride E-Curve with a Bosch drive system and neatly integrated battery, the Wilier Cento1 Hybrid that takes the brand’s race-bike pedigree and adds a rear hub motor for off-road capability and the classic Brompton with a front hub motor and battery housed in a removeable bag.