Nowadays, there is an almost confusing number of different electric bike styles. On the one hand, this is extremely practical because there really is a bike to suit every taste. However, it can also make the search for a suitable model a bit more complicated. Therefore, it is important to be well-informed in advance and to carefully consider your own requirements before you buy. This way, you can be sure to find exactly the right model among the various styles of electric bikes.
We aim to give an overview of the different styles and to alert you to the e-bike essentials you should consider when buying. Is a bike with a low step-through ideal for you, or should it be sporty and lightweight? Questions like these will help you find the e-bike that best meets your personal needs.
How Does an E-Bike Work?
Although there is a lot of modern technology built into an e-bike these days, its functionality is essentially very simple. The three main components or features of an electric bike are the frame, the motor, and the battery, which are very similar in all styles of electric bike, or pedelec. The battery supplies the motor with electricity, which in turn supports you, as you pedal, and allows you an acceleration of up to 25 km/h. This speed limit is a legal requirement, so your e-bike can be used like a conventional bike.
No additional insurance or vehicle registration is necessary, so you can start riding immediately. In addition, you can choose from various possible settings, like a handful of different gears and levels of pedal assistance, making it easy to find a bike that matches your needs and preferences. This makes handling your bike incredibly easy, and is also very practical.
Overview of the Different Styles of Electric Bikes
In principle, there is a suitable pedelec for every application nowadays because the technology is refined enough to handle even extreme requirements. For example, some manufacturers elegantly manage to integrate all additional components such as the battery, display, and motor into the frame. This increases the robustness of the bike and also allows use on difficult routes – all Ampler bikes rely on such integrated solutions.
City E-Bike
These models are generally built for a relaxed and upright riding position. This makes cycling on city roads particularly comfortable. In general, city bikes are the best electric bikes for seniors, especially if they are easy boarding bikes. The Ampler Bikes models Juna and Stellar, with their low step-through, comfortable handlebars and lightweight frames, are ideal as practical city e-bikes.
Mountain E-Bike
However, there are also e-bike types that have to cope with demanding routes. If you are wondering whether electric bikes can go up hills, the answer is that the right bike absolutely can! Robustness and balance are often the most important factors, to be safe on difficult terrain at all times. A crossbar provides the necessary stability and underlines the sporty character. The Ampler Bike model Axel has wider tires and handlebars and a rear motor, which is perfect for off-road cycling. Stout has a 9-speed gear system, extra responsive handling and a rear-hub motor, making it easy to manoeuvre off-road trails. These two models meet all these requirements to master even difficult terrain without any problems.
Touring E-Bike
For long tours, an e-bike has to be light and sporty above all so that you can get the maximum riding performance out of it. With our lightweight, sporty model Curt, you can easily cover long distances without sacrificing performance or comfort. You don’t even have to compromise on the range because despite the low weight you can ride up to 100 km.
Compact E-Bike
Sometimes you need a compact bike, for instance, if you need to transport it easily by public transport or in the car. For this purpose, there are models with smaller tires and even some that can be folded. But this usually means a certain compromise regarding comfort, which is practically unavoidable due to the compact design.
Cargo E-Bike
More and more people want to contribute to the mobility revolution and make do without a car if possible. A cargo E-Bike is an excellent solution for shopping and running errands, without polluting the environment. In several European countries, these e-bikes are already a common sight in cities because of their practical advantages, and they are also gaining ground in Germany.
Which Electric Bike Style is Right For You?
Ultimately, of course, you have to decide which electric bike style is best for you in light of your requirements. Models with a comfortable and upright riding position are suitable for trips to the city, and seniors generally require city e-bikes with a low step-through. Sporty people may prefer a touring or mountain e-bike, which is easy to ride even on challenging terrain.
It’s advisable to answer the following questions in advance:
- What roads or trails will you mostly be riding on?
- How long are the typical distances you want to cover?
- Do you need a low frame bar for easy step-through?
- Which seating position is most comfortable for you in everyday use?
In addition, the average weight of the electric bike plays an important role. Ideally, the weight of all electric bike styles should be under 20 kg – as is the case with all Ampler e-bikes. The lightest version of our nimble model Curt weighs no more than 14.4 kg and is thus lighter than many conventional bikes. This can be an enormous advantage, especially if you frequently have to carry it up and down flights of stairs.
FAQ
How Many Styles of Electric Bikes Are There in Total?
We have focussed on some of the more predominant styles, but there are many more depending on the manufacturer and niche. Cross, SUV and lifestyle bikes are also not uncommon, although the boundaries between the types can be blurred. That’s why it’s usually better to focus on specific requirements rather than strict style designations.
Which E-Bike Is Right for Me?
Especially, if you are buying or riding an electric bike for the first time, it’s advisable to be aware of your requirements and how you want to use your bike, before making a purchase. Will you only ride on paved roads in the city, or do you also plan challenging tours on forest or mountain trails? Once these issues have been clarified, it shouldn’t be a problem to find a suitable model.
Do Certain Electric Bikes Require a Permit?
In most European countries, the preferred type of E-Bike is the pedelec, i.e. pedal bikes with a motor output of up to 25 km/h because they are classed like conventional bicycles. This means that you don’t need any additional registration, insurance or licence plates, even for an electric cargo bike.
The Bottom Line
At first glance, the wide selection of different styles of electric bikes can almost be a bit overwhelming. However, if you take into consideration what requirements your new electric bike should meet, finding the ideal bike becomes much easier. Purpose, comfort, durability and low weight are important factors when you plan to buy an e-bike, but due to the great variety on offer, you can be sure to find a model that meets all your requirements.
Ampler Bikes offers you several stylish models that meet even the highest standards. Do you have any further questions? Contact us now and let us advise you free of charge or book a free test ride.