CHOOSING AN E-BIKE

 What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Bicycle or E-Scooter

Are you looking for something that you can still pedal for moderate exercise? 
The traditional bicycle style E-Bike is best suited to people who still want to pedal. A bicycle style E-Bike might be your best option if you enjoy cycling but need a little help getting up hills, have health problems that require only light to moderate exercise, or don't have shower facilities at your arrival destination.

What kind of trips will your E-Bike be mainly used for?
Be sure to check the travel range listed on the model of your choice's specifications. Do you require lots of storage compartments? Will you be carrying a passenger for many of your trips? If you are traveling at night you might consider choosing a colour that will be seen well in low light, choosing a model with brighter headlights, or installing an under glow package.  

How will your E-Bike be stored for the winter months?
 Some E-Bikes have removable batteries that can be brought indoors for winter storage and maintenance. However, E-Bikes can be stored outdoors for the winter if they are covered with a heavy duty scooter cover, or parked in an enclosed area and charged up every 3-4 weeks to maintain the batteries.
Durham E-Bikes Offers a Heated Winter Storage Package - $200.00+ taxes

What type of tires should you choose?
E-Bike tires come in two main types; tires with tubes, & tubeless tires. The important difference between these two types is mainly to do with flat repairs. Tubed tires cannot be plugged and must have the tire removed and the tube replaced in the event of a flat which has more of a labor cost. Tubeless tires generally do not need to be removed and can be plugged at a cheaper cost in the event of a flat.  Tubeless tires have a better ride, are cheaper to repair but cost more to replace. Another point to consider is the size of the tire, the larger the tire the more power is required to maintain top speed, meaning that the voltage should reflect the tire size. 
Larger tires do have a more comfortable ride. Some E-Bikes can have upgraded tires installed. Ask our staff for details on possible tire upgrades.

What type of braking system should I choose?
All E-Bikes sold in Canada must meet a minimum stop time/distance requirement. On scooter style E-Bikes there are two different kinds of braking systems available; drum brakes and disc brakes. Generally speaking, the more powerful and/or heavier models will be equipped with disc brakes as they are more responsive than drum brakes. Drum brakes are suitable for lower voltage, lighter models.
On E-Bicycle models generally have V-Caliper type brakes, higher end models have disc brakes for extra stopping power they can be manual or hydraulic for extreme stopping power. 

What kind of voltage do I require?
As the E-Bike movement gains momentum, manufacturers have started to build larger bikes with higher quality components such as disk brakes, and higher voltage systems. Generally speaking, the larger the E-Bike, the more voltage is required to propel the vehicle at top speed and up inclines. Higher voltage E-bikes generally have larger weight capacities as well; so a 48V E-Bike may be very suitable for a smaller person, while a larger person may be better suited on a higher voltage model. Depending on the weight of the bike and rider, the higher voltage bikes may also offer longer traveling range per charge.

What is the best type of battery for you?
Lithium vs. Lead Acid

Lithium Batteries

- Mostly used in Electric Bicycles due to reduced weight.
- More efficient. Equal power throughout each ride.
- Longer overall lifespan with proper maintenance. 
- Lithium batteries last approx. 4 - 6 years.
- Smaller in physical size.
- Significantly lighter than Lead Acid batteries.
- Faster charging times. 
- Easier to remove in removable battery models due to being lighter weight.
- For extreme travelling distance.
- More resilient to extreme hot or cold temperatures.
- Less forgiving of improper charging habits.
- Not as accurate warning when battery is drained.
- Cells cannot be added for additional power/distance.
-  Much higher replacement cost.
Lead Acid Batteries

- Mostly used in larger E-Bikes/E-Scooters.
- Very accurate battery reading when draining.
- Not as sensitive to bad charging habits.
- Cells can be added to increase voltage for higher
   power/distance.
- Much lower replacement cost. Less than half the cost of    
   Lithium batteries.
- Have been around longer, and are more widely used.
- Easier to check & diagnose when there is a battery issue.
- Does have longer charging times.
- 2-3 times heavier than Lithium batteries.
- Have a shorter overall lifespan, and will last approx. 2-3
   years with proper maintenance habits.
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