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The Best Types of Electric Bikes: How are They Different from Each Other?

Posted By ERideSolutions on Technology

https://www.eridesolutions.com.au -  Ever since its debut in the cycling industry, electric bikes have shown nothing but improvement and growth. While traditional bicycles may report a drastic fall in sales, e-bikes are completely on the opposite side. The industry’s sales are thriving and see a double to triple-digit growth every year.

With this increasing popularity, more and more people are getting curious about the remarkable electric ride. Its user-friendly features and adrenaline-inducing performance are drawing more patrons, hence the surge in its revenue.  



E-Bike manufacturers took advantage of this and saw it as an opportunity to develop designs that are fit for every individual. This is how the simple e-bike branched out with different types, each boasting features according to its uses.

If you are reading this article, chances are there’s a thing or two you want to know about e-bikes. In that case, hold on to your pedal brakes as you are about to learn more about the best types of electric bikes, and how they differ from each other.

A Short History of Electric Bikes

A lot of people think that electric bikes are just 10-year-old inventions, but what they don’t know is they’ve been around much longer than that. According to an article by Optibike, the first electric bicycles appeared in the late 1890s and were documented by various U.S. patents.

Upgraded and more modern versions of the bike emerged in the ‘90s. This is when e-bike models with torque sensors and power controls became available. In the early 2000s, two big Japanese companies dominated the electric bike market.

20 years later, more and more quality brands rose and are still continuing to rise. Countries are opening up to the thought of embracing the industry and are starting to regulate traffic laws made especially for these electric rideables.

It is also in the last decade that the industry has seen an increase in its production and returns it has not seen in the past years.

With the proven steady growth and never-ending innovations, electric bikes are definitely here to stay and might go even farther into the future.  

Types of Electric Bikes and their Differences

Electric bikes are recreational vehicles that allow you to explore more roads and miles that you never thought were possible. They have also been around to provide convenience to people’s lives, and are known as the greener alternatives to traveling.  

One misconception that e-bike newbies have is that there is only one kind of electric bike. While this was true for some time, the lightweight electric vehicle has undergone countless processes of revolution.

With this, a variety of electric bike types were made. People now have a wider option to choose from; from the classic electric city bike to the charming and playful vintage electric bike.

Let’s take a look at these different e-bike types, and learn more about them, shall we?



Electric City Bikes



This type of e-bike is designed for the urban setting. With its sleeker and more classic-looking design, a city electric bike is a favorite among metropolitan dwellers. The electric city bike has two sub-types, and each one is built according to the rider’s preference. Electric commuter/road bikes, a.k.a. hybrid bikes are those that are furnished with narrower tyres and saddles, less suspension, and usually focused on lightweight design. If you usually ride on the streets, then this could be the best choice for you.



Electric comfort bikes are similar to the commuter bike, only with more comfort features than the former. These city e-bikes are built with wider saddles, step-through frames, and swept-back handlebars to make riding more comfortable.

While the two e-city bike designs have distinctive differences, both are excellent choices for pedaling through the big city streets. With traffic jams and other unforeseen circumstances one can encounter every day, these functional e-bikes will get you to your destination without the unnecessary exhaustion and frustration.

 



Electric Folding Bikes



When it comes to portability, folding electric bikes are the top choice. These bikes have a folding point—mostly in the middle of its frame or the handlebars. An electric folding bike decreases to half its usual size when folded, and collapses into a package no bigger than a suitcase.



Some folding e-bikes like the Stigo Plus Folding Electric Bike are made super portable, that you can fold it up and pull it like luggage wherever you go.

Other e-bikes of this type are also able to fold in a matter of seconds, making it perfect for those who are always on the go.

If you want to store your bike in your car trunk or bring it with you to a train or bus ride, an electric folding bike is a perfect ride for you.

 



Electric Mountain Bikes



This type of e-bikes is probably the most flexible kind out there. E-MTBs are definitely great for the outdoors, trails, and steep climbs, but don’t leave them out when it comes on the streets either.



This electric rideable are available in two kinds; the more affordable hardtail bikes, and the full-suspension bikes.

A hardtail E-MTB makes a great commuter bike. It boasts similar functions and features with electric city bikes and e-folders, but comes with a more powerful motor that’s perfect for off-roads.

Some electric fat bikes also fall into this category, as these bikes are furnished with wider tyres that offer a more stable ride. This is to make sure that the rider is comfortable, even when tackling uneven trails.

If you are an adrenaline-junkie who enjoys hard trails on the holidays, but wants to take daily commutes on the next level, then an electric mountain bike is the perfect e-ride for you.

 



Vintage Electric Bikes



Also dubbed as electric cruiser bikes, vintage e-bikes are made for those with an old soul and laid-back personalities. These bikes are definitely a playful twist to the classic electric bike design, but it doesn’t fall short when it comes to other features.



A vintage e-bike is a perfect ride for cruising the streets or the beach. It is the electric counterpart of a beach bike and is known for its style and riding comfort. They are installed with larger “balloon” tyres, but not wide enough to be defined as fat tyres.

Rayvolt, a well-established brand when it comes to vintage e-bikes, offers what is arguably the most beautiful vintage cruiser so far. They are known for their steampunk designs that are sure to take you back to the older years. However old school their designs are, their vintage electric bikes are equipped with an intelligent system powered by the latest technology.

If you wish to find an e-bike that’s perfect for leisurely riding along the local beach or through small paths, then a vintage electric bike is for you.

 



Electric Trike Bikes



The e-trike bike is an upgrade to your traditional tricycle. It is also known as the electric cargo bike, as some designs stretch out at the rear for more cargo space.

This e-bike design often comes with attachments like rear baskets, bags, or even trailers for more storage. It is the epitome of practicality, as it can be utilized in various ways. The wide rear baskets make it the perfect mobility equipment for running errands, and even for food and essentials delivery.



When it comes to balance and ease of riding, an e-trike bike is a superior choice. Because it is installed with three wheels, weight distribution is more equal, and riding is more stable. These qualities make an electric tricycle a favourable choice among seniors and those with special needs.

If you are all about storage and functionality, then a dependable electric trike bike must be the one that you are looking for.

Staff Favorites: Electric Bike Models that You Will Love

Now that you have an idea about the different types of electric bikes, you might be thinking of which e-bike to get. It could be quite tricky if you are a newbie, but knowing what you want and what you need the electric ride always does the trick.

The above explainer may have given you a hint on which type of e-bike you want to go for, so here are a few of our favorites that you might want to check out!

Smartmotion E-Urban Electric Bike

This classy electric city bike form Smartmotion is definitely a cut above the rest. The e-bike is a mix of a commuter and comfort bike, with its ergonomic saddle, adjustable handlebars, and CST commuter tyres. The electric bike is a delight to ride, especially if you are riding along the streets. It’s also suitable for night cruises. You can take advantage of its 5-level assist for a nice ride without breaking any sweat.

Pedal to work or to school, and tackle the busy city streets with your very own Smartmotion E-Urban. For more information, you can check it out here.

Otto T8 Electric Mountain Bike

This flagship design from Otto takes speed into a whole new level. It has a 21-speed capacity, and has a range of up to 85KM. The model is sturdy, yet lightweight—making it perfect for the trails and the off-road.

Its 400W motor makes the e-bike a powerful one that’s ready to take you wherever you want to go. The increase in motor power also increases its horsepower, resulting to a faster speed.

Aside from these features, the Otto T8 E-MTB also comes with an anti-theft system that ensures the safety of your electric ride. With a system like this, you will never worry about taking your eyes off your e-bike.

Enjoy the great outdoors and take advantage of the beguiling features of the Otto T8 Electric Mountain Bike! Click here if you want more information.    

Ausstech Super Z Electric Folding Bike Pedal as much or as little as you want with the Super Z Electric Folding Bike from Ausstech. This stylish folding e-bike is a total head-turner. It is designed to amplify pedaling power, while increasing the fun that you have. 

The Super Z, just like other designs from Ausstech runs in a 250W motor, thus exempting it from the requirement of a license to operate.

It is also very customizable, so it’s up to you whether or not you’d like to install the complimentary throttle it comes with.  

Take your adventure with you wherever you go by having the Ausstech Super Z Electric Folding Bike in tow.  For more details about this e-ride, you can click here.

 

Eurowheel Electric Folding Trike Bike Two types of e-bikes in one compact ride; the Eurowheel Electric Folding Trike Bike is sure to give convenience a new meaning.

The 3-wheeled e-bike is foldable, making it compact and easy to bring anywhere. It also comes with a wide rear rack, where you can haul your things easily, wherever you might need to go.

For additional comfort, the e-trike is installed with fat tyres, an ergonomic saddle, and a user-friendly system. These features make it a favourable choice for the seniors who are seeking for a new sense of adventure.

To know more about this functional electric ride, check it out here.  

Rayvolt Clubman Vintage Electric Bike

This electric bike is a compact urban bike that redefines style and aesthetic. Feel like someone who has just jumped out of the vibrant ‘50s or ‘60s in this retro-style e-bike.

If you want a hassle-free cruise beside an Australian beach, the Rayvolt Clubman is perfect for you. Its classic yet simple built is reminiscent of your favourite old film.

Moreover, it is an intelligent electric bike that is installed with the EIVA app, Rayvolt’s smart system that lets you check your bikes stats and operate it straight from your smartphone.

Get modern with this vintage electric bike from Rayvolt. Know more about the Clubman here.

Where to Find the Best E-Bikes in Australia

Once you have decided on which e-bike is the right type for you, you may want to consider other things like price points, battery life, range, and other important factors. For that, you should check out online guides that provide tips and advice that will help you make the right choice.



As for where to find the perfect e-bikes, online e-ride stores are always filled to the brim with options that you can choose from. E-Ride Solutions is one of Australia’s top-performing electric rideable stores, and is known for its wide variety of electric rides from e-bikes, to e-scooters, and more.

Do you already have your own electric bike? We’d like to know what type you went for, and how you knew it was the one for you! Leave a comment below and we’d love to share it with our readers!

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