Electric bikes are very affordable. However, their price depends on the riding experience you want. For example, someone looking for a bike for trail riding might need an electric bike with flat tires, a more muscular frame, a more powerful motor, and more durable components.
How much does an electric bike cost? An electric bike for quick jaunts may cost you less money than an electric bicycle meant for extended daily commutes. Electric bikes are readily available in various retail stores at different prices. So, explore all your options to get an idea of what you will likely spend on an electric bike.
There are many considerations when buying an electric bike. Below are a few tips on how to find a reliable e-bike at a reasonable price.
Electric Bike Types
Many different types of electric bikes are available on the market today. Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular types:
Pedelecs
These bikes have pedals and an electric motor, which helps to assist the rider when pedaling. They are perfect for riders who want a little help when riding but still want to pedal themselves.
E-MTBs
These bikes are designed for off-road riding, with larger tires and more powerful motors than pedelecs. They are perfect for riders who want to explore trails and rough terrain.
E-Cruisers
These bikes are designed for comfort and leisure riding. They generally have large seats and baskets; some even come with built-in speakers so you can enjoy your music while riding.
E-Folding Bikes
These bikes are compact and easy to store when not in use. They are perfect for riders who live in small spaces or need to be able to take their bike with them on public transportation.
E-City Bikes
These bikes are designed for riding around town and running errands. They are often equipped with baskets and racks, making them perfect for carrying groceries or other items.
No matter what type of electric bike you are looking for, you can be sure to get one that fits your needs and budget.
Cheap vs. Expensive E-bikes
There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding whether to purchase an expensive or cheap e-bike. The most important factor is probably your budget. An expensive e-bike is perhaps better if you have enough money to spend. However, a cheap e-bike may be a better option if you’re on a tight budget.
Here are some other things to consider when deciding between a cheap and expensive electric bike.
How Often Will You Use Your E-bike?
This is an important question when deciding whether to buy a cheap or expensive e-bike. If you plan to use the e-bike regularly, it’s worth investing in higher quality and more costly model. But for occasional use, a cheaper model should suffice.
Does Weight Matter?
Heavier e-bikes can be harder to ride and more expensive to maintain, so if you’re looking for an easy-to-ride option that won’t break the bank, a lighter model might be a better choice.
However, if you need a bike that can handle rough terrain or carry a lot of weight, a heavyweight e-bike might be worth the investment. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test rides to see which one feels best for you.
Features To Look For in an E-bike
When it comes to choosing between an expensive and a cheap electric bike, there are a few factors you’ll want to consider. One of the most important is the features that each bike offers.
Here are some of the most important elements to consider in an electronic bike.
Motor Size and Power
The motor is one of the essential components of an electric bike. It’s what makes it move, after all.
A bigger motor isn’t always better, though. You’ll also want to consider how much power the motor has. A powerful motor might be great for climbing hills, but it can drain your battery quickly.
Battery Size and Range
The battery is another crucial factor to consider. A bigger battery usually means a longer range, but it adds weight to the bike. If you’re planning on using your e-bike for commuting, you’ll want to ensure that the battery will last long enough to get you to and from work.
Display and Control Panel
The display and control panel on an electric bike matter a lot. It’s how you’ll see how much power you have left, how fast you’re going, and other important information. Some displays are more user-friendly than others, so it’s worth considering this when deciding on a bike.
Weight Capacity
If you plan on carrying any cargo on your e-bike, you’ll need to ensure that it has a high weight capacity. Otherwise, you might have to pedal harder than you’d like to climb a hill.
Foldability
Foldability can be crucial if you store your e-bike in a small space. Not all electric bikes can fold, so if this is a must-have for you, check before buying.
Extra Costs
The cost of an electronic bike can be more than its retail price. You will incur extra costs in repair and charging expenses once you buy your electronic bike.
Below are some of the extra costs to expect.
Charging Costs
The cost of charging an electric bike can vary depending on the battery used and the miles you ride. For example, a typical e-bike with a lead-acid battery may only cost around $0.50 per charge, while an e-bike with a lithium-ion battery could cost as much as $4.00 per charge.
Of course, the cost of charging an e-bike also depends on the price of electricity in your area. But generally, charging an electric bike costs about $0.15 per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
So, if you live in an area with low electricity rates, you can expect to pay less for charging your e-bike than someone who lives in an area with high electricity rates.
Assuming that you charge your e-bike once per week, here are some estimates of the annual cost of charging an electric bike:
- Lead-acid battery: $26 per year
- Lithium-ion battery: $104 per year
Of course, these are just estimates. Your actual cost may be higher or lower depending on how often you ride and how much you pay for your e-bike.
So, if you’re considering an electric bike, consider the cost of charging the battery when making your decision. Otherwise, when your electric bill arrives, you may be in for a nasty surprise!
Repair Costs
Electric bikes wear out like traditional bikes. However, they require less maintenance than conventional bicycles. Your e-bike will need adequate care if you use it as the primary transport means. The bike will require tune-ups every six months, with every tune-up costing between $75 and $100.
It will cost you between $10 and $20 to patch a flat tire, but a more severe repair may cost more than this. You will need to consider how maintenance-friendly your bike’s design is. A maintenance-friendly design bike comes with power line quick disconnects that make it easier for repair stores to perform general repairs and maintenance.
The most common repair on an electric bike is fixing a flat tire. You should always have the necessary tools and parts for DIY repair when you’re away from a repair shop. Again, this is where a maintenance-friendly design e-bike comes in handy.
You don’t have to visit a repair store with a certified electrician to have a flat tire fixed. Here are things you need to budget for when purchasing an electronic bike.
Tires and Tubes
You’ll need to replace your tires and tubes more often than on a traditional bicycle, as the extra weight of the motor and battery puts more wear and tear on them.
Chain
The chain on an e-bike will also need to be replaced more often than on a regular bike, as it is subject to more stress.
Battery
The battery is the most expensive part of an e-bike and must be replaced every few years.
Controller
The controller is another key component of an e-bike that will need to be replaced over time.
Tips To Save on an E-bike
Smart shoppers can save on an electric bike. Here are a few helpful tips.
Consider Less Prominent Brands
If you’re looking to save money on your next e-bike purchase, consider opting for a less prominent but still respected brand. Several great e-bike brands offer high-quality products at more affordable prices, so you can get the bike you want without breaking the bank.
Do some research to find an e-bike brand that fits your budget and needs, then take the time to test-ride a few different models before making your final decision. With a little effort, you can find a great deal on an e-bike that will serve you well for years.
Opt for an Older Model
If you’re looking to save money on an e-bike, one option is to choose an older model. Many companies release new models yearly, and the older ones can often be found at a discount.
Of course, you’ll want to ensure that the bike is still in good condition and has all the features you want. But if you’re willing to sacrifice some of the latest bells and whistles, an older model e-bike can be a great way to save money.
One thing to remember is that older models may not have the same level of support from the manufacturer as newer ones. Getting parts or maintenance may be more difficult if something goes wrong.
However, this may not be a big concern if you’re handy with a wrench and are comfortable doing your repairs.
Consider the Warranties
Purchasing an e-bike model with a manufacturer’s warranty is one way to lower maintenance and repair costs. Some e-bikes are available with comprehensive warranties that can cover the cost of replacing vital components such as the battery and motor. But most e-bike companies offer a one to two-year warranty with their bikes.
Warranties for electric bikes can vary significantly in terms of length and coverage. Some companies offer warranties that cover the bike for a year or two, while others may offer longer warranties that cover the motor and battery for up to five years.
It’s important to read the fine print on any warranty you’re considering, as some warranties may only cover some components of the bike or may have certain restrictions. Most electric bike warranties cover the motor and battery, but some companies also offer coverage for the frame and other components. Check what’s included in the warranty before making your purchase.
Final Notes
The most common e-bikes on the market range from $400 to $2000, depending on available features. So, when shopping for an electronic bike, look for a manufacturer that keeps costs low while offering value with premium components.
But as seen above, an e-bike can cost more than its sticker price. Charging and maintenance costs are other factors to consider before buying an electric bike.
