E-Bikes in the comparison – which fits to me?
We Germans use our cars mainly for short journeys.
In everyday life, we cover an average of just 8 kilometers with it. E-bikes and pedelecs are the environmentally friendly alternative that even commuters can benefit from. The range is large and is constantly being expanded. We give an overview of the variety of models and clarify what you have to consider when buying one.
Seeing through the e-bike jungle
For a long time, e-bikes and pedelecs were considered clumsy, heavy and slow. The necessary drive technology, such as the electric motor, battery and switches and display, must be accommodated in a small space. Electric wheel design suffered from this for a long time. This has now fundamentally changed. The latest generation bikes hardly show their pedelec technology thanks to smaller technology components. It is not invisible, but very inconspicuous. In addition, the engines are now very powerful. With a fast e-bike, a so-called S-pedelec, top speeds of up to 45 kilometers per hour can be achieved.
And the choice is huge: whether e-city bike, e-trekking bike, e-mountain bike, e-load bike or fast e-bike. Everyone can find the bike that suits them here.
Pedelec – the uncomplicated
Pedelecs basically look like normal bicycles. With the difference that a small electric auxiliary drive supports the pedaling motion with up to 250 watts. Once you've really picked up speed, this drive shuts down on its own. Usually happens at 25 kilometers per hour. Advantage: The vehicle does not fall into the category of motor vehicle. For the end user this means: no registration with the road traffic office. But: Without own Strampeln one does not come with a Pedelec also not forwards.
E-bikes – the light moped
Compared to pedelecs, e-bikes are almost real mopeds. In appearance, however, they resemble the classic bicycle. E-bikes have a bigger motor than pedelecs and a proper throttle grip. In an emergency, they not only support starting, but can also reach a top speed of up to 20 kilometers per hour without muscle power. However, the e-bike is thus legally considered a light moped and must be registered and insured accordingly. It requires an operating license and is subject to compulsory insurance. As a rule, this can be easily applied for at the responsible road traffic office.
S-Pedelec – the speedster
There is a third variant: the S-pedelec. This is a hybrid form of pedelec and e-bike. The drive power increases in the S-pedelec compared to the normal pedelec to 500 watts. This supports a top speed of up to 45 kilometers per hour. The same traffic regulations apply as for e-bikes. However, there is an additional requirement: the rider must have a class M driver's license.
How far can I get on my battery bike?
Stiftung Warentest determined the average battery performance of pedelecs at the beginning of this year: After 61 to 87 kilometers, the battery is empty and must be recharged. The battery power varies and depends, among other things, on the condition of the road and the tire pressure. S-pedelecs usually have a larger battery pack. That provides for the high wattage, which one needs with these wheels for the support of the start.
Basically, you should always keep an eye on the battery indicator: If you are on the road with a low battery level, you have to reckon with cycling home with your own muscle power.
And that can be quite strenuous, because the battery and motor have a high dead weight.
The following rule of thumb applies: The lighter the e-bike, the shorter its range. An example: a pedelec with a long range can have a battery with 1000Wh capacity. It weighs approx. 6 kilograms. If you add the 4-kilogram motor, you get a whopping 10 kilograms. A heavy e-bike can weigh a good 30 kilograms in total. Lightweight pedelecs, on the other hand, are optimized for weight and weigh an average of 12 kilograms.
Our tip: To keep weight and battery power in balance, an e-bike with a good range should have a battery with 300Wh capacity. This makes it only 3 kilos heavier than a conventional wire bike.
By the way, to charge the batteries, it is sufficient to plug them into a normal power outlet: Average charging time 4 hours.
What to consider when buying an e-bike?
If you are thinking about buying an e-bike, you should first clarify the purpose for which it will be used. If you only want to commute from your home to the train station, you don't need a mountain bike or road bike. With E-racing bikes, the motor is usually an auxiliary drive that can be finely dosed. Since road bikes should be as light as possible, the motors and batteries are smaller and correspondingly lighter.
Our tip: Get advice from a specialist dealer and describe how the new e-bike will mainly be used. How to narrow down the choice considerably.
And be sure to take a test ride! Because e-bikes ride differently than normal bikes. The electric drive makes them faster and heavier. You should be prepared for this.
When choosing a battery, money, weight and appearance are the deciding factors. Batteries in the frame are a trend, but they are also available as an attachment on the lower frame and on the luggage rack. The models also differ in the arrangement of the motor. Some have it installed in the rear, front or middle of the bike. Simple models can be purchased for as little as 1.000 euros. As always, the more sophisticated the technology and the finer the materials, the higher the purchase price. Whichever e-bike variant you choose: For a mid-range model, you should expect to spend about 2.Plan for 500 euros. This is the only way to be sure that the bike will last for a while. By the way: An e-bike can be financed with an easyCredit.
Battery range and charging infrastructure play only a minor role in the purchase decision – in contrast to e-cars. The average range is usually sufficient for the average consumer: Even on an e-bike, 80 kilometers at a stretch is not so easy to manage. Charging is done at a conventional socket. Thus, you can charge the e-bike uncomplicated even on longer journeys.
There is a lot to be said for the electric variant:
Owners of an e-bike, in comparison, are three times more on the road with their bikes than conventional cyclists. Despite the assistance in pedaling, you can still pedal yourself. Even mountainous routes are no longer an unconquerable obstacle. You use your own physical strength in a way that is easy on the joints. If you notice that you are starting to sweat, simply shift down a gear and let the engine do most of the work.
E-bikes at a glance
A bike for errands in the city, the way to university or work and for shorter trips. It is roadworthy and comfortable, equipped with necessary and useful attachments such as luggage racks, lights and fenders. Front fork and seatpost are suspended. A hub gear with coaster brake is usual.
A bike for traveling, touring and excursions – even off paved roads. The frame is stable, the seating position sporty. The motor is powerful and the battery capacity indicator quite accurate. Common are derailleur gears with 24 or 27 gears.
A bike for off-road use, even in the mountains. The tires are wide and equipped with coarse lugs, the seating position is sporty. The electric MTB has a suspension fork or is fully suspended with disc brakes. As a rule, they are not equipped for public road traffic. The powerful engine helps the untrained to climb even steep hills.
A bike also for larger transports with up to 200 kilograms total weight. Load bikes are available as single-track models or with three wheels. Loads are loaded onto sturdy carriers or into transport trays or boxes. Parents can take their children along in baby seats or child seats.
These fast e-bikes reach a top speed of up to 45 km/h. That's why the frames of S-pedelecs are more stable and the brakes more powerful.
From a legal point of view, S-pedelecs are mopeds. Therefore, they need an insurance license plate and the drivers at least the driving license of class AM (included in the passenger car driving license class B) – for this you must be at least 16 years old. S-pedelecs may not be used on bike paths, helmet is mandatory. Some e-bike models are also available as a fast version. The market share of fast e-bikes is low at one percent.