Electric bikes: varieties, brands, choice

The range of vehicles is regularly updated with new devices. Among the list of popular novelties, it is worth highlighting electric bikes, presented in a wide variety of types and models.

Today, with the name "electric bike" in the range of devices for movement can be found any bike with an electric motor in its design. In a foreign manner, such vehicles are called "e-bike." However, these names actually hide a structure that can move not only with the help of an electric motor, but also when it exerts muscular force on the mechanism, or with a combination of the two above-mentioned efforts.

Based on its design features, the electric bike has practically no differences distinguishing it from ordinary models that move in the standard way - by pedaling. Among the main characteristics, only the electric wheel stands out, which takes on the entire load of the cyclist. Thus, the e-bike becomes similar to today's popular scooters. The bicycle’s power source is a battery, which is charged from a conventional power supply network.

Usually, a high-quality battery with a full charge is able to allow the owner of an electric bike to cover a distance of 30–35 kilometers. The battery is a removable device, so you can use one or more batteries for construction.This feature allows you to use city, truck or mountain e-bikes at long distances. As for the battery power, today on sale there are options with battery power ranging from 200 to 1000 watts. In this case, the operating voltage can vary between 12–48 volts.

The principle of operation of all components of the mechanism is the interaction of the gearbox and the electric motor that rotates the bicycle wheels. The movement of the motor is carried out due to certain built-in drives. The whole bike mechanism is in a sealed enclosure. Such features distinguish an e-bike from a conventional vehicle with a larger mass. This is due not only to the presence of electrical components, but also to the presence of reinforced bicycle forks.

Usually, most of the models have a mass of about 20 kilograms. The devices are designed to carry cargo weighing no more than 120 kilograms. The electric drive can be a motor-wheel, there are also systems with a central motor, with a carriage motor, four-wheel drive (all-wheel drive), a twin-engine e-bike.

The proposed range of electric bicycles for the most part contains two-wheeled vehicles for riding, but some manufacturers have expanded their product line due to the release of three-wheeled electric bicycles - tricycles.

Most often, e-bikes have one transmission speed, however, it will be possible to find products with a two- or three-speed transmission on sale. The pedals are made in the usual form, the steering wheel can be curved and compact or in a classic form.

Also, electric bicycles have functions that provide comfortable control.

• Some manufacturers of e-bikes equip their products with cruise control - a special unit that turns on automatically when driving at a certain speed.
• Also in the line of such vehicles for transportation you can find varieties that have in their design a special block E-ABS. The device is intended for engine braking, during which the battery is recharged. The mechanism can be activated with one touch of the brake handle on the steering wheel.
• The pedal assist function deserves special attention. A similar feature allows the owner of an electric bike to move around without having to fix the throttle stick. The system begins its work in the monotonous mode of pedaling.

E-bike - a popular means of transportation, which are characterized by positive and negative characteristics. It’s worth starting with the merits of such bicycles.

• High-speed devices are very easy to charge. For the battery you will need a regular outlet with a voltage of 220 V.
• To move on such a transport, you do not need to obtain rights. Also, an electric bike does not need to be registered with the traffic police.
• The small size of bicycles allows you to move around the city without downtime in traffic jams, which will be relevant not only for daily travel to the place of work or study, but also for long trips.
• Despite the more complex device and the principle of operation of an electric bicycle, it will require its owner minimal time and financial maintenance costs when compared with a scooter, motorcycle, car.
• The e-bike works almost silently, which is an indisputable advantage of such a means for riding (due to comfort when driving without any extra noise).
• E-bikes are a completely environmentally friendly mode of transport, since they operate due to electricity, do not emit harmful chemical compounds into the environment.
• Battery varieties of bicycles are universal means of transportation, as they are suitable for managing people of advanced age, with minimal physical training. The range of products includes female models, off-road options with large wheels, lightweight e-bikes for movement and bike rides around the city.
• The design is quite simple to operate, for riding an electric bike you do not need to have any special skills, in addition to maintaining balance.
• Due to the battery, e-bikes can be operated like a normal bike on direct tracks, and on lifts and heavy sections of the road, use the tool without involving physical strength, relying on an electric motor.
• Electric bikes will cost several times less than the motorcycles on the market.

However, such a new-fangled technique is not without some drawbacks that every consumer should know, considering for yourself a similar purchase.

• Most of the batteries in e-bikes have a limited charge resource. Depending on the varieties of the battery, there will be enough for 300 cycles, if you use lead options. Lithium-ion is enough for 800 cycles, lithium-polymer are designed for 1000-2000 recharges.
• Comparing the amount of time required to fully charge the battery, it can be noted that an e-bike will require at least 4 hours, unlike monowheels or other mini-devices for riding on batteries, which are able to fully recharge in 30–40 minutes.
• A cyclist should be prepared for the fact that pedaling will require more force than when riding a regular bicycle. This is due to the mass of construction and inertia.
• On road or conventional electric bicycles, it will not be possible to develop high speed by comparing these indicators with various small motor vehicles.
• The weight of the device will fluctuate within 20 kilograms, which can cause certain difficulties with transporting the bike in your hands, on various lifts on the ground.

Today, the classification of cycle hybrids involves the division of such products into several varieties.

Designs with a pedal drive, they are also called devices with a carriage type of drive. The motor is driven by pedal movement. In this case, the motor will be an assistant for the cyclist when driving. For these types, there are certain norms of motor power. As for Russian requirements, the maximum values ​​in this case will be 250 watts, while the speed of the device will be about 30 km / h.

In this case, the control is due to the throttle of the motor-wheel. The motor can be activated by analogy with the first variety or with the help of a throttle handle, which resembles a lever on motorcycles. For such tools, there are the same restrictions on engine power and speed capabilities.

The power of motors on such devices allows the owner of an electric bike to reach speeds of up to 40 km / h. This kind of e-bike in some countries is referred to as a means of transportation, requiring the presence of rights and appropriate registration.

Considering the type of drive, electric bikes are:

• front-wheel drive;
• rear wheel drive;
• all-wheel drive.

Also, the classification of bicycle hybrids involves the division of devices according to the assembly method. Today on the market for sale you can find the following varieties:

• designs, the manufacturing process of which took place in the factory;
• self-assembled e-bikes.

By the type of construction, electric bikes can be folding and monolithic.

Also, the division of such devices for riding is carried out depending on the variant of operation of the bicycle.

Such means are recommended by the manufacturer for movement on extreme roads, where significant differences in height are observed. Bicycles are designed for heavy loads, suitable for hunting and fishing, stand out for their high cost.

A sports variant of a bicycle hybrid, which is equipped with a special battery by the manufacturer, which increases mileage from a single charge.

A full-fledged bike, recommended not only for solo riding, can be double, there are four-wheeled models for transporting various cargoes.

Small and lightweight models that stand out for increased comfort when used in the city.

Power indicators of the electric motor determine the possibilities regarding the development of maximum speed. These parameters also affect the carrying capacity of the vehicle.

Such samples are able to move at a maximum speed of 50 km / h. You can choose this option not only for suburban, but also for urban transportation. Typically, these hybrids are equipped with lithium batteries.

Electric bicycles capable of overcoming sections of a length of about 60 kilometers without additional charge. In this case, the carrying capacity of such funds will be about 150 kilograms at a maximum speed of about 60 km / h.

Cycle hybrids of this series are able to move at speeds up to 90 km / h. A similar feature gives them an advantage in the power reserve, therefore, with such a tool you can overcome a distance of 100-120 kilometers.

Today, consumers can choose their own e-bike to ride among a large number of models and brands.

Russian-made products that stand out for their high technical characteristics and build quality. Particularly noteworthy is the model V 12, which has a cruising range of 350 kilometers. E-bike is characterized by affordable cost, but it weighs more than 50 kilograms.

Electric bicycles for urban use, which are capable of speeds up to 40 km / h. On a single charge, the bike travels about 40–45 kilometers. The battery is removable, the weight of the device is 19 kilograms.

A folding variant of an electric bike that weighs about 20 kilograms. Manufacturers recommend models for use in the city. The e-bike is capable of speeds up to 40 km / h.

A kind of bike that does not develop a lot of speed, therefore it moves within 20 km / h. A battery with a full charge is designed to cover a distance of 30 kilometers.

Lightweight e-bike that allows you to easily overcome difficult sections of tracks. Despite its good cross, the battery is fully charged for a distance of 60 to 120 kilometers.

To make the purchased electric bike comfortable in operation, and also demonstrate high build quality, studying the proposed range of models, It is worth paying attention to important nuances.

• Choosing a device should be pre-determined with the goals and methods of riding on it.Manufacturers clearly classify their models, equipping them with various mechanisms to suit their intended purpose.
• The choice of transport will also depend on the preparedness of the cyclist himself. Despite the versatility of e-bikes, women or older people should give preference to simple and lightweight designs.
• It is also worth focusing on the riding style, on the basis of which models with additional functions may be needed. For example, for night movement it is worth considering e-bikes with good headlights or parking lights. This feature will be useful for owners of electric bicycles, who will use the device in the countryside.

To move correctly on e-bikes, it is necessary to adhere to the recommendations of specialists.

• Before riding a bicycle, check your tire pressure. In addition, you need to make sure the fastening of bolts and nuts, as well as the level of tension of the spokes.
• The distance that a cyclist can travel on the device will directly depend on the quality of the battery and its charge. Therefore, before each trip, it is recommended to have a fully charged battery in the device.
• Manufacturers when traveling long distances recommend stopping by turning off the device for 5-10 minutes. Such breaks will make it possible to eliminate the risk of overheating, as well as to maintain the controller in full readiness to overcome long distances.
• Experienced cyclists and beginners should know that when controlling an e-bike, it is forbidden to simultaneously lock the wheels and press the throttle lever. Such operation will lead to failure of the unit.
• Keep the removable battery in a ventilated area, avoiding high humidity. Separately from the bicycle, the battery must be at a charge of at least 70%.
• It is only necessary to charge the battery in working electrical networks, avoiding sudden surges in voltage. It is necessary to charge the battery, regardless of the operating mode, at least once every 25 days.
• The battery should not heat up to more than 55 degrees. If this indicator exceeds the established norm, then this feature will indicate a malfunction in the device.
• During operation, it is impossible to disassemble electrical mechanisms on their own.
• During the ride you need to hold the steering wheel with both hands, while moving around the city - observing the established rules of the road.
• Beginners are advised to use protective equipment. This applies to the helmet, gloves, you can additionally wear knee pads and elbow pads.
• To use the electric bike in some models, you will need to use the speed control levers. In general, riding a bicycle with an electric motor is no different from operating a conventional device without a motor. Most models are powered by pressing the pedals.

Owners of electric bicycles note the convenience of movement on such units, maneuverability when driving around the city. Many models are able to develop good speed, which allows cyclists to fully use the electric bike as an alternative to other vehicles.

See how to choose an electric bike.