We’ve compiled 10 quick tips to help you make an informed choice when buying your next e-bike — whether you’re looking for a smooth ride to get around town or something more powerful for off-road adventures on the weekend.
The three electric bike classes are defined by their maximum assisted speed and whether or not they have a throttle.
The class of e-bike you choose will depend upon your needs and preferences.
If you want to go fast, then consider a Class 3 e-bike. If you want the added benefit of pedal assist and don’t mind putting in some of the hard work yourself, then a Class 1 will be your best bet.
If you’re looking for a purely recreational e-bike, or you just something that will allow you to get around town without breaking a sweat, then a Class 2 might be what you need.
E-bikes come in a variety of types, each designed for various riding styles. For those wanting an electric bike for short city commutes or urban riding, a commuter or folding e-bike is ideal.
If you’re looking for something with the ability to handle varied terrain, a fat tire or hybrid e-bike is recommended. For something that can handle heavy-duty off-roading, such as rocky trails with sharp inclines or declines, a mountain e-bike is a must.
For cyclists wanting a sportier ride, city/street e-bikes are light and fast. Alternatively, cargo e-bikes feature a heavier and thicker frame, allowing the rider to cart heavier loads as needed.
The style of electric bike you choose should reflect how you’ll be using it. For example, if you want to use your e-bike to go grocery shopping, you’ll want to get a cargo e-bike with a heavier frame and plenty of storage capacity.
Pedal assist and throttle are two different ways of controlling the amount of power you send to the e-bike’s motor. The pedal assist operates by detecting when you’re pedaling and then automatically increasing the motor’s power to help you along. The throttle works by allowing you to push a button directly on your handlebars (or simply twist them) to control the speed.
The main difference between these two types of electric bike features is that with a throttle, you can ride without pedaling at all. With a pedal assist e-bike, however, you must still pedal for the motor to kick in and help you along.
The main difference between the two types of electric bike motor is that a hub motor is located in the rear wheel, while a mid-drive system is placed inside the frame.
Hub motors are cheaper and easier to maintain, but they’re not as efficient as mid-drive systems. Mid-drive bikes are more expensive, but they also offer more torque and power than hub motor models, as well as longer range.
It’s important to consider the pros and cons of each motor when choosing the ideal model for you.
Torque-sensing and cadence-sensing are the two primary forms of pedal assist systems (PAS). Cadence sensors measure the number of times that you pedal per minute, while torque sensors measure how hard you are pushing.
While torque sensors are more expensive than cadence sensors, they use less battery and offer a more realistic riding experience that’s in sync with your movements. Cadence sensors are easier to install and therefore come at a cheaper price tag than e-bikes with torque sensing. They’re less efficient when climbing hills, however, so are better suited for casual, flat-terrain riders who don’t need the extra power that torque sensing offers.
The battery range and power of an electric bike are two of the most important factors to consider when buying. If you intend to ride your e-bike on long trips, you’ll need a model that has a long battery life.
The battery range is affected by how much weight your bike is carrying, as well as the terrain and your riding style. The more you rely on your e-bike’s motor for propulsion, the more you’ll drain the battery.
But the larger your battery capacity, the more distance you can travel between charges.
A good rule of thumb for determining how much power you need is to consider what kind of riding you plan to do. If you’re planning on taking long rides through mountainous areas, then go for a bike with more power.
On the other hand, if you’re just going to use your e-bike around town or on flat terrain, then less power will suffice.
The weight of your electric bike is an important factor in determining how much work you’ll have to do while riding it. A heavier bike will require more effort from your muscles and tendons, while a lighter one will allow you to pedal with less exertion. That said, a heavier e-bike may have a more powerful motor and battery.
E-bikes can range in weight from 18 pounds to upwards of 70 pounds, however, the most common weight for a standard electric bike (including motor and battery) is around 45-55 pounds. This can vary depending on what type of motor is used, but if you’re looking for something sturdy yet easy to maneuver, keep this number in mind when shopping around.
Service and maintenance are important for the long-term health of your electric bike. All e-bikes need regular service, but the frequency will vary by manufacturer.
Most manufacturers recommend servicing your bike every 500 to 1,000 miles, with some requiring more frequent visits depending on the type of riding you do (for example, if you commute in heavy traffic or ride off-road).
If you’re unsure whether your model requires servicing, check out its user manual or contact the manufacturer directly before taking it to an authorized dealer for a tuneup.
Electric bikes come in all shapes, sizes, and prices. While some high-end e-bikes out there cost several thousand dollars, many budget electric bikes cost less than $1,000.
Generally, the more money you spend, the better quality bike you’ll get. More expensive models tend to be lighter, have better battery life, and offer more features than the cheaper ones.
The key to finding a good electric bike is doing your research and making sure that you’re buying from a reputable manufacturer. It also comes down to what features and specifications you’re looking for in an e-bike and how much money you’re willing to spend on them.
The length of a warranty is an important consideration when buying an electric bike. Most manufacturers offer a 1-year or 2-year warranty on their products, but it’s important to note that this doesn’t always cover wear and tear or mechanical failures.
Be sure to read through the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly before riding your new bike for the first time so you know how to operate it safely and securely. Additionally, keep track of all maintenance records as well as any parts replaced during repairs, as this will help make for easier claims down the road.
Warranties vary widely from one manufacturer to another in terms of what they cover, so be sure you understand exactly what kind of protection comes with yours before purchasing an electric bike.
When you know what to look for, buying an electric bike is a lot easier. By following our top ten tips above, you can find one that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle with ease.
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The electric motorcycle you choose depends on personal preference and riding behaviour. The good news is that there is an electric motorbike out there for every rider.
The first generation of electric bikes meant well. They broke the mold, pushed the envelope, and paved the way for us to make the best two-wheeled wonders we can. However, they were often expensive, unreliable, and put safety as an afterthought.
Thankfully, in 2023, those days are long gone. Bike brands are releasing exciting new motorcycles with features never seen before in their EV predecessors or ICE counterparts. For example, here at Damon, we’re disrupting the status quo with the world’s first multi-variant powertrain platform and our award-winning 360° advanced warning system.
With so many factors at play when choosing the right battery-powered motorcycle, it can be difficult to know where to start. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Whatever kind of rider you are, check out our electric motorcycle guide and the 9 key tips you should assess when choosing the best electric motorcycle for you.
Damon HyperSport HS PrototypeIn the past, the main motivation for purchasing an electric bike would be to reduce your carbon footprint. However, with electric motorcycles now going toe-to-toe with petrol models in terms of performance and variety, you can now choose bikes that fit your specific riding needs.
These may include:
The next tip will greatly determine whether you can take your electric motorbike across the country or if it’s better suited to going to and from the office.
Damon HyperSport HS in VancouverRange refers to the total distance your bike can do per charge. The total range estimate given on a motorbike’s specification can be affected by a few different factors, such as:
When considering the best electric bike for you, it’s essential to make some estimations. These will not only include your daily mileage but also the nature of your route (e.g. city streets, highways, rural areas, and access to charging stations).
This type of breakdown is important as all-electric motorbikes have a maximum range when fully charged. Look at the section of the manufacturer’s specifications, in particular, to make sure they’re quoting city, highway, or mixed battery mileage.
Take a look at how these electric motorcycles compare for range, top speed, horsepower, and charging time:
Most Futuristic Motorcycles in 2023 ComparedThe range of electric motorcycles varies from one model to the next. Lighter, scooter models deliver around 60 miles of range, whereas some heavier, cruiser models hit around 250 miles.
Here at Damon, our HyperSport HS and Premier models have a range capacity of over 200 miles (city and highway mix).
Now that you’ve considered what you’re using the bike for and the range it’s capable of, let’s move on to the bike’s power, torque, and speed. In other words, what can you expect when you nail that throttle?
There is some confusion about the difference in these terms within the riding community. So, we’re going to break down each one:
A question we’re frequently asked is, “Are electric motorcycles faster than gas?” This is a resounding yes.
Don’t believe us? Check out the power, torque, and top speed of the different Damon HyperSports below.
Damon HyperSport Versions ComparisonThe length of time it takes to put the life back into your battery is probably as important as the range available on a full charge.
Most electric motorcycles have built-in level one and level two chargers. Damon HyperSports also feature CCS fast-charging capability.
What’s the difference between the three?
To charge most electric bikes at home, you need to install a J1772-compliant EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment). Alternatively, you can use level two charging stations while on the road.
EV charging infrastructure has improved in the last few years. In Canada, for example, Petro-Canada has completely rolled out its coast-to-coast EV charging network. The charging infrastructure in the US has also seen impressive growth; in California alone, there are 18,000 EV charging stations.
So where can you find a level two charging station? Practically everywhere! Use any level two charger locator app to find a station near you.
Damon HyperSport Charging at HomeElectric motorcycles have the benefit of being more technologically advanced than their ICE counterparts.
On top of a more interactive dash, the electric motorcycles are upping their tech game by implementing advanced safety features to enhance rider safety.
Damon HyperSports will feature our CoPilot™ advanced warning system. The system will use radar, cameras, and non-visual sensors to track the speed, direction, and velocity of up to 64 moving objects around the motorcycle in 360 degrees.
In addition to this, several bike brands have started to produce their own mobile apps to increase riders’ levels of connectivity. Through our mobile app, Damon HyperSport owners will be able to customize CoPilot™’s alerts based on individual preferences. You’ll also be able to access features like GPS tracking or your electric motorcycle’s settings all on a user-friendly interface.
Additional features will be made available and easily downloadable through over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring your electric motorcycle always remains fresh and up to date.
It’s essential that the bike you choose has the correct dimensions and weight as well as the right seat height. Proper motorcycle ergonomics means you’ll be comfortable and in control of your bike no matter your riding position.
However, motorcycle riding position changes depending on whether you’re commuting in the city in a more upright posture or out there leaning forward to carve canyons. Because your riding position changes, your motorcycle should, too.
This is why Damon HyperSports all feature SHIFT™ technology. This allows riders to adjust their footpegs and handlebars – all at a push of a button. This on-the-fly adjustable ergonomics is extremely useful for remaining relaxed in stop-start traffic or maintaining control on the freeway, making your ride more comfortable at all times.
Still need help visualizing? Well, first take a look at these different motorcycle riding positions.
A Guide to Different Motorcycle Riding PositionsAnd here are the different riding positions you’ll be able to do using SHIFT™.
Damon Shift™ Technology Riding PositionsThis is an important question – let’s face it, the battery is the very heart of the bike. To be clear, this is the number of times the battery can be recharged and not the range of a fully charged battery.
Just as ICE motorcycles get worn out after many kilometers under its belt, the same will happen with electric motorcycles. However, through the lifetime of the vehicle, you will spend much less time, energy, and money on maintaining your electric motorcycle than you would an ICE bike. No more needing to winterize, remove the battery, or put in fuel stabilization – now you can just plug it in and go!
Rest assured, the bike you choose will likely have a long battery life. By the time you begin to see battery degradation, you would be ready for a new motorcycle already.
Damon HyperDrive™All-electric motorbike manufacturers are obliged to provide a warranty. The small print differs significantly, but apart from covering frame and cycle parts, the warranty should cover the battery’s shelf-life.
The devil is always in the details though and the warranty small print will usually have a lot of bike specifics you should know. These details will relate to things like:
In order to stay within the warranty terms, you have to adhere to these terms.
There is an electric motorbike to suit any budget. No longer are electric bikes only available to the super-wealthy and environmentally conscious. Technology and bike engineering are now at a place where you can order a high-powered electric sports bike for as little as $264 a month.
Furthermore, an additional saving grace for riders of EVs is the various incentives on offer. It’s clear for all to see, that switching to going electric will have a very positive effect on air quality. The global goal of greatly reducing our carbon footprint has resulted in Canada and the US introducing various incentives, grants, and even an electric motorcycle tax credit.
Bike brands will be glad to make you aware of them, but, if at a loss, check your government and state funding options for electric motorcycles.
As you can see, whether you’re after an electric scooter or an electric motorbike, there’s something out there for everyone. Damon’s HyperSports are no different. So, whether you’re a canyon carver, track day junkie, or an everyday commuter, there’s a motorcycle out there for you.
We hope you found our electric motorcycle guide helpful and that you’re now clearer on the best electric motorcycle for your needs.