Guide to Purchasing Electric Bikes

When purchasing an electric bike, the first thing to consider is the local policies in the United States. On October 15th of last year, the Department of the Interior announced the final regulations for the use of electric bikes in public places. Electric bikes with a maximum speed of under 45km/h are classified as non-motorized vehicles and enjoy the same rights, privileges, and responsibilities as bicycles. After understanding the policy, let's take a look at what factors to consider when choosing an electric bike!

Safety

Safety mainly depends on the brake system. Currently, there are four main types of brake systems in use:

Disc brakes: Equipped with disc brake pads, using hydraulic or linear transmission, the brake resistance arm is relatively large, the braking effect is good, and it is not easily affected by weather conditions. High-end bikes use hydraulic disc brakes.

Hub brakes (drum brakes): Using mechanical transmission, the brake resistance arm is smaller than disc brakes, and the resistance arm is outside the wheel, with a low price and good braking effect.

Band brake: Using mechanical transmission, similar to drum brakes, but the resistance arm rotates inside along with the wheel, and when braking, it is obstructed by the inner network to prevent wheel rotation.

V-brakes: Using linear transmission, braking is caused by pulling two brake shoes to rub against the wheel rim, similar to the principles of linear disc brakes. The price is low, but it is easily affected by the condition of the wheel rim and brake shoes, which can affect the braking effect.

In summary, disc brakes are the best, but the cost of dual disc brakes is also higher and there are some safety hazards. Currently, general braking systems use front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, which are sufficient for electric bikes. The disadvantage of drum brakes is that during high-speed travel, due to weak heat dissipation, the braking performance may be poorer.

Battery Life

The battery life of an electric bike is also an important parameter to consider. It is related to the motor and battery as follows:

Motor: The core part that drives the electric bike. It is mainly divided into brushed and brushless motors. Currently, due to maintenance needs, brushless motors are the main types found on the market.

Battery: Usually divided into lithium and lead-acid batteries. Lithium batteries are a type of battery that uses lithium metal or lithium alloy as the anode material and a non-aqueous electrolyte solution. They are characterized by a small size, light weight, long life, and are more efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly than traditional lead-acid batteries. They are well-suited for elderly people and female friends. The disadvantage of lithium batteries is that they are slightly more expensive. Lead-acid batteries are mainly used as the primary power source in the current market for electric bikes. The only downside is their weight and shorter life compared to lithium batteries.

Currently, the most commonly used battery parameter is 48V12AH; 48V batteries can extend battery life with smaller currents compared to previous 36V and 24V batteries, and 12AH refers to the current power provided by the battery. Simply put, the larger the number, the longer the driving distance.

Frame Material

The frame material of an electric bike is generally made of high carbon steel or aluminum alloy. An aluminum alloy frame is lighter, does not rust, is resistant to corrosion, and has good deformation resistance. A high carbon steel frame is heavier and susceptible to rust.