From City To Trail
Are you looking for the perfect e-bike? One that can get you to and from work? Or for running errands? Or one that is multipurpose that you can ride for fun and adventure?
From crosstown commutes, to fitness rides, electric bikes are a fun and exciting way to get around. And a little extra boost from the electric motor makes hills a breeze!
If a workout is what you're looking for, all the typical aspects of riding a bike still come into play. In fact, you can make your e-bike ride as easy or hard as you want.
Keep in mind, not all e-bikes are created equally. The question you need to ask yourself before buying a new e-bike is what your preferred method of use is going to be?
E-bikes are geared toward different kinds of activities, such as hauling stuff, simply cruising, trail riding, mountain biking, sand and snow riding, and/or urban commuting.
E-Bikes For Women
When shopping for an e-bike online, you can still buy a perfectly fitted e-bike by knowing your measurements and comparing them with the e-bikes geometry.
Keep in mind, that different types of e-bikes are sized differently and will have slightly different fits.
Female-friendly e-bikes typically have lower, step-through frames which make it easier to climb on and off, and they come in a varying range of prices to suit all budgets.
So, what should you look for in an e-bike? If you’re of the female persuasion, here’s 3 things you should know:
#1. Be Sure To Get A Good Fit
First and foremost, keep in mind that the best e-bike for you is the one that truly fits you, and feels like it was custom-made for you.
Secondly, to getting a good fit is knowing which size bike frame you need, loosely based on your height.
A bike that doesn’t fit you properly can lead to aches and pains, and overall discomfort that might discourage you from riding your e-bike.
If you find an e-bike you like with a high top bar, look at the stand-over height, and compare that number to your actual inseam (not pants inseam). The difference between your inseam and the stand-over height should fall within the target ranges.
For example, if you have a 30-inch inseam you’ll want an e-bike with a 29-inch stand-over height.
And when you take a test ride, make sure you can straddle the e-bike frame comfortably with your feet flat on the ground. And also when test driving electric bikes, be sure to wear the clothing and shoes you would typically wear when riding a bike.
How To Measure Your Inseam
Stand with your back against a wall and spread your feet 6-8" apart.Place a book between your legs up against the wall, spine up; raise it until snug against your crotch (this mimics your bike seat). Have another person measure from the top of the spine of the book down to the floor.
If you’re thinking of buying a beach cruiser, or other type of step-through style e-bike you really don’t need to worry about stand-over height. These types of e- bikes typically have sloping top tubes that allow you to step through to mount the e-bike easily.
#2. E-Bike Accessories
Let’s face it, women love accessories, and when you purchase a new e-bike you’ll have a choice of all different types of integrated and add-on accessories to choose from!
Lights: Found most often on city and commuter e-bikes, in the front and/or rear. A light on your e-bike is a must-have safety feature for riding at night.
Rack or Basket: Typically found on a cargo e-bike in the back, a rack can support a heavy load. A rack or basket (sold separately) is perfect for carrying items home from the farmer’s market, or the grocery store. Rear racks are usually rated to carry loads between 20 and 50 pounds, which is sufficient for most people.
LCD Displays: This handy, helpful display let’s you monitor battery life, pedal-assist mode, miles ridden, speed, and more. We certainly recommend an LCD display if your going to be using your eBike often and can take advantage of the LCD displays added features.
Tires: On an e-bike, you can go faster and farther than you normally ride a regular bike. Having tires specifically made for e-bikes or mopeds with extra flat protection will give you confidence for both. Wider width tires like on beach cruiser electric bikes will also add extra comfort to your ride as they absorb road imperfections. A highly reflective safety stripe should also be a priority if you plan on riding early or late in the day.
Chain Guard & Fenders: A full-length chain guard and mudguards aka fenders will protect your clothing from water splashing or mud splattering up on you. As well as a full-length chain guard will prevent from snagging your pants in the chain while riding.
#3. Style and Color
From super affordable, to premium quality, to fast and powerful, to cool or sporty, there’s an e-bike for every style and budget!
As with regular bikes, your e-bike needs to fit your body. The design of your e-bike should not only cover your basic functional needs, but it should also suit your personality.
On the functional side, you’ll need to consider if you’re more comfortable in an upright sitting position or if you prefer a more sleek and sporty feel. Beach cruisers are an example of a comfort electric bike with their plush seats and sweeping handlebars. E-bikes built on mountain bike frames provide a sportier, forward leaning posture.
On the personality side, e-bikes come in a range of colors and frames. Fit is important, but so is looking good as you ride!
Beach Cruiser: This category of e-bike is designed for the casual recreational rider that wants comfort and control. The perfect choice for anyone who wants to just simply ride and take in the world as they pedal through it.
Hybrid / Commuter: This category of electric bike is designed to go far with extended batteries and tires made to roll. Perfect for commuting to work/school, getting around town or meeting friends for coffee - arriving without sweating profusely.
Mountain / Off-road: If you like to get down and dirty, this type of e-bike is designed for riding off road on trails. These off-road e-bikes climb hills like a boss and make descending even more fun. True mountain / off road e-bikes are highly specialized with full suspension and tires made for dirt, not bike lanes.
While you’re out and about comparison shopping make sure to take the time to test drive the three different e-bike classes; Class1, Class 2, and Class 3. Testing more than one electric bike will give you a better feel for your options and help you confirm which style of e-bike is best for you.
If you have questions, or need advice on which e-bike is right for you, get in touch with us, we’d be happy to help you select the best e-bike.
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