Electric bikes are an excellent transport solution that can reduce your carbon footprint, simplify your lifestyle and save you time and money. City commuters are increasingly turning to electric bikes as an easy way to get to work and the cycle paths and facilities for cyclists are better than ever before.
Here in Ireland, there are many ways to enjoy your electric bike, including hundreds of miles of beautiful cycle trails through the countryside. At The Edge, we are passionate about getting people outdoors and we will be happy to help you find the best options for you and your lifestyle. Your choice of eBike will be driven by your budget, your personal preferences and the way you intend to use your bike, and we will break down the key considerations for you here.
Types of eBike
There are several different types of eBike, and the choice you make will depend on the type of riding you do and your personal requirements.
- Full Suspension E-MTBs. Full-suspension electric mountain bikes are ideal when you love trail riding but want a little more power to take you further. With a full suspension system, you’ll have a smooth, fast ride that gives you control even on rougher terrain. These bikes have adjustable settings and batteries that will allow you a longer ride, as well as great traction and performance. We love the Trek Fuel EXE 9.9, the ultimate in top-quality electric mountain bikes.
- Hardtail E-MTBs. Hardtail electric mountain bikes are designed to make light work of the roughest terrain by combining agile frames with the pedal assistance you need for better control and a smooth ride. Hardtail electric mountain bikes only have front suspension forks, which provide better control. The Bianchi 2021 T-Tronik Sport is a powerful option featuring a Shimano E7000 Motor Unit and has five assistance levels to choose from.
- Hybrid eBikes. Hybrid electric bikes give you the best of both worlds, enabling you to ride the city streets and countryside trails with ease. They make a great option for commuting and leisure riding, prioritising your comfort and riding experience. The Cube Touring Hybrid is the perfect choice of hybrid eBike, with a Bosch motor that will give you the power you need and plenty of control, even on uneven roads.
- Road eBikes. Electric bikes designed for road cycling give a great riding experience and perfectly combine traditional cycling with the ease of the electric motor. Hills become easy to manage and you can enjoy cycling at higher speeds when you make the most of your road eBike. We love the Orbea Gain D50 2024 Borealis, which is a great choice for convenience and fun. With a light aluminium frame and reliable Shimano brakes and drivetrain, this is a stylish and comfortable way to ride the roads in your local area and further afield.
When you are making your decision, especially if you are new to cycling, it’s worth taking the time to speak with an expert and research online, considering where you will be riding and how long you want to cycle for. These are factors that will influence the type of bike that suits you and you can get the best performance for your lifestyle by choosing the right option.
Factors to consider when choosing an eBike
When you are considering buying an eBike, you will want to look at many different factors to ensure you are getting the best value for your money. You should ensure that any eBike you are considering has:
- The type of motor that will suit you best. The motor will drive your eBike and give you the power you need to go the extra distance when you’re exploring off-road or commuting to work. You will need to consider whether you want a hub motor or a mid-drive motor, and we can help you choose the right option for your lifestyle. A hub motor is located in the front or rear wheel hub and offers a simpler, quieter option that is ideal for those with a limited budget. Hub motors provide direct drive, and these are suitable for casual rides and flat terrain. A mid-drive motor, on the other hand, is located at the bottom bracket of the bike and can provide more effective balance and torque. They are a more efficient option that can give you a much-needed boost for hill climbing and off-road riding.
- The battery capacity and range you need. When you are choosing an eBike, you’ll need to consider the type of riding you intend to do as this will influence your choice of battery capacity and range. Battery capacity is measured in watt-hours, Wh, and you will see that each model you consider has an estimated range. You should think about your daily riding plans and consider the terrain you will be cycling on, as well as your weight as a rider, your riding style and the level of pedal assistance you want.
- The right assist levels and controls for you. The level of pedal assistance you want for your eBike will depend on the riding conditions you anticipate and your preference for the type of riding you enjoy. You will require a different level of pedal assistance for a long-distance trail ride than for an urban commute, for instance. You may opt for a model with multiple assist levels, and you should consider the type and placement of the controls on the models you are considering. You may prefer a handlebar-mounted display for better visibility, or you might find integrated buttons easier to use while riding.
- The correct frame size and geometry. The geometry of your bike refers to the frame type and the ergonomic setup. You will need to ensure that the frame size is correct for you on any model you consider, and that the geometry is suitable for your preferred riding posture, as well as your height and leg length. The right model for you will provide comfort and stability while you are riding, without compromising on control.
- Components and accessories that make life easier. You should take time to consider the various components of your eBike, including the brakes, tyres, suspension, drivetrain and lights. Good quality components will make all the difference to your riding experience and learning how to identify and maintain the various components will ensure that you can obtain the best performance from your eBike. You will usually be able to accessorise your bike with additional features such as kickstands, racks, fenders and locks, according to your personal preferences and requirements.
- A brand you can rely on. Here at The Edge, we only stock bikes we trust and that means you’ll be buying a brand you can rely on when you visit us in-store. The leading brands in the electric bike market have spent years building their reputations and pride themselves on offering great customer support as well as top-quality eBikes. It’s worth checking out customer reviews, the warranties offered by manufacturers and the service options before you invest in your eBike.
- A successful test ride. We always recommend that you try several eBikes before you invest in one, and this will allow you to compare the riding style and comfort as well as the features each model includes. Ensure that you are happy with the quality of the ride and the way your eBike handles before you buy, and make the most of our expertise to ensure that you have found the very best fit for you.
Checking out all of these factors and doing your research before you invest in an eBike means you are likely to make an informed choice and make the most of your budget. An electric bike is not a small investment, so it is very important to get your choice right and ensure that you have found the best option for your lifestyle. This will save you money in the long run, as you will get the best possible performance and will enjoy many years of happy riding.
Find Electric Bikes at The Edge in Ireland
Here at The Edge, we believe that eBikes are the answer to traffic pollution and time wasted in traffic jams, and we know that they can also make a big difference to the experience of trail riding and explore far and wide. Our cycle trails in Ireland are the perfect place to get started with your electric bike and we’ll be happy to help you to find the best option for all your riding requirements.
We stock all the cycling equipment you need for a great riding experience, including cycling clothing, accessories and helmets for all types of riding. We also specialise in running, swimming, surfing and triathlon in Ireland and our experienced team will help you to find everything you need for your outdoor adventures. You can order online or pop in and talk to us at The Edge on Kinsale Road in Cork. Contact us at +353 (0)21 432 0522 or visit our website today.
