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Tips For Short Riders When Buying An E-Bike
Electric Bikes for Seniors: A Fun and Practical Mobility Solution
Throttle vs. Pedal Assist: Which Electric Bike Type is Right for You
Best Electric Mountain Bikes under £2000: Conquer the Trails without Breaking the Bank
When it comes to tackling challenging terrains, electric mountain bikes have revolutionised the off-road cycling experience. The added power and assistance of an electric motor make conquering steep climbs and rugged trails a breeze. If you're on the hunt for an electric mountain bike that offers exceptional performance without breaking the bank, we've got you covered.
In this article, we'll explore the best electric mountain bikes under £2000, providing you with an exhilarating ride and excellent value for your money.
1. Ampere X-Trail:
The Ampere X-Trail is a formidable electric mountain bike that combines power and versatility. With its robust 250W motor and reliable components, this bike is ready to take on any trail. The X-Trail features a sturdy frame, responsive disc brakes, and a responsive suspension system, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride. Whether you're navigating technical descents or powering through challenging climbs, the Ampere X-Trail delivers an exhilarating off-road experience.
2. Avaris Odyssey:
The Avaris Odyssey is another standout option in the sub-£2000 range. This electric mountain bike boasts a powerful 350W motor, allowing for impressive acceleration and speed. With its durable construction and advanced features such as front suspension and hydraulic disc brakes, the Avaris Odyssey offers a smooth and controlled ride on various terrains. Whether you're exploring muddy trails or rocky paths, this bike delivers exceptional performance and stability.
3. Hikobike Enduro:
The Hikobike Enduro is a true off-road machine designed for adrenaline-seeking riders. Powered by a 250W motor, this electric mountain bike delivers a thrilling ride with excellent torque and power. The Enduro features a rugged frame, quality components, and a capable suspension system, providing optimal control and comfort on rough trails. With its impressive traction and stability, the Hikobike Enduro is a reliable companion for off-road adventures.
4. EZEGO Trail Destroyer II:
The EZEGO Trail Destroyer II is a budget-friendly electric mountain bike that doesn't compromise on performance. Equipped with a 250W motor, this bike delivers reliable power and efficient assistance on the trails. The Trail Destroyer II features a durable frame, front suspension, and reliable disc brakes, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride. Whether you're tackling steep inclines or technical descents, the EZEGO Trail Destroyer II offers a smooth and enjoyable off-road experience.
5. Westhill Venture:
The Westhill Venture is a versatile and affordable electric mountain bike suitable for various riding styles. With its 250W motor and responsive handling, this bike provides excellent control and power on the trails. The Venture features a durable frame, capable suspension, and reliable components, making it a reliable companion for off-road adventures. Whether you're exploring forest trails or taking on cross-country routes, the Westhill Venture offers a thrilling and enjoyable ride
.
Finding the best electric mountain bike under £2000 doesn't mean compromising on performance or quality. The Ampere X-Trail, Avaris Odyssey, Hikobike Enduro, EZEGO Trail Destroyer II, and Westhill Venture offer exceptional value for money, delivering exhilarating off-road experiences without breaking the bank.
These bikes boast powerful motors, durable frames, responsive handling, and reliable components, ensuring optimal performance on the trails. Get ready to conquer the mountains and embark on thrilling adventures with these budget-friendly electric mountain bikes. So, gear up, hit the trails, and experience the joy of off-road riding with one of these incredible options.
START YOUR OFF-ROAD JOURNEY TODAY!
Conquer Any Terrain: A Buyer's Guide to Fat Tyre Electric Bikes
Over recent years, the cycling industry has seen a significant surge in popularity of electric bikes, particularly fat tyre electric bikes. These sturdy, versatile bikes can handle all types of terrain, making them an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts. If you're contemplating an upgrade to your biking adventures, our comprehensive buyer's guide to fat tyre electric bikes is here to assist.
What is a Fat Tyre Electric Bike?
First things first, let's define a fat tyre electric bike. As the name suggests, these bikes have wider-than-average tyres, typically four inches or more in width, coupled with an electric motor to assist your pedalling. These large-volume tyres run at a low pressure, providing excellent traction and floatation, which makes for comfortable riding over rough terrains like sand, snow, mud, or rocky trails.
Why Choose a Fat Tyre Electric Bike?
So, why choose a fat tyre electric bike over traditional bikes or standard e-bikes? The answer lies in its versatility and user-friendly features. The wide tyres provide improved grip and stability, enabling you to confidently ride on challenging terrains. Plus, the electric assist means you can cover longer distances or tackle steep hills without exhausting yourself.
Key Features to Consider
1. Motor Power
Motor power is a crucial factor in an e-bike's performance. Typically, fat tyre e-bikes come with motors ranging from 250W to 750W. A stronger motor provides more assistance, which is especially useful on challenging trails or uphill rides. Bear in mind anything over 250W here in the UK is not considered road legal and therefore can only be used on private land only.
2. Battery Capacity
The battery determines how far you can go on a single charge. Higher capacity batteries provide a longer range but they also increase the bike's weight and cost. Most fat tyre e-bikes offer a range between 20 to 50 miles, depending on the terrain, rider weight, and level of assistance used.
3. Frame and Suspension
The bike's frame and suspension greatly influence its comfort and durability. Aluminium alloy frames are a popular choice due to their balance of strength and lightness. As for suspension, while full-suspension bikes offer more comfort over rough terrains, they tend to be more expensive and require more maintenance than hardtail bikes (with suspension only in the front).
4. Tyre Size
While all fat tyre e-bikes have wide tyres, the exact size can vary. Larger tyres offer better floatation and comfort, making them great for soft or rough terrains. However, they can make the bike heavier and slower, so consider your typical riding conditions when choosing tyre size.
5. Gearing System
A high-quality gearing system allows you to change your pedalling effort to match the terrain, thus preserving battery life. Look for bikes with a wide range of gears if you plan on tackling varied terrains.
6. Weight Capacity
Fat tyre e-bikes are generally sturdy and can accommodate heavier riders or additional gear. Check the bike's weight capacity to ensure it suits your needs, especially if you plan on using it for bike-packing or hauling cargo.
7. Cost
Lastly, consider your budget. Fat tyre e-bikes come in a broad price range, with higher-end models offering more features and durability. Remember, it's essential to balance cost with quality to ensure your bike serves you well over time.
In conclusion, fat tyre electric bikes open a world of off-road biking opportunities, turning challenging terrains into exciting adventures. Consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget as you navigate your options. We have some of the leading fat tyre brands in the UK such as Synch, Big Game Bikes, Red Rocket & Knaap. Happy trails!
Do I need insurance for my Electric Bike?
You’ve just bought a shiny, new, electric bike. And what’s more, like all Eco Bike Co. bikes, it comes with a comprehensive warranty.
Sorted, right?
Not quite - although it may not be at the top of your to-do list when buying an electric bike, we always advise our customers to buy insurance.
E-bikes can represent a chunky investment - one that’s worth protecting, and even more so if you plan on making your electric bike your principal mode of transport.
Accidents and theft do happen, and home insurance policies aren’t always sufficient to cover such incidents.
However, knowing that you have coverage in case of an unexpected incident can give you confidence and allow you to enjoy your electric bike without worrying about the financial consequences - and ensure you get back on the road as quickly as possible.
In this article, we discuss some of the reasons why you need insurance for an electric bike.
Protection against accidents
Electric bikes are still vehicles, and accidents can happen.
Whether it's a collision with a car or a fall on a busy street, accidents can result in serious injuries, property damage - and of course, damage to your e-bike.
Suitable insurance can help cover medical expenses and repair or replacement costs.
Liability coverage
Of course, one hopes liability coverage would never be necessary - but as stated above: accidents can happen.
If you are involved in an accident that causes injury or property damage to someone else, you could be held liable for those costs.
Of course, safe cycling and understanding the rules of the road limit the likelihood of such an occurrence - but given the speed at which electric bikes can travel, it is worth keeping in mind.
Theft protection
Cycle theft, particularly in major UK cities, is sadly too frequent an occurrence.
Electric bikes are a particularly popular target for thieves because of their high value.
If your electric bike is stolen, insurance can help cover the cost of replacing it. Certain insurance policies also provide coverage for accessories and modifications, which can also be expensive to replace.
Types of insurance for electric bike owners
There are numerous insurance providers who specialise in cycling equipment and other similar items.
We always recommend carrying out due diligence and reading policies thoroughly to ensure you aren’t caught down the line when making the claim.
Naturally, the temptation is often to go for the cheapest policy, but opting for a low-cost solution shouldn’t be at the expense of comprehensive cover.
Our tip: Choose an insurance provider with a good reputation for customer service. You want to be sure that you can easily file a claim and get the support you need in case of an accident or theft.
Do I need insurance for my electric bike?
For us, electric bikes represent freedom.
Freedom to explore, freedom to travel without restriction, freedom to have fun.
Talking and worrying about insurance seem incongruous with that freedom: but accidents happen.
Peace of mind is important, and insurance can provide that.
It’s worth noting, that however comprehensive (and well-priced) your insurance policy is, the best thing is to avoid an accident or theft in the first place.
Lock up your bike when it’s not in use, use bright and reflective clothing or accessories to increase visibility in low-light conditions, and always follow The Highway Code.
In conclusion, insurance is an important investment for electric bike owners. It provides.
If you’d like to discuss insurance and electric bikes further, feel free to get in touch with the Eco Bike Co. team.
As an authorised dealer for each of the top-of-the-range brands listed on our website, Eco Bike Co. are able to offer full manufacturer warranties on all our orders.
Further peace of mind for customers.
Happy riding.
Off-road: How to choose an Electric Mountain Bike
How do you plan to use your eMTB?
Not all e-bikes are built equally. Even within particular brackets, such as off-road, you’ll find certain bikes better adapted to certain purposes and riding styles. Indeed, the first thing to consider when choosing an electric mountain bike - or any e-bike for that matter - is what you will be using it for.
Do you plan to use it for long rides on technical trails, or for more leisurely rides on smooth paths?
The answers to these questions will help you determine the type of bike you need, as the technical specifications will vary. We’ll run through a number of these variants below.
How much power do you need?
Ensuring you have enough battery life
Consider the type of wheels and suspension
Choosing the right type of brakes
Bike weights can significantly vary
New Year, New You: Electric bike riding tips for 2024
Our top electric bike riding tips
2024 is well and truly upon us - and with Spring just around the corner, many of us are looking ahead to a great year of cycling.
Whether you already own an electric bike, or if you’re considering buying one, you’re part of a growing fanbase: 14% of cyclists are considering switching to electric this year.
It’s no shock that electric bikes are becoming more and more popular as a means of transportation and recreation. They are an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to get around, and they offer a unique riding experience.
However, whether you’re an experienced and regular cyclist, or just getting back into the saddle, it’s worth swotting up on some e-bike bike riding tips as there are some nuances to be aware of when it comes to going electric.
Get to know your bike
If you’ve had a chance to browse our online UK electric bike store, you’ll see there’s a huge range of types, models, and brands available.
Get to know the specifics of your bike. Familiarize yourself with its features and controls, such as the power assist levels, throttle, brakes, and battery range.
Understanding your bike's capabilities and limitations can help you ride more efficiently and safely.
If you haven’t yet purchased your bike, we’ve put together a handy guide to choosing the perfect e-bike for you. Our team are on hand to help you ensure you buy the right bike for your needs.
Wear proper gear
Just like riding a traditional bike, wearing proper gear is crucial for both safety and comfort.
Always wear a helmet and choose clothing that is comfortable and appropriate for the weather. If you're riding at night or in low-light conditions, wear reflective clothing and add reflective accessories to your bike.
At Eco Bike Co. we sell a range of high-quality cycling helmets and weather-resistant clothing along with plenty of other handy accessories. Trust us, after a long rainy cycle, you’re not going to regret having invested in a genuinely waterproof cycling jacket.
Protect yourself, but also protect your bike. Although price points do vary, e-bikes are generally more expensive than their traditional cousins - making the purchase of a bike lock a no-brainer. Check out our range of locks here.
Whatever your level, start slowly
If you're new to electric bikes, start slowly and get a feel for how the bike handles.
Electric bikes can accelerate faster than traditional bikes, so it's important to get used to the speed and power assist levels. Begin by using the lower power assist levels and gradually increase them as you become more comfortable.
If possible, start out on a quieter route, so you can comfortably get a feel for the bike without worrying about other road users. On that note…
Be mindful of traffic
Be aware that electric bikes can reach higher speeds than traditional bikes, so it's important to be mindful of traffic and follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles.
Ride in bike lanes, signal your turns, and obey traffic lights and signs. Also, be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other vehicles and pedestrians.
Without being too preachy, if you haven’t cycled on the road in some time, a quick refresher of the Highway Code never goes amiss.
Check out our guide to using an e-bike safely on the road for more info.
Monitor and maintain your battery
E-bikes rely on a battery to power the motor, so it's important to keep an eye on the battery level - and have a good idea of what it is capable of before heading out.
Be aware of how far you can ride on a single charge and plan your route accordingly. If you're going on a longer ride, consider bringing a spare battery or charging your battery along the way.
If you look after your battery, it’ll last longer - and you may get more mileage out of it.
We’ve written a guide to e-bike battery maintenance. Give it a read before your next ride.
Don’t skip e-bike maintenance
Just like any other vehicle, electric bikes require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly.
Make sure to keep your bike clean, check the tyre pressure, and keep the chain lubricated. It's also a good idea to periodically check the brake pads and make any necessary adjustments or replacements.
Not only will this help avoid issues while out on the road, but you’ll enjoy a smoother ride, too.
If you do run into trouble while out and about, it’s worth being prepared. Always carry a small toolkit with you in case you need to make any minor repairs or adjustments while you're out. It's also a good idea to carry a spare tyre tube and a pump in case of a flat tyre.
Electric bike riding guide: Final thoughts
There’s simply no denying it, electric bikes are a great way to get around and enjoy the outdoors.
By following these electric bike riding tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Remember to wear proper gear, start slowly, be mindful of traffic - and know the rules of the road - monitor your battery, and do keep your bike in good knick.
If you’ve got any questions at all about e-bike riding, why not reach out to our team of expert riders? We’d love to help.
Happy riding!
Electric Bike Accessories: What to buy?
Looking for electric bike accessories?
We would say it… but for the uninitiated, we will gladly say it again: electric bikes are a fantastic way to get around, whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or just enjoying a leisurely ride.
They're environmentally friendly, easy to use, and offer the opportunity to get some exercise while still enjoying the convenience of a vehicle. You heard it here first: 2024 is truly the year of the e-bike.
On its own, an electric bike purchase is undoubtedly going to make you happy - just check out our reviews for proof! However, you can enhance your riding experience with certain accessories - some of which are worth investing in for your safety, too.
You may have already taken a look at our electric bike accessories store, but in this article, we will run through some of the key items you should be considering buying to enhance your e-bike experience.
Safety first: Protect yourself and your bike
Okay, this one is something of a “no-brainer”. (Pardon the pun).
First and foremost, you'll want to invest in a good helmet.
Helmets are essential for any bike ride, but they're especially important when riding an electric bike, which can reach higher speeds than traditional bicycles.
Look for a helmet that fits well and has adequate padding and ventilation to keep you cool and comfortable.
Some helmets are also equipped with built-in lights such as the LIVALL BH60SE Neo for added visibility, which can be especially useful if you plan to ride in the evenings or other low-light conditions..
Another accessory that can you cannot afford to miss out on is a bike lock.
Electric bikes can be more expensive than traditional bikes, so you'll want to take extra care to protect your investment. Look for a lock that's sturdy and durable, and consider investing in a secondary lock or chain to provide even more security. This is particularly worth thinking about if you don’t have a place to store your e-bike inside your home.
If you plan to do any nighttime riding, you'll want to invest in good lights for your bike. A good headlight and taillight can help you see and be seen in low-light conditions - and are obligatory as per the Highway Code.
Look for lights that are bright, easy to install, and have a long battery life - and remember, white lights up front, while your rear light should be red.
Check out the range of bike lights for sale on our site.
Make your e-bike even more practical
Whether you plan to use your electric bike for commuting, running errands, or an overnight trip, you'll likely need a way to carry your belongings with you.
A good bike rack or pannier bag can be a wise investment, as they allow you to carry groceries, work supplies, or other items without having to wear a backpack or carry a heavy load on your back (yes - the days of arriving at the office with a sweaty back are over!)
Another accessory that can be helpful for commuters, or those new to an area, is a phone mount.
This allows you to safely and securely mount your smartphone to your handlebars, so you can easily access maps, or other apps while you ride. Look for a mount that's compatible with your phone and bike, and that has a secure grip to prevent your phone from slipping or falling.
Keep in mind, however, that much like when using a sat-nav in your car, your attention must remain on the road while on the move. What’s more, when stationary or waiting in traffic, be conscious that your phone is adequately secure as it may present a target for petty theft.
Finally, if you plan to take your electric bike on the road with you (holidays, etc.), it’s worth investing in a good bike rack for your car.
A bike rack allows you to transport your bike safely and securely, without having to disassemble it or take up valuable space inside your car.
Remember, there are regulations when it comes to transporting your bike on the road - don’t get caught out.
For more info about travelling with an electric bike, check out our blog.
Electric bike accessories: Final thoughts
While some are without a doubt optional, the right accessories can make a big difference in the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of your rides.
High-quality accessories, such as those we sell at Eco Bike Co., will be compatible with your bike plus come with a manufacturer’s guarantee - and time and again receive rave reviews.
Perhaps you’re a trail rider, or simply looking to make your commute a little greener - the right accessories can help you get the most out of your electric bike.
To find out which accessories to prioritize for your day-to-day cycling routine, or your next big e-bike adventure, get in touch with our friendly team for advice.
Insurance and electric bikes
You’ve just bought a shiny, new, electric bike. And what’s more, like all Eco Bike Co. bikes, it comes with a comprehensive warranty.
Sorted, right?
Not quite - although it may not be at the top of your to-do list when buying an electric bike, we always advise our customers to buy insurance.
E-bikes can represent a chunky investment - one that’s worth protecting, and even more so if you plan on making your electric bike your principal mode of transport.
Accidents and theft do happen, and home insurance policies aren’t always sufficient to cover such incidents.
However, knowing that you have coverage in case of an unexpected incident can give you confidence and allow you to enjoy your electric bike without worrying about the financial consequences - and ensure you get back on the road as quickly as possible.
In this article, we discuss some of the reasons why you need insurance for an electric bike.
Protection against accidents
Electric bikes are still vehicles, and accidents can happen.
Whether it's a collision with a car or a fall on a busy street, accidents can result in serious injuries, property damage - and of course, damage to your e-bike.
Suitable insurance can help cover medical expenses and repair or replacement costs.
Liability coverage
Of course, one hopes liability coverage would never be necessary - but as stated above: accidents can happen.
If you are involved in an accident that causes injury or property damage to someone else, you could be held liable for those costs.
Of course, safe cycling and understanding the rules of the road limit the likelihood of such an occurrence - but given the speed at which electric bikes can travel, it is worth keeping in mind.
Theft protection
Cycle theft, particularly in major UK cities, is sadly too frequent an occurrence.
Electric bikes are a particularly popular target for thieves because of their high value.
If your electric bike is stolen, insurance can help cover the cost of replacing it. Certain insurance policies also provide coverage for accessories and modifications, which can also be expensive to replace.
Types of insurance for electric bike owners
There are numerous insurance providers who specialise in cycling equipment and other similar items.
We always recommend carrying out due diligence and reading policies thoroughly to ensure you aren’t caught down the line when making the claim.
Naturally, the temptation is often to go for the cheapest policy, but opting for a low-cost solution shouldn’t be at the expense of comprehensive cover.
Our tip: Choose an insurance provider with a good reputation for customer service. You want to be sure that you can easily file a claim and get the support you need in case of an accident or theft.
Do I need insurance for my electric bike?
For us, electric bikes represent freedom.
Freedom to explore, freedom to travel without restriction, freedom to have fun.
Talking and worrying about insurance seem incongruous with that freedom: but accidents happen.
Peace of mind is important, and insurance can provide that.
It’s worth noting, that however comprehensive (and well-priced) your insurance policy is, the best thing is to avoid an accident or theft in the first place.
Lock up your bike when it’s not in use, use bright and reflective clothing or accessories to increase visibility in low-light conditions, and always follow The Highway Code.
In conclusion, insurance is an important investment for electric bike owners. It provides
If you’d like to discuss insurance and electric bikes further, feel free to get in touch with the Eco Bike Co. team.
As an authorised dealer for each of the top-of-the-range brands listed on our website, Eco Bike Co. are able to offer full manufacturer warranties on all our orders.
Further peace of mind for customers.
Happy riding.
Do you need a license to ride an electric bike?
The popularity of electric bikes continues to rise in the UK.
Sales volumes show no sign of slowing in terms of year-on-year growth, with 2024 predicted to follow this trend. Indeed, e-bikes make up a significant, and increasing proportion of the total of all bicycles sold.
Private ownership of electric bikes is on the up, while rental e-bikes, such as the now ubiquitous Lime bikes and others, are commonplace on the streets of London and other UK towns and cities.
And there’s a good reason for this rapid uptake. Electric bikes present an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to travel.
However, given their relative newness on the roads in the UK, there are still some misunderstandings about the rules and regulations when it comes to using a motor-powered bicycle.
At Eco Bike Co. HQ, the most common question we hear asked on this subject is, “do you need a license to ride an electric bike?”
In this blog, we will answer this question and look at some of the other important regulations to be aware of to ride safely and legally in the UK.
Do you need a license to ride an electric bike?
The short answer is no.
The slightly longer answer: it depends on the bike.
Lets first focus on the bikes we sell at Eco Bike Co. Our UK-manufactured electric bikes are all road-legal without a license.
This is because they are classed as EAPCs, or ‘electrically assisted pedal cycles’. The UK Government has a handy guide to the criteria an e-bike must meet to fall into this category.
To summarise, an EAPC must show either its power output or the manufacturer's name on the motor. The battery’s voltage and or max speed should also be displayed, and crucially, the motor must have a maximum power output of 250 watts and should not be able to propel the bike when it’s travelling to speeds of more than 15.5mph or 25kph.
All of the bikes available on our online store meet these criteria and can therefore be ridden without a license.
The only additional stipulation to be aware of is you must be 14 years old or over to ride an electric bike in the UK.
What if my e-bike isn’t an EAPC?
Perhaps your electric bike has a more powerful motor than 250 watts and can reach speeds of more than 15.5mph.
If this is the case, it cannot be considered an EAPC. Instead, the bike is referred to as a speed pedelec.
Your speed pedelec will need to be registered with the DVLA and taxed, and you’ll have to have a driving licence/CBT to use it on the road. You can often spot a speed pedelec as it will have a number plate, and often wing mirrors and a horn.
Indeed, while it might look very much like a regular electric bike, you should think of it as a moped or motorcycle in the eyes of the law.
As such, you wouldn’t be able to ride it on cycle paths, and you must wear a motorcycle helmet.
Conventional cycling rules apply to e-bikes
When focusing on the technical classifications of EAPCs, it’s easy to overlook the rules of the road that apply to all bicycles, electric or otherwise.
Firstly, by law, your e-bike or traditional bicycle must have working front and rear brakes to be road legal.
If you ride your bike on the road after dark, you must have working front and rear lights and reflectors on your bike. The front light should be white, while the rear light should be red.
As with any form of road use, cycling under the influence of drink and drugs is illegal.
When we talk to new cyclists or those who have been out of the saddle for some time, we always suggest they refamiliarise themselves with the UK Highway Code. There are specific sections that apply to cyclists, but a good grasp of the rules of the road allows for safer journeys - for you and for other road users. A few hours of prep now could save a lot of stress and worry down the line.
Are electric bike laws universal?
Perhaps you are thinking about travelling with your e-bike - within the UK or further afield.
In the UK, the same electric bike laws apply across all of the home nations. Previously, in Northern Ireland, e-bike riders were obliged to have a CBT license or equivalent: this is no longer the case.
Electric bike laws in the EU are largely the same as in the UK - but given the newness of the technology, and ongoing shifts in public policy both there and at home, we would strongly advise you carry out your own research before travelling to ensure you can ride your e-bike safely and legally.
Riding an electric bike without a license
One of the many things we love about electric bikes is how accessible they are.
The fact you can ride one without a license makes that purchase decision that bit easier! Are you ready to join the electric revolution?
Eco Bike Co. are proud to be one of the UK’s leading retailers of electric bikes. We offer a wider range of brands and models on our site and our friendly team of e-bike experts is on hand to help with any questions or queries you might have. Get in touch today.
Happy riding!
What's the Difference Between Women's and Men's Bikes?
One thing we love about cycling is it is for everyone.
Young or old, male or female, fit or unfit: our beloved sport is widely accessible - and even more so when you opt to use an electric bike.
It won’t come as a huge surprise that the majority of bikes (e-bikes included) that you see on the road today are suitable for all cycling styles, and crucially, genders.
However, if you’ve already had a browse of our online electric bike store, you will see that we have a specific section for women’s e-bikes - as well as a section for men too.
On these pages you’ll find a wide variety of bikes, from foldable e-bikes to premium off-road mountain bikes as well as classic road cruisers. What groups them together is that they are adapted to be slightly better suited for female riders.
You might look at the photos, and wonder “what’s the difference between women’s and men’s bikes?” Sometimes the differences are subtle, and we’ll look at them more closely in this blog.
A “woman’s bike” is any bike that fits her
First and foremost, this is a principal we stand by at Eco Bike Co.
Many female cyclists, including members of our team, find that “men’s” - or perhaps better labelled as “unisex” - bikes suit them just fine, even better than women-specific models.
If you get a chance to give a bike a test ride, that’s always going to be beneficial. Failing that, speak to an expert.
We have a really experienced team of e-bike experts on hand at Eco Bike Co. to support you with choosing the perfect electric bike for your cycling needs and physique.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch by either phone, email, or live chat.
Differences between men’s and women’s bikes
Once upon a time, women’s bikes might simply have differed from men’s aesthetically. Thankfully, those days are behind us, and women’s bikes are designed simply to provide a better fitting ride.
The fundamental difference between men’s and women’s bikes tends to be the size of the frame. Now, this doesn’t mean a women’s bike is simply a smaller version of the men’s bike. No, there is more precision to it than that.
To suit the average woman’s build, you will often see that a women’s bike has a shorter stack height. Note: the stack is the distance from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube.
You will also notice a shorter reach length (the horizontal distance from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube) and quite possibly narrower handlebars as, typically, women have narrower shoulders than men.
Saddles may well be different between men’s and women’s bikes. In general, women’s saddles tend to be shorter and wider. That said, saddles are very much interchangeable and it comes down entirely to personal preference.
What about step through bikes?
A step through bike has previously been considered a women’s bike. This classic bike design features a downwards-sloping top tube and was built as such to accommodate the long skirts generally worn by women riders.
You’ll still see step through bikes today - for example on our website - but the design choice is an aesthetic one, rather than to provide a practical solution for long-skirt-wearing riders!
Indeed, you’ll see many male cyclists using step through bikes too, simply because of the appeal of the design. Curved elements on bikes are becoming increasingly popular - keep an eye out for them in the coming year
Choosing the right e-bike for you
When choosing the right e-bike for you, it’s not just a questions of whether it has been designated for men, or for women.
No, there’s a lot more to it than that.
The electric bikes you’ll find on our website are highly versatile and varied. Different frame styles, motors and batteries can be found across a broad selection of our e-bikes.
When talking to new customers, we often suggest they ask themselves these three questions:
- Am I principally planning to use my electric bike on roads?
- How is my fitness? What sort of power assist is appropriate?
- Would a particular frame style e.g. “step through” be most practical?
For many of our customers, portability is also an important factor. Our wide range of foldable electric bikes are very popular with commuters as well as those with a little less storage space at home.
For some, style comes first. And we’ve got plenty to offer in that department. Check out our entire range of UK-manufactured electric bikes here.
Get the advice and insight you need
When buying a new bike, advice is always useful.
When buying a new electric bike, you should definitely be looking to discuss your potential choice with an expert.
There are a number of variables to consider and there’s no denying, e-bikes are advanced pieces of technology - you wouldn’t buy a new computer, television, or household applaince without duing some due diligence.
At Eco Bike Co. we massively pride ourselves in delivering the highest standards of customer service, both pre- and post-purchase. Our team are electric bike experts and cycling enthusiast. They’re also really friendly - just check out our reviews!
If you’re considering buying an e-bike and wondering what might be the best choice for you, and whether you should be looking at women’s frame, why not get in touch today.
Happy riding!