What To Look For
The best electric bike for you depends on your needs. If you are commuting long distances, you will want a bike that can last a long time on one battery charge, and even charge up as you are riding. If you need something lightweight and easily stored, that may require a totally different kind of bike. The faster electric bicycles can get up to speeds of 25 mph, and the better batteries can be fully charged in three hours or less, and last for at least 40 minutes on the road.
Common Pitfalls
Electric bikes can be heavy and awkward to carry and store. Many of them take eight hours or longer to charge, so they often aren't ready to go when you are. Also, if the bike you purchase is a specialty bike not made in your home country, it may be difficult and expensive to buy replacement parts and get it repaired.
Where To Buy
NYCe Wheels, located in Manhattan's Upper East Side, specializes in electric and folding bikes. They also sell electric motor kits you can use to turn your standard bike into an electric bike. The Electric Bicycle Store is an online business selling all of the top electric bike brands.
Cost
At the low end, an electric bike costs between $1,000 and $1,500. If you want a bike that can go faster, last longer, power up hills and require less time to charge, you're probably going to pay between $2,500 and $4,000.
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