A Brief History of eBikes

Reflecting on the early 2000s, the first eBikes were often bulky and unattractive, powered by lead batteries that made them cumbersome to ride. Their limited range and lack of power made uphill rides a strenuous effort, often leaving riders pushing their bikes home in frustration. Thankfully, eBike technology has advanced significantly since then, especially when compared to the slower progress seen in the automotive industry over the past two decades.

Advantages of Lightweight eBikes.

For Cyclists

Lightweight eBikes, typically weighing between 12 to 20 kg (24 to 44 lbs), offer several benefits:-

Lightweight eBikes, typically weighing between 12 to 20 kg (24 to 44 lbs), offer several benefits:

Agility: They provide better maneuverability on roads and trails, making them easier to handle.

Convenience: Their lighter weight makes them easier to store, carry up stairs, and load onto vehicles or bike racks.

Durability: Components such as tires, brakes, and chains experience less wear and tear due to the reduced weight.

Moreover, an eBike must harmonize with the rider's body, meaning that a well-fitted, lighter eBike can enhance comfort and performance.

For Manufacturers

From a manufacturing perspective, lighter eBikes are advantageous as well:

Cost Efficiency: With rising freight costs and raw material prices, producing lighter eBikes can lead to higher profit margins.

Logistics: Lighter products are cheaper to handle, ship, and package, reducing overall production costs.

Common Configurations of Standard eBikes:-

In Europe and the U.S., standard eBikes are often equipped with powerful motors like the Bosch Performance Line CX or Shimano EP8, typically offering around 85 Newton meters of torque. These motors are paired with batteries of 625 to 630 Wh, creating a balance that satisfies both cyclists and manufacturers. Heavier eBikes, particularly those designed for mountain biking or trekking, can weigh between 21 kg (46.2 lbs) and 26 kg (57.2 lbs), depending on their motor and battery configurations.

Price Considerations

The price of eBikes can vary significantly based on weight-saving materials like carbon and titanium. For those seeking lighter options, the cost per gram saved can be quite high, influencing purchasing decisions based on budget.

When Power is More Important than Weight

When considering whether to prioritize weight or power, it's essential to evaluate your riding conditions. For steep climbs, torque becomes crucial. For instance, an 85 Nm motor on a 25 kg eBike provides better torque per kilogram compared to a lighter eBike with a weaker motor.

Riding Without Assistance

If you often ride without assistance, the additional weight of an eBike can be felt, especially when exceeding certain speed limits. While a 5 kg difference may seem minimal, it can feel more significant when combined with the rider's weight. Thus, for those who prefer lighter eBikes, it may be worth considering a model with less power, unless a longer battery range is a priority.

Carrying Heavy Loads

For riders who frequently transport heavy loads, the benefits of a more powerful motor outweigh the advantages of a lighter bike. In such cases, the weight savings from a lighter eBike become less impactful on the overall power-to-weight ratio.