by Eliza Sterling

Seeking to invigorate your fitness routine, venturing into cycling for the first time, or simply yearning for that long-distance challenge? Electric bikes come to your rescue in all these situations. They combine practicality, comfort, and an undeniable fun factor. Today, let’s delve into our comprehensive guide for the finest electric bikes of 2022, with valuable insight on efficiently navigating your purchase journey.

A Five-Step Guide to Purchasing Your E-bike

With a plethora of options in the market, pinpointing the perfect e-bike for you can become rather daunting. Here are some practical tips, courtesy of an e-bike brand’s top product specialist:

1. Shop In Person
   
   Visit a local dealer and take a test ride. Purchasing an e-bike is about personal preference and comfort, hence sitting on the bike, feeling it firsthand is irreplaceable. This hands-on experience will ensure you better understand the various components and functionalities of an e-bike.
2. Choose Your Type
   Define the purpose – fitness, urban commuting, rural exploration, or a little bit of everything? Knowing your needs will help determine your selection. Also, the bike size should correlate with your height for a safe and comfortable experience.
3. Consider the battery capacity
   The battery capacity, measured in Watt-hours (Wh), is proportional to your bike’s mileage. Higher the Wh, greater the distance it can cover but remember, the price will also be greater. An added benefit of choosing e-bikes over electric cars is that you can always pedal your way home in the absence of power!
4. Pay attention to the Motor
   The motor’s strength is indicated through the Newton-metre (Nm) metric. The higher the Nm, the stronger the motor and better its acceleration and hill-climbing capabilities. Familiarize yourself with different motor positions on e-bikes and assess your preferences under the specified legal limitations.

2022’s Top 5 E-bike Recommendations

Our reviewer’s pick – Raleigh Reinforced Recreation Low-Step E-bike
Boasting an all-rounder Bosch Active Line motor, 400 Wh battery, seven speed gears, mudguards, and a luggage rack, this model promises top-grade functionality and reliability, although its weight makes it slightly cumbersome.

The colourfully versatile – Accelerate Life E+
With four colour choices and different frame styles, this model offers both comfort and safety, managing uphill rides with ease.

The everyday sporty – Street Sprint: ON 6
This light-weight hybrid e-bike has three modes to suit your pace, and also offers the option of a manual ride when the powerful motor is removed. Ideal for urban commutes and simple storage.

The compact touring partner – Compact Propel C Line Explore
Built for long journeys, this folding model has a 300 Wh battery and a USB port for on-the-go phone charging. Its selection of colours and handlebar heights make it a great customizable option.

The commuter’s favourite – Turbo Charge Vado 4.0
Suitable for comfortable commutes and heavy backpack loads, this model provides a smooth ride and easy control, and comes equipped with built-in lights and a ready-to-use pannier rack.