Understanding Electric Bikes: A Complete Guide

There has been a lot of buzz around electric bikes recently, and the number of sales is growing every year. Despite the abundance of information available, it can still be confusing to decide which e-bike is right for you.

Most reviews focus on a single model or a specific type of e-bike. In this guide, we aim to break down the entire market and help you understand what to look for. Traditional e-bikes come in a wide range of prices, some of which might surprise you at first. The market is expanding rapidly, offering options for every budget and need. While the lower end starts around $1,000, we recommend looking for models that cost at least $1,500. Cheaper options often have poor-quality batteries and electronics, which can lead to safety issues and higher long-term costs.

Mid-range e-bikes typically cost between $3,000 and $5,000, while high-end models can reach up to $50,000. However, switching to an e-bike can save you money in the long run. Many riders report saving up to $2,000 annually on parking fees alone, especially in cities like London or New York where parking is expensive. Plus, there’s no oil change, insurance, or licensing costs—making e-bikes a more practical and affordable option for daily use.

Electric bikes and cars are not investments; they're tools or toys that lose value over time. Their real worth depends on how well they meet your needs.

Let’s compare a $3,000 car with a $3,000 e-bike. A gallon of gas costs about $2, and a car might travel 50 miles on that. Meanwhile, an e-bike can go 30 miles on just $0.15 (even with higher electricity rates). That’s a huge difference in cost per mile.

Batteries for e-bikes usually cost between $500 and $1,000 and can last for over 1,000 charges. The better the battery, the longer it lasts and the more energy it saves. With average depreciation rates, the total cost per mile comes out to about $0.50, plus $0.15 for a charge—totaling around $0.65. This makes e-bikes roughly three times cheaper than cars, even when considering current fuel prices.

Now that we’ve covered the cost, let's move on to choosing the right type of e-bike. The key is to determine how you plan to use it. Are you commuting daily, or do you just want a bike for short trips around the neighborhood?

There are many options available, from compact folding bikes ideal for public transport to heavy-duty models that resemble motorcycles. Some can reach speeds of up to 50 mph and have a range of over 170 miles. Delfast’s TOP and Prime models, for example, feature regenerative braking and powerful performance.

If you're riding on flat, even surfaces, cross bikes are a great choice. They’re versatile, suitable for city rides and long-distance trips, and combine the best features of road and mountain bikes. For urban use, you’ll find sleek, stylish designs with narrow wheels. But if you enjoy exploring the countryside, consider models like MTV.

For off-road adventures, you’ll need a robust e-bike with a large range and a strong frame. These models are built to last and often resemble mopeds or off-road motorcycles. We recently came across a model that traveled over 100,000 miles and is still going strong! More details will follow in our future posts on the Delfast blog.