There are many factors involved in choosing the right bike. Perhaps one of the biggest decisions is whether to invest in an e-bike or stick to a more traditional, pedal-powered version.
Whichever decision you make, there are plenty of options, from the YERKA anti-theft bike to the DiroDi electric bike. One factor that you should consider is the weight difference.
Why Weight Difference Matters
Electric bikes are powered by a motor, meaning you don’t have to do anything to get where you want to go. Of course, there are also plenty that are pedal-assisted, allowing you to pedal and enjoy the support of the electric motor.
In both cases, these bikes have batteries built into them, which makes them heavier than a normal bike.
This matters if you need to carry your bike. For example, if you commute and use the train for part of the journey, using your e-bike for the rest, you’ll need to lift the e-bike onto the train.
Equally, if you live or work somewhere with a lot of stairs and no lift, you may not appreciate the additional weight of an e-bike.
Of course, you need to balance the inconvenience of the additional weight against the ease of riding and effortlessly getting where you need to go.
What Is The Weight Difference Between An E-Bike And A Normal Bike?
The average e-bike weighs 18 kg more than a normal bike. That’s not the total weight. All bikes have frames, wheels, gears, etc. The exact weight of these parts will vary according to the model of bike.
On average, a normal bike weighs around 10 kg, and an electric bike weighs upward of 50 kg. However, there are some exceptions. For example, the DiroDi Rover Gen 5 has a gross weight of 46 kg.
Other Weight-Related Considerations
Your primary consideration when reviewing the weight of your bike is convenience. Not everyone can comfortably lift 50 kg and carry it on and off trains or up and down stairs.
However, the weight of an e-bike can cause other issues:
Range
The heavier the bike, the harder the motor will need to work to maintain speed. This means you either need a bigger motor, or your range will suffer. It’s important to look at the power specs of an e-bike in conjunction with its weight. This will give you a realistic idea of top speed and range.
Cost
The heavier the bike the better it will need to be made to comfortably support the weight of an adult. Of course, better quality builds, while desirable, will push up the cost further.
Finding the right e-bike within your budget means balancing power, weight, and quality of build.
Rider Weight
If you’re bigger and heavier, then you’ll need a solid bike frame capable of holding your weight. Unfortunately, this will increase the bike’s overall weight, potentially reducing speed and range.
Summing Up
source: ngmobility.com.au
The weight of your e-bike or normal bike is directly related to the quality of the product and your ability to ride it.
It’s important to consider all the above factors before choosing between a normal bike and an e-bike.