5 tips on how to pick the right e

Apr 01, 2023

Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios

Scoring an e-bike rebate is not easy. Neither is finding the right bike.

Reality check: The standard $300 voucher in Denver won't get close to covering the cost — not even the $500 for cargo bikes, as John learned.

State of play: E-bikes come in different shapes and sizes, and how you use them will determine the type to buy, retailers told John as he shopped. The main categories are commuter, cruiser, road and mountain.

What to know: Here are five things to keep in mind.

1) Visit a bike shop that accepts the city's rebate. (Not all do.) Established retailers will carry venerable brands that perform better than online-based companies.

2) It's all about the battery. It's the largest cost, and not all are made the same. Look for a certified option, like a Bosch or Shimano. Lower cost batteries typically aren't as tested, won't last as long and could prove dangerous.

3) Where's the motor? The bikes are either hub-drive motors on the back tire or mid-drive at the center where the pedals are located. Both have benefits and downsides.

4) Display controls. Not all bikes have them, but they are helpful. The best is an intuitive display on the handlebars that shows speed level and battery life.

5) Fit and feel. E-bikes can ride like mountain bikes with aggressive poses or beach cruisers that sit you upright. The frames also differ, so you can get a standard or a step-through, and the seats tend to be larger for comfort.

Of note: To qualify as a cargo bike for the larger city rebate, the extended frame needs to be able to carry at least 100 pounds.

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