14 Tips to Buy an Electric Bike on a Budget

If you're looking for sightseeing, then a cruiser would be fine. Hybrid electric bikes are suitable for regular commutes in the city. Mountain e-bikes are used for riding on the trails.

Check out shops or consult an expert to understand which type of e-bike is best for you.

You can get the right electric bike on a budget. Electric bikes are available at a wide range of prices. Prices of electric bikes vary from $500 to around $80,000. Mountain and premium e-bikes usually cost the most. Tips for buying an electric bike on a budget are as follows.

1. Select a Cheaper Model

Electric bikes come in a wide range of prices and models. Do some market research to compare prices before investing in anything. See some of the top electric bikes here.

2. Buy a Used E-Bike

Used e-bikes always cost less than brand-new ones. You can buy a used e-bike from reselling shops, yard sales, or online sales. Remember to check the bike's condition before handing over the money.

You may find a bike with a warranty if it hasn't been used for five years. So, keep an eye out for that.

3. Money on Insurance

Brand new bikes require costly insurance. A used or overhauled bike can save you this cost. You don’t have to pay much for a used bike insurance.

4. Use a Small Battery

Buy a small battery to save money. Smaller batteries with less wattage cost less than bigger batteries. However, you can only cover short distances with a small battery before you need to recharge.

The battery needs to be balanced with the motor as well.

5. Buy a Spare Battery

You can buy a spare battery for extra energy if you need it. This would only be feasible if you're occasionally traveling long distances because spares can also be expensive.

Calculate the prices and choose the option that’ll reduce expenses and help you stay within the budget. Be careful while charging the batteries because there have been reports of accidents.

6. Get a Low-Power Motor

You can select a motor with less wattage since they are more affordable if you're traveling within the city.

Placement of the motor matters as well. A direct drive motor is for flat commutes, and geared hubs are suitable for carrying cargo. Rear hub motors are less expensive than mid-drive ones.

You can replace or change the motor of your electric bike. Remember that a high-powered motor would require a much higher-powered battery. So, the costs will pile up.

7. Opt for Upgrades Instead of Buying New

New bikes cost more than spare parts. You can upgrade your bike to reduce expenses. Sometimes, changing one problematic part can transform the electric bike completely.

If you don’t mind steel or aluminum frames but need more speed, buy a steel frame bike and replace the motor and battery. This will save unwanted expenditures.

8. Compare Prices

Comparing the prices of the brands, shops, and models will give you a good idea about the electric bike market and help you save money. Popular brands are likely to be more costly.

Electric bikes come with different specs and models. It is common to be confused with all those options. Narrow down the ones that you need and look for bikes with those within your budget.

9. Choose Less Features

Don’t buy a bike with features that you won’t use. So, don’t pay more for stuff you won't use; get a bike with the features you need.

10. Select a Lighter Model

A lighter model of electric bike will likely be within your budget than a heavier one.

Electric bikes that come with high-powered motors and batteries are heavier. These are useful for mountain biking and racing.

You won’t need a high-powered bike if you’re only using it for rides inside the city or low-key mountain rides.

11. Choose a Cheaper Frame

A cheaper frame will help you stay within the budget while providing the necessary support. Aluminum is the most popular option and is cost-effective. But steel is more durable.

Carbon fiber is light, durable, and suitable for athletes. Carbon fiber and titanium are more expensive. Titanium is not as durable as aluminum and steel.

Overall, aluminum or steel would be best for an electric bike within budget.

12. Opt for High-Quality Parts

High-quality parts such as tires, brakes, batteries, and motors will make your ride comfortable and easy. These will be cost-effective in the long run and last longer without needing repairs.

13. Consider If You Need Gears

You don't need gears for electric bikes. So spending on them would be irrational.

The pedal assists mode on electric bikes is enough to aid your speed. Some people prefer gears for added speed, but it's not needed for regular bike rides.

14. Set Your Priorities Straight

Before buying anything, you need to know what you need and what you don't. Setting your priorities will help you avoid extra expenditures on features you don't need.

For example, if you want to carry cargo or groceries, you'll need a bigger e-bike. For commuting on the subway you'll need a foldable one. Your budget for the electric bike will depend on these factors.

Conclusion

Electric bikes can elevate your biking experience by being fun and easy to use. The prices may seem steep, but that doesn't mean you can't get a good electric bike on a tight budget.

Considering your options and needs with enough time can help you make good decisions when purchasing anything. The same goes for e-bikes. Hopefully, this guide will help you pick the right one.