All about e-bikes
How much does an electric bike cost
Electric bikes are practical and environmentally friendly means of transportation that have gained popularity in the past decade. They provide a great deal of balance between conventional cycling and the ease of motor assistance.
However, due to the varying types, features, and quality of e-bikes, their prices can be extremely different. Understanding what affects these costs enables potential buyers to make an informed decision.
So, how much does an electric bike cost? Here’s the rundown of all the costs:
Factors affecting e-bike costs
To fully understand how much does an electric bike cost, you need to understand all the factors that can affect its price. Here’s what they are:
There are various types of electric bikes, and all of them have a different price. Here is what you can expect:
Quality and range can influence the cost of a battery—and, as a result, the price of an e-bike.
Large-range, high-capacity batteries are much more expensive. For instance, an e-bike with a 500Wh battery may be more expensive because it provides a longer distance on one charge, unlike others such as a 300Wh battery.
Keep in mind that high-quality batteries, while more expensive, can pay off in time. For example, they usually have a higher range per charge, so you’ll have lower costs of charging.
E-bikes use either hub motors or mid-drive motors. The latter are mostly more expensive because of their better weight distribution and efficiency, especially in hill climbing. High-power motors also contribute to the higher price.
Most e-bikes that have GPS tracking integrated into the device, advanced display panels, and connectivity apps are a little more expensive.
Getting a UL-certified bike can also result in somewhat higher costs. However, these certifications might soon become mandatory, and they are an important proof of the e-bike’s safety, so you shouldn’t get a bike without them.
These elements add convenience but can push a model into a higher price bracket.
Next to the initial purchase costs, you’ll also have to pay for e-bike maintenance.
While e-bikes are relatively easy to maintain, the costs can pile up over time. Here’s what you can expect:
This has been identified as a major long-term cost of ownership of e-bikes. Generally, the estimated battery life is 3-5 years.
Getting a new battery can cost $300 to $700 in replacement, depending on the model and capacity.
Although e-bikes require exactly the same maintenance as regular bicycles. This includes things as lubricating the chain and checking tires.
Another feature that needs regular maintenance is the e-bikes electric components.
Annual maintenance could range from a low of $100 to $300, depending on the complexity and condition of the bike.
An e-bike has a rather inexpensive charge. If one were to average the cost for a full charge, estimates might run from 0.10 to 0.50 dollars. The exact price depends on the capacity of the battery in use and also the local electricity rates.
For example, if you were to fully charge Whizz’s Storm-2 e-bike in NYC, this would probably cost you as little as 35 cents!
In the longer term, this is much more economical than the fueling costs of a car or scooter.
When evaluating the cost of an e-bike, one has to think about how much money it would save compared to other options in transportation.
There are things to consider with cars: gas, insurance, parking fees—all those can add up to the thousands every year. In fact, Nerd Wallet estimates that the price of owning a car is more than $1,000 a month!
Fees for public transit also add up over time.
In comparison, an e-bike requires less maintenance; charging costs nearly nothing, and upkeep is very minimal.
Long-term savings, especially for urban environments, can offset this and make an e-bike a good investment.
The higher upfront cost of a good e-bike evens out over a few years with the kind of savings like these, which make it an environmentally and economically friendly option.
The trick to choosing the right e-bike has much to do with balancing your cost against your need.
Those on a tight budget often find it well worth their time and effort to search out reputable brands offering budget versions that may lack bells and whistles but still offer all the functionality a casual rider might need.
Frequent e-bike users, such as delivery riders, and those who often face hills and longer commutes, should think twice about investing in a mid-range or high-end e-bike, since the increased durability and range can be more economical over time.
Related: Which electric bikes to avoid
There you have it—now you know how much does an electric bike cost on average and what affects its price.
One of the ways to save money is to buy an electric bike that suits your needs. This can happen if you get Whizz.
Whizz designs and sells electric bikes with the needs of delivery riders in mind. Their bikes are designed to withstand long, daily rides and to cover large mileage per charge.
This makes them an excellent choice for delivery riders looking for an affordable means of transportation.
To help you further save money, Whizz offers you a $20 discount on your first subscription month by using the code “WOW”.
