There is much to consider when purchasing an e-bike, including batteries, motor and power, the design, and of course, how much e-bikes weigh. An e-bike's weight could greatly affect your ride, regardless of whether you are travelling to work, running errands, or having a weekend ride.
A heavy e-bike could indeed seem more solid and strong, but also potentially more cumbersome to carry around, particularly when you have to take it up the stairs or put it in a car. On the other hand, a lighter e-bike model can be more comfortable to ride, but it might be more expensive or have fewer features. In this guide, we are going to understand the weight of e-bikes, the factors affecting their weight, and how you can decide on the right weight that suits you.
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Lighter or Heavier- Which Is Better?
The e-bike weight is also a major determining factor in ease of riding and storage. However, you have to decide on which side to take. Because when it comes to the use of the lighter or heavier version of the e-bike, this all depends on your priorities.
Lighter E-Bikes
Lighter e-bikes range within 15 kg (33 lbs) and 20 kg (44 lbs). They are convenient to transport, keep, and get into a car. These bikes are also excellent to use by individuals who require bringing the bike in and out of places, or those whose storage opportunities are limited. They are more convenient to use when commuting because they do not occupy much space, and one can ride on them quickly without necessarily pushing a heavy bike.
Heavier E-Bikes
Heavier e-bikes weigh over 20 kg (44 lbs), with some being heavier (up to 30 kg or even greater). The bikes are more durable, have bigger batteries, and are powered by more powerful motors. This is because they are made to manage even more impassable grounds or heavier loads, thus they are perfect for mountain biking or cargo transportation. Although they are more difficult to transport, they produce a better performance when you ride longer distances and under uphill conditions.
How Much Do Different Types of E-Bikes Weigh?
So, what are the types of e-bikes, and how much do e-bikes weigh? Depending on the intended use and type of bike, there can be a huge difference in weight.
Folding E-Bikes
Such bikes are easy to fold and transport. They are about 15 kg (33 lbs) to 22 kg (48 lbs) on average. The folding mechanism makes them weigh a bit more, but they are very convenient to the person who needs to carry their bikes, even in public means of transport or storing bikes in tight places.
A popular folding e-bike might weigh around 18 kg (40 lbs), offering a balance of portability and performance. A great example is the ENGWE P20, a well-received folding e-bike that weighs around 18.5 kg (41 lbs). It strikes an excellent balance between portability and power, making it ideal for commuters who need to carry and store their bike with ease.
City/Commuter E-Bikes
City or commuter e-bikes are designed to travel around a city and on a daily basis. They are also lighter than mountain bikes, but heavier than folding ones. A commuter e-bike weighs in at an average of 18 kg (40 lbs) to 25 kg (55 lbs). In addition, they usually have less motor power along with a mid-sized battery, thus making them suitable for use in the short to medium ranges.
The ENGLWE MAPFOUR N1 PRO, a high-selling urban e-bike, has a weight of approximately 19 kg (41 lbs), a solid frame, a stable motor, and comfortable daily commuter functions.
Mountain/Fat Tire E-Bikes
Fat tire e-bikes and mountain e-bikes can run on off-road and rugged terrain. These bikes are heavy since they have stronger motors, larger batteries, and sturdy frames. These bikes normally weigh 23 kg (51 lbs) to 30 kg (66 lbs) on average. Specifically, fat tire bikes possess wider tires that increase their weight and improve stability and handle rough terrain.
A trail e-bike mountain bike can weigh 28 kg (62 lbs), which is strong enough and powerful enough to make it through rough areas.
Cargo E-Bikes
What is a cargo e-bike? Cargo e-bikes have larger frames, longer racks, and powerful engines, whether you need to carry groceries, packages, or children. They are typically the heaviest bikes, with a weight of 25 kg (55 lbs) up to more than 40 kg (88 lbs). The heaviness is due to a larger battery, a thick frame, and additional cargo carrying space.
A cargo e-bike could weigh around 30 kg (66 lbs), offering a strong motor and a large cargo area for long-haul trips. The ENGWE LE20 is a typical example, with a net weight of approx. 36.8 kg (81 lb) in the single battery version and approx. 41.5 kg (91.5 lb) in the dual battery version, and offers a generous loadspace for long-distance urban transportation as well as for transporting people and goods.
Factors Affecting the Weight of E-Bikes
Many aspects determine the weight of an e-bike. So what are they? Let us break down:
Battery Size and Capacity
One of the heavier elements of an e-bike is the battery. More capacious batteries increase weight, but extend the riding time. The smaller battery e-bikes are lighter, and they might have to be recharged more frequently.
Motor Type and Power
E-bikes are supplied with different motors- hub motors and mid-drive motors. Mid-drive motors sit in the bottom bracket of the bike; these tend to be heavier but have better hill performance. Hub motors are lighter and might not work as great on an incline, but they are positioned in the wheel.
Frame Material
The weight of the bike can be hugely influenced by the material in the frame. The aluminum frames are less cumbersome and prevalent in numerous e-bikes, whereas steel is heavier and more robust. In addition, frames made of carbon fiber are very light and are more likely to be costlier.
Tire Size
Wider tires, such as fat tire e-bike tires, are heavier and perform better when riding off-road. Lighter tires are thinner and cannot offer the same grip and comfort on uneven surfaces.
Accessories and Suspension Systems
Other extras, such as a suspension mechanism, lighting, fenders, and cargo attachment kits, may increase the weight of an e-bike. These extras may make the ride more comfortable or accommodating, but are worth taking into consideration when you want a lightweight bike.
Which E-Bike Weight Is Right for Me?
When choosing the weight of the best e-bike that suits your needs, consider how you are going to use it:
- For commuting: To commute, a lighter bike, that weighs probably 18- 22 kg (40-48 lbs), is best. It is lightweight to transport, and using it in a flat terrain does not require additional weight in order to perform.
- For off-road adventures: When it comes to riding rough terrains, a heavier bicycle is preferred, approximately 25-30 kg (55-66 lbs). It is more sturdy and provides you with more strength to push up hills and bumps in the terrain.
- For portability: If you need to carry your bike on public transportation or store it in tight spaces, a folding e-bike weighing around 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs) is your best bet.
Conclusion
So, how much do e-bikes weigh? Depending on the type and components, as well as the purpose, the weight of an e-bike may differ significantly. The smaller and lighter e-bikes are good to use when commuting to work or transporting them, whereas the heavier models are good in case one needs an off-road bike or needs to load heavy stuff. The main thing to think about before buying it is the weight that you find comfortable, and the features that you need the most. After knowing the factors that affect weight, you are able to select the most appropriate e-bike that suits your lifestyle.