When it comes to purchasing an e-bike, there are a few key things you need to know. Here are our staff’s top 8.
1. There are 2 parts to an E-bike. When you buy an E-bike, you’re buying the bike brand and the E-bike system brand. For example the bike brand Cube uses the E-bike system Bosch in their bikes. This is important to know when buying an E-bike because the E-bike system may have different warranty and customer care services. This is another reason why it’s better to buy from your local shop as they’ll deal with the different suppliers for you.
We deal with Bosch and Specialized because they offer the best E-bike systems on the market and have the best customer care. This means they rarely have issues but if they do, we can quickly resolve warranty cases and get you back out riding.
2. Spend time asking questions. When you visit your local store, spend time speaking to the staff and let them know exactly what you want. They’ll be able to talk you through different models and let you know the ins and outs of every bike to help you find the right bike for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions even if you think they are silly.
We’re always happy to answer any questions and will take the time to walk you through anything you’d like to know. E-bikes can seem complicated and we’re here to make them easier to understand. E-bikes are an investment so it’s important you’re happy with the bike you buy.
3. The Ebike system quality matters! It’s always the cheaper E-bike systems we see the most issues with in our workshop. E-bikes are expensive and it’s much better to buy from a reputable brand – like Bosch or Specialized – that will last you for years rather than buying a cheaper brand that you’ll have issues with. Buy the best you can comfortably afford because it will save money in the long run.
With Bosch or Specialized we can guarantee your E-bike experience will be top-notch. Both systems offer a user-friendly interface, customisable features, and exceptional customer support make riding hassle-free. As a Bosch Service Center, we’re fully equipped to handle any issues for you.
4. Buying from your local bike shop really makes the difference. Yes, you can get big discounts when you buy online but your purchase lacks the personalised customer care you’ll receive when buying from your local bike shop. You’ll notice the difference in quality between an E- bike bought online and one bought, built, quality checked and handed over by your local bike shop. Not only will you get the most out of your E-bike, but if you have an issue with your bike they know your bike inside and out and will get you sorted quickly, efficiently and stress free! No hours on the end of a customer service line or shipping costs for you!
We go above and beyond to make sure our customers are happy with their new E-bike. We also offer a free service shortly after buying to make sure your E-bike is working perfectly for you.
6. Set a realistic budget. Have a rough idea of how much you’d like to spend on your new E-bike. Most quality E-bikes are £2000 or more and it’s worth paying! Don’t forget you can always look at different finance options such as Cycle 2 Work. remember a well made, well built, E-bike pays off in the long run.
We’ll always give you the best deal we can on your new bike! If you’d like to learn more about the cycle to work, speak to our staff and we’ll help you with the process. If you already know what bike you’d like and need a quote, email us and we’ll help you out quickly.
5. Test ride if you can. If there is an opportunity to test ride the bike you’d like to buy, do it! Keep an eye out for local events and book on to demo a bike. Demo days are the perfect way to find out if the bike you want is the right bike for you. You can ask as many questions as you like and get a feel for how the bike rides. If there are demo days with bikes featuring an E-bike system you’d like to buy, try that bike even if it’s not the model you’d like to buy.
We host regular demo events so you can try before you buy. Electric Full Suspension, hardtail or touring bike are available to try. Speak to us and take a bike for a spin this summer.
7. E-bikes are heavy. E-bikes are bigger than regular bikes because they have to accommodate the battery and motor. With the bigger size comes a heavier weight. However a heavier bike isn’t as bad as it sounds. With easy entry frames and dropper seats the weight is less noticeable when getting on and off the E-bike. The extra weight also makes you feel more planted and stable on the trail.
Superlight E-bikes are becoming popular as they offer super-legs on the climbs and a real mountain bike feel on the trails. Speak to us to find out more about the Bosch SX superlight motor and superlight e-bikes.
8. Think about what you want from your bike. E-bikes are an investment so think about what you like from your bike now and what you’d like from it in the future. It’s better to buy a little more than you need now rather than a whole new bike in a few months time. You may only want to ride tarmac now but will you be looking to adventure on gravel forest roads once you gain confidence on the bike. Likewise a hardtail may be fine for now but if you’re friend’s all have full suspension E-bikes you may find yourself wishing you had one too.
We offer a range of bikes to suit all abilities and budgets. Drop by Off Beat Bikes and we’ll take the time to help you find the right bike for you.
We hope you’ve found this post useful. If there’s anthing you’d like to know, get in touch! Call us on 01397 704008 or email info@offbeatbikes.co.uk to ask your questions.
