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E-Bike Test

E-bikes have become a real trend in Germany in recent years and are now an integral part of the bicycle market for good reason. The selection of different e-bikes is becoming increasingly larger, so it is often not easy for prospective buyers to choose the right model.

Von Fabian Huber  |  3 minutes read time

E-Bike Test
About the author Fabian Huber

Fabian founded MYVELO together with Vincent. The two share a long-standing passion for cycling. Together they have cycled thousands of kilometers and fought for victories in the German racing bike league. The idea of founding MYVELO arose from their many years of experience and knowledge of what makes a good bike. Find out more about MYVELO now

Published: June 14, 2021  |  Updated: July 28, 2024

In order to keep an overview as a buyer, we will explain below what to look out for when making your selection - and which e-bike is best suited to your needs.

E-bikes and electric folding bikes - what's the difference?

If you want to get from one place to another quickly but don't want to use public transport or a car, you can use an e-bike. This is an electrically powered bike that can either be controlled by the motor alone or at least used with motor support.

As soon as the electric battery is charged, you can get going: The battery drives the motor, which is controlled by sensors so that the rider is ideally supported when cycling. Just like with normal bicycles, the gear can be selected according to the terrain.

In addition to normal e-bikes, there are also electric folding bikes . In contrast to normal e-bikes, the e-folding bike can be folded up and made into a handy, transportable form. This means that the electric folding bike can easily be taken in the car or on public transport and used elsewhere. An e-folding bike is also a space-saving alternative to a bicycle or e-bike for people with little storage space.

E-Bike Test: The different types explained in detail

If you carry out an e-bike test , it quickly becomes clear that buying an e-bike should be carefully considered. This is because it is a great investment that should be optimally tailored to your own needs in order to enjoy it for a long time.

The first step is to think about your own riding style. Do you want to use an e-bike or e-folding bike in the city, on hilly terrain or even in the mountains for trekking? Are you planning multi-day tours or will you only be using it for short distances? All of these questions influence the choice of the right model and should therefore be carefully considered. It is also worth looking at the test results from Stiftung Warentest.


How much does a good e-bike or e-folding bike cost?

Buying an e-bike or e-folding bike is like anything else: quality has its price - and it's worth investing a little more. Many providers now even offer the option of leasing or financing an e-bike, as not everyone can afford the sometimes high costs all at once.

In addition, there are numerous employers who financially support the purchase of an e-bike if you want to use it to commute to work. At myvlélo we work with all major leasing partners.

You can buy e-bike models for around 1,500 to 2,500 euros, such as city or cross e-bikes or a myvélo folding bike. However, the weight of bikes in this price range is on average a little higher - most models weigh more than 20 kg and are therefore only partially transportable.

Of course, things are different with an electric folding bike like the Zürich or Berlin, because here every kilogram less is a plus, as was shown in an e-bike test in 2021. This is also shown by a comparison of current models by Stiftung Warentest.

Anyone who has already decided on a myvélo e-bike or electric folding bike can expect to receive well-made models with comprehensive features and high-quality components. The batteries impress with their long range and long lifespan, and the weight is also kept to a minimum thanks to the use of lightweight materials.

In the luxury class, there is hardly anything left to be desired. High-quality aluminum frames ensure a low weight, powerful batteries and strong motors are installed and riding is just a lot of fun!



Components and accessories in the e-bike test: How does an e-bike work?

e-bike motor

Anyone who carries out ane-bike test and compares different models with each other cannot avoid comparing components and accessories in the e-bike test. The motor and its performance as well as the capacity of the battery are decisive criteria when making a selection. When it comes to components and accessories in the e-bike test, you can generally assume that more expensive e-bikes generally offer better performance.

The way it works is relatively simple: as soon as you press the pedals, the integrated motor supports the power and you move forward faster with less physical effort. To ensure smooth movement, the systems have numerous sensors that react to the user's movements. In consumer tests, such as those carried out by Stiftung Warentest, parameters such as cadence, speed and torque are measured.

The control unit calculates the energy that the motor adds to the rider's performance. However, the level of support selected by the rider also plays an important role here. Modern e-bikes usually have three or four modes, such as the MYVELO folding bike .

Environmental balance in comparison: E-bike vs. car - manufacturing costs, footprint and energy balance checked

Further information and frequently asked questions zu E-Bike Test

Get advice from cycling enthusiasts

As soon as you start pedaling, the integrated motor supports your performance and you can move faster with less effort. The systems have numerous sensors that react to the user's movements.

E-bikes are available from around 1,500 to 2,500 euros. However, the weight of bikes in this price range is a bit higher. The situation is different with an electric folding bike, because here every kilogram less is an advantage.

An e-bike is either controlled by the motor or by motor support. In contrast, the e-folding bike can be folded up. This means it can easily be taken anywhere and used elsewhere.

In addition to components and accessories, the type of drive is also important in the e-bike test. Below we present the three most important types of drive for e-bikes.

What is front-wheel drive?

There is a front motor on the hub of the front wheel, which can be used with any type of gear system. Even coaster brakes are no problem, which is not always possible with mid-engines. Compared to other types of e-bike drive, the front motor is a very inexpensive solution.

What is a mid-engine?

In these models, the drive is attached to the bottom bracket. Here, the motor transfers its power directly to the wheel chain and uses the bike's low center of gravity. This ensures sufficient stability and safe steering. Older models often did not have coaster brakes, but newer models are usually equipped with them. E-bikes with mid-engines are ideal for mountainous terrain and long tours.

What is rear-wheel drive?

The rear-wheel drive is one of the most popular types of drive for e-bikes. Here, the rear motor is located directly on the hub of the rear wheel, which prevents unnecessary strain on the chain. The motor transfers the weight to the rear axle, which results in high contact pressure, which in turn leads to better traction. Adrenaline junkies who want to ride at high speeds over uneven terrain will get their money's worth with such a model.

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