Is the Weight of an Electric Bike Really the Lighter the Better?

The weight of electric bicycles has always been one of the factors that consumers consider when making choices. Many people believe weight can affect the riding experience, as heavier electric bicycles may be more difficult to maneuver, particularly in sharp turns or steep inclines where they may feel cumbersome. and people sometimes need to carry them indoors, which makes the weight of an electric bicycle important.

Is the weight of an electric bike lighter the better?

The initial instinct for most non-professional riders is undoubtedly to choose a lighter electric bike model. On the positive side, this will improve maneuverability while riding and make it easier to carry as needed. However, as mentioned earlier, this often means a smaller motor power and a smaller battery capacity.

It is important to considering its intended use when determining which weight of electric bike is suitable. For example, if a rider's primary purpose for purchasing a folding electric bicycle is daily commuting over relatively short distances, a lightweight urban commuter electric bike would seem suitable. However, if the goal is to explore outdoor scenery on weekend rides, a rider may require a larger motor and battery capacity, and electric bicycles of this kind may be heavier.

What components are the most expensive in an electric bike?

On average, a traditional bicycle weighs around 22 pounds. In comparison, the weight of an e-bike is typically 2 to 4 times that amount, averaging between 44 and 88 pounds. The main reason for this is that electric bicycles have more components compared to traditional bicycles. Below are the components considered to have the greatest impact on the weight of adult electric bikes.

Battery

The battery, which provides power for the operation of an electric bicycle, is one of the most important and expensive components, as well as a significant contributor to its weight.

Currently, electric bicycle batteries on the market have an average weight ranging from 7 to 20 pounds. The specific weight can vary greatly depending on the size and capacity of the battery. Smaller batteries are less likely to increase the size and weight of the bicycle, but they often have lower charging capacity, which can affect the bike's range.

When choosing an electric bicycle, it is advisable to consider whether you prefer a heavier battery that provides extended range, allowing you to ride longer distances. Or a smaller battery that reduces the bike's weight and makes it easier to handle, but with a shorter range.

Fortunately, many manufacturers have made advancements in battery technology, achieving a good balance between range and weight. For example, the HiPEAK ELIAS folding electric bike features a large capacity 48V 15Ah lithium battery, providing a range of 60 miles, while weighing only 9 pounds.

Motor

The motor is another core component of an electric bike, and it consists of several parts that contribute to its weight, including wiring, magnets, stator (the stationary part of the motor), and rotor (the part that rotates around the stator). When the battery supplies current to the motor, it generates a rotating magnetic field. Generally, on average, electric bicycle motors available on the market currently weigh between 4.4 and 11 pounds.

The type of motor can influence how the weight is distributed on the frame. In hub motors, the rotating axis itself serves as the rear or front axle. The entire motor, housed in the hub, rotates and generates the torque required to move the wheels and propel the bicycle forward. In mid-drive motors, the motor's shaft rotates to produce torque, assisting in the movement of the pedals and propelling the bicycle forward. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages; for example, rear hub motors are less prone to wheel spin, while mid-drive motors offer a lower center of gravity.

Frame

Different from the regular bike frames, electric bike frames need to withstand the additional weight of the motor, battery, and connecting components. As a result, electric bike frames need to be stronger, which also means they are heavier.

The weight of electric bike frames can vary significantly depending on the type. For example, electric mountain bikes, which need to tackle more challenging terrains, require larger frames and wider tires, making them generally heavier than urban commuter bikes by around 10 pounds or more.

Even within the same type of bike, different materials can result in different weights. For instance, carbon fiber frames are noticeably lighter than steel frames. However, carbon fiber frames are typically expensive and are commonly found on high-end electric bikes priced above $5,000. Therefore, in order to balance weight and cost, frames made of 6061 aluminum, like the HiPEAK ELIAS, have become the mainstream choice in the market.

Conclusion

it can be determined that the weight of an adult electric bike is not better when it is lighter. Weight is just one of several factors to consider when purchasing an electric bike. It is important to examine all the technical specifications of the bicycle as well as its comfort and safety features to ensure that it is suitable for one's needs. Fortunately, the HiPEAK folding e-bike encompasses all these essential elements. It is not only suitable for urban commuting, but its fat tires and high performance also allow riders to venture into outdoor terrains.