Choosing the right e-bike can be an exciting yet daunting process. Especially with the wide range of options available on the market. Here’s how to determine which style is right for you, the legal options in Canada, cost considerations, and why buying from a local dealer might be your best bet.
Before we jump into this, let’s just explain what is considered a “legal” ebike in Ontario, Canada first and the rules around ebike ridership.
In Ontario, Canada, a legal e-bike must meet the following criteria:
- Motor Power: The electric motor must not exceed 500 watts.
- Speed Limit: The e-bike must not be capable of exceeding 32 km/h on level ground.
- Functionality: The motor should disengage or cease to propel the bicycle forward when the brakes are applied or the throttle is released.
- Pedals: The e-bike must have fully operable pedals.
- Weight: The maximum weight of the e-bike, including batteries, must not exceed 120 kilograms (about 265 pounds). On average an normal ebike is between 40-70 pounds.
- Age Requirement: Riders must be at least 16 years old.
- Helmet: Wearing a helmet is mandatory for all e-bike riders.
- Bicycle Classification: Must meet the safety standards for bicycles and be classified as a Power Assisted Bicycle (PAB) under federal law. Class 1 (peddle assist only) and Class 2 (Peddle assist plus a throttle)
- Licensing and Insurance: No license, number plate, or vehicle insurance is required.
Make sure to check for any updates or specific local by-laws concerning e-bikes in your area, as regulations may change.
Different Types or Styles of E-Bikes (there are hybrids of the below list as well as variation on these types. This is a basic list to get you started)
- City/Commuter E-Bikes: Ideal for urban cycling with features like comfortable seating and luggage racks.
- Folding E-Bikes: Perfect for commuters who need to combine biking with public transport or for cottagers, RV’s or cars without bike racks. They are also perfect for anyone living in a condo, apartment or small townhouse as they are easier to store.
- Mountain E-Bikes: Built for off-road and rugged terrains with sturdy frames and enhanced suspension. Or for our many pothole littered streets ugh!!!
- Cargo E-Bikes: Designed to carry heavy loads, suitable for families or deliveries.
- Fat Tire E-Bikes: Great for all-terrain use, including sand and snow, thanks to wider tires and as mentioned above in the Mountain ebike category, they also work great on rough pothole littered streets
Cost Breakdown:
In general, the cost of an ebike is determined by a number of factors. One of the biggest being not only the size of the battery but the quality of the battery. Cheap batteries are cheap for a reason. They are more prone to failure, sometimes catastrophic. Quality batteries have better quality cells with a battery management system (BMS). This special feature monitors these cells as they charge and discharge. They also have extra protection or insulation around each cell. The other big factors would be the motor, frame, components, brand popularity, certifications (UL) and extent of warranties.
- Entry-Level E-Bikes ($1,000 – $2,500 CAD): Suitable for beginners and casual riders. They might have limited range (smaller batteries) and simpler components (rim brakes vs hydraulic) but are perfect for short commutes.
- Mid-Range E-Bikes ($2,500 – $4,000 CAD): Offer better battery life and more advanced features like suspension, hydraulic brakes and higher-quality frames, catering to regular users.
- High-End E-Bikes ($4,000+ CAD): Packed with the latest tech, superior components, and performance enhancements, ideal for avid cyclists and long-distance riders.
To recap, costs vary due to factors like material quality, motor power, battery capacity and quality, warranties, certifications and included technology.
Suitability Factors:
Every rider is different in many ways. There is no one size fits all or generic way to choose something as personal as an ebike. Understanding and exploring your needs and wants is the only way to help you make an informed decision. A decision that will see you riding more than you ever thought possible and feeling better both physically and mentally.
- Riding Conditions: Consider where you’ll be riding – city streets, mountainous terrain, or varied surfaces. Each type of e-bike is designed to handle specific conditions better than others.
- Rider Expectations: Ebike offers you the ability to ride much further than you would have ever expected. If you are a casual rider or one that hasn’t touched a bike in years you may remember that riding over 10km was a big deal on your acoustic bike. With an ebike, most have the ability to take you 40-100 kms on a charge. So really think about what you are potentially able to do on an ebike versus what you use to do on a bike. You can now do day trips in the Niagara Wine region. Ride directly to the waterfront trail from your doorstep versus mounting the bike on your car rack. Travel up and down the mountain to work or school each day without sweating to death or dying from exhaustion. So, take all potential riding ideas into consideration and be sure you get the right bike to tackle various tasks, distances or exciting adventures that may be ahead of you and not compromise today on what you used to think your riding potential was. In other words, if you were making a choice between an ebike that had a 10amp battery versus the more expensive 20 amp solely based on cost and you can actually afford the larger battery go for it. You just bought yourself double the distance on a charge and you may regret not doing that when you have the opportunity to go on a cool 80km ride with your new riding buddies who all have the bigger batteries and you don’t.
- Your Height and Weight: E-bikes come in various frame sizes. It’s crucial to choose one that matches your physique for comfort and safety. Heavier riders need to ensure the e-bike’s weight limit suits their needs, potentially opting for more robust frames and powerful motors. Whereas lighter riders have more options as far as motor sizes and frame types but really vertically changed riders may find many frames too large for them.
Buy from a Local Dealer:
This brings us to the last point. It’s almost impossible to pick the perfect ebike for your size, budget, needs or wants from an online shop or in the big box stores. The only way to really know is to get on a number of ebike for a test drive and learn more about each of them before you buy. That is not possible from an online retailer or at the big box store where you can’t even sit on them.
- Personalized Service: Local dealers like Hamilton Electric Bikes provide tailored advice and options that suit your specific needs, size and budget.
- Test Rides: Experience how different models feel and operate before making a purchase.
- After-Sales Support: Get easy access to routine maintenance and repairs, along with a warranty.
- Local Expertise: Dealers have insights into area-specific cycling conditions, fun routes and regulations.
By evaluating these factors and understanding what each type of e-bike offers, you’ll be better equipped to find the perfect match. Whether you’re seeking the latest technology, rugged durability for off-roading, or simple commuting convenience, an informed decision can enhance your e-bike experience and ensure satisfaction on the road. When you’re ready to start your ebike adventure drop by Hamilton Electric Bikes to explore your options and let us help you find the ebike that will properly fit your journey!
PRO TIP:
Be honest with yourself and the people helping you out with your ebike, kick-scooter or accessories. If you are not 100% certain about something don’t be shy, nervous or too proud to ask questions. It’s ok to tell us you are not familiar with something or you have concerns about your abilities, health, weight, height or age. Specialty shops like Hamilton Electric Bikes has trained staff that are very approachable and knowledgeable. They are not out to judge and really truly want to be helpful. They want you to understand your options, zero pressure and no upselling. So don’t be scared to be vulnerable and come with an open mind and sense of adventure.
