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Electric bike buying guide: how to choose

An electric bike is chosen based on four measurable criteria: maximum range, charging time, motor power and load capacity. These values directly determine daily use and versatility of the assisted bicycle.

What to check

Maximum range Maximum range measures the number of kilometres covered in assisted mode before recharging. On recent product sheets, it varies from 32 km for the least performing models to 90 km for the best, with a median of 65 km. High range suits long journeys or rides without intermediate charging possibility. For daily urban use, the median often suffices. For touring or intensive use, prioritise values close to 90 km. The rating bar positions each product on this scale: the longer it is, the more distance the bike covers. Market median: 65 km
Motor power Motor power, expressed in watts, determines the effectiveness of electric assistance, particularly on hills. Analysed product sheets show values from 150 W for the least powerful, 250 W median and up to 750 W for the best. A 250 W motor suits flat and moderate journeys. Beyond that, assistance becomes stronger, useful for marked slopes, carrying loads or frequent starts. The rating bar reflects this power: the longer it is, the more watts the motor delivers and the easier pedalling becomes. Market median: 250 W
Maximum load capacity Maximum load indicates the total weight the bike can carry, including the cyclist and luggage. On market product sheets, it ranges from 100 kg to 150 kg, with a median of 100 kg. This criterion matters for carrying shopping, children or professional equipment. A capacity of 100 kg suffices for standard personal use. For family or utility use, look for values close to 150 kg. The rating bar indicates this capacity: the longer it is, the more weight the bike supports without compromising safety. Market median: 100 kg
Charging time Charging time measures the duration needed to fully recharge the battery. Market data shows times varying from six hours for the slowest to four hours for the best, with a median of five hours. Short charging time facilitates intensive use and reduces logistical constraints. For overnight charging, the difference matters little. For several daily journeys, prioritise times close to four hours. Note: the rating bar displays the inverse of time, so the longer it is, the shorter the charging time. Market median: 5 h
Usage and suitability Define your usage before choosing: short urban journeys, long distances, flat or hilly terrain, carrying loads. A bike suited to urban commuting does not require the same range as a model for touring. Also check compatibility with your equipment: luggage racks, child seats, lighting. Riding position and frame size influence comfort over duration. Prioritise a balance between criteria according to your actual practice, rather than maximising a single parameter.

Benchmarks based on 25 recent market listings, collected on 9 October 2026.

What you get for each budget

Under €1000

Models under €1000 offer range and power at the lower end, with average charging times, suitable for short and occasional urban journeys.

€1000 to €2000

Between €1000 and €2000, range approaches the median of 65 km, power often reaches 250 W and load capacities increase, for versatile daily use.

Over €2000

Over €2000, bikes reach the best ranges close to 90 km, power up to 750 W and maximum loads of 150 kg, for intensive use in all conditions.

Frequent mistakes

Not verifying actual range in personal usage conditions: terrain, transported weight and assistance level reduce distance covered.
Underestimating maximum load if you regularly carry shopping or passengers.
Neglecting charging time if you make several journeys per day without prolonged access to a socket.
Choosing excessive power for flat urban use, or insufficient power for frequent hilly routes.