High torque and large battery vs. lower capacity and lower weight

When choosing your first e-bike, you will often be asked the question: "Do I want a bike with a long range and a powerful motor, or do I prefer a lighter model that is easier to handle and store?" Answering this question is not easy, because it depends on your preferred riding style and what terrain you plan to conquer.

In this article, we'll look at two main categories of e-bikes, which have major differences in battery capacity, torque, and weight - and help you decide which option is best for you.

1. Bikes with larger battery capacity and higher torque

These models are ideal for more demanding rides, long routes and hill climbs. If you plan to ride your e-bike for longer distances or on more challenging terrain, you will probably want to choose a bike with a larger battery capacity and a more powerful motor.

• Battery capacity: These bikes often have batteries in the 500-750 Wh range and above. A higher capacity means the bike will be able to travel longer distances on a single charge, which is ideal for long trips or riding in hilly terrain.

• Torque: Higher motor torque (e.g. 70-80 Nm or more) provides more power when pedaling, which is especially useful when climbing steep hills or riding on rougher terrain. Such a bike will cope better with demanding conditions and provide you with more pedaling assistance.

• Cons: The main disadvantage of these models is their weight. Bikes with larger batteries and more powerful motors can weigh over 25 kg, which can be a problem if you often lift or carry the bike. They can also be less agile and have more resistance when riding on flat ground.

• When is it the ideal choice? If you plan to ride regularly on long routes, in medium to difficult terrain or in hills where you need to have enough power and a long range, this option is ideal for you.

2. Bikes with smaller battery capacity and lower torque

These bikes are designed for those who prefer lighter weight and better maneuverability, while not needing extreme performance or range.

• Battery capacity: These models tend to have smaller batteries, usually around 400-500 Wh. This means that the range per charge will be shorter, usually between 40-70 km, which may be perfectly adequate for everyday city driving or short trips.

• Torque: Motors with lower torque (e.g. 40-60 Nm) will offer enough power for flat or gentle terrain, but won’t be as powerful when climbing steep hills. These bikes are ideal for riding around town, on paved roads, or on easy trails.

• Advantages: Lower weight is the main advantage of these models. Such e-bikes usually weigh between 18-22 kg, which is significantly less than models with larger batteries. Due to the lower weight, they are usually more agile and easier to handle, which you will appreciate when parking, storing or carrying the bike.

• Cons: The main downside is limited range and lower performance on rougher terrain. If you plan on touring outside urban areas or in hills, you may be limited in how far you can go on your bike before you run out of power.

• When is it the ideal choice? If your goal is to ride around town, take short trips, or if you want a bike that is lighter and easier to carry, then this type of bike is the ideal choice.

3. What compromise between performance and weight are you looking for?

When choosing between these two types of bikes, it all comes down to your riding style and lifestyle. If you’re the type of person who likes to go on long nature trips, explore hilly terrain, and need a lot of endurance, then a bike with a larger battery capacity and higher torque will be a better choice. Conversely, if you’re looking for a bike for your daily commute or 2 hours of intense fun that’s lightweight and easy to handle, you’ll probably appreciate a model with a smaller battery and lower torque.

4. What is more important to you?

• Range: How long do you want to ride on a single charge? If you plan on regularly taking long trips, a higher battery capacity will give you more flexibility. But if you're a fan of 2-3 hours of intense training after work, a lightweight bike will offer you great maneuverability and the desire to keep your tires from sticking to the ground.

• Performance: Need a bike that can handle the hills? Look for a model with more torque. But if you're just going to be climbing your favorite trail repeatedly, a lightweight bike will do the trick.

• Weight and maneuverability: If you're looking for a bike that's lightweight, wants to get airborne, and is easy to carry, then a model with a lower battery capacity is a better choice.

Conclusion: Which bike is right for you?

When choosing an e-bike, it's important to find a balance between power, range, and weight that suits your needs. If you plan on riding long distances or in hilly terrain, definitely consider a model with a larger battery and a more powerful motor. However, if you're looking for a bike for everyday commuting where agility and easy handling are important, a model with a smaller battery capacity and lower torque will be a better choice.

• Also, keep in mind that additional batteries can be purchased for most bikes to increase the maximum range.

In our e-shop you will find representatives of both lightweight e-bikes and those with great power and a long range .

If you are not sure which e-bike is ideal for you, we are happy to advise you. Visit us in our store or contact us so you can choose the bike that best suits your needs and riding style.

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