If you ride a bike as your main form of transportation, or if you just like to ride frequently for exercise, you might enjoy having an electric bike. These have a battery and motor installed that give you a boost of power. However, you also have to pedal, so you get exercise too. 

The battery and motor are usually hidden in the frame so they are out of view. They add weight to your bike, and the weight varies according to the type of bike you need.

Here's what you should look for when you visit an e-bike seller to shop for an electric bike.

The Maximum Speed

The maximum speed of the bike is important to know since this is often regulated by local laws. If you're buying an electric bike out of town or online, make sure the bike you buy will be legal in your area. Also, the e-bike should be pedal-assisted. That means the motor should not work on its own to propel the bike.

The Bike Type

Electric bikes come in the same styles as traditional bikes. You'll want to match your bike to how you intend to use it. Talk to the e-bike seller about whether you mainly use a bike for mountain biking or city riding. They can help you find the right bike style for your needs. If you have a traditional bike already that you love, you can use it as a guide for choosing a new electric bike.

Motor And Battery Placement

The placement of the motor and battery may not be deciding factors, but it's important to know how the different types compare. The motor can be mounted on a wheel or in the middle of the bike near the pedal crank. The different placements affect how the bike feels.

When the motor is in the middle on the frame, the power feels more natural and the weight is balanced. When the motor is on a wheel, it's a slightly different sensation. Plus, when a motor is on the wheel, it makes it harder to change a flat tire.

The battery can be mounted externally on the frame or internally. An external battery can be removed for charging and an internal battery has to be charged while it's on the bike.

The Battery Range

If your electric bike battery dies, you can still operate the bike using pedals. However, that requires more work, so you want a bike that has a long enough range to get you back and forth from work. Each bike battery has its own range and the ranges can vary significantly. You may want an e-bike seller to help you choose the right bike for your usual riding distance. You might even need to have more than one battery so you can switch the dead battery out and keep going.