First ebike for recreation

[Dawn]

I am new to the ebike world and fell in love after renting one in Central California. I live in Southern California and am having trouble finding shops that sell these in my area (zip 91701). I want to spend around 1500-2200 dollars and I am 5'6" 160lbs. Looking for a pedal assist with decent power for small hill climbs. I would rather not buy over the internet, but find a shop that I can turn to for maintenance. The couple of stores I have found say they can order me one, but they each only have one model, "Electorlite" and "eGo". Need recommendation on bike model and store locations.
Thanks for your help.

 

[Shea N Encinitas]

Is this place still open?

Iroll Electric Bicycles
802 West Arrow Highway
San Dimas, CA 91773
(626) 771-3940

REI may have some e-bikes, possibly some close out 2014 models:

12218 East Foothill Boulevard
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739
(909) 646-8360
rei.com‎

 

[Dawn]

Thanks for the quick response. I know REI is open and I will check other store too. What are the most important things to look for when buying an ebike? Motor style, wattage, battery size? I obviously want something with reliable reputation. Thanks

 

[Shea N Encinitas]

Gosh it is hard to list every criteria, much of my research was compliments of Court's numerous reviews, then I looked at the e-bikes available in my area, bought the first bike I test rode, luckily it was a decent choice (Izip e3 Dash) that suited my riding style.

You may have to take a trip west to one of the big shops that carry a large variety of e-bikes. That way you can potentially try several bikes, maybe power, wattage and range are somewhat even compared to how a bike fits you, step thru VS a leg over, upright VS more aggressive position, rear heavy bike VS a more balanced design.

Of course it would be nice to get local service from the shop where you purchase your bike, but it is not always possible. I would start with EBR reviews, find models you like in your price range and watch the videos, compare specs, make bookmarks. If you have questions about a specific model then you might be able to tap user's here with that model so kudos for joining up.

I'm sure you'll get some other input, we are a small community eager to help. -S

 

[MarcD]

Dawn, in my opinion the most important factor is fit and comfort. If you aren't comfortable on the bike and it doesn't fit, you won't ride it. There are a couple of ways to figure that out. First, test rides should be more than 5 minutes, if possible. See if the shop will let you put a decent ride in. Second, if you currently have a bike you ride and like, draw a quick sketch of the bike and write down the measurements, and note some things like:
- Are the bars higher, lower, or even with the seat?
- What is the distance from the nose of the saddle to the middle of the bars?
- Distance from top of saddle to middle of bottom bracket?

After fit, as Shea pointed out, read up on some different specs and ask questions, someone will usually share their experience.

 

[lilrich1959]

Shea and Mark are on the mark (sorry for the pun) Test rides are important in finding the right bike. It's a great idea to test ride a bike and see how it performs if you've got the opportunity to do so.

 

[Dawn]

I have it narrowed down between the E-Joe and a Motive. E-Joe is cheaper and with more bells and whistles, but I like the simplicity and style and great reviews of the Motive. One has pedal assist and one does not, but not sure how important that is. Any opinions between the two? I have ridden them both and like the ride about the same. Using for recreational purpose only. Thanks

 

[JoePah]

Having owned both throttle only and pedal assist + throttle, will tell you pedal assist is a lot more enjoyable experience.. You don't have to keep your hand on the throttle, and you get a more responsive bike with a better range. Don't know anything about those particular models however.

 

[Shea N Encinitas]

Is this the e-joe?,.. and this the Motiv? Personally I'm so dedicated to PAS that I removed the throttle from my bike, so I guess that makes my recommendation clear - although I have no direct experience with these bikes. Plus the e-joe comes with lots of extras! Good luck. -S