Older model vs. Newer in same price range

[procreator]

I have been researching a number of ebikes in the $1500 (thereabouts) price range. With technology advancing at such rapid pace, should I be concerned that a bike came out almost two years ago?

For example, the KBO Breeze Step-thru came out in late 2021. RadCity 4 came out in late 2020 to early 2021 and the price reflects that it is a couple of generations old per RadPower's offerings. The Aventon Pace 500 Next Gen came out a few months ago. (Don't quote me on any of these dates - they are for illustrative purposes).

I realize there are differences in components, customer service, etc., but should I try to buy the newest bike that meets my needs? Or is it acceptable if the ebike is a bit older?

Thanks!

 

[Dewey]

Um what are your needs? Buying the new hotness because it is new is simply gambling. What will make you want to ride your new ebike?

You mentioned your budget, that's a good start, but do you care if it's new vs used if the latter means you get a bike that better meets your needs? What type of riding do you plan to do? Are you average height, weight? How far/fast do you want to travel? Do you want it right now, in which case you are looking at bikes that are in-stock? Do you want to be able to take a test ride, get it serviced, have it not break down in the first week, be able to get it repaired when it breaks down etc? Is the weight of the bike important to you? Do you want a throttle? etc.

Have a read of this REI article, think about what your needs are, then list a few that are important to you.

 

[AHicks]

Regarding the Rad City, there's quite a difference comparing the earlier versions to the newer 5. Styling is clearly enhanced. Hydraulic brakes vs. cable operated, and the older bikes use a direct drive hub as compared the the 5's geared hub. You'll see very few new bikes sold with direct drive rear hubs any more as the geared hubs provide much better acceleration from a stop, better hill climbing, and just all around sportier feel with no downside.

So in this example at least, I would say yes, the newer bike, even though it's more expensive, is the better buy.