J.R.
Well-Known Member
- Region
- USA
- City
- Piedmont Highlands
Probably a lot of truth there for people new to, or returning to biking. Many of us have been riding for 50+ years and we know what we want from cycling. Of course those people don't ask a lot of questions.This is what your will learn after your upgrades on your current bike are complete and you ride it. The more you ride the more you will discover not what you bought the bike for but what kind of rider you have become with an ebike and how your preference in rides changes over time.
There is no harm in starting with a more modestly priced bike to get a feel of ebiking and learn where it is going to take you. Most poeple find the ride far more often and way further than they ever imagined. When you are ready to step up to a better bike that better meets your evolved riding style, you can sell the lessor bike for a modest loss.
Combine lots of riding with paying attention not only to topics of interest on this forum but also reading the reviews Court posts on the EBR main site (just click the EBR green graphic at the top left of any page) His reviews expand your idea of what is available, what's new and will give rise to thoughts of how a differently purpose designed bike might better fit your evolving riding style and fitness. Then come back to the forum under brand specific discussion and ask about the experience of others who own the bike that has piqued your interest.
Be sure to be specific about features you want to learn about, features that you think are a "must have" as well as where and under what conditions your ride and your general fitness. Asking too open ended questions about bike preference will just bring out a bunch of irrelevant recommendations by people who know nothing about you and your preferences but are mainly subject to confirmation bias, looking to support your decision by urging you to make the same call.
Certainly there are a lot of newcomers on this forum, but the group I ride with have all been riding for a long time and nearly everyone of them had little difficulty choosing an ebike on their own. Very often forums divide us into groups of high and low price, throttle and no throttle, mid drive and hub drive. Not all that different than motorcycle brand forums. Forums can answer some questions, they also contribute to confusion and indecision.