As electric bikes gain popularity in New Zealand, finding the perfect e-bike to match your needs and lifestyle can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're an experienced cyclist, motorcyclist or just starting out, making an informed choice is essential.
Dan Wallace, owner of Vallkree Electric Bikes in New Zealand, shares his key insights to help you confidently navigate the e-bike selection process. Let's dive into this expert guide, tailored specifically for Kiwi riders.
1. Determine Your Riding Style and Needs
Before diving into the e-bike world, it's important to identify your riding style and needs," says Dan. Are you commuting around the city or craving off-road adventures? Understanding how you'll be using your e-bike will help you narrow down the choices and find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
2. Consider the Electric Motor System:
When it comes to e-bike motor systems, there are two main types: mid-drive motors and hub-drive motors. Each has its own advantages, depending on your riding preferences and needs.
Mid-Drive Motors
Mid-drive motors are located near the bike's bottom bracket and use torque sensors to amplify your pedalling power, offering up to 300% or more assistance. This type of motor is ideal for those seeking powerful performance on challenging terrain, such as mountain biking. Mid-drive motors generally require you to pedal to engage the motor, although some models also feature throttles for power without pedalling.
Mid-drive motors typically offer torque ranging from 40Nm to 85Nm, which is a key factor in determining how much assistance you'll receive when climbing hills. Dan, an expert with over seven years in the e-bike industry, highly recommends the Bosch motor system for mid-drive bikes. However, he notes that while Bosch offers some of the best motors, lower-end models like the 'Active Line' may lack the torque necessary for New Zealand's varied terrain.
Hub-Drive Motors
Hub-drive motors are located in the rear wheel and provide a different kind of riding experience, often described as feeling more like an electric-powered bike rather than a traditional bicycle. These motors use cadence sensors, meaning the motor engages as long as the pedals are turning, regardless of how much force is applied. This type of system is often called a 'speed pedelec' overseas.
Hub-drive motors are perfect for riders who want a more relaxed experience without worrying about gears or the amount of force needed to pedal. They range in power from 300Wh to 500Wh, with torque ranging between 40Nm and 60Nm. A 60Nm hub motor provides enough power to comfortably assist heavier riders up hills, making them great for exploring and cruising. However, hub-drive motors are less suited for extreme off-road use or jumps.
No matter which type of motor you choose, remember that the more effort you put into pedalling, the longer your battery will last. Both motor types offer unique benefits, so consider your riding style when making a choice.
3. Battery Performance and Range:
Dan emphasises battery capacity and range. "A powerful battery ensures longer rides without the fear of running out of juice," he says. Consider your typical distance needs and choose a model that meets them comfortably, especially since New Zealand's scenic rides can tempt you to go further. Vallkree have 696 -720watt batteries. This will generally get you 60km of travel. A similar sized battery on a mid drive e-bike will get you more the 80-90km range. This is because on a mid drive e bike you are powering this with your legs as well.
4. Frame and Design
"The frame and design impact both comfort and manoeuvrability," Dan notes. Look for a design that feels right and fits well, as comfort is key to enjoying those weekend explorations or daily commutes. Generally electric mountain bikes are designed so that you have more weight on your arms, this allows you to manoeuvre more when hitting the down hills. Vallkree electric bikes on the other hand are built for comfort and to cruising. They are designed for a more upright or laid back style of riding.
5. Safety Features
Safety is always a top priority, especially on New Zealand roads. Dan highlights features like powerful hydraulic disc brakes, reliable lights, and shut off switches help. These features are particularly important given the varied conditions you may encounter—from city streets to rugged trails.
Differences Between E-Bikes and Traditional Bikes
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Power source: A standard push bike relies solely on human power for propulsion. The rider must pedal to generate the necessary force to move the bike forward. In contrast, an e-bike is equipped with an electric motor that provides additional power to assist the rider's pedalling efforts. The electric motor is usually powered by a rechargeable battery.
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Assistance level: The electric motor in an e-bike provides varying levels of assistance to the rider. E-bikes typically come with different modes or settings that determine the level of motor assistance, such as eco, normal, and high. The rider can choose the desired assistance level, allowing them to vary their effort and speed according to their preferences or the terrain.
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Speed and Range: Due to the electric motor's assistance, e-bikes can achieve higher speeds compared to standard push bikes. The maximum speed depends on local regulations, as different countries or regions may have specific speed limits for e-bikes. Additionally, e-bikes generally have a longer range than traditional bikes since the motor helps reduce the physical exertion required to cover distances. In NZ we have bosch powered speed bikes that assist to 45kph. Dan believes that 38kph is the best speed for commuting and has set the Vallkree in NZ to go 40kph. The same bikes only go 25km in Australia as their rules change state by state. Speed and safety should always be treated with responsibly.
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Weight: E-bikes tend to be heavier than standard push bikes due to the additional components, including the electric motor, battery, and controller. The weight of an e-bike can vary depending on the specific model and design. This extra weight may impact the handling and manoeuvrability of the e-bike compared to a standard bike. As a lot of the weight of a e-bike is in the battery, lighter e-bikes generally have a smaller riding range.
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Environmental Impact: While both standard push bikes and e-bikes are considered more environmentally friendly compared to motorised vehicles, e-bikes have the advantage of reducing the overall physical exertion required, making cycling more accessible to a broader range of individuals. E-bikes can encourage more people to choose cycling as a mode of transportation, promoting sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Most of our car trips in NZ are less than 10km so using an electric bike for small trips instead of your car makes a huge difference over time.
Additionally, e-bikes can be equipped with various accessories and attachments, transforming them into practical utility vehicles for carrying cargo, commuting, or even running errands around town.
Consider After-Sales Support and Warranty
"Reliable after-sales support and a comprehensive warranty are essential considerations," says Dan. Choose a reputable e-bike brand like Vallkree, known for its commitment to customer satisfaction and quality service. A solid warranty ensures peace of mind, protecting your investment and ensuring prompt assistance should any issues arise.
Choosing the perfect e-bike is an exciting journey that requires careful consideration of your riding style, needs, and preferences. With Vallkree Electric Bikes, you can rest assured that you're investing in a high-quality, stylish, and eco-friendly ride. As Dan concludes, "Our mission at Vallkree is to provide riders with an unparalleled electric biking experience, combining innovative technology, stunning design, and sustainable transportation.
Test Ride and Seek Expert Advice
Dan advises, "Nothing beats a test ride when choosing an e-bike." Visit the Vallkree showroom in Mount Manganui or a local Vallkree dealer to experience firsthand how different e-bike models perform and feel. Don't hesitate to seek advice from experts who can provide valuable insights based on your specific needs and preferences.
Ready to join the electric bike revolution
With Vallkree, you're not just choosing an e-bike—you're joining a community of riders passionate about stylish, high-quality, and eco-friendly transport.
Explore our range of Vallkree e-bike range on our website here or visit one of our Vallkree dealers across New Zealand to test ride a Vallkree freedom machine today!
