In recent years, the e-bikes have established themselves as one of the most innovative and sustainable mobility solutions. It is no longer just a passing fad: thanks to continuous technological progress and growing attention to the environment, electric bicycles have become the protagonists of a true green revolution.

Choosing an e-bike today means investing in an efficient, versatile and planet-friendly means of transport. Whether you want to move around the city with ease, venture out on mountain trails or tackle long journeys effortlessly, there is an electric bicycle perfect for every need.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything there is to know about e-bikes: from their fascinating history to the different types available, to practical advice for choosing the right model and keeping it in perfect working order.

Types of e-bikes: which one to choose based on your needs

Not all of them e-bikes they are the same. Depending on your needs and the type of routes you intend to tackle, there are models designed to offer optimal performance in specific contexts.
Find out which type of electric bike is right for you.

City e-bike

The city e-bike are ideal for daily commuting on paved roads. They prioritize comfort and practicality, with lightweight frames, progressively assisted motors and accessories such as luggage racks, mudguards and integrated lights. Perfect for avoiding traffic and moving easily in an urban environment.

Pros:

Lightweight and accessorized frame (luggage rack, mudguards, lights)
Upright riding position, ideal for city traffic
Generally low maintenance costs

Against:

Limited capacity on extra-urban or dirt roads
Less powerful engines than trekking or MTB models
Autonomy usually lower than trekking e-bikes

Perfect for: commuting, city trips, daily errands.

E-MTB (Electric Mountain Bikes)

The e-MTB They are designed to tackle challenging trails, steep climbs and rough terrain. Thanks to robust suspension, knobby tires and powerful engines, they guarantee traction and stability even on the most technical off-road routes.

Pros:

High travel front or complete suspension
Wide, knobby tires for maximum grip
Powerful motors and high torque for technical climbs

Against:

Weighs more than other models
Higher price, especially for full suspended
Not ideal for everyday urban use

Perfect for: off-road routes, mountain trails, technical excursions.

Trekking e-bike

The trekking e-bike They are designed to tackle long distances on mixed routes, combining the qualities of a city bike with the robustness of a MTB. They are designed to offer comfort, extended autonomy and versatility.

Pros:

High autonomy, suitable for long journeys
Optimized comfort for travellers (ergonomic saddle, luggage rack)
Versatility on different types of terrain

Against:

Heavier than city e-bikes
Not ideal for extreme technical trails (compared to e-MTBs)

Perfect for: cycle tourism, excursions on dirt roads, stage trips.

Folding E-bikes

The Folding e-bikes They offer a compact and versatile solution for those who need dynamic mobility. They are perfect for combining the use of the bike with public transport or for those who have limited space at home or in the office.

Pros:

Extremely practical: they fold and are easy to transport
Ideal for intermodality (car, train, metro)
Lightweight and compact

Against:

Limited autonomy compared to traditional models
Reduced driving comfort over long distances
Less stable on uneven terrain

Perfect for: commuters, those who live in the city, those who have limited space.

Racing e-bike

The racing e-bike They are designed for those who want to combine the speed of a road bike with the assistance of an electric motor. Characterized by aerodynamic and lightweight frames, they allow you to travel long distances with less effort.

Pros:

Lightweight frame and aerodynamic geometry
Discreet and natural pedalling support
Ideal for long distances on asphalt

Against:

High price, especially in carbon models
Lower load capacity and comfort than trekking bags
Road riding experience required

Perfect for: sport cyclists, lovers of long distances, road performance.

E-bike motor: which one to choose and how it works

The heart of every e-bikes it is its electric motor, which provides assistance to pedaling in a smooth and natural way: there are different technical solutions, each designed to satisfy different needs.

On the market we can mainly find two types of e-bike motors, each with very specific characteristics: the central motor and the hub motor.
Knowing these differences is not only a technical issue, but is essential to choosing the model that best suits your needs.

The type of engine, in fact, directly affects the riding experience, the efficiency of the pedal assistance, the stability of the bike and even the durability of the mechanical components. Knowing how to distinguish between the different technological solutions allows you not only to get the most out of the performance of your e-bike, but also to avoid bad purchases that could limit your daily use or the exploration of more challenging routes.

An e-bike’s motor kicks in when you start pedaling, providing a boost that’s proportionate to the amount of force you apply to the pedals.
A system of sensors detects the rotation speed and pressure, modulating the power based on the intensity of the pedaling.

The assistance is automatically deactivated when you stop pedaling or when you exceed the maximum speed allowed by law (25 km/h for traditional e-bikes in Europe).

Types of E-Bike Engines

Central Engine (Mid Drive)

The central motor is positioned in the centre of the frame, in correspondence with the pedals.
This allows for ideal weight distribution and very natural assistance, directly proportional to the force applied by the cyclist.

Pros:

Better balance and stability of the bike
Progressive and natural assistance
Excellent uphill and off-road performance
Greater energy efficiency

Against:

Generally higher price
Increased wear on the transmission (chain and sprockets)
More complex and expensive repairs

Recommended for:
If you are looking for an e-bike that will support you on hilly routes, rough trails or long journeys, the mid-drive motor is the perfect choice.
We would recommend a system like the Bosch Performance Line CX or the Shimano EP8 if you want smooth assistance on even the steepest climbs and a natural pedaling feel.

Hub Motor

The hub motor is integrated into the front or rear wheel.
It is a simpler and more compact solution, often preferred for city bikes and folding bikes.

Pros:

More affordable price
Simpler system and less subject to wear
Ideal for flat routes
Less stress on the chain and derailleur

Against:

Less balanced weight distribution
Less natural assistance than the central engine
Less efficiency on steep climbs

Recommended for:
If you need a practical bike to get around the city, perhaps for short trips to work or to combine train and bike, the hub motor is the most suitable option.
For example, Bafang rear motors are perfect for smooth and reliable pedal assistance on urban roads.

Which engine to choose for your electric bike?

Choosing the right type of motor for your e-bike means first of all knowing your real needs. The type of routes you will be riding, your riding style and the budget you have available are all key elements to consider.

If you love day trips, hilly trails or mixed routes, the best solution is to go for a central motor. Thanks to its position and optimal weight distribution, it will offer you natural assistance and greater efficiency, especially uphill.
In this case, we would advise you to opt for a bike equipped with a Bosch Performance Line CX engine: powerful, fluid and perfect for those who want to tackle even the most challenging routes,

If, however, your journeys are mainly urban, on flat roads and for short distances, the hub motor could be the most practical and convenient choice.
A city bike with a rear engine Bafang, for example, is ideal for those looking for an agile, light and easy to manage vehicle for daily mobility, without giving up electric assistance when needed.

Ultimately, it all depends on the type of experience you want to live: adventure and performance? Go with a mid-drive. Convenience and simplicity? A hub motor will be more than enough.

What is the best e-bike motor?

When it comes to e-bike motors, there is no absolute “best”: the best motor is the one that best meets your specific needs.

If you are looking for maximum performance, among the most popular central engines we find the [Bosch Performance Line CX], a real guarantee for MTB and trekking lovers. If instead you want an even lighter and more reactive pedalling, the [Shimano EP8] It represents an excellent choice for those who practice a more technical and dynamic sport.
For those who aim for maximum driving smoothness, without sacrificing power, the Brose Drive S Mag offers an extremely natural and intuitive pedaling sensation.

Even among hub motors there are high quality solutions.
The systems Bafang Hub Motors They are among the most popular in city bikes and folding bikes, thanks to their good quality-price ratio and great reliability.
If your dream is a light and fast racing e-bike, the Mahle Ebikemotion X35 It will win you over with its incredible compactness and the natural feeling it gives when pedaling.

To help you choose the type of engine that best suits your needs, we have summarized the main differences between the two solutions in this table. Here is a simple and quick comparison to understand which engine best suits your driving style and the routes you want to tackle.

Table - Mid-drive motor vs Hub motor

Characteristic	Central Engine (Mid Drive)	Hub Motor
Position	In the center, near the pedals	Integrated into the front or rear wheel
Weight distribution	Optimal, more balanced	Less balanced
Cycling experience	More natural and progressive	Less natural, more “assisted”
Uphill performance	Excellent	Limited
Energy efficiency	High	Average
Maintenance	More complex	Simpler
Price	Higher	More accessible
Ideal for	Mixed routes, climbs, trekking, off-road	Urban travel, short trips

Fundamental components to consider before purchasing an e-bike

When considering purchasing a e-bikes, it is not enough to focus on the type of engine or the aesthetics.
There are several key elements that affect the quality of the ride, the autonomy and the durability of the vehicle.
Knowing these components well will help you choose the electric bike that best suits your needs, avoiding surprises and maximizing the pleasure of every outing.

Engine: the heart of the electric bike

Whether positioned centrally or in the wheel hub, the motor directly affects weight distribution, pedaling smoothness and climbing performance.
A good motor works in harmony with your muscle strength, providing smooth, natural assistance without ever being invasive.

Battery and autonomy

There drums It is one of the most strategic elements of an electric bike, because it determines how far you can travel with assistance and how easy your daily use will be.

Modern lithium-ion batteries guarantee an average life of 4-6 years or about 500-1000 charging cycles, maintaining good performance over time.
A battery from 500Wh It generally allows you to travel 70-120 km, while one from 750Wh It can even reach beyond the 140 km, variable based on weight, riding style and the altitude differences faced.

The cost can vary from approximately 400-500 euros until it exceeds the 1000 euros for high-capacity or premium brand models.
If you use the bike for short trips around town, a battery 300-400Wh may be sufficient. For those who tackle long distances or mixed routes, it is advisable to aim for higher capacities.

Frame and weight: choosing a stable and easy-to-handle e-bike

The chassis represents the supporting structure of the bike, influencing its solidity, resistance and ease of riding.
Aluminum is the most popular material due to its excellent balance between weight and strength, while carbon is chosen by those looking for maximum performance with minimum weight.

Even the total weight of the bike is a crucial element.
A lighter e-bike will be easier to transport and maneuver around the city, while a heavier bike will offer greater stability, especially at high speeds or on difficult terrain.

Transmission and gear changes: smooth pedaling

There transmission of an e-bike, consisting of gears, chain and sprockets, is essential to ensure smooth pedaling that can adapt to any type of route.

Traditional mechanical shifters are still widespread, while electronic shifters are gaining popularity in high-end models, offering fast, precise shifting with minimal effort.

For urban use, 7-8 gears are sufficient, while those who tackle trails or mixed routes can benefit from wider transmissions with 10, 11 or 12 speeds, ideal for challenging climbs or fast descents.

Brakes: safety always under control

Safety on an e-bike depends largely on the quality of the braking system.
The higher weight compared to a traditional bike and the higher speeds require brakes capable of guaranteeing high performance in all conditions.

THE hydraulic disc brakes are the ideal solution today:
They offer powerful, modular and precise braking, perfect for both city commutes and more technical outings.
Brands like Shimano, Magura And SRAM They are among the most appreciated for their reliability, durability and braking capacity.

Brake maintenance also deserves attention:
the tablets, in fact, they wear out more quickly on e-bikes, with an average lifespan of between 1000 and 3000 kilometers, depending on the use and the terrain.
Replacing them is not particularly expensive: on average, a set of good quality pads costs between 15 and 40 euros.
A small investment that makes a big difference in terms of safety.

Wheels: balance between smoothness and grip

The wheels play a fundamental role in determining the comfort, stability and performance of the bike.
It is no coincidence that many electric bikes are equipped with wider tires:
These increase the contact surface with the ground, improving grip and stability, essential qualities for managing the greater weight and higher speeds typical of e-bikes.

Wide tires absorb shocks better and make for a more comfortable ride on rough surfaces.
For those who use their bike mainly on asphalt, thinner tires can guarantee greater smoothness and speed.

The cost of a complete wheel for an electric bike (rim, spokes and tire) can vary from 150 to 400 euros, depending on the quality of the materials and the required performance.
Choosing the right wheelset means improving both comfort and safety on every ride.

Maintaining and caring for your e-bike: a practical guide for beginners

A e-bikes, like any mechanical device, requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and long life.
Taking care of your electric bike is essential not only to avoid sudden breakdowns, but also to keep the pleasure of riding intact over time.

Let's look at the main aspects to consider together.

Cleaning: How to properly wash an e-bike

To preserve the electronic and mechanical components it is important to carry out a e-bike cleaning in the correct way is essential

The first rule to remember is to avoid high-pressure water jets, which could damage the engine, battery and electrical cables.
Instead, use a simple bucket of warm water with mild soap and a soft sponge to clean the frame, wheels and drivetrain.
For the chain and sprockets, you can use a specific degreaser, applying it with a brush.

After washing, dry your bike thoroughly with a microfiber cloth, paying particular attention to areas where water and humidity can accumulate, such as hubs and cables.

It is also advisable to remove the battery before washing, if possible, or to cover it carefully, to avoid water infiltration.

Regular cleaning, at least every two or three weeks if used frequently, helps keep your bike in tip-top condition and prevents wear and corrosion.

St Bike Shampoo 500 Ml

Wheel inflation: recommended pressures and periodic checks

Tire pressure has a significant impact on stability, driving comfort and battery life.
Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing overall range.

Checking your tire pressure at least once a month, or before every important outing, is a good habit.
The correct values vary according to the type of tire and the weight carried, but generally range between:

2.5 – 3.5 bar for city bikes
1.8 – 2.5 bar for off-road e-MTBs
5 – 8 bars for e-bike racing on asphalt

You can find the recommended pressure indication directly on the sidewall of the tire.
For an accurate check, use a digital pressure gauge or a pump with a built-in gauge.

Maintaining the correct pressure will allow you to travel safely, with less fatigue and with greater energy efficiency.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with proper maintenance, small problems can arise. Knowing how to recognize and solve them will help you intervene promptly without stress.

Battery drains quickly: if you notice an abnormal decrease in range, check that the tires are well inflated, reduce the assistance level and check for charging errors. If the problem persists, it may be time to have the battery checked by a technician.
Engine or display errors: If error messages appear, the first step is to turn the system off and on again. If the error persists, consult the bike manual or contact a service center. Sometimes it is just dirty sensors or connections that need to be reset.
Noisy or slow-reacting brakes: squeaking noises may indicate worn pads or contaminated discs. To eliminate the noise, the first step is clean thoroughly the brake discs with a specific brake system cleaner and a clean cloth.
Avoid oily products or generic degreasers that can make the situation worse.

If the noise persists, check the condition of the pads: they could be worn out or vitrified (hardened due to overheating). In this case, it is best to replace them.

Another possible reason for whistling is the misalignment calipers versus discs: in the workshop they can quickly adjust them to bring everything back on track.

A periodic check of the braking system, especially after rides in the rain or on dusty terrain, will help you maintain high performance and silence.

Conclusion

Now that our journey is coming to an end and we have explored everything you need to know to choose the perfect e-bike for you, it is time to move from theory to practice.
As they say among cyclists: “Slow and steady wins… but electric and fast wins!”

Discover ours now electric bike catalog and find the two-wheeled adventure companion that best suits you!