Rider Types

Below, we discuss five different ebiker types. Our aim in making these categorisations is not to pigeonhole certain users and specific models. If in any doubt, the exception proves the rule and in the real world, mixed types undoubtedly exist. However, these distinctions should help you figure out which ebike fits which set of needs. Check out our current ebike group test for more information and buying advice.

The trans-urban mile muncher

… or the regular long-distance commuters. Your usual commuting distance is more than 15 km each way and you use your bike every day. Your ebike is used as a means of transport and is a real alternative to a second car or public transport. Practicality, reliability and utility win out over the ultimate bling factor because it’s primarily a functional machine

Important	Unimportant
Motor & battery long range plenty of power to get from A to B, sweat-free & fast charging options off the bike lockable battery	Look form follows function robustness and reliability are more important than bling
Handling intuitive, balanced, smooth-running	Price less important, can often be purchased via job/leasing
Spec lights with high- and low-beam rack with up to 25 kg rating for transporting laptop, small shops and more connectivity for navigation and safety features lock is an advantage	Parking bike does not necessarily have to be taken into the flat.
Comfort high level of comfort & ease of use relaxed 30-minute transfer each way on the bike

The stylish city explorer

This type of ebike unites experts and early adopters from both the fashion and tech scenes. As hip trendsetters, they know exactly how to ride with style. Sci-fi, hi-fi, Wi-Fi – they know exactly what they’re talking about and can easily play the keyboard while half asleep. With a tendency to live out their passions eccentrically, emotional decisions come before rational ones.

Important	Unimportant
Look has to look good and match your wardrobe component integration is extremely important	Handling not as important – you’ve become accustomed to wearing impractical clothing and can get used to quirky handling
Handling the bike is a central element of your lifestyle, it lives in your flat and needs to be easy to handle	Cargo you don’t need to transport anything. The weekly shop doesn’t happen by bike
Connectivity extremes: only the most modern and sophisticated technology will do OR absolute tech asceticism and digital detox	Comfort not really important, as you’ll never spend more than 15 minutes on the bike
	Motor & battery function follows form large capacity not needed for inner-city use motor power is irrelevant as preferred terrain is usually flat

The transporter

Take the kids to kindergarten, head to the weekly market and later get a crate of beer – no problem for this type of ebike, even without a car. These riders love to combine things: rational and emotional motives go hand in hand because investments are made on the basis of knowing what they want and getting a suitable vehicle that suits their vision and mission.

Important	Unimportant
Cargo children, weekly shopping etc. must fit – maximum payload is fundamental! rack with 27 kg capacity and approval for child seats plenty of mounting points	Connectivity a navigation system is a nice-to-have but not a must-have
Motor & battery needs a lot of power to master steep climbs in any situation large battery capacity = maximum ride time and mobility	Acceleration & speed you don’t have to win the race at the traffic lights. Torque counts more than fast acceleration
Spec as much practicality for everyday life as possible, because #alldayeveryday mudguards, lights and a horn should come as standard stem & saddle easily adjustable to suit multiple users anti-theft device	Look utility rather than looks are the deciding factor. If there is good design on top of that, all the better!
Handling as intuitive and balanced as possible cargo shouldn’t impact handling
Comfotz if you spend the whole day on your bike, you want to get from A to B comfortably

The short distance whizz

You live in a 15-minute city like Paris. This means that all your daily needs are within a 15-minute radius by foot or ebike. For short distances of less than 2 km, you aren’t afraid to simply walk. For medium distances of up to 10 km, you get on your bike. Longer distances are easily covered with a mix of public transport and your bike. Short-distance bikers are active/sporty people who never want to commit to one thing, maintain a flexible lifestyle and like to be inspired by impulses. Due to limited space in the city, they often don’t have a car and if they do, it is mainly used for pleasure.

Important	Unimportant
Handling bike must offer flexible functionality has to fit in at home and on public transport low weight is an advantage	Cargo small purchases in the backpack or a small bag larger items are handled via car-sharing or on foot
Handling intuitive and fun hop-on-hop-off feeling small, winding paths are easy to navigate	Motor & battery function follows form large capacity not necessary – only inner-city use motor power not relevant, as the terrain is usually quite flat.
Spec reliable and fit for purpose lights that let you see and be seen anti-theft device, as the bike may also be left outside for longer periods of time	Comfort not really important, as the time spent on the bike is never more than 15 minutes
Connectivity safety features rather than routing/navigation functionality

The passionate/recreational cyclist

You have significant biking experience and enjoy riding sportily. This group encompasses mountain bikers and trail shredders, road bike fans and Strava heroes, as well as touring fans who enjoy (rural) excursions into the countryside outside the city. You change into sports gear for your daily commute before showering when you get there because you enjoy working on your fitness. Your bike is used for commuting during the week as well as for tours at the weekend and is a means of transport and sports equipment all in one.

Important	Unimportant
Handling active, direct and lots of fun time on the bike isn’t just for recreation but also to workout – bike must be sporty to ride	Cargo large items are handled with the car backpack at most, but preferably just a mobile phone in your pocket
Connectivity navigation and fitness tracking are very important information on remaining range with battery charge	Parking kept in the garage/cellar and at work
Motor & battery must be tailored to the area of application and specific requirements progressive assistance modes are just as important as resistance-free riding without support
Comfort sporty comfort and long-distance suitability

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