What is a Hybrid Electric Bike: A Buyer’s Guide

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Hybrid electric bikes combine the finest features of road and mountain bikes with a robust electric motor for pedal support. They’re versatile for commuting, exceptional for touring, and perfect for exploration. 

This makes them the ultimate all-terrain, multipurpose bicycles.

But what is a hybrid electric bike? There’s a wealth of knowledge to uncover about hybrid bikes, and if you’re considering a purchase, you’re in the right place. 

Hybrid electric bikes excel in both urban environments and off-road conditions. They offer so many benefits to people who navigate diverse terrains. With a focus on quality and adaptability, these e-bikes are designed for both leisurely rides and long-distance tours.

Starting your e-bike journey can be daunting, but we have your back. Our buyer’s guide on electric hybrid bikes will demystify e-bikes and assist you in making a well-informed decision that suits your cycling preferences. 

So, let’s dive in: why are hybrid electric bikes the talk of the town?

What is a Hybrid Electric Bike?

Hybrid bicycles combine the best features of both road and mountain bikes into one product. They have sturdy frames, broad gearing options, fat tires, and the capacity to accommodate vital add-ons like mudguards and racks. All these features offer you unparalleled adaptability. 

Whether you are navigating the daily urban hustle or enjoying a weekend ride in the countryside, the hybrid bike is suitable for both situations. 

Electric hybrid e-bikes elevate the standard pedal-driven bikes by adding a motor, which provides assistance as you pedal. This means effortlessly conquering hills and arriving at your destination fresh and energized. 

The electric assist extends your riding range, which makes these bikes ideal for daily commuters, casual cyclists, and long-distance riders.

The motors on electric bikes propel you up to the legal speed limit of 20 mph. You have full control over the level of assistance, with most electric hybrids offering customizable pedal support to match your desired exertion.

Why Should You Buy a Hybrid Electric Bike?

Electric hybrid bikes stand out for their flexibility, ease of use, and proficiency in various settings, be it daily commuting, long-distance touring, or casual weekend outings. However, their appeal doesn’t end there. There are many good reasons why a electric hybrid bike should be your next cycling companion:

They Make Cycling Accessible for Everyone

The addition of pedal assistance to cycling enhances the joy and reduces the fear. The motor’s battery-driven support ensures that cyclists from all walks of life, regardless of age or physical condition, can enjoy biking. 

You will gain strength and confidence with time. Then you will find yourself relying more on your own pedaling and less on the motor’s power.

They Cut Time, Costs, and Stress From Every Commute

An electric hybrid bike simplifies and improves the work commute like never before. Zipping through crowded city traffic becomes effortless, surpassing cars and public transportation alike. 

For those reluctant to long-distance cycling to work, the electric bike makes the ride smoother and less demanding on your legs. Over time, your strength and stamina will increase, and you will require less assistance (and charging the battery less frequently).

Arrive Fresh

A typical commute to work can leave you exhausted and sweaty. But with an e-bike, the motor can carry the majority of the burden for you. It will keep you feeling fresher for longer. You can also bike in your work attire, which is ideal if you are going to a meeting or do not have access to a shower at work.

The Future of Urban Transport

Bicycles are the future of transportation in congested cities. An electric hybrid bike is a viable alternative to owning a car, particularly in overcrowded towns and cities where even short trips can take hours.

Many cities are now implementing clean air zones, which means additional taxes for drivers – something you can avoid by riding an electric bike.

How to Choose a Hybrid Electric Bike?

Before buying a new electric hybrid bike, you should conduct some research to learn more about the features of an e-bike.

Following are some of the factors you must consider:

Motor and Battery Size

When comparing e-bike options, consider the motor size and rechargeable battery’s capacity. The larger the battery, the longer it will provide powered assistance; however, the trade-off is increased weight.

If you plan to tour with your bike, we recommend investing in a larger battery that can push you and your luggage. However, if your journey is short, a lighter bike with a smaller battery may be a better option.

Before purchasing an electric hybrid bike, evaluate the distance you need to cover on each ride (or round trip). Remember that the range values provided are approximations and will be influenced by the terrain you ride, the level of assistance, rider weights, and the weather.

Frame

There are two main types of electric hybrid bikes: step-through frames and step-over frames. You can also acquire a folding electric bike to make commuting easier. You can learn more about folding electric bikes here.

Step-through frames feature no crossbar running along the top, allowing you to swing your leg through the frame without raising it too high. This makes it simple to get on and off. The Pendleton Somerby, one of our most popular electric bikes, with a low step-through frame that makes it both convenient and practical.

Step-over hybrid bikes resemble classic mountain and road bikes. They are sportier and typically handle better than step-through variants. The Carrera Subway is an excellent example, with a crossbar and a lot packed into an amazing package. 

Suspension

A suspension fork will absorb lumps and bumps from the surface you’re riding on, even off-road tracks.

If you intend to use your hybrid off-road, on towpaths, mixed-use paths, bike paths, or bridleways, we recommend strongly considering a hybrid with a suspension front fork.

Features You will Find on a Hybrid Electric Bike

Flat handlebars, disc brakes, and wide tires are among the features of electric hybrid bikes that are intended to make long-distance rides on and off road more comfortable.

Here are some of the frequent characteristics you’ll find on electric hybrid bikes:

Flat handlebars

When traveling through metropolitan areas, you want to be comfortable. This is why most hybrid bikes have flat handlebars.

Flat bars offer a comfortable, upright riding position that is ideal for covering long distances, weaving in and out of traffic, and avoiding obstructions. 

An upright riding posture is particularly preferable for riding on crowded highways because it provides a better view of the road ahead. It also allows you to immediately notice impending hazards.

Disc Brakes

From road to mountain bikes, disc brakes are the most preferred braking choice due to their superior performance in all conditions – which is why most electric hybrid bikes include them.

Most bikes use either mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes. Mechanical brakes employ a basic cable tension system to bring you to a stop, which means there’s less to go wrong. However, this can limit your stopping strength.

A hydraulic mechanism amplifies the pressure your fingers exert on the brake lever. This increases control and allows you to stop faster while using less energy to brake. Just keep in mind that any air that enters the system reduces your stopping power.

The Canyon Pathlite:ON 5 has hydraulic disc brakes that are high-performance, low-maintenance, and reliable in all weather conditions, making it suitable for both on and off-road riding.

Fat Tires

Most electric hybrid bikes are easy to ride in all weather and can handle everything from smooth pavement and cobbled streets to canal pathways – one of the main reasons for this is their fat tires.

Many are equipped with tires that are wider than road bike tires but narrower than mountain bike tires. This extra rubber between the wheel and the road helps to dampen vibrations while you ride. 

When you need to go off-road on gravel, shale, or even mud, they will provide the traction you need to be steady.

Mudguards, Lights, Pannier Racks, and Kickstands

When it comes to riding around town or commuting to work, convenience is key. This is why most hybrid e-bikes include mudguard and pannier mounts. Some commuter hybrid e-bikes even have these features as standard.

You may also see fixed lights on hybrid e-bikes. It’s becoming more common now that most e-bike power systems include a separate lighting circuit that can be controlled from the e-bike display unit.

The benefits include improved visibility and the elimination of the need to replace light batteries. 

What is Electric Assistance?

Electric assist provides an extra boost to your e-bike while also making the ride more enjoyable. It has three modes: throttle, pedal assist, and both.

Pedal assist is fantastic for traveling uphill, particularly in mountainous terrain. You can also use this mode to ride on flat terrain without breaking a sweat.

Throttle mode demands even less effort than pedal assist because kick off is very easy to trigger. Now, throttle mode isn’t ideal for lengthy travels because it depletes battery life.

How Does a Hybrid Electric Bike Work?

Hybrid electric bikes work by combining pedal power with an electric motor, which adds power to the pedals as needed. The rider can select the level of assistance, typically via a handlebar-mounted display, providing for a more customizable and personalized riding experience. 

The motor is powered by a rechargeable battery, which can be removed and charged.

What are the Benefits of Riding a Hybrid Electric Bike?

Riding a hybrid electric bike provides more flexibility and comfort in a variety of riding circumstances. It allows you to travel longer distances with less fatigue, and helps with hills and headwinds. 

Hybrid e-bikes are also environmentally benign, as they reduce reliance on fossil fuels while producing no emissions. They cater to riders looking for a balance of pleasure riding, commuting, and exercise.

A hybrid electric bike is the most practical bike to ride. It is classified into two types: hardtail and front suspension. Both types work well on city or gravel roads, for commuting or cargo, and for a variety of other applications.

It’s one of those options that’s ideal for everyone. It’s also worth noting that this bike was designed for both off-road and city riding. It’s an excellent choice regardless of age, height, weight, surface, etc. That’s why the hybrid e-bike is one of the most popular solutions on the market.

Hybrid e-bike models have different designs, frame, tires, and speeds, but the main concept is the same: a comfortable seated posture, agile handling, speed, and stability.

Another reason for these bikes’ efficiency and popularity is their low cost. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better value elsewhere.

How Do Hybrid Electric Bikes Differ From Other E-Bikes?

The primary difference between hybrid electric bikes and other e-bikes is their design and intended application. While mountain e-bikes are designed for off-road terrain and road e-bikes for speed on paved roads, hybrid e-bikes combine the two, providing versatility for both urban commuting and light trail riding. 

Hybrid electric bikes typically have a comfortable upright riding position, medium-width tires for stability on a variety of surfaces, and a moderate level of pedal assistance that is appropriate for everyday use.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the hybrid electric bike stands as a testament to innovation in modern transportation. It bridges the gap between traditional cycling and electric mobility. 

It offers a sustainable, efficient, and versatile solution for the environmentally conscious and the fitness-minded alike. 

Whether it’s for the daily commute, a leisurely ride, or a fitness routine, the hybrid electric bike adapts to your needs and provides a seamless blend of power and performance. 

As we pedal towards a greener future, the hybrid electric bike is not just a vehicle—it’s a movement, empowering riders to go further and explore more with ease and comfort.