September 13, 2023

5 things to consider before buying an ebike in Singapore

In addition to adhering to the legal requirements for riding an e-bike in Singapore, like passing the PAB theory test before taking one out on the road, this article will outline the key factors you should take into account before purchasing an e-bike. We hope this information assists you in selecting the perfect e-bike for your needs.

1）Parts Availability :

If you buy a particular ebike, when a component on the bike breaks down, can you get a replacement parts? The answer is that if you opt for a popular e-bike model such as the Jimove MC or the Drive 1.0/2.0, both of which have sold more than 10,000 units in Singapore, you need not be concerned about the availability of replacement parts. Virtually every bicycle shop that deals with e-bikes carries these parts and can handle repairs when issues arise. On the contrary, if you choose an e-bike that only sells 20 units per month in Singapore, it's highly likely that the distributor will discontinue that model once they've sold their existing inventory. In the event of discontinuation, the original factory may not even have the parts available for supply, leaving you with a challenging quest to find alternative replacement parts or solutions. This is akin to the approach one takes when buying a car: opting for a best-selling brand like Toyota ensures easy access to local service and parts, while selecting a less popular brand might entail waiting for months to obtain certain components.

2）Purpose :

If you are buying an ebike for leisure riding, you do not need an ebike with a large battery. You might want to explore options like the Jimove LC, which offers a range of approximately 40 kilometers. However, if you're purchasing an e-bike for long-distance travel, your decision should hinge on various factors, including range, safety, and comfort. For extended daily use, it's advisable to seek out an e-bike with a minimum capacity of 700Wh to ensure it can run throughout the day. Additionally, prioritize safety and comfort considerations. Wider, fat tires provide enhanced stability on the road, while hydraulic brakes offer more efficient braking capabilities, thus enhancing safety. These factors should be weighed carefully in your decision-making process.

3）Torque:

If you live in hilly areas , you will need an ebike with a higher torque output. You should consider a mid-drive ebike as it is much more powerful than traditional hub motor ebikes when navigating upslope.

4）Water-Resistant Ratings:

The majority of hub motors found on e-bikes in Singapore come with an IP54 rating, indicating their ability to withstand water splashes but not heavy rain. If you anticipate riding your e-bike in heavy rainfall, you might want to explore mid-drive options, as most mid-drive motors carry an IP65 rating. This signifies their capability to resist water jets and function effectively in adverse, heavy rain conditions.

5）Reputation:

On the street who owns the same e-bike and inquire about their experience with it. You can ask them about their likes and dislikes, whether it's prone to frequent breakdowns, the availability of replacement parts, its range, and any issues they've encountered while riding in the rain, among other things. This way, you can obtain genuine and unbiased feedback from someone who has firsthand experience with the e-bike.