How Much Do Electric Bikes Weigh?

How Much Do Electric Bikes Weigh? The weight of an e-bike plays an important role in deciding its ride stability and performance. But how can one find out the actual weight of an e-bike? To help you with this situation, we have come up with this great article on “how much do electric bikes weigh”? Give this a read to get answers to all your questions regarding the weight of e-bikes.

Different e-bike models have different weights because of their varying designs and attachments. On average an e-bike has a weight of about 18-22 kg (40-50 pounds). This is 40-50% more than a traditional bike.

E-bikes weigh more than traditional bikes; this is something we all know. But most people don’t know how much e-bikes actually weigh. To give you a better insight into the weight of e-bikes, we have mentioned different classes and categories of e-bikes separately along with their respective weights. In the end, we have also compared the weight of different e-bikes with different conventional bike categories. Last but not the least, we also have some tips, in the end, to help you reduce your e-bike’s weight. Without delaying any further let’s get started.

How Much Do Electric Bikes Weigh?

There is no fixed weight of e-bikes, different e-bikes have different weights. But talking about the average e-bikes come in the range of 11-22kg, which makes about 40 to 50 pounds.

Why Are E-Bikes Heavy?

The reason why e-bikes are heavier than traditional bikes is mainly their motor. On average a motor can weigh between 4 to 5 kg. Counting the extra components, the complete motor system can weigh as high as 8kgs. This is a lot especially when we are talking about just a bike.

On the other hand, the battery used for running the e-bike is no less, when it comes to weight contributions. On average, the battery weighs between 2-3 kg. With the increasing power and size of the battery, its weight also increases.

Weight of Electric Bikes On The Basis Of Their Classes:

E-bikes are mainly categorized into 3 classes; class 1 e-bikes, class 2 e-bikes, and class 3 e-bikes. Let us talk about the variation in the weights of different classes of e-bikes.

• Class 1 E-Bikes:

Class 1 e-bikes include pedal-assist bikes; which involve the assistance of motor during pedaling. The motor runs only on pedaling, which means if you are not moving your legs, your bike would also not move. The average weight of class 1 e-bikes is between 17 to 25 kg, which makes about 37 to 55 pounds.

• Class 2 E-Bikes:

Class 2 e-bikes are different because they feature a throttle button, grip-twist, or trigger that functions in motor activation of your e-bike when riding at a higher speed.

The average weight of class 2 e-bikes is between 19 to 25 kg, which makes about 41 to 55 pounds.

• Class 3 E-Bikes:

These e-bikes have an exceptional speed limit and are considered motor vehicles due to their high speed. They can reach a maximum speed limit of 20 to 28mph and even require a license for legal riding in some countries. They have the same weight range as class 1 e-bikes, which is 17 to 25 kg (37 to 55 pounds).

Weight of E-Bikes On The Basis Of Their Types:

E-bikes also have different types specified for a ride on specific terrains. Below we have mentioned some major types of e-bikes along with their weights.

1. Folding E-Bikes:

Folding e-bikes as the name says are foldable. This enhances their portability and makes their storage easy. You can easily take them with you on commutes or trips without any transportation problems. Folding e-bikes come in different varieties including mini-folding e-bikes, folding flat tire e-bikes, and folding mountain e-bikes. Their weights are:

There are a number of different types of folding electric bikes including mini-folding bikes that are meant to be as small as possible, folding mountain bikes, and folding fat-tire bikes.

• Mini-Folding electric bike: 30 to 40 pounds
• Folding electric mountain bike: 40 to 70 pounds.
• Folding fat tire electric bikes: 50 pounds

2. Commuting E-Bikes:

The other name for commuting e-bikes is hybrid e-bikes as their design is a result of a fusion between a mountain bike and a road bike. Their handlebar designs are the same as that of mountain bikes, whereas from road bikes they get their wheel designs. Commuting e-bikes as the name says are used for commuting but in a comfortable way. For covering large distances, commuting e-bikes feature large batteries. Heavier batteries add more to the collective weight of commuting e-bikes.

• Electric commuter bikes: 50 to 70 pounds

3. Racing E-Bikes:

Racing e-bikes have special designs that enable them to be compatible with racing tracks. They have thin frames, thin wheels, and forward-curved handlebars. Racing e-bikes are not only heavy in terms of weight but also high in terms of price.

• Electric racing bikes: 40 pounds

4. Mountain E-Bikes:

Mountain e-bikes are designed for off-road riders but can be used for on-road rides as well. As the name says, they are really good for mountain trips. These e-bikes have up to 750W power output and feature suspension designed for lowering the impact of bumps.

• Electric mountain bikes: 40 to 70 pounds

5. Cruiser E-Bikes:

Cruiser e-bikes have wide handlebars, soft big seats, and a special design for riding in an upright position. These e-bikes offer more relaxed rides than other e-bikes and serve for leisure use.

• Cruiser electric bikes: 70 pounds

6. Fat Tire E-Bikes:

These e-bikes are good for off-road use, especially for mountain rides. The best thing about fat tire e-bikes is that you can ride them on snow and sand as well.

• Fat tire mountain bikes: 50 to 70 pounds

7. Comfort E-Bikes:

Comfort e-bikes are much similar to cruiser bikes but feature backward extended handlebars. Plus comfort bikes also have a step-through frame.

• Comfort electric bikes: 50 and 70 pounds

Lighter Or Heavier: Which E-Bikes Are Better?

In the case of traditional bikes, lighter ones are preferred over heavier ones because of their easy use and movability. But in the case of e-bikes things are a little different. E-bikes have electric motors and batteries making them heavier than traditional bikes. The extra weight of an e-bike is beneficial as the motor allows you to easily pedal and maintain high speed ride.

If you decide to reduce the size of the motor and battery for reducing the overall weight of your e-bike, then their power, capacity, and performance will also be compromised. This ultimately means that you will be able to ride your e-bike at a low distance. So, we can say that heavier e-bikes are better as they come with added benefits also. You can also get low-weight e-bikes that cover large distances, but for that, you will have to pay quite a lot.

Factors Affecting an Electric Bike’s Weight:

The weight of an e-bike is dependent on several factors, some of which are mentioned below:

• The Battery:

The larger is the battery of your e-bike, the more will be its weight.

• The Motor:

For higher output and efficient performance, large motors are required for running the e-bike. This results in making a significant contribution to the weight of e-bike.

• Wheels:

For riding an e-bike on tough terrains like sand and snow, wider wheels are installed. For running these wheels, heavy motors are required, ultimately adding more to the weight of your e-bike. The material used in making these wheels would also be heavier.

• LCD:

For controlling the power assistance level during your ride. LCD is an extra feature supported by some e-bikes. Extra attachments like LCDs also have some contribution to the weight of your e-bike.

 Does The Weight Of An E-Bike Affect Its Speed?

The weight of an electric bike does not have a direct impact on its speed, but indirectly it does. We know that the battery and motor size play an important role in deciding the weight of your e-bike. If you suddenly run out of power during the ride, you can pedal fast and maintain the speed to reach your destination. But this only works if you are moving down a slope, if you have to climb the slope, then for sure, you can not maintain high speed even if you pedal to your full strength.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of A Heavy E-Bike?

Heavy e-bikes come with different pros and cons, some of which are discussed below:

Pros:

The major benefits of a heavy e-bike are:

• Higher stability:

The heavier is the e-bike the more stability will it offer. As a result, your ride will be smoother and safer.

• Versatile terrain compatibility:

A heavy e-bike allows you to enjoy both on-road and off-road rides. Plus you can also ride it on extremely rough terrains, including snowy and sandy surfaces.

• Cons:

Heavy e-bikes also have some significant cons, including:

• Difficult transport:

In case you have to transport your heavy e-bike from one place to another, imagine how difficult it will be. You can calculate the difficulty level relating it to the weight of your e-bike.

• High Price:

Heavier e-bikes have larger batteries and electric motors and thus are very expensive.

What Are The Additional Attachments That Make Your E-Bike Heavier?

Additional accessories add more to your ride experience. Individually these accessories are not that heavy. But taking them on a collective level, they make a great weight for your e-bike. Here are some of the additional attachments that can make your e-bike heavier:

• Bell or Horn:

A bell or horn is used for alerting people that a bike is coming behind them, especially in busy areas. But we recommend you to buy lightweight bells or horns so that they don’t add too much weight to your e-bike’s total weight.

• Mirror:

The mirror helps you keep a check on what is happening behind you. This saves you from accidents and is good for safe rides.

• Security Lock:

You can never leave your e-bike without securing it with a security lock especially if the surrounding is crowded. Develop this habit of using security locks for your e-bikes if you don’t want to lose them.

• Head And Tail Light:

These lights are helpful especially when you are riding in the dark hours. They help you see the things coming in your path.

• Front And Rear Racks:

You can use these racks for storage purposes; keeping your tools and other belongings.

• Bottle Holder:

For long-distance traveling bottle holders allow you to carry your own water bottle with you.

• Panniers:

Panniers are used for storing personal items, especially when going on long-distance mountain tours.

• Tools:

It is important to keep tools with you to solve any minor technical problems yourself during a ride. Always make sure to keep small, lightweight, and portable tools for reducing the collective weight of your e-bike.

Comparison Of Weight Between An E-Bike And Different Conventional Bike Categories:

Between E-Bike and Conventional Road Bike:

E-bike is 7 to 8 kg (13 to 17 pounds) heavier than a conventional road bike.

Between E-Bike and Conventional Mountain Bike:

E-bike is 2 kg (4 pounds) heavier than a conventional mountain bike.

Between E-Bike and Conventional Folding Bike:

E-bike is 5 to 7 kg (11 to 15 pounds) heavier than a conventional folding bike.

Between E-Bike and Conventional Women Bike:

E-bike is 5 to 9 kg (11 to 19 pounds) heavier than a conventional women’s bike.

How To Make Your E-Bike Lighter?

• Choose an appropriate frame size.
• Keep it clean to remove the mud weight.
• Use thinner tires (gripping will be reduced).
• Carry less weight in the storage bags or boxes.

Conclusion:

This was all about the weight of e-bikes. Hopefully, now you have a clear picture in your mind about which classes and types of e-bikes weigh how much. Always make sure to buy an e-bike with a suitable weight that meets your requirements. Heavier e-bikes, no doubt are more stable but they come with difficult handling as well. So think twice before you choose the right e-bike for yourself.