The various e-bike types explained (Part 3)

You will find many different types of e-bikes on the market. Your choice influences how you get around and which benefits you enjoy. New trends show that e-road bikes with micro-assist motors are becoming increasingly popular and that SUV e-bikes offer both comfort and off-road capability.

The demand for e-bikes is growing strongly. In Germany, there are around 15.7 million e-bikes in use.

With an e-bike, you can travel in an eco-friendly, efficient, and quiet way. Discover now which type fits your daily life and how you can benefit from current developments.

Key takeaways

• E-bikes are eco-friendly and significantly reduce CO2 emissions compared to cars.

• City e-bikes offer comfort and safety for urban daily life, ideal for short distances.

• Trekking e-bikes are sporty and suitable for longer tours, with greater range and robust components.

• E-mountain bikes are perfect for off-road adventures, equipped with powerful motors and stable frames.

• SUV e-bikes combine comfort and versatility, ideal for city rides and excursions into nature.

City e-bike & Trekking e-bike

City e-bike – For the city

Would you like to get around the city quickly and comfortably? Then a city e-bike is right for you. It is particularly suitable for short and medium distances in urban areas. Many people use it for commuting to work, shopping, or running errands. The equipment makes the difference: luggage racks, mudguards, and bright lighting are part of the basic equipment. This way, you remain mobile and safe in any weather.

Many users praise their suitability for everyday use and comfort. The upright seating position is easy on your back and provides a good overview of traffic. A sturdy luggage rack helps you transport bags or shopping. Most models have ergonomic grips and a suspension seat post. This noticeably increases riding comfort.

Tip: A city e-bike is particularly suitable if you value comfort, safety, and everyday usability.

Trekking e-bike – For tours and everyday life

Are you planning longer trips or do you want to ride outside the city? Then you should consider a trekking e-bike. It is built to be sportier and designed for longer tours. Many models offer a higher range so that you can enjoy extended bike rides or cycling holidays.

A trekking e-bike often has a powerful battery with up to 820 Wh. This allows you to cover longer distances without needing to recharge. Powerful motors with up to 90 Nm support you on mountain tours. The robust construction and high-quality components such as gears and brakes ensure reliability on long trips. You can carry a lot of luggage, which is particularly practical for bike trips.

• Trekking e-bikes account for about 35.5% of the e-bike market in Germany.

• The market share was around 25% in 2024.

• Many people use them for long rides on paved paths or roads.

Note: A trekking e-bike is suitable for you if you want to ride longer distances and value versatility as well as sporty features.

E-mountain bike & SUV e-bike

E-mountain bike – For off-road

Do you love adventure and want to ride off the beaten track? Then an e-mountain bike is right for you. These bikes are specially built for demanding terrain. They offer you the opportunity to master steep climbs and uneven trails with ease. Technology plays a major role here.

With an e-mountain bike, you can climb steep mountains and safely navigate difficult descents. The wide knobby tires give you grip on loose surfaces. A robust frame protects you during jumps and impacts. The suspension ensures comfort, even when the path gets bumpy. Powerful batteries allow you long tours off-road.

Tip: If you enjoy being out in the woods, on gravel, or in the mountains, an e-mountain bike offers you the necessary technology and safety.

The popularity of these bikes is growing. In 2023, 2.1 million e-mountain bikes were sold in Germany. This shows how many people enjoy off-road riding.

SUV e-bike – Versatility and comfort

Are you looking for a bike that combines comfort and versatility? Then you should take a look at an SUV e-bike. These models combine the off-road capability of a mountain bike with the comfort of a trekking bike. Experts praise their versatility and high riding comfort in particular.

With an SUV e-bike, you can be out and about in everyday life as well as in your leisure time. You can master the commute to work, shopping, or longer excursions into nature. The equipment is high-quality and adapted to various needs.

• You can use an SUV e-bike for your daily commute to work.

• It is suitable for weekend excursions and longer tours.

• Even on unpaved paths, it offers you safety and comfort.

Note: An SUV e-bike is ideal if you are looking for a versatile bike for city, country, and off-road use. It combines the advantages of different bicycle types and adapts to your lifestyle.

Cargo e-bike & Special types

Cargo e-bike – Transport and family

Would you like to transport heavy loads or several children safely? Then a cargo e-bike is a good choice. These bikes are specifically built for high payloads and versatile transport. They offer you powerful motors and high-performance batteries. This way, you can easily transport large purchases or even two children.

• Cargo e-bikes are designed for the transport of heavy loads and multiple people.

• They offer strong drivetrains and batteries with high power.

• Other e-bike types such as mountain bikes or city models are more suitable for sports or commuting.

The use of cargo bikes is growing especially in cities. Many people are discovering them as an eco-friendly alternative for everyday life.

Currently, about 2% of people in Germany use a cargo bike. Interest is growing, especially in urban areas.

Tip: With an electric cargo bike, you can transport children, groceries, or even pets safely and comfortably.

Electric folding bike – Compact and mobile

Do you commute often and need a bike that is easy to take with you? An electric folding bike fits perfectly into your everyday life. These bikes are stable and compact. You can fold them up quickly and take them with you on buses or trains.

• Electric folding bikes are practical for combining with public transport.

• They are environmentally friendly and space-saving.

• The electric motor helps you on inclines and longer routes.

• You can take the bike on trains for free as it is considered luggage.

Many commuters use the electric folding bike for the final stretch to their workplace. You can quickly unfold it and start riding.

Electric fatbike – For extreme terrain

Do you love adventures on unpaved paths, sand, or snow? Then an electric fatbike is the right bike for you. These models feature extra-wide tires and a powerful drive.

Electric fatbikes offer you safety and comfort, even when the terrain is difficult. They are suitable for outdoor adventures and extreme conditions.

Electric bike for children – For young riders

Do you want your child to be safe and have fun on the road? An electric bike for children offers special technology and safety. Pay attention to strong disc brakes and simple operation. A well-fitting helmet is mandatory. Knee and elbow pads provide additional protection during athletic use.

1. Powerful disc brakes and straightforward controls ensure safety.

2. Protective gear like a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads is important.

3. Let your child make their first riding attempts away from traffic.

4. Discuss proper speed and defensive riding together.

5. Check the brakes, lighting, and tires regularly.

Note: With an electric bike for children, your child learns early how to participate in road traffic safely and responsibly.

Electric road bike & S-Pedelec

Electric road bike – Sporty riding

Do you want to ride in a sporty way and love speed? Then an electric road bike is the right choice for you. These bikes offer you support when you want to tackle steep climbs or are planning longer tours. The motor provides targeted support on steep gradients. This allows you to master demanding routes without exhausting your energy reserves.

Electric road bikes differ from classic road bikes in a few points:

• The motor is specially designed for partial support on inclines.

• Electric road bikes usually weigh 5 to 10 kilograms more than classic road bikes. This is due to the motor and battery.

• A 250-watt battery weighs about three to four kilograms. A 500-watt battery can weigh up to six kilograms.

• The motor power helps you especially on long or steep climbs.

With an electric road bike, you can cover longer distances while remaining flexible. Many models offer a sporty seating position and high-quality components. You benefit from modern technology and can keep up with friends who ride without a motor.

Tip: An electric road bike is suitable for you if you want to ride in a sporty way and value support on demanding routes.

S-Pedelec – Extra speed

Do you want to ride even faster? Then you should consider an S-pedelec. These bikes assist you while pedaling up to 45 km/h. In Germany, S-pedelecs are classified as mopeds. They offer you more speed than a regular e-bike, but you must observe some rules.

Important regulations for S-pedelecs:

• S-pedelecs are considered motor vehicles and require an insurance license plate.

• You need at least a class AM driver's license.

• You are only allowed to ride on the road. Bike paths are off-limits.

• Wearing a helmet is mandatory.

A speed pedelec assists you up to 45 km/h. In Germany, it counts as a two-wheeled moped.

With an S-pedelec, you reach high speeds and reach your destination quickly. However, you should always observe the legal requirements and equip yourself properly.

You have learned about many types of e-bikes. Each type suits different needs. Think about how you want to use your e-bike. The following table shows important criteria for your selection:

Test various models at a specialist dealer. This way, you will find the right e-bike, feel safer, and experience the advantages firsthand.

1. You will find the right e-bike for your needs.

2. You gain confidence and safety while riding.

3. You experience the benefits such as speed and comfort yourself.

FAQ

What is the difference between a pedelec and an e-bike?

You ride a pedelec up to 25 km/h; the motor only assists you while pedaling. An e-bike can also move without pedaling and reaches higher speeds.

Do I need a driver's license for an e-bike?

You do not need a driver's license for a normal e-bike. For an S-pedelec, you must possess a class AM driver's license.

How long does an e-bike battery last?

You can usually ride between 50 and 150 kilometers on one battery charge. The range depends on the model, riding style, and terrain.

Do I have to insure an e-bike?

You must insure an S-pedelec. For a normal e-bike, there is no mandatory insurance, but liability insurance is recommended.

Can I use an e-bike in winter?

You can also ride an e-bike in winter. Pay attention to good lighting, suitable tires, and store the battery at room temperature.