Updated on 9 November 2026. Recommended products are available at the time of the update.
To choose the right electric bike, start with the routes you will ride: e-city for everyday journeys, e-MTB for trails, e-gravel for alternating between tarmac and smooth gravel tracks. Then assess the motor and torque according to the climbs, the battery according to the distances, and the size according to your build. For use as a normal bicycle, choose a pedelec with assistance up to 25 km/h, distinguishing it from speed pedelecs capable of 45 km/h.
How to choose
Before comparing specifications, think about a typical week: how many kilometres you cover, how much climbing you encounter and where you leave the bike. These answers matter more than the highest figure shown for the motor or battery.
- Route: cities, country roads and technical trails call for different bikes. Wide tyres alone do not make a bike suitable for mountain riding.
- Climbs and load: consider the gradient, the length of climbs and whether you will carry bags. Assess motor torque and gearing together.
- Charging: if you do not have a socket near where you park, look for a removable battery. An integrated battery is not necessarily removable.
- Handling: try moving the bike with the motor switched off. Stairs, lifts and loading it into a car can influence your choice.
- Riding position: check how easily you can reach the handlebar, levers and ground when you stop. Wheel diameter does not indicate frame size.
- Servicing: check who can handle maintenance, electrical system diagnostics and battery replacements.
For more on fit, read how to choose the right electric bike size.
Mid-drive motors and torque: what really makes a difference
A mid-drive motor sits near the pedals and uses the drivetrain's gears. It is an option to consider for frequent climbs, hilly routes and off-road riding: using a suitable gear helps the system work well.
A hub motor drives the front or rear wheel. It can be a practical choice for urban journeys; how natural the assistance feels also depends on the sensors and electronic controls.
- 30-45 Nm: a range to consider for city riding and less demanding routes, taking load and gradients into account.
- 60-75 Nm: figures to consider as climbs and mixed use increase.
- 85 Nm and above: a useful reserve of torque on steep routes, without replacing appropriate gearing and riding technique.
Nm indicate torque, meaning the motor's ability to apply rotational force. They do not measure range and are not enough to compare two bikes: motor position, power delivery and drivetrain affect the result. During a test ride, focus on setting off, how progressively the assistance builds and uphill performance.
Battery and range: how to read the figures
To compare battery capacity, look at Wh. Ah alone are not enough: you also need to know the voltage in volts. A higher capacity provides more available energy, but does not guarantee a specific distance.
The stated range should be read as an indication tied to the test conditions. Climbs, total weight, high assistance levels, wind, temperature and tyre pressure can reduce it.
- Start with the whole journey: include the outward journey, return and possible detours.
- Leave a margin: avoid choosing a battery on the assumption that you will always achieve the maximum stated range.
- Compare similar conditions: two advertised ranges may refer to different assistance levels.
- Check practicality: the charging socket position, battery removal and availability of a replacement matter in everyday use.
An example calculation, not a prediction: with 500 Wh and a hypothetical average consumption of 10 Wh/km, the theoretical range is approximately 50 km. If consumption increases, the distance decreases.
E-city, e-MTB or e-gravel?
- E-city: for work, errands and leisurely rides. Assess ease of mounting, lights, mudguards, luggage rack and charging options.
- E-MTB: for off-road riding. A hardtail has front suspension; a full-suspension bike adds rear suspension. Choose suspension, brakes and tyres according to the trails you can handle.
- E-gravel: for linking tarmac and smooth gravel tracks, with a gravel setup and pedal assistance. Check gearing, riding position and tyre clearance according to your routes.
- Electric road bike: for those who prioritise tarmac and a racing position. Also assess how it pedals when the assistance cuts out.
If you are interested in mixed use, explore the guide to choosing a gravel bike. For trails, you can also read the guide mountain bikes: how to choose between hardtail and full suspension.
Pedelecs and speed pedelecs: the differences to know
A standard pedelec has a motor with a maximum continuous rated power of 250 W: assistance operates while you pedal and decreases until it cuts out at 25 km/h. You can exceed this speed under your own power or downhill, without motor support.
- Compliant pedelec: it is treated as a bicycle and does not require a number plate or compulsory moped insurance.
- Speed pedelec: it can provide assistance up to 45 km/h and is subject to moped regulations, including type approval, a number plate and insurance. The driving licence and helmet required for the category are also necessary; it does not have the same access to cycle paths as a bicycle.
Check the vehicle's classification before buying. Derestricting the assistance on a pedelec does not make it a properly type-approved speed pedelec.
Our recommendations, available now
This selection includes city bikes, models for mixed use and electric mountain bikes. Compare the features and check the selectable variants on the product page.
Trek FX+ 2 City E-Bike
Suitable for everyday journeys, with lights, mudguards, a kickstand and a MIK-compatible rack already included. The 40 Nm Hyena rear motor uses a torque sensor to modulate assistance; the integrated battery has a capacity of 250 Wh.
Torpado Venus T260 City E-Bike
Worth considering for urban use if you want to remove the 468 Wh battery and charge it at home or in the office. It has a 250 W rear motor, five assistance levels up to 25 km/h, a seven-speed Shimano rear derailleur and V-Brakes.
Myland Handy 27.5 City E-Bike
Designed for journeys on urban roads and country tracks, with a suspension fork and larger racks for panniers or baskets. It pairs a 40 Nm hub motor with an integrated, removable 540 Wh battery and is available in size 46.
Myland Big Handy SUV 26" Mid-Drive City E-Bike
An option for riders who alternate between the city and off-road rides, with a 85 Nm OLI Sport mid-drive motor and an integrated, removable 602 Wh battery. The specification includes a 80 mm Suntour NVX fork with lockout, an eight-speed Shimano rear derailleur and Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes.
Torpado Explorer T350 Folding E-Bike
Suitable for riders travelling around the city who want a folding aluminium frame with 20-inch wheels. It has a removable 360 Wh battery, a 250 W rear motor and a six-speed Shimano rear derailleur; mudguards, a rack and lights are included.
Torpado Ares E-Bike MTB 29'' 9-speed Oli
A hardtail e-MTB for trail rides, with 29-inch wheels and a 100 mm AirFly air fork. The Oli Sport Plus motor delivers 85 Nm and is paired with an integrated 630 Wh battery and a nine-speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain.
Trek Rail+ 5 Gen 5 2027 Full-Suspension MTB E-Bike Bosch Performance Line CX
An enduro e-MTB for riders looking to tackle demanding descents, with 160 mm of front and rear travel. It pairs the Bosch Performance Line CX motor with an integrated, removable 800 Wh battery, four-piston Shimano hydraulic brakes and a twelve-speed drivetrain.
Buying online and maintenance: what to check
When comparing electric bikes online, consider the complete specification and support after purchase. If a product page gives little information about the motor, battery or size, seek clarification before choosing.
- Equipment: check whether lights, a rack and mudguards are included.
- Spare parts: for chainrings and crank arms, the e-bike label alone is not enough. Compatibility with the motor, mounting interface and drivetrain is required.
- Maintenance: schedule checks of the brakes, tyres and drivetrain, as well as the electrical system.
You can compare the other models in the Electric Bikes collection. For shipping information, see the shipping policy.
Let's choose your bike together in Casapulla
Evolution Bikes has been a family shop in Casapulla, in the province of Caserta, since 1974 and is now in its third generation. Drop in to discuss a test ride or have your bike adjusted: we support you with workshop services, bike fitting and e-bike assistance. For advice on your routes, contact us.
Frequently asked questions
How many Nm does an electric bike need for climbing?
It depends on the gradient, load and available gears. For frequent climbs, you can consider motors with 60-85 Nm, but torque alone does not describe how the bike behaves: how it is delivered also matters.
How many kilometres can an e-bike cover on one charge?
There is no single distance that applies to every bike. Capacity in Wh, elevation gain, the selected assistance level, load and temperature affect range: use the stated figure as a guide and allow a margin.
Does an electric bike need a number plate and insurance?
A compliant pedelec, with a maximum continuous rated power of 250 W and assistance that cuts out at 25 km/h, does not require a number plate or compulsory moped insurance. Speed pedelecs capable of 45 km/h require type approval, a number plate and insurance, as well as meeting the other requirements for the category.
How much does a good electric bike cost, and what should you compare?
It depends on the category, electrical system and specification. Compare the motor, battery, brakes, size, included accessories and available support; the product pages show the current purchase terms.
