Not all e-Bikes are built the same and may have no backup support. You buy online and 'On Your Bike' when it comes to having it fixed. Not good for the rider, the environment or the bike industry.

Are you prepared for the costs of an e-Bike? Part of owning a e-Bike is the preventative maintenance. If you are happy read on, if not learn more and read FreE-Bikes

Before You Buy:

• Make sure it's the right e-Bike for your needs. That's the reason we have encouraged you to thoroughly test ride as much as is needed to make an informed decision.
• Make sure parts are available to the e-Bike system fitted to the bike you are interested in.
• Check the guarantee 
• How will you get the bike to the shop for repair 
• Where are you going to get your bike fixed? Is there a mechanic or shop near you, that will work on a particular e-Bike you are interested in.
• Consider spending a little more on a brand name that offers a good level of service and 2-Years warranty.   

Many dealers won't work on bikes they did not sell.

Type of bike:

• Live in an apartment or take on your travels in a motorhome, you will need this type of bike (Light and maybe foldable)
• Limited accessibility and mobility - Having a fat tyre e-Bike will make this difficult if you don't have a drive and a garage.
• Used for work you need to spend this amount of money (£2k upwards for mid motor assistance)
• The bike is the correct size (Some e-Bikes come in one size) try before you buy or talk to a Cycle Tech Technician.
• Folding e-Bikes can be heavy, do the research (Not unusual to be marketed as light and the reality is the opposite)
• Different types (Rear & front hub or mid motor) and power output of motors (Max 250 w) If you live where there are hills, you will need a mid drive motor with a minimum of 75Nm of torque.
• Battery quality, size and range suited to the end user.  

Buyer beware

Unscrupulous manufacturers and a number of online only bike shops are flooding the market with cheap e-Bikes (Inferior in quality). With no aftercare for the end user. Who sells directly to the consumer from a retail website. With reduced overheads, and extensive paid marketing strategies to create higher sales volumes - Do your research, especially if you are new to cycling. In our experience those who buy these poor quality e-Bikes, don't stay engaged in cycling.

Note: These online shops use marketing with 'great reviews' from Trustpilot. Cycle Tech UK do not recommend how you gauge your aftercare experience or giving good value, from these reviews.

Your safety first:

There is no responsibility for the cost of damages caused by a fire, or poor construction of the frame and component's that are easily damaged. Insurance companies see the low-cost e-Bikes as having an unproven risk level. Ask your local Cycle Tech before buying.

Where to buy from:

• Cycle Tech Recommends read Google reviews, test ride potential purchasers. Buy from someone who cares and is likely to be around in the future
• We recommend a reputable bike shop, who is established and has experience with the e-bikes they are selling. Having the manufactures support and spares backup.
• While more e-Bikes are sold online, when buying online, first check independent reviews of their business and the brand of e-Bike you are interested in, plus how long they have been established. Check their returns policy, and money back guarantee.

Don't buy on the grounds of being discounted, the savings could mean a cost when it come to finding someone to repair it when it goes wrong or there are no parts available.