10 things you should really know before buying an electric bike
Electric bikes are revolutionizing how we move, making commuting, fitness, and outdoor adventures more accessible and fun. They are useful as both a fun recreational tool and a powerful alternative to car ownership, making them a versatile tool for millions of people in the US and around the world.
Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, avoid traffic, or enjoy a boost on uphill rides, there’s a lot to love about e-bikes. And now that the holiday shopping season is bearing down upon us, more people than ever will likely be hopping on a new e-bike soon. But before you dive in and get your own, here are 10 essential things you should know.
1. Understand the different classes of e-bikes
In the US, e-bikes come in three main classes, each with different capabilities. These classes impact the bikes’ speeds and how the motor is engaged, meaning they will have a large effect on how and where you may use your e-bike:
• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, 750W max power, and max speed under motor power is 20 mph (32 km/h).
• Class 2: Pedal-assist or throttle, 750W max power, and max speed under motor power is 20 mph (32 km/h).
• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, 750W max power, and max speed under motor power is 28 mph (45 km/h).
Not all states in the US use the three-class system, but most do. You should check to see if yours is one of them. While it won’t matter which class of e-bike you have for most public streets and bike lanes, there are some areas, such as mountain bike trails or specific bike paths, that can be limited to only Class 1 e-bikes. Understanding these class distinctions is important because they can determine where you can legally ride and how fast the bike will allow you to go.
2. Range is key (but not always accurate)
When shopping for an e-bike, pay close attention to the range, which indicates how far you can travel on a single charge. Range can vary based on factors like terrain, rider weight, and how much you use pedal-assist or throttle.
Most e-bikes claim a range of between 30-60 miles (and some considerably more), but many of these ranges are unrealistic. They are usually calculated by using the lowest pedal assist level, resulting in longer ranges per charge by operating the bike in its lowest power mode.
Unless the company is specifically listing ranges for each power level, then a general rule of thumb is to cut the advertised range figure in half to get a realistic real world range, especially when considering a throttle-powered e-bike, since many e-bike makers don’t list the throttle-only range.
Another way to compare ranges is to ignore the actual mileage figure and instead compare the battery size, usually listed in watt-hours (Wh). This is the true capacity of the battery, and a more standardized basis for comparison. The weight and design of different bikes can still cause mileage differences, but comparing watt-hours is still the best proxy for true range comparisons.
3. Consider your needs when choosing an e-bike style
There are dozens of different ‘style’s of e-bikes out there, from utility and cargo e-bikes to folders and fitness e-bikes, and everything in between.
If you plan on using your e-bike for grocery runs, commuting, or even carrying kids, think about your cargo needs. Some e-bikes come with built-in racks or baskets, while others offer them as add-ons. There are even e-cargo bikes specifically designed to carry heavy loads, making them a great alternative to a car for local errands.
If you’re planning to use your e-bike for fitness, a lighter weight model styled more like a road bike is likely a better option.
If you plan on riding nature trails or mountain bike, then a fat tire e-bike or an electric mountain bike is likely the best option.
For riders who want one bike that can work for the widest range of scenarios, then a hybrid between a utility e-bike and a fat tire e-bike, such as a RadRunner or Lectric XP 3.0 styled e-bike is a good compromise. They can be loaded up with cargo or passengers, ridden both on and off-road, and are still fairly compact.
4. Maintenance is similar to regular bikes
Although e-bikes have motors and batteries, much of their maintenance is the same as traditional bikes. Regularly check tire pressure, brakes, and chain lubrication. The motor and battery may need occasional software updates or specialized care, but overall, e-bikes are designed to be user-friendly.
If you aren’t used to doing bike maintenance, then it would be a good idea to find a friendly local bike shop that can help you with occasional bike checkups, and that you can call upon if you ever need service. This is especially true if you’re buying your e-bike online from a direct-to-consumer brand, since you will be expected to perform most maintenance and repairs yourself.
5. Battery life and charging tips
Most e-bikes come with lithium-ion batteries, which typically last for somewhere between 500-1,000 full charge cycles. This will vary depending on the type of battery cells and the care given to the battery over its lifetime.
To extend battery life, avoid completely draining the battery and try not to leave it fully charged for too long if you’re storing the bike. A general rule of thumb is that if you’re not going to use the bike for more than a week, leave the battery at slightly less than full charge, such as 80-90%. If you won’t use the bike for a month or more, such as over the winter, try to store the battery at around 50% charge.
Charging times for e-bike batteries can vary, but most e-bikes take 4-6 hours to fully recharge. You can plug them into any standard wall outlet, making charging convenient. You can also get a second charger if you’d like to keep one at work, but be sure to get the appropriate spare charger that matches your e-bike’s voltage and charge rate. It is best to purchase a replacement charger from the manufacturer of your e-bike, unless you are versed in electronics and can be sure to match the voltage and amperage correctly.
6. Pedal-assist vs. throttle mode
Most e-bikes sold in the US offer both pedal-assist and throttle modes. This is different from Europe, where nearly all e-bikes lack throttles due to local regulations.
Pedal-assist amplifies your pedaling effort, making it easier to climb hills or ride longer distances without getting tired. Throttle mode, available on Class 2 e-bikes (and most e-bikes sold in the US as “Class 3-capable”), allows you to ride without pedaling at all.
Think about how you plan to ride, as this can influence which type of bike you should get. Most Americans prefer an e-bike with a throttle so they have it just in case, but a pedal-assist only e-bike can be a great way to ensure you’re getting good exercise and not falling back on throttle use too often.
7. Weight of the bike
E-bikes tend to be heavier than traditional bikes due to the motor and battery, as well as the more rugged frame. Many e-bikes range from 45-75 pounds (20-35 kg), but lighter and heavier e-bikes can also be found.
The higher end of that range might sound intimidating, but this weight is usually not noticeable when riding. However, the extra weight of heavy e-bikes certainly can be a factor when lifting or transporting the bike. If you’ll be storing your bike in an apartment or need to carry it upstairs, consider how comfortable you are managing the extra weight.
8. Invest in a good lock
Since e-bikes can be a larger investment than traditional bikes, theft prevention is crucial. At minimum, you should invest in a high-quality lock.
Ideally, two locks of different styles are preferable. For example, using a heavy U-lock or folding lock paired with a chain lock will show thieves that it’s probably not worth the extra time and risk of trying to defeat two different locks.
One of my favorite locks is the Foldylock Forever, which is compact but extremely heavy-duty and secure. You can see my review of it here.
Many e-bikes come with built-in GPS tracking or offer optional tracking devices, adding an extra layer of security. Even adding a small tracking device like an Apple AirTag can be a good idea and offer extra peace of mind.
9. E-bikes can save you money
While e-bikes might seem like a significant upfront investment, they can actually save you money in the long run. By using an e-bike for commuting, you’ll save on fuel, parking fees, and car maintenance.
Additionally, charging an e-bike is extremely cost-effective compared to fueling a car—often costing just a few cents per charge.
10. Test ride before you buy
Lastly, it’s always a good idea to test-ride a few different models before making a purchase. E-bikes come in many shapes and sizes—whether it’s a commuter bike, folding model, or off-road fat tire option. A test ride helps you get a feel for the bike’s comfort, handling, and features, ensuring you pick the right one for your needs.
Your local bike shop will almost certainly have several e-bike models available for you to test ride. Many of the direct-to-consumer e-bikes found online won’t have as many options for local test rides, but you may have a friend with an e-bike (or two!) who can let you give it a try.
E-bikes are a fantastic way to enhance your transportation, whether for commuting, exercising, or just enjoying the outdoors.
By knowing the basics and planning ahead, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right e-bike for your lifestyle and enjoy all the benefits these versatile machines have to offer!
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![Finance a new EV for less: EV deals with 0% interest this September [update]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/08/Polestar-first-electric-SUV-US-1.jpeg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
Lease deals get all the headlines, but 75% of new car buyers still finance their cars, indicating that they want to own their vehicles once the payments are done. If that sounds like you, and you’ve been holding out for relief from sky-high payments, a wave of new EVs are now available with 0% financing — making it one of the best months yet to buy a new EV.
UPDATE: two more sporty electric crossovers make the list!
Every month, Electrek readers looking for great deals on a new EV flock to our lease deal posts. Recently, however, the comments have been asking another crucial question: what about EV deals for the people who want to buy, instead of leas?
You asked, we listened. This roundup is for that 75% of new car buyers who choose to finance their cars instead of lease — so here’s a list of all the 0% financing deals on EVs you can get in September, 2025.
As I put this list together, I realized there were plenty of ways for me to present this information. In the end, I decided to present these deals in alphabetical order, by brand name (make). And, as for which deals are new this month? You’re just gonna have to check the list. Enjoy!
Acura ZDX
New for the 2024 model year, the Acura ZDX uses GM Ultium battery and drive technology, but the styling, interior, and infotainment are all Honda, delivering GM-level parts support with Honda-level fit, finish, and quality. Add in standard Apple CarPlay support, 0% financing for up to 72 months, and $7,500 customer cash through September 30th, and the ZDX becomes easily one of the best sporty crossover values on the market.
Chevy Equinox EV
With an impressive combination of affordability, practicality, and advanced features, the Chevy Equinox is a standout EV. And with an EPA-estimated range of up to 319 miles and a starting price under $35,000, it’s no wonder they’re flying off dealer lots.
For well-qualified buyers, Chevrolet is offering 0% APR financing for up to 60 months through GM Financial through September 30th. That offer can be paired with the $7,500 federal EV tax credit (which you can claim at the dealer), along with up to $1,250 in additional discounts for Costco members, depending on membership level.
Dodge Charger
Dodge is hoping that at least a few muscle car enthusiasts with some extra cash will find their way to a Dodge store and ask for the meanest, loudest, tire-shreddingest muscle car on the dealer’s lot without caring too much about what’s under the hood.
For them, Dodge has the new electric Charger with up to 670 battery-backed horsepower. And if you still owed money on the Hemi you just totaled, Dodge will help get the deal done on its latest retro-tastic ride with a $7,750 retail cash allowance or 0% financing for up to 72 months — and that’s before any dealer discounts.
Ford F-150 Lightning
America’s best-selling electric truck offers V2x technology, a nationwide dealer network, a universe of aftermarket accessories, and a look that blends into the crowd. This month, this proven pickup adds 0% interest financing for up to 72 months. Ford Pro customer can get access to advanced telematics and, in some cases, even get help sourcing additional grants and rebates, too.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
With a few early examples now well into six-digit miles with no signs of slowing down, it’s no wonder the first four-door, all-electric Ford Mustang is outselling its gas-powered rivals (by more than 2:1). For 2025, the Mach-E Mustangs offer more range than before (up to 320 miles), faster charging (by nearly 6 minutes to 80%), and even a hardcore rally version. With 0% financing available for up to 75 months in some markets, expect the car to have no trouble finding buyers through September 30th.
GMC Hummer EV
The biggest of GM’s Ultium-based EVs are seriously impressive machines, with shockingly quick acceleration, plus on-road handling that seems to defy the laws of physics once you understand that these are, essentially, medium-duty trucks. This month, GMC is doing its best to move out its existing inventory with 0% financing for well-qualified buyers plus $1,250 in discounts for select Costco members. So, if you’re a fan of heavy metal you’ll definitely want to stop by your local GMC dealer and give the Hummer EV a test drive.
GMC Sierra EV
In addition to offering a solid Powerwall alternative, these big Ultium-based EVs from GM’s “three letter bandit” commercial brand are just as impressive as their Hummer stablemates, but one-up the Hummers with heavy-duty towing prowess and the added capability of bidirectional charging baked in. And, like the Hummer, GMC is doing its best to move out its existing inventory of Denali and AT4 model Sierra EVs with 0% financing for well-qualified buyers plus $1,250 in discounts for select Costco members.
Honda Prologue
Like the Acura ZDX at the top of this list, the Honda Prologue was blends the excellent GM Ultium EV platform with Honda sensibilities and Apple CarPlay to create a winning combination. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the top-selling electric crossovers — and to move out as many as possible before the $7,500 federal tax credit goes away, Honda is offering 0% APR for up to 60 plus up to an additional $2,000 in Honda Loyalty or Conquest cash.
Hyundai IONIQ 6
The last of the streamliners, the IONIQ 6 has influences from Ferry Porsche and Raymond Loewy without looking like a copy of either. In addition to being a future classic, it’s efficient, comfortable, quick, offers up to 361 miles of range, can charge just about anywhere, and (now through the end of the month), can be financed with 0% interest for up to 48 months or $7,500 in customer bonus cash on all trims.
If you’re flexible on color, Hyundai dealers with “aged inventory” will give you an extra $1,000, for $8,500 total incentive dollars on your IONIQ 6.
Jeep Wagoneer S
The Jeep Wagoneer S is a slick, capable, street-oriented EV that’s been inexplicably saddled with a sloping roof and spoiler that eats away at the electric SUV’s ultimate utility (that’s the “U” part), but if you can get past that minor caveat, this first-ever battery-powered Jeep is ready to deliver. With $7,750 retail cash allowance or 0% financing for up to 72 months before dealer discounts through September 30th, the Wagoneer S might just be the best EV deal going.
Kia Niro EV
Kia is doing a phenomenal job moving its supercar-baiting EV6 and ultra-capable EV9 family trucksters, but the under-mentioned and underrated little Niro EV seems like it could use a little help. To that end, Kia is offering 0% interest financing or up to $7,500 customer cash on select examples of the little urban runabout now through September 30th.
Lexus RZ
Starting at “just” $55,175, the Lexus RZ promises up to 266 miles of EPA-rated range from a 72.8 kWh battery in the base RZ300e (and 224 from the top-shelf RZ450e). With up to 308 hp and over 195 lb-ft of instant, all-electric torque, the RZ promises to be one Lexus’ sportier rides in any trim.
This month, several Lexus dealers are advertising interest-free financing on select RZ models for up to 72 months. Check with your local Lexus dealer for more informatoin.
Nissan Ariya
I’ve already said that the Nissan Ariya didn’t get a fair shake. If you click that link, you’ll read about a car that offers solid driving dynamics, innovative interior design, and all the practicality that makes five-passenger crossovers the must-haves they’ve become for most families. With up to 289 miles of EPA-rated range, Tesla Supercharger access, and 0% interest from Nissan for up to 72 months or up to $10,000 Customer Cash (that’s not a typo) undecided EV buyers could do a lot worse than to give the Ariya a chance to win them over.
Polestar 3
Sleek, Scandinavian, and seriously quick, the Polestar 3 is the lovechild of Swedish brand Volvo and Chinese brand Geely’s billions. As such, it delivers both Scandinavian style and high-tech substance with dual-motor power, a minimalistic, luxurious cabin, and Android Auto baked right in. The Polestar 3 was designed to turn heads while keeping daily driving effortless, and through the month of September, it’s sure to turn even more heads with 0% financing for up to 72 months through Polestar Financial Services and a $10,000 Clean Vehicle Incentive in some markets.
Put it all together, and the Polestar 3 stands out as one of the most compelling premium EV SUV deals of the month.
Subaru Solterra
The first-ever electric Subaru had a rocky start (no pun intended), but this off-road-ready sibling of the Toyota bZ4X seems like a solid mid-size electric crossover with some outdoorsy vibes and left-leaning granola style that offers more than enough utility to carry your mountain bikes to the trail or your inflatables out to the pond. Add in 227 miles of range, some big discounts, and 0% financing for up to 72 months, and this should be a great month for electric Subaru fans to drive home in a new Solterra.
Volkswagen ID.4
One of the most popular legacy EVs both in the US and Europe, the ID.4 offers Volkswagen build quality and zippy around-town handling. Everyone I know who has one loves it, and VW dealers are getting aggressive with discounts, making this fast-charging, 291 mile EPA-rated range, 5-star safety rated EV a value proposition that’s tough to beat.
This month, get a Volkswagen ID.4 with 0% financing for up to 72 months or up to $5,000 customer cash. You’ll need to do some math to see which offer works best for you.
Disclaimer: the vehicle models and financing deals above were sourced from CarsDirect, CarEdge, and (where mentioned) the OEM websites – and were current as of 15SEP2025. These deals may not be available in every market, with every discount, or for every buyer (the standard lines of “with approved credit” fine print should be considered implied). Check with your local dealer(s) for more information.
If you’re considering going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use, and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here.
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![This is it: the FIRST pure electric vehicle to wear a Lamborghini badge [video]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/09/lamborghini_pwc.jpg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
True to Lamborghini’s legacy of speed and excess, the first battery-electric vehicle to wear the raging bull is also the fastest of its kind. Only this time, the badge isn’t on a car — it’s on a personal watercraft. Meet the all-new Seabob SE63 jet sled.
Co-developed with the Italian supercar brand, the Lamborghini-badged Seabob SE63 features a more powerful jet propulsion system than any of the company’s existing personal jet sleds, and is fitted with a carbon fiber motor shaft as a further nod to the Italian luxury brand’s high-performance heritage.
Here’s the surprising thing, though: the new Seabob SE63 isn’t inspired by a specific road-going Lamborghini. Instead, it gets its name from the Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 sport yacht built by the Italian Sea Group shipyards.
Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63
Why, yes – I will take just about any excuse to post pictures of sexy Italian super yachts in bright, vibrant colors. Thanks for asking!
But we’re not here for superyachts. We’re here for super sleds, and German PWC specialist Cayago set out to make this one, “most powerful Seabob ever.” As such, the SE63 is designed to be grab-and-go personal jet sled that delivers significantly higher speeds than its Seabob stablemates. In fact, its makers say it’s fast enough to keep up with sharks and dolphins.
The riding experience is not just ‘a bit faster’, but thrillingly intense and unrestrained. Acceleration off the start line delivers an immediate adrenaline rush. Thrust, agility, top speed: everything is designed for maximum performance and pure emotion.
The new SE63 backs up those claims with a 6.3 kW (~8.5 hp) electric motor. And, while that hardly makes it a supercar, in the world of ePWCs, it’s enough to make the SE63 a monster. The SE63 also features a bigger, more energy-dense battery than other Seabobs, a combination good for up to 60 minutes of go-fast, water-based fun.
Seabob SE63 Lamborghini
The SE63 can recharge its batteries with a standard power outlet in just 1.5 hours, and be back on the water for even more fun in the sun.
The Seabob SE63 made its debut earlier this week at the Cannes Yachting Festival. Production is set to begin in early 2026, meaning you’ll be able to get yours just in time for the summer 2026 beach season. Prices have yet to be announced – but, like any Lamborghini product, if you have to ask you probably can’t afford it.
Check out the world premier of the Seabob SE63 for Automobili Lamborghini (the sled’s official name) in the video, below, then let us know what you think of the brand’s first BEV in the comments.
World premier video
SOURCE | IMAGES: Lamborghini; via New Atlas.
If you’re considering going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use, and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here.
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Environment
Tesla influencers tried Elon Musk’s coast-to-coast self-driving, crashed before 60 miles
A duo of Tesla shareholder-influencers tried to complete Elon Musk’s coast-to-coast self-driving ride that he claimed Tesla would be able to do in 2017 and they crashed before making it about 60 miles.
In 2016, Elon Musk infamously said that Tesla would complete a fully self-driving coast-to-coast drive between Los Angeles and New York by the end of 2017.
The idea was to livestream or film a full unedited drive coast-to-coast with the vehicle driving itself at all times.
We are in 2025 and Tesla never made that drive.
Despite the many missed autonomous driving goals, many Tesla shareholders believe that the company is on the verge of delivering unsupervised self-driving following the rollout of its ‘Robotaxi’ fleet in Austin, which requires supervision from Tesla employees inside the vehicles, and improvements to its “Full Self-Driving” (FSD) systems inside consumer vehicles, which is still only a level 2 driver assist system that requires driver attention at all times as per Tesla.
Two of these Tesla shareholders and online influencers attempted to undertake a coast-to-coast drive between San Diego, CA, and Jacksonville, FL, in a Tesla Model Y equipped with the latest FSD software update.
They didn’t make it out of California without crashing into easily avoidable road debris that badly damaged the Tesla Model Y:
In the video, you can see that the driver doesn’t have his hands on the steering wheel. The passenger spots the debris way ahead of time. There was plenty of time to react, but the driver didn’t get his hands on the steering wheel until the last second.
In a follow-up video, the two Tesla influencers confirmed that the Model Y had a broken sway bar bracket and damaged suspension components. The vehicle is also throwing out a lot of warnings.
They made it about 2.5% of the planned trip on Tesla FSD v13.9 before crashing the vehicle.
Electrek’s Take
Tesla shareholders used to discuss this somewhat rationally back in the day, but now that Tesla’s EV business is in decline and the stock price depends entirely on the self-driving and robot promises, they no longer do.
I recall when Musk himself used to say that when you reach 99% self-driving, it is when the “march of the 9s” begins, and you must achieve 99.999999999% autonomy to have a truly useful self-driving system. He admitted that this is the most challenging part as the real-world is unpredictable and hard to simulate – throwing a lot of challenging scenario at you, such as debris on the road.
That’s where Tesla is right now. The hard part has just started. And there’s no telling how long it will take to get there. If someone is telling you that they know, they are lying. I don’t know. My best estimate is approximately 2-3 years and a new hardware suite.
However, competition, mainly Waymo, began its own “march of the 9s” about five years ago.
Tesla is still years behind, and something like this drive by these two Tesla influencers proves it.
I was actually in a similar accident in a Tesla Model 3 back in 2020. I rented a Model 3 on Turo for a trip to Las Vegas from Los Angeles.
I ended up driving over a blown-out truck tire in the middle of the road like this. I was Autopilot, but I don’t know if the car saw it. I definitely saw it, but it was a bit late as I was following a truck that just drove over it. I had probably less than 2 seconds to react. I applied the brakes, but my choices were driving into a ditch on the right or into a car in the left lane.
I managed to reduce the force of the impact with the braking, but the vehicle jumped a bit like in this video. There wasn’t really any damage to the front, but the bottom cover was flapping down. I taped it together at the next gas station and I was able to continue the trip without much issue.
However, after returning it to the Turo owner and having the suspension damage evaluated by Tesla, the repair job was estimated to be roughly $10,000. I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a similar situation with this accident.
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