Women's & step-through e-bikes

The term “women's e-bike” today usually means a frame with a low step-through (wave or step-through frame). But it's practical for everyone: if you stop often, carry a child seat or luggage, or aren't as supple as you used to be, you can get on and off comfortably without swinging your leg over the saddle. That's why many manufacturers market their bikes as “for women and men”.

A trapeze frame sits between a diamond and a step-through frame: a little stiffer than a wave frame, but still easy to get on.

E-bikes usually weigh 22 to 28 kg. If you have to carry the bike up stairs or push it into the cellar, every kilo counts. So check the stated weight and look for push assist: it moves the bike without pedalling up to 6 km/h and makes manoeuvring on ramps much easier.

A removable battery makes the bike several kilograms lighter to carry and can be charged conveniently indoors.

A comfortable bike is one that fits your body. These points help with choosing:

If you are switching from a normal bike to an e-bike, it's easy to underestimate the acceleration when pulling away. Start in the lowest assistance level and get used to braking and setting off in a quiet spot before riding in city traffic. A bike with a torque sensor responds more smoothly than one with a simple cadence sensor. Many road safety organisations and cycling clubs also offer pedelec training where you can practise safe braking and cornering on the heavier bike. Especially for people who haven't cycled for a while, that is a worthwhile investment.