Long-range e-bikes

Manufacturer claims such as “up to 120 km” almost always apply to ideal conditions: lowest assistance level, flat route, light rider, warm temperatures, hardly any stopping and starting. In everyday use, often only half to two thirds of that is realistic. Battery capacity in watt-hours is more meaningful: depending on riding style, a pedelec needs around 7 to 15 Wh per kilometre, more off-road or with luggage.

Example: a 48 V, 15 Ah battery has around 720 Wh. At 10 Wh per kilometre that gives about 70 km – more when cruising on the flat, considerably less in hilly country in turbo mode.

The biggest factors are you and your route:

A large battery is more convenient, but makes the bike heavier and more expensive. If you only occasionally ride long tours, a medium-sized battery plus a charger in your bag or a second battery can be more flexible. Some models offer a dual-battery option with two batteries in the frame. With replacement batteries, only use original batteries or models approved by the manufacturer – cheap copies are a fire and safety risk.

Tip: range claims from different manufacturers are not comparable. Compare watt-hours, motor efficiency and – where available – independent measurements instead.

A large battery is worthwhile for commuters who can't charge at work, for touring riders and for anyone living in hilly country. If you only ride short distances, you'd just be carrying unnecessary weight around.

In the first few weeks, deliberately ride your usual route in different assistance levels and note how much battery percentage you use. You'll soon know exactly how much reserve you have – more reliable than any remaining-range display.