Are you thinking about getting a bicycle to help you commute to work or help you get regular cardiovascular exercise? Many people prefer riding a bike over other forms of exercise because it’s gentle on the knees and gets you outside so you can enjoy the scenery and fresh air. But not all bicycles are created equal, and some may be better for your uses than others. A women’s cruiser bike, for example, is much different from a hybrid electric bicycle. Here are some of the main differences you should know about so you know which type of bike to choose for yourself.
Electric Bicycles
Electric bicycles are growing rapidly in popularity as more people learn about them and try them out. Unlike traditional bikes, electric bikes do not rely solely on the energy of the rider to keep going. They are equipped with motors that allow them to go fairly fast. You can adjust how much power you generate from the motor and how much power you generate from your own body when you ride electric bikes.
Cruiser vs. Hybrid Electric Bikes
The electric bike category contains both cruiser and hybrid bicycles. An electric cruiser bike offers many benefits, including:
- Extreme comfort
- Attractive design
- Large, 3” tires for greater control on a variety of surfaces
A women’s cruiser bike is designed primarily for cruising around town (as the name suggests). The seat is typically quite wide to ensure comfort, and it’s designed to hold the rider upright. High handlebars sweep back toward the rider and the pedals are usually mounted more toward the front of the bike to ensure stable footrests.
Electric bicycles aren’t great for every purpose, though. They aren’t designed to go very fast, so if you’re riding your favorite electric fat tire beach cruiser, you should expect to go at a slow-and-steady pace. They are also heavier and larger than other e-bikes. But they are great for some purposes.
Now, if you want a little more speed and a greater ability to ride on both roads and rough trails, a hybrid e-bike may be a better fit for your needs. If your daily riding route covers both urban and cross-city routes, a hybrid can get you where you want to go with relative ease. In short, a hybrid e-bike gives you all the best advantages of various types of bikes. It’s a flexible, versatile option that can handle the rigors of off-road riding while helping you maintain speed on regular paved roads.
Hybrid electric bicycles tend to be a little bit more expensive than their cruiser counterparts because they are made with durability in mind. After all, it takes a certain degree of toughness to be able to ride over rough trails regularly. They may not be ideal for everyone, but they are a great option for those who want to be able to ride on paved roads as well as dirt roads and mild trails.
Make the Choice That’s Best for You
An e-bike is a worthwhile investment for practically anyone. Now that you know the main differences between that women’s cruiser bike in the shop window and the hybrid bike next to it, you’ll have an easier time deciding which is right for you.
