Max weight
The maximum load allowed for a bicycle is, in other words, the maximum weight that it can normally carry in normal use. Of course, when calculating the load, the weight of both the cyclist himself and the additional load that he carries with him is taken into account.
The permissible load must definitely not be exceeded: even if the bike does not break down immediately, off-design loads can weaken the structure, and an accident can occur at any time. Also note that it is desirable to have a certain weight margin — at least 15 – 20 kg: this can be useful in case of transporting heavy loads and will give an additional guarantee in emergency situations (for example, when a wheel gets into a pit). Considering that the average weight of an adult is about 70 – 80 kg, bicycles with a permissible load
of up to 100 kg can be classified as "lightweights",
from 100 to 120 kg — to the middle category,
more than 120 kg — to "heavy trucks".
Recommended height
The user's height recommended by the manufacturer is calculated according to several parameters. One is the wheel diameter, and the second and more important is the frame size. If everything is simple with the wheel size — it is round and always the same, then the frame size complicates the choice. Different types of bicycles have their own frame shape, so even the same size can be suitable for different heights. And this is not to mention the features of the manufacturer, who like to do everything for themselves, and not in a general manner. Therefore, the size of the frame of each bicycle has its own size and it is still better to choose a bicycle by personally “saddling” it. If this is not possible, then our point will tell you what height, according to the manufacturer, this configuration (frame + wheel) of the bike is designed for.
Folding
Possibility to fold the bike. This feature greatly simplifies storage and transportation — you can easily transport the bike in the boot of a car, train, etc. At the same time, the
folding design inevitably loses in strength to the one-piece non-folding one, and therefore such bicycles are quite rare and are designed for simple conditions like city driving.
Tyre
Tyre model supplied with the bike as standard. Different tyres have different purposes and characteristics; knowing the tyre model, you can clarify these points and check how they correspond to your wishes. This is especially important when choosing a machine for serious cycling.
Front rotor
Front rotor.
The front disc brake rotor is a perforated metal plate attached to the wheel hub. The reduction in speed of the bike occurs as a result of the compression of the brake disc by the pads, which are driven by cable tension (in mechanical type systems) or by means of a hydraulic circuit (in hydraulic disc brakes). The diameter of the front rotor can vary from 140mm to 220mm. The higher the number, the more efficient the brake is.
Rear rotor
Rear rotor.
An element of a disc brake system mounted on the hub of the rear wheel of a bicycle. It is to him that the pads are pressed when the brake lever is pressed. The use of a rotor ensures high braking efficiency. And it is higher, the larger the diameter of the rear rotor. Disc rotors are available in sizes 140, 160, 180, 185, 203 and 220 mm.
Max range
The maximum range of an e-bike (see "Application") is the maximum distance that it can be ridden using the electric motor on a single battery charge.
Usually, the characteristics indicate the range at the most economical way to use the battery: in the pedal assist mode (see "Operating modes") and at a relatively low speed. Accordingly, in fact, this parameter may turn out to be lower than the claimed one, especially if you drive in full electric mode. Nevertheless, in terms of power reserve, it is quite possible to evaluate and compare various models with each other.
Note that it makes sense to specifically look for a model with a power reserve
of more than 50 km if long trips are planned without recharging along the way. For episodic rides, you can pay attention to cars
with less battery life — they are simpler and cheaper.
Motor power
Power of the motor installed in the e-bike (see "Application"). Models with all-wheel drive (see below) equipped with two engines usually list the total power.
In general, the engine is selected by the manufacturer in such a way as to provide a certain maximum speed and mode of operation. So when choosing, you should pay primarily to these characteristics, and engine power can be considered more as a reference parameter. If we talk about differences in power, then a more powerful motor, on the one hand, allows you to develop higher speeds, accelerate faster and overcome steeper climbs. In addition, high power, by definition, is needed for full-fledged electric traction (see "Operating mode"). On the other hand, an increase in power significantly affects the price, weight, and most importantly, the energy consumption of the motor; the latter, in turn, requires the use of capacious batteries. Modern electric bicycles can be divided according to this indicator into two categories —
up to 250 W inclusive and
more than 250 W.Full charge time
The time required to charge the ebike battery (see "Application") from zero to 100%. This parameter allows you to estimate how long breaks you will have to take to replenish your energy supply. However, even in the slowest models, this time does not exceed 8 hours — this allows, for example, to drive during the day and put the battery on charge from evening to morning.
