Electric Surf Bikes For A Fun Beach Commute
Electric bikes have become super hyped over the past couple of years, and it’s no wonder why (you no longer have to worry about being that “kook” on an e-bike).
If you’ve ever been to Bali, you will be familiar with the popularity of scooters as a means of transportation among surfers. Electric bikes serve a similar purpose; a practical and fast way to do the daily beach commute. However, e-bikes are a more sustainable option, better for the climate and environment, without compromising on the fun and practical aspect of your commute.
Any surfer probably dreams about a pickup truck or a nice car, but let’s face it, most of us live close enough to our local beach break, and it might not always be necessary to opt for the car. An electric bike will not only be a sustainable means of transportation it will also save you money on parking, gas, and time in traffic jams. Furthermore, you will get fresh air and a quick warmup when opting for the bicycle instead of the car on your way to the beach.
There is no better way to start the day than taking your e-bike for a ride to check out the conditions at your local beach break. Those who have one will know!
Anyway, when you’re buying an electric bike for surf commuting, you need to know what to look for in a good e-bike.
What to look for in a surf e-bike?
Let’s cover the most important aspects of the buying process.
Type style
E-bikes come in many different types and styles. Generally, the most popular model among surfers is the beach cruiser. But some might prefer other types, like a foldable e-bike, or a mountain bike model which is useful in different terrains.
Motor
The motor on an e-bike is usually installed in one of three placements: either on the back wheel, the front wheel, or at the cranks. The best option is considered to be motors placed at the cranks, but this solution also tends to be more expensive. Placing the motor at the cranks offers an overall better weight distribution and smoother shifting.
Pedal-assist vs. throttle?
Electric bikes can get divided into two different categories: pedal-assist and throttle. It’s easy to tell the difference between the two, as the pedal-assist motor only will kick in if you’re actively pedaling, whereas a throttle motor works even when you’re not pedaling.
While throttles can be more fun and give you the feeling of riding an actual motorcycle, the pedal-assisted motor will provide longer rides on a battery charge and give you more of a traditional bicycle experience.
Battery Distance
One of the most important factors when choosing an e-bike is the battery capacity and its riding range. The price of an e-bike is generally reflected in the power of the battery.
Battery capacity gets measured in Watt-hours (Wh), which takes into account battery output and battery life. The higher the WH – The more range you achieve.
From most e-bikes on the market, you can expect a riding range of anywhere between 30 and 70 miles (48-112km) on a full charge. Be aware that this number is usually determined under ideal circumstances and needs to be taken “with a grain of salt”. For example, when you are riding at the beach, the wind will affect the power, and so will the extra weight of your attached surfboard and other surf gear.
Some e-bikes have removable batteries, which can be an advantage if your commute to the beach is long and you, therefore need a “refill” in form of an extra battery.
Power Classification
When it comes to the battery power of electric bikes, they get separated into three classifications used by governments in their regulations. The regulations vary from country to country, so remember to check if your desired e-bike is compliant with your local laws. Class 1: This class only includes e-bikes with pedal-assist and a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph (32 km/h). Class 2: This class also has a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph (32 km/h), but it is limited to throttle-assisted e-bikes. Throttle-assist means that it doesn’t require you to pedal. Class 3: The last class includes pedal-assist-only e-bikes, with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). These are usually only allowed on the road.
Maintenance
When choosing the right e-bike as a surfer, maintenance comes into play, as riding near the beach will get your bike exposed to sand and saltwater.
You will need to take care of your e-bike, just like you do with your surfboard. Therefore, you should wash down your bike after a day at the beach to get the salt and sand out of the chain and wheels. It’s an important step to avoid rust as the salty air often leaves some residue on your bike.
With this knowledge, it’s easier to choose an electric bike that has easy access to the chain and other parts that can get exposed to rust.
Safety features
Safety is an important factor when it comes to e-bikes. You need to make sure that you have all the necessary equipment such as a helmet, etc. Furthermore, you want to make sure that your surfboard is safely mounted before you take off.
If you are a part of the dawn patrol or enjoy a good sunset session, then you would likely be riding your e-bike in the dark. In this scenario, it can be worth looking for an electric bike with built-in lights to reduce the number of extra accessories needed.
Surf racks for electric bikes
It will not be a proper “electric surf bike” before you mount a surf rack to transport your surfboard. You can find many universal surf racks online to mount on your electric bike. Make sure the surf rack fits your e-bike, and pick a surf rack for the right size board; shortboard or longboard.
Many of the options on the list have their own custom surfboard racks for their e-bikes, which will guarantee a perfect fit. You will find the surfboard racks in their accessories category.
Best electric bike deals. Save big on electric assisted bikes
We’ve rounded up the best deals on electric bikes as we come up to Christmas. Electric bikes, in general, are more expensive than their unpowered equivalents. The added motor, battery tech and circuitry, and uprated components to deal with the extra power mean added costs that get passed onto the consumer.
On the flip side, though, this means that, for a given percentage discount, you can save even more on an electric bike deal than on a regular bike. If you’ve been considering jumping into the world of assisted pedalling, now is the time. Also check out our guide to the best gifts for cyclists this Christmas.
In the lists below, we’ve rounded up all the best electric bike deals we can find, split by country. We’ve got deals on a whole range of other cycling equipment as well, from helmets and socks, through to whole bikes, so if you need to get some other kit, then head there instead of trawling all the websites yourself. There are links at the bottom of this page.
Bikes, especially electric bikes, have been generally low on stock everywhere for a long time now, so while for some deals you can afford to wait, as many outlets are already offering big discounts it might be a good idea to snap something up ASAP if it fits your needs.
Best electric bike deals
Prefer to hunt the deals yourself? Here are some quick links to help you get started.
- Competitive Cyclist: Up to 25% off Santa Cruz e-bikes
- Jenson USA: Commuter e-bikes with as much as 35% off
- Rad Power Bikes: Up to 200 off
- Mike’s Bikes: Discounts on Orbea, Santa Cruz and more
- REI: 20% off Co-op commuters and Haibike eMTBs
- Wiggle: 25% off Vitus road and gravel e-bikes
- Rutland Cycling: than £1400 off the Specialized Turbo Levo
- Sigma Sports: Cannondale, Trek and Bianchi commuters with at least 30% off
- Evans Cycles: Save on My Esel e-bikes made from wood!
Below you’ll find all the best e-bike deals in one place, broken down by USA and UK deals. If you’re unsure which e-bike is the best for your needs, check out our guide to the best electric bikes, which is filled with information to help you make the best choice. And if you’re wondering what size bike you need, then we’ve got you covered with our full explainer on how to make sense of manufacturers’ size and geometry charts, aptly named, ‘what size bike do I need?’
Best electric bike deals in the USA
Hurley Amped ST | 57% off at Jenson USA Was 1,149.99 | Now 498.94 The Hurley Amped ST is speed-limited at 20mph, with a steel frame and a single speed. It’s a good option for easy riding around town that’s simple to operate and gives you a 20-mile claimed range.
There’s only one left at Jenson USA and it’s a medium.
Turbo Como SL 4.0 | 25% off at Specialized USA Was: 3250 | Now: 2449.99 Specialized is one of the few companies making their own electric bike motors and components. That means they’ve got the freedom to build all the pieces and integrate them in a way few others can match. The Turbo Como is what happens when they turn their attention to transportation. It’s got all the features you want for getting around without a car and it’s a joy to ride. A big discount makes the choice that much easier.
Brompton Electric C Line Explore Folding Bike | 20% off at REI Was: 4050 | Now: 3239.99 There might not be a bike that’s more sensible than a Brompton folding bike. The Electric C Line ups that usefulness another notch by adding pedal assist up to 20mph. Even more impressive is that with 6 gears and a 312-watt hour battery Brompton keeps the steel construction down to 38lbs and 5 oz. It’s the most compact folding e-bike available and that means you can get into your house at the end of the night with ease. REI is offering these great features with a 20% price knockdown, making the whole package even more attractive.
Priority Current Electric Bike | 13% off at Priority Bicycles Was: 3299.00 | Now: 2899.00 I’ve had a Priority bike for years as my city bike and it’s one of the best options out there. Owning a belt drive bike means never having to take care of a chain, never having to worry about getting grease on your pants, and getting to enjoy quiet riding. The Current takes that same experience and adds a 500-watt mid-drive torque sensing motor with a range between 20 and 50 miles in pedal assist mode. For Black Friday you can take a nice 400 off the standard price. Unfortunately, it’s only available in the contiguous US.
Haibike Trekking 1 e-Bike | 30% off at Backcountry Was 2,600.00 | Now 1,820.00 Designed for comfort, the Trekking 1 has a suspension fork and a Bosch Active Line Plus motor that will assist up to 20mph. An 8-speed Shimano drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, lights, fenders and a rear rack mean that you’re all ready for commutes and recreational rides.
It’s available at Backcountry in Small only.
Marin Sausalito E1 | 20% off at Jenson USA Was 2,499.00 | Now 1,999.00 Not just a city cruiser, the Marin Sausalito has a Shimano STEPS motor and a 418Wh battery for a decent range. That’s paired with a wide range 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes, with WTB Horizon 47mm tyres making it capable on a variety of terrains. Technically this isn’t discounted, but we’ve seen the RRP at 2,499.00 previously so have left it in for you.
Co-Op Cycles CTY e2.2 | 20% off at REI Co-Op Was 2,699.00 | Now 2,158.93 You can grab a discount on the now-discontinued CTY e2.2, with REI still having stock in a range of sizes. There’s a Shimano STEPS motor and battery, a Suntour fork with 75mm travel and a 9-speed Shimano drivetrain with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.
Norco Indie VLT | 40% off at Jenson USA Was 3,799.00 | Now 2,279.94 The Indie VLT is an urban option with a Shimano STEPS E6100 motor and a Shimano Alivio 9-speed transmission. 2.2″ tyres and a 63mm travel suspension fork help to smooth the road and the bike comes equipped with fenders, lights and a rack.
Jenson has one bike left in extra large size and one step-through frame model in medium.
Serial 1 Mosh/Cty E-Bike | 28% off at Mike’s Bikes Was 3,799.99 | Now 2,749.95 There’s a 90Nm torque Brose motor in the Mosh/City. enough to power you up the biggest hills. while a single-speed Gates belt drive leads to low maintenance running. The Mosh/Cty’s 2.8-inch tyres, hydraulic brakes and integrated lighting will handle anything the city throws at you.
Orbea Vibe H10 Mud | 20% off at Jenson USA Was 3,599.00 | Now 2,879.94 Orbea uses the Mahle ebikemotion X35 rear hub motor system in the Vibe. With the battery enclosed in the down tube to give clean look, it’s also kitted out with an 11-51 tooth cassette for plenty of climbing gears and hydraulic disc brakes.
Norco Scene VLT | 33% off at Jenson USA Was 3,599.00 | Now 2,410.94 The Norco Scene uses a Shimano Steps motor unit to support you up to 20mph and there’s a 9-speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. You even get a dropper seatpost to make getting on and off a bit easier.
Gocycle G4 | 25% off at Gocycle Was 3,999.00 | Now 2,999.00 Until the end of October, you can get a nice discount on Gocycle’s neat G4 folding electric bike. It comes with neat features like a single-sided carbon fork and compact front hub motor. Gocycle’s design folds neatly in half to form a package that’s pushable by the seatpost and can be folded even further for compact storage.
Specialized Turbo Como SL 4.0 | 20% off at Mike’s Bikes Was 3,999.99 | Now 3,199.95 The Turbo Como SL comes with Specialized’s lighter weight motor with 35Nm torque and an enclosed down tube battery. It’s all ready for jaunts around the city.
The Turbo Como SL is available in Large only, but Mike’s Bikes also has the non-SL Turbo Como 3.0 reduced, available in XL only.
Diamondback Union 2 e-Bike | 20% off at Backcountry Was 4,100.00 | Now 3,280.00 Well kitted out with fenders, a kickstand and a rack, the Union 2’s Bosch Performance Line Speed motor is limited to 28mph and controlled via a Bosch Kiox bar-mounted computer. There’s a 10-speed Shimano drivetrain and chunky 2.4-inch tyres for plenty of grip. Available in XL only.
Serial 1 Rush/Cty E-Bike | 28% off at Mike’s Bikes Was 4,999.99 | Now 3,599.95 Another Serial 1 option from Mike’s Bikes, the Rush/Cty has a continuously variable internal hub gear paired to its Gates belt drive, so you’ve got more flexibility in your gearing. You also get front and rear racks, and the Rush/Cty is available in the crossbar and step-through versions. There’s also a more powerful Speed spec that will assist up to 28mph.
This bike is low stock with a couple of models left in Medium and Large.
Stromer ST2 Sport | 16% off at Mike’s Bikes Was 5,699.99 | Now 4,799.95 Swiss brand Stromer specialises in faster, more powerful electric bikes and the ST2 Sport can power you up to 28mph. It uses a carbon belt drive and internal hub gears for low maintenance and has a claimed range of up to 75 miles.
It’s available in size large from Mike’s Bikes.
Look E 765 Optimum | 20% off at Jenson Was 6,200.00 | Now 4,960.94 Only available in large, this electric road bike from French brand Look comes with a Fauza Evation motor to give you up to 20mph of pedal assist, along with an ever-reliable Shimano 105 performance groupset.
There is one size Large bike left in stock now.
Orbea Gain M201 | 47% off at Jenson Was 5,999.00 | Now 3,199.94 At a glance you wouldn’t know this was an electric bike at all, but the integrated Ebikemotion motor and battery can still provide up to 20mph of assist. Couple that with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 drivetrain and you’ve got a serious speed machine. It’s only available in extra large, though.
Best electric bike deals in the UK
Cannondale Quick Neo SL | 38% off at Sigma Sports Was £2,400.00 | Now £1,499.00 The Quick Neo SL uses the well-regarded, lightweight, low-profile Mahle ebikemotion rear hub motor and pairs it with Cannondale’s quality alloy frame and a carbon fork for a lightweight electric bike that’s happy on out-of-town rides or roaming around the city. Available in L only.
Axon Rides Bikes Pro Max | 30% off at Leisure Lakes Was £2,280.00 | Now £1,599.00 A neat folder with a compact design and a hidden battery with a 30-mile range, the Axon Pro Max unfolds simply in around 10 seconds. It stays together once folded using magnets rather than clips. It’s single-speed and made of magnesium alloy to keep the weight down.
Ridgeback Electron | 31% off at Hargroves Was £2,599.99 | Now £2,399.00 Another classic bike helped out by an electric motor, the Electron has a rack-mounted battery, mid-mounted Shimano Steps motor and up to 125km claimed range. Shimano Nexus hub gearing is paired with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for low maintenance.
Cannondale Tesoro Neo SL Eq | 25% off at Cyclestore Was £2,500.00 | Now £1,874.00 Like many e-bikes, the Tesoro Neo SL uses a Mahle ebikemotion rear hub motor and fully enclosed battery to keep weight down and give a profile like a normal bike. This Eq version comes fitted with a rear rack, mudguards, lights and a kickstand, saving you money on these extras.
Cannondale Adventure Neo 4 | 23% off at Sigma Sports Was £2,600.00 | Now £1,999.00 A step-through frame makes for easy on and off the Adventure Neo, while the Bosch Active Line motor and removable 400Wh battery give you a range of up to 120km. Other features of the Adventure Neo include 9-speed Shimano shifting and hydraulic disc brakes.
It’s available in small only from Sigma Sports.
Merida ESpeeder 400 EQ | 15% off at Tredz Was £2,600.00 | Now £2,199.00 The Mahle ebikemotion motor in the ESpeeder gives plenty of assistance to help you on the hills, without making much visual impact on the bike’s outline. This EQ model has all the extra you need for commuting or all-weather excursions and there are 40mm tyres and a 10-speed Shimano groupset with hydraulic braking in the spec.
This model is now out of stock.
MY Esel E-Cross Comfort | 30% off at Evans Cycles Was £3,200.00 | Now £2,239.00 Fancy something a little different from your run-of-the-mill alloy or carbon bike? How about a wooden one? The My Esel is exactly that, integrating a 400Wh battery and 250W motor into a wooden frame for a total weight of 19kg, complete with a Rockshox fork and SRAM NX drivetrain.
MY Esel E-Tour Comfort Women’s | 40% off at Evans Cycles Was £3,200.00 | Now £2,239.00 Just like the bike above, this My Esel comprises a wooden frame, but with a rigid fork and a step-through frame design. It truly is something unique and head-turning.
Gazelle Chamonix | 15% off at Rutland Cycling Was £2,969.00 | Now £2,523.65 The Gazelle Chamonix is a classic upright hybrid model, with disc brakes, mudguards, lights and a rack. It’s powered by a 60Nm Shimano Steps E6100 motor, with Shimano Nexus hub gearing and hydraulic brakes for supreme reliability.
Specialized Turbo Como SL 4.0 | 24% off at Leisure Lakes Was £3,500.00 | Now £2,649.00 Complete with a basket and step-through frame, the Turbo Como SL is a great option for shopping trips or leisurely excursions into the countryside. You also get a low-maintenance drivetrain with hub gear, wired-in lighting and mudguards.
Sigma Sports is also selling the grey frame bike for £2,499.
Bianchi E-Omnia| 32% off at Sigma Sports Was £3,545.00 | Now £2,399.00 With a 500Wh battery and Bosch Performance Line CX motor, the E-Omnia can provide around 40 miles range and 85Nm torque to help get you around. It’s built rugged for commuting use, but is also a good option for leisure rides, with the torque on offer and a 10-speed Shimano transmission making for easy climbing.
Cannondale SuperSix Evo Neo 3 | 30% off at Sigma Sports Was £3,800.00 | Now £2,660.00 The Neo has sleek, lightweight electric power with a Mahle ebikemotion rear hub motor you get all the features of the non-electric SuperSix like an aero frame to reduce drag by up to 30%, with a low overall weight of 12.4kg. The bike runs an 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset for plenty of gear range, down to 1:1 for the steepest hills.
Specialized Turbo Vado SL EQ | Up to 30% off at Sigma Sports Was £3,600.00 | Now £2,519.00 The EQ version of Specialized’s hybrid comes with mudguards, lights and a rack. Using the Specialized 1.1 motor keeps the weight down, but still provides plenty of assistance for commutes and leisure riding. It’s completed by a 10-speed drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes.
Bergamont E-Ville SUV Elite | 20% off at Hargroves Was £4,149.00 | Now £3,299.00 The urban bike brand of Scott bikes makes a range of well-specced electric bikes, including this model powered by a Bosch Performance Line CX motor and large capacity battery. There’s a 100mm travel Suntour air suspension fork, Shimano Deore12-speed drivetrain and chunky tyres, making this a bike that can be ridden off-road as well as on.
Vitus E-Substance Road E-Bike| 25% off at Wiggle Was 4,058.99 | Now 3,044.24 This alloy electric road bike comes with a Fazua Ride 50 Trail motor and an extremely dependable Shimano Tiagra drivetrain, so it should feel like a road bike, just with a bit more zip.
Vitus E-Substance Alloy Gravel Bike | 25% off at Wiggle Was 3,228.74 | Now 3,273.36 This is much the same as the road version above, with the same motor and battery setup. Instead of road wheels, tyres, and drivetrain, this opts for a SRAM Apex 1x setup with gravel wheels and tyres to allow you to nip about off the beaten track too.
Orbea Gain M20 | 20% off at Leisure Lakes Was 4,399.00 | Now 3,499.00 Another electric road bike that doesn’t look like an electric bike at all. The Orbea Gain comes with a high-performance Shimano Ultegra 11-speed drivetrain and the Ebikemotion X35 Plus motor, hidden away inside the frame.
This model is now only available in size XL.
Specialized Creo SL Expert | 37% off at Leisure Lakes Was 7,950.00 | Now 4,999.00 This one is only available in XXL, but if that fits you then you can get a whopping discount on a range-topping electric bike. Not only does it have Sram Red eTAP taking care of the gears, but it also has the Future Shock 2.0 up front suspending the handlebars for extra comfort.
Still unsure on the best bike for you?
If you’ve not found the right electric bike here, don’t worry, Cyclingnews has loads of great cycling buying advice to help you choose your next bike. Our overarching guide to the best electric bikes is a great place to start your hunt, but if you’re after something more specific, we’ve got you covered too.
Our guides to the best electric bikes for commuting and the best folding electric bikes are perfect for those wanting an e-bike for the ride to work. The best electric road bikes are suitable for anyone looking to go faster, further on drop bars and skinny tyres, while the best electric gravel bikes are suited to those wanting to go off-road. For those of us with a keen eye on the budget, we have guides covering the best electric bikes under 1000, and the best electric bikes under 2000. Finally, for those of us wanting to power up our existing bikes, check out the best electric bike conversion kits.
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Paul has been on two wheels since he was in his teens and he’s spent much of the time since writing about bikes and the associated tech. He’s a road cyclist at heart but his adventurous curiosity means Paul has been riding gravel since well before it was cool, adapting his cyclo-cross bike to ride all-day off-road epics and putting road kit to the ultimate test along the way.
E-bike Battery Not Charging – What To Do
E-bikes are still bikes without a working battery, but they’re heavy and clunky. If your battery isn’t charging, you’ll be forced to pedal a big bike on your own, pushing your weight, the weight of the motor, and the weight of the extra-thick frame and larger tires. Let’s take a look at how you can fix this issue!
If your e-bike battery isn’t charging, it can be due to electricity not flowing to the battery, a switch on the charger, a faulty charger or charging port, or an issue with the battery itself. Many issues can be corrected, but some may require you to replace your charger or battery.
In this post, we will go into some of the more common issues that can affect your battery’s ability to charge. In many cases, following a set of basic troubleshooting tasks can save you a lot of money and restore your battery to working order, fast.
Possible Problem #1: Electricity From The Outlet
If you’ve got your bike plugged into an outlet that’s not supplying electricity, it won’t charge. Most modern battery chargers have LEDs in them that let you know that they’re plugged in properly, but it’s easy to forget to check these.
Before you do anything else, take a few seconds and verify that your wall socket is delivering normal power. Does the charger’s light turn on when it’s plugged in? When you plug in a light, vacuum cleaner, or another electrical device, does it work normally? Is the outlet on a switch?
This issue seems basic, but you might be surprised how many technical issues are caused by simple human forgetfulness. It’s definitely worth the time to verify that your outlet works with other devices before you move forward.
If your outlet is causing problems, switch to a different one and enjoy your working battery.
Possible Problem #2: Switches
Many batteries and some chargers have switches built into them that perform different things. In some cases, having one of these in the wrong position will stop your battery from charging.
The most common cause of this issue is that you’ve got a charger that was built for use in different countries. These chargers usually have a switch that allows them to toggle between US electricity and rest-of-the-world electricity. If this toggle is on the wrong mode, your charger won’t work properly.
Be sure to take a moment to check that this is accurate before you move too far into your troubleshooting process.
Some batteries also have built-in switches. Consult the manual for your battery to determine if your battery should be on or off when it’s being charged. If it’s not working in one position, it’s probably worth plugging it in for a few seconds in the other position and seeing if your charger’s status flips to ‘charging.’
Finally, check any power strips or extension cords in between the wall and your charger to make sure they are receiving electricity. Again, this seems like a very basic check, but it’s definitely one that will fix charging issues for a surprisingly large number of people.
Possible Problem #3: Bad Charging Port
Almost every e-bike has a battery that can be charged while it’s still plugged into the bike. This time-saving feature is great, but it also adds an additional point of failure. Sometimes, the wiring between your bike’s charging port and your battery develops an issue that prevents your battery from charging.
If your battery won’t charge, remove it from the bike and try charging it again. If it starts charging, there’s a good chance that your charging port is the cause of your trouble. Either charge the battery outside of the bike from now on or take your bike into a specialist shop and have them look at your charging port.
Possible Problem #4: Bad Charger
Chargers are fairly complicated bits of electronics that have internal sensors and logic gates that detect when your battery is fully charged, allowing them to shut off before they damage your battery. They also tend to get very hot when they’re in use, which can lead to problems.
In some cases, your charger might think your battery is full, even if it’s almost out of power. In other cases, the internal wiring might be damaged in a way that prevents power from flowing to your battery.
If your charger turns out to be the issue, replacing it is your best bet. It’s almost never worth the effort to repair a charger instead of just buying a new one.
There are a couple of ways to test your charger, but the simplest is to try your battery with a different charger. Try borrowing a charger from a friend, from a similar appliance (be sure to check the voltage), or take your battery and charger to a speciality shop and have them test these critical components.
If you can’t do this, you can use a multimeter to read the voltage coming out of your charger. In general, having a number that’s a bit higher than the nominal voltage of your battery suggests that things are working correctly.
If you get a number that’s in the right ballpark but low, your battery isn’t currently charged, meaning that the issue you’re having might stem from another component. If you get a number that’s very close to zero, your battery has failed, either by being fully discharged or as a result of another issue.
If you get a number that doesn’t make any sense, take a moment to check what mode you have your multimeter on. There’s a very good chance that it’s not voltage.
If your charger turns out to be the issue, replacing it is your best bet. It’s almost never worth the effort to repair a charger instead of just buying a new one.
Possible Problem #5: Fully Discharged Battery
Lithium batteries are designed to hold a small amount of power at all times. Your battery will stop working if it runs all the way down to zero power. The bad news is that it’s tough to get a battery working again after it hits this fully discharged state.
There are a number of resources on the internet that suggest that you can “jump-start” a fully discharged battery by briefly charging it with a high voltage charger (like one for a bigger battery) or through the discharge port.
Before you blindly jump into this sort of thing, remember that lithium batteries can and will light on fire if they’re used improperly. Battery fires are very dangerous and difficult to put out.
If you’re very confident that your battery is fully discharged (you drained the power and let it sit for a couple of weeks in the cold, for example), you have a voltmeter a high voltage charger you can use already, and you’re sure that you know what you’re doing, it might be worth investigating these methods.
If there’s any doubt, however, you should definitely err on the side of caution and leave this sort of thing to a professional.
Possible Problem #6: Failing Battery
Batteries are made up of banks of individual cells. These cells are managed by a small circuit board called a BMS, or battery management system. In some cases, the BMS in your battery will cause unwanted behavior or prevent it from charging altogether.
The good news is that this is the BMS’ job. It’s usually doing what the manufacturer set it up to do. The individual cells in your battery will fail at different rates, and when one of them fails, the BMS will have to prevent power from going in and out of that failing cell.
If enough of your battery’s cells experience enough problems, the BMS will stop your battery from working altogether. This is exactly what it’s designed to do, as it keeps you and your bike safe.
If enough of your battery’s cells experience enough problems, the BMS will stop your battery from working altogether. This is exactly what it’s designed to do, as it keeps you and your bike safe.
Your BMS isn’t perfect, however, and it’s not unheard of for these devices to fail even when the cells in your battery are totally fine. Your BMS might be malfunctioning in a number of ways as a result of damage from heat, faulty wiring, or an unfortunate short.
Batteries aren’t meant to be disassembled, especially by consumers. Even if you opened up your battery and tested the components with electrical equipment, replacing a component like a BMS or a bad cell is currently difficult and expensive. It’s not easy or cheap to get your hands on replacement parts.
On top of that, batteries are dangerous. Without the proper expertise and training, it’s all too easy to start an electrical fire that’s dangerous and difficult to put out. Because of that, it’s best to simply replace a failing battery or give it to a professional to fix rather than trying to fix it yourself.
Currently, most professionals currently suggest just buying a new battery instead of trying to repair things at all. If your battery isn’t charging and you’ve tested the charger and the charging port, the battery is probably the issue.
If your battery was stored at a fairly high level of power and you don’t think you fully drained it, it’s likely that a cell or the BMS is the issue. This means you should probably look at replacing your battery.
Conclusion
In summary, if your battery isn’t charging properly, it can be worth doing a small bit of troubleshooting before replacing it. Sometimes it can be an issue with the power outlet or the charger rather than the battery, but there are times when, unfortunately, it is the battery, in which case you may have to replace it.
When it comes to Cycling to Work, SAM IS THE MAN because he doesn’t just talk the talk, but he also walks the walk. or rides the ride, to be more precise. I also create content on my YouTube channel at YouTube.com/bikecommuterhero Say hi to me at sam@bikecommuterhero.com.
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Himiway’s new Rhino Pro is one of the most powerful e-bikes around. With two batteries and a 1,000-watt mid-drive motor that delivers an incredible 160 Newton meters of torque, it’s got.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Get to where you need to go faster and easier than on a regular bike. Depending on how you choose to ride, you can travel without significant effort at up to 20mph on some bikes and even up to 28mph on others.
- Climbing hills is a breeze. and we aren’t talking about the breeze from huffing and puffing.
- No sweat. Even though you can ride much faster, you won’t feel like you have to take a shower once you are there.
- Safer. That might seem counter-intuitive, since you can go faster than on a regular bike, but you also get an easier start from stopped positions, allowing you to get through an intersection steadier and quicker. When climbing steep hills with cars nearby you can FOCUS more of your energy on controlling the bike instead of propelling the bike.
- Easier on those joints. Use the electric assist to ease the pressure on your knees and hips.
- Staying together. You may have a riding partner that rides at a different pace than you. An e-bike can even out the pace for both of you.
- Ditch the car. The convenience, the ease and the speed of an electric bike make it an alternative to an automobile more often than a regular bike. A study by Portland State University shows that e-bike owners ride more frequently and farther than when they relied on their traditional bike. This was the case for all age groups.
- It’s FUN. Just try one and you’ll see. Or catch a friend coming back from their first test ride with a big smile on their face.
Do I need a license?
No. As long as the e-bike has a motor size of 750 watts or less (1000 watts in Oregon) and is programmed so that it can’t go more than 20mph without pedaling, there is no need for a license. No electric bike sold by Cynergy E-Bikes requires licensing. FYI – you must be at least 16 years of age to operate an e-bike in public places.
Where can I ride my e-bike?
First and foremost, make sure your bicycle with an electric motor is classified as an e-bike. The definition of an e-bike and rules on where to ride will vary state by state. For federal land the rules vary depending on the branch of government. For the most complete resource, check out PeopleforBikes.org
For Oregon, you can ride an e-bike on:
- Any bike lane on the street.
- Shared use paths that are reserve for bicycles and pedestrians
- For state parks, you can ride on paved trails that allow bicycles, but check with the individual park’s management for their rules for unpaved trails. It varies from park to park.
- Any trail where motor vehicles are permitted, such as unpaved forest service roads.
In Oregon, you must be at least 16 years old to ride an e-bike on public property. While most states have motor wattage limits of 750 watts, Oregon’s limit is 1000 watts.
- National Parks – opportunities are expanding, but check with the park.
- Bureau of Land Management trails – the trend is to allow e-bikes wherever non-electric bikes are allowed, but we advise you to check with BLM office that manages that trail.
- U.S. Forest Service – opportunities are expanding, but check with the Forest Service.
- Another resource for finding mountain bike trails where e-bikes are allowed is People for Bikes nationwide EMountain Biking Map.
What about theft?
As best as we can determine, e-bikes don’t get stolen with any more frequency than non-electric bikes. That’s most likely because people tend to lock them up better and because a bike thief needs to get a charger and a battery key to make the bike truly saleable.
The best ways to protect your bike from theft are:
- Get a high-quality bike lock. Cable locks are way too easy to cut. High-quality u-bolts and folding locks are better.
- If you are parking your bike in your garage, lock your garage. It’s probably the #1 location we’ve seen bikes get stolen from.
- When in public, lock your bike in a visible location.
Do I need special insurance?
Check with your insurance company. Some insurance companies do not treat e-bikes as bicycles, so you may need to get a rider added to your homeowners/renters insurance for theft protection. You can also check with two bicycle specialty insurers – Velosurance.com and Spokeinsurance.com.
Aren’t electric bikes heavy?
As one of our customers told us, “E-bikes might be heavy to lift, but they are heavenly to ride.”
Electric bikes are typically heavier than regular bikes. But the weight of any bicycle (electrical or non-electrical) is felt the most when climbing hills. The electric assist on an e-bike makes up for the additional weight many times over. Where weight does matter is if you need to lift the bike. That’s one of the many reasons why e-bikes are favored over electric scooters, which often weigh 150 pounds or more.
If you have to climb several flights of stairs to store your bike, we strongly suggest finding a more accessible storage location.
CHARGING, BATTERIES RANGE
Do electric bikes recharge when applying brakes or going down hill – like a hybrid car’s regenerative braking?
It’s rare and the concept doesn’t work very well. A few models of electric bikes include a feature to recharge the battery, usually while you are braking. In those cases the range of the battery can be extended 5-10%, while adding several hundred dollars to the cost. However, due to the design of the motors that provide regeneration, you’ll often find that the bike is harder to pedal if you are using the bike with the power off.
What is the range I can get from a single charge?
The biggest factor contributing to your range is whether you pedal or just use a throttle without pedaling, along with what level of assist you use. Cynergy E-bikes is a strong proponent of the synergy cynergy resulting from combining human pedal power with electric power, so we’ll tell you the expected range when you do both. With relaxed pedaling expect 22-50 miles on a single charge for most e-bikes. In some cases you’ll go even farther. We have bikes that are getting 80 miles on a single charge. Range will also be impacted by the battery capacity, the hills, wind and your size. Many electric bikes pedal easily as regular bikes. So you can extend the range even further by using little or no power on level surfaces and down hill.
How long does it take to charge an e-bike battery?
A lithium ion ebike battery that is fully depleted will take 3.5 to 6 hours to recharge. Batteries that still have a partial charge when you start charging will take less. In addition, the last hour or so of a charge is used to “top-off” the cells, and you don’t have to wait for that process to be completed. So some batteries can be 90% charged in 2.5 hours or less.
How many charges can I get out of a battery?
Most e-bike batteries sold in North America are lithium-ion, which will provide a minimum of 500 full charge cycles at which point the battery will hold about 80% of its original capacity. Some batteries can deliver up to 1200 charge cycles. If you recharge the battery when it is only 50% depleted, that counts as only 1/2 of one charge cycle. If you usually use your e-bike in pedal-assist mode, combining both pedal power and electric power, you can expect to go 10,000-30,000 miles before replacing your battery. That is a lot of miles on a bicycle.
How much electricity does it take to charge a battery?
Depending on the capacity of the battery, it will usually take 500-800 watt hours (0.4. 0.8 kilowatt hours) to charge the battery. Assuming a rate of 0.10/kWh, it will cost you 5-8 cents for a charge that will last you 20-80 miles.
MOTORS, SPEED PERFORMANCE
What is the difference between Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 electric bikes?
This system of classifying electric bikes is being adopted by several states as a means of regulating electric bikes. The classifications are as follows:
- Class 1. is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling (thus no throttle), and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
- Class 2. is a bicycle equipped with a throttle that can propel the bike up to a maximum of 20mph with the rider pedaling, and may also have the ability to achieve up to 20mph with the rider assisting, without the use of a throttle.
- Class 3. also known as a “speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour.
For all classes, the maximum power output is 750 watts (1 h.p.).
Several states, including our neighbor to the north, Washington, have adopted regulations that use this class system. Our home state, Oregon, has not yet done so.
Perhaps the most important aspect of this classification system is how some states are treating Class 3 e-bikes. While these bikes are permitted in bike lanes on streets, they can be restricted from shared use paths, such as those in parks and “rails-to-trails” paths that are designed to be shared by cyclists and pedestrians.
Should I buy a bike with a mid-drive motor or hub-motor?
They both have their benefits. Hub motors tend to be a little easier to operate if you are a less experienced cyclist, because they require less shifting of gears. Mid-drives tend to get a little better range for equivalent battery capacity, because you’ll get more efficiency by shifting. While theoretically you get better hill climbing with a mid-drive, you’ll usually find both types will climb just about any hill.
Finally, it’s usually easier to change a rear tire with a mid-drive.
But the real test of determining which type of motor is best for you is to ride both and compare.
What’s the difference between a cadence-sensor and a torque-sensor?
With a torque sensor, the power that is delivered is increased in proportion to the amount of pedal force the rider is applying. So as you pedal harder, the motor automatically delivers more assist. As you reduce pressure, you get a little less assist. It’s essentially amplifying whatever power you are applying to the pedals. You have multiple levels of pedal-assist, with each level representing a higher or lower amplification of your own power. A torque-sensor can feel more like riding a conventional bicycle than a cadence-sensor. It also tends to deliver power smoother.
A cadence-sensor, perhaps more appropriately called a crank-sensor, delivers a uniform amount of assist at each assist level, regardless of the amount of pressure you are applyng. It is activated just by getting the crank turning. Because a cadence-sensor is not reading your pedal pressure, the power delivery is not quite as smooth or “bike-like”. But it’s fairly easy to adapt your use of the controls to smooth out the power delivery. Some people prefer a cadence-sensor because it tends to provide a great sensation of power without applying much pedal pressure.
The best way to know which type of pedal-assist is right for you is to try them both.
How fast can an electric bike go?
If you are pedaling, you can go as fast as you are able to pedal it. However, most bikes stop providing electric assist while pedaling at 20 mph (Class 1 and Class 2 ebikes). Some will provide assist going at speeds up to about 28 mph (=45 kilometers per hour – Class 3 ebikes.)
How important is motor wattage? (also. I’m really big, so don’t I need a 1000-2000 watt motor? or. I want to go fast, so don’t I need a lot of wattage?)
The benefits of a high wattage motor are very overstated. A street legal e-bike in Oregon can go only 28mph, and only 20mph unless you are pedaling (and we recommend pedaling). You’ll be able to get that with even some 250 watt motors.
With a properly designed e-bike and e-bike motor, you’ll find that you get far more power than you need with 500 watts or less. There are many 250 watt motors that deliver as much torque as motors that are 500 watts or higher. The design of the motor and the gearing of the bike are far more important than the wattage of the motor.
Higher wattage correlates with higher power consumption, so using a higher wattage motor means you’ll need a bigger battery to go the same distance. The most expensive part of your e-bike is the battery, thus a larger motor, requires a larger battery which leads to higher cost.
As for hauling a lot of weight, we have several 300lbs customers that do fine at 250-350 watt motors.
Can I ride an e-bike as a regular bike. without the electric power?
Yes. And it is easy to switch back and forth. For example, you might want to use the power only when you are going up hills.
Do I have to pedal?
It depends on the bike. Some electric bikes sold in North America allow you to operate by simply turning the throttle without pedaling. Europeans have stricter rules, requiring that you pedal. which we support. If you think you’ll get by without pedaling, think again. Even for e-bikes that have a throttle, you’ll need to pedal when going up long, steep hills, although you won’t have to pedal hard. Pedaling is more fun, extends the range of your battery, extends the life of your motor, and extends your own life too.
SERVICE
Is servicing an e-bike any different than a regular bike?
Look at an e-bike as being comprised of two groups of parts – mechanical and electric.
- Mechanical parts are the same parts that you’ll see on non-electric bikes. Servicing mechanical parts can be performed at any bike shop. You might find that your bike parts might wear a little faster than on a non-electric bike – especially brake pads, chains, cogs and tires. But that’s because most people put many more miles on their e-bike. There is some basic maintenance that you can do on your own, like keeping your tires properly inflated and lubricating your chain. For some basic bike maintenance tips, check out our recommended maintenance videos.
- The electrical parts don’t require any maintenance. If you do run into a problem with an electrical part, you’ll want to go to a shop that has some expertise in servicing e-bikes. While not really a maintenance task, you do want to make sure that the battery keeps some charge in it. If you don’t, it might discharge to a point so low that you can’t charge it anymore, thus killing your battery – an expensive mistake to make.
Cynergy E-Bikes has a complete service department for both mechanical work and electrical work, with expertise servicing electrical parts for from many different e-bike brands.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
How much will I reduce my carbon footprint if I use an ebike instead of a car?
Our favorite question! In Oregon, which depends on hydropower and wind more than coal and gas, it takes the carbon footprint of over 60 e-bikes to equal the carbon footprint of one single occupancy, gasoline-powered car. In states that depend more on coal, it might be around 20-30 e-bikes compared to one car. No matter how you calculate it, even though an ebike uses electricity that might come from fossil fuels, the amount of CO2 emitted compared to a car is miniscule.
What about leaving my electric bicycle out in the rain?
The motor and battery are sufficiently sealed to be protected from the rain. However, we do suggest that if you are carrying your bike on the back of a car and rain is in the forecast, that you place the battery inside the car. Driving 70mph in a downpour with the battery exposed is like pressure-washing your battery. That’s a lot different than riding your bike in the rain.
Hurley Layback Review: Thoughts, Impressions, and Verdict
Hurley was founded in 1999 in Huntington Beach, California. It started out making shorts for surfers but has become a global youth culture brand based around beach life. Like most successful companies, Hurley has branched out into other topics, such as the Hurley Layback electric bike.
In this Hurley Layback electric bike review, we’ll dive into the details of the Hurley Layback. You will learn precisely what this electric bike is for and all the intricate details so you know if this is the right one for you.
What Is The Hurley Layback Ebike?
With its sweptback handlebars and classic frame design, there is no doubt what the Hurley Layback is for. You’re clearly not going to be riding gnarly mountain bike trails on this bike; its design and features lend themselves to cruising around town and along the beach to your favorite surf spot, café, or bar.
The classic beach cruiser design is simple but enhanced with an electric motor and battery to make life even easier and the riding experience more fun.
The Hurley Layback is ideal for someone who wants a cool and stylish way to get around. This is the kind of bike you use to see friends and get some exercise in the fresh air. Some people may use their Hurley Layback for commuting, but there are more suitable bikes if commuting is your priority. For example, you may want to choose a more powerful electric bike or one with a multi-speed drivetrain or cargo rack.
Hurley Layback Features And First Impressions
Motor And Battery
Hurley has equipped the Layback with a 350 W brushless electric motor mounted in the rear wheel hub. This is powered by a 36 V 10Ah battery. You can choose between two modes, one assists your peddling, and the other is a throttle mode. The throttle mode allows you to ride without putting any effort into the pedals, just like riding a scooter.
This motor and battery combination gives you a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. You also get about 30 miles of range depending on the profile of your journey, how heavy you are and how you ride. So if you manage your battery life well, you can cruise around on your Hurley Layback for much longer.
The battery is externally mounted on the inside of the seat tube. This is the only visual thing differentiating it from a regular beach cruiser. You can remove the battery, which is excellent for security and for prolonging the lifespan of the battery (as we don’t really want to leave it in direct sunlight). However, if you do leave the battery mounted to the bike, there’s no need to worry too much because it has a pretty strong lock.
Hurley has opted to use a cadence sensor rather than a torque sensor for this bike. This design keeps the Layback simple, as cadence sensors don’t need complicated hardware that can be difficult to maintain. We like cadence sensors, but only on suitable ebikes. One on the Layback is unwarranted, that’s not the kind of riding the bike is built for. The design means that the Layback’s motor starts working as soon as you start peddling, regardless of how hard you push on the pedals. Therefore, the riding experience is much simpler, suiting the style of the bike.
The system also means you have consistent power delivery, making it easy to maintain a constant speed, especially when riding a road that undulates with the terrain. On top of this, the cadence sensor system is more energy-efficient, so you should be able to ride further before you need to recharge your battery.
Display And Controls
The handlebar-mounted display unit is incredibly simple. It consists of an LCD screen and buttons to select modes, etc. The screen is pretty clear to see even in direct sunlight, so you can easily check your battery level, current speed and distance. It’s not the most sophisticated controller and display you ever see on an electric bike. However, it does the job and keeps the bike affordable.
Frame
The Hurley Layback has a classic beach cruiser style frame. This means it has a retro style, and you ride in a relaxed and upright position. The design also means that the Layback has a low standover height, making getting on and off it effortless.
Don’t expect exotic materials such as carbon fibre at this price. Hurley has stuck to the traditional beach cruiser frame material of steel. Although this is quite heavy at 21.45kg, it is incredibly strong and durable. It also contributes to a smooth ride quality thanks to its excellent vibration damping.
You can only buy the Hurley Layback with a 20-inch frame. However, it is designed to fit riders between 5’4 and 6’2.
Wheels And Tires
Hurley has decided not to reinvent the wheel for this bike. They have fitted 26-inch wheels, which is a standard BMX size. This means you have good acceleration and agile handling for weaving around obstacles and pedestrians while cruising along the seafront.
These wheels feature 2.1-inch wide tires from Wanda. These tires are sticky and perfectly adequate for riding around paved roads. The double wall wheels are strong and help smooth out vibrations from the road.
If you use this bike for what it was intended for, the wheels are perfect. If you try to use it for something else you’ll find the bike unsuitable. We feel Hurley are open and honest about the bikes design and what it should be used for.
Brakes
Usually, we would recommend Electric bikes have disc brakes due to the extra weight and speeds associated with electric power. However, the Hurley Layback has alloy calliper brakes. These are adequate for this kind of bike, as it’s not like you’ll be tackling technical descents or riding at breakneck speeds all the time.
A significant advantage of calliper breaks is that they are super simple to maintain, even if you are not very experienced at fixing and adjusting bikes. The simplicity also keeps the Hurley laid-back at an affordable price.
The main disadvantage of these brakes is that they are not as effective when riding in wet weather. Therefore it would be wise to ride cautiously when conditions are a bit soggy.
Drivetrain
You’ve probably realised by now that Hurley has done their best to make the Layback and straightforward electric bike. This follows through to the single-speed drivetrain. Having a single-speed drive train does mean you cannot change gears, but it also means there are fewer things to go wrong, you save weight, and the overall price of the bike is much less.
The electric motor compensates for the lack of gears. However, if you live in a particularly hilly area, you may want to consider a bike with a multi-speed drive train with a wider gear range.
What’s The Hurley Layback Like To Ride?
As the name suggests, the Hurley Layback provides an incredibly relaxing riding experience. The frame, geometry, sweptback handlebars and plush saddle make this a very comfortable bike to ride.
However, you will only experience this comfort if you ride it in the right environment. The Hurley Layback is designed for smooth paved roads and cycle paths. So if your local area is riddled with cobbled streets, bumpy roads and uneven surfaces, you may want to choose a different kind of electric bike, namely one with suspension, fat tires or larger wheels. But when you ride a Hurley Layback in its natural environment, you will absolutely love it.
We like how fun this electric bike is to ride. It might not have big power figures, but riding the Hurley Layback with pedal, assist or on the throttle is hugely entertaining. This is partly down to the 26-inch wheels that give it agile handling, which is complimented by its sticky tires.
Even though Hurley has built the Layback to be a simple electric bike, it comes with a kickstand so that you can prop it up quickly outside your favourite café. It also features a bright headlight so you can still ride home safely when the sun has gone down.
Our Verdict Of The Hurley Layback
The Hurley Layback electric bike is a modern take on the classic beach cruiser. This means you get comfort combined with user-friendliness and simplicity. Therefore, it is an excellent electric bike for those who want a stress-free way of getting around town, exercising or simply visiting friends.
The simplicity of the Hurley Layback suits its relaxed style. If it came with a whole host of bells and whistles, the Layback would not be as cool or as satisfying to live with. The lack of fancy features also makes it ideal for those who don’t want to spend their free time tinkering with and fixing their bike.
Another significant benefit of this simplicity is that you get a quality electric bike for a fraction of the cost of more complicated models. Of course, this comes with compromises, but you have to weigh up what is important to you.
You may find similarly priced electric bikes with more features, but there’s a good chance they will have reliability problems. But the Hurley Layback is a robust electric beach cruiser that will satisfy the needs of most urban riders looking for cheap and cheerful fun.
In short, if you use the Hurley as the manufacturer intended then it’s perfect. If you try to take it out of its comfort zone, it certainly won’t perform as well.
We give it a solid 8.0/10
If you’ve enjoyed our Hurley electric bike review, you can find more reviews on our website. You’ll also find blog posts that can help you care and live with your electric bike going forward.