Bike riding is an excellent family activity and one that promotes healthy living. While bicycles are great for people of all ages, the growing market of electric bikes for sale often left younger people out. However, as the popularity of e-bikes grew, manufacturers began experimenting and developing safer, age-appropriate models. Now, parents can select an electric bike for their teen and know that they can keep up on those longer trips out on the town.
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Choosing the Right Size
Before you purchase an electric bike for your teenager, it is necessary to have a fundamental understanding electric bikes. Most e-bike models you are likely familiar with are adult-oriented, meaning they are larger, heavier, and have more power than a teen requires. What you most likely want for your teenager is a junior model. These e-bikes have most of the same features and capabilities as the adult versions, but they are smaller and better suited to younger riders. You can also find pedal assist and full motor options just like with larger models.
Battery Life and Motor Power
How will your child use the bike? Is it more for family tours or a more practical item for getting to school and back home? Knowing how your teen will use the bike can provide some insight into the battery life and motor power you will need. If the bike is mainly intended for short trips, then pedal assist is likely sufficient, and you do not need an extended battery. However, if you plan on touring, then you might want to find a bike with a long-distance range. You can find information about e-bike riding tips to learn how to extend the range of your bike or how to ride safely without wearing out your battery.
Safety Features
Safety features on most e-bikes will be similar to those you find on traditional bikes. However, on junior e-bikes, you might find increased safety features, like color accents or flags to make the bike more visible to car traffic. The main thing here is to not get caught up in the features. Think about the things important to you, and what your teen will actually use.
Warranty and Price
Always check the warranty before purchasing an e-bike. While these bikes have been around for a number of years, they are still relatively new and require a lot of upkeep and maintenance. You might even consider purchasing an extended warranty through the manufacturer or bike supplier.
Finally, one of the most significant considerations to make about your teen’s future e-bike is the price. How much are you willing to spend? It is wonderful that you want to buy your child a new electric bicycle, but remember to not break the bank. Most likely your teen will get a couple of years out of a junior e-bike before moving on to something larger and more permanent.
E-bikes are excellent additions to the cycling family. They allow you to travel farther than ever before, and they encourage outdoor exercise and fun. If your teen really wants an e-bike, then take them to your local bike shop and ask for some extra advice specific to your child’s needs.