Most Common eBike Complaints

What are the most common complaints about ebikes. Follow up to my video about ebike disappointments where i asked viewers what part of their bike were they unhappy with.
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[ChasingForever]

You are 100% right on target. I'm 72 and bought an Ariel Rider X-Class step-through, so that I could get out ride the trails and enjoy the outdoors. I though that part of my life was past me. I don't have the strength or flexibility to pedal a regal bike. Really enjoying your channel, and getting out and riding often.

[ckrodger]

I purchased a Specialized Turbo Creo "e-assist" bike in March in time for my 65th birthday. While I still ride regularly, I have always struggled going up hills. This bike was a game changer! You must pedal to get any assist at all. I find when riding in a group, I use the lowest level of assist (about 30%), or turn it off altogether. The assist kicks out at 32 kph (20 mph), so while you can go any speed your legs can take you, above 32 kph, it is all "you". There is absolutely no motor drag with the assist turned off, so if you drain the battery on a ride, it is not a problem to simply ride hoe under your own steam. That being said, I have found I get over 100 km range in low assist, about 70 km in medium, and about 50 km in the high (turbo) assist. Even after the 50 km in turbo assist, the battery is at about 20%, where it lowers output to about 30%. I have never completely drained my battery. The bike version I got was the aluminum frame. It weighs in at about 33 pounds, but you pay for that. The bike before tax came to about $6700 CAN. The bike is very well designed, and built. While 95% of my riding is on road, it can accommodate tires as wide as 700X42, so gravel is no issue. It even includes a spring incorporated into the headset for a bit of suspension. A gravel version with flat bars and a dropper seat can also be purchased at the same cost.

[harleysteve]

Bought an Aventon Aventure through a local dealer and absolutely love it. It's 73 lbs and is the step thru model that I ride everyday. I am 80 years old and so far have had no problem riding it. Thru the Aventon App I was able to upgrade the software which changed it from a Class 2 to a Class 3 bike. Rode Harley's for years and definitely loved the speed boost the upgrade gave me.

[andykeast]

CC, thank the bike gods for you. I’ve learned so much about how to fix, maintain, upgrade and improve my E-bike watching you over the last year or so. You know your bikes and you certainly know your audience. Regards from the UK from a 45+ guy, out on the green trails and away from Netflix and mobile phones.

[jeffmpvd]

Most off the pitfalls mentioned are the result of the direct to consumer eBike business model. I don't think I will buy another eBike that I can't test ride at a local bike shop. I'll even drive several hours for a test ride if need be.

[CatMeowMeow]

12:32 I'm a 20 year old who's about to buy an ebike to commute to and from work. I don't have a car, don't know how to drive, and I don't want a car. I'm just tired of having to take 40-1 hour bus trips to get to and from work. Work is already tiring enough, there's no way I'm riding a non electric bike both ways every day too. For me my ebike is going to be my car replacement. It'll be cheaper to maintain and I won't need to pay $120 parking/month fees to keep it. On top of that, I pay about $120/month in bus fairs right now. If I can skip using the bus entirely I think it'll pay for its self.

Here in Minnesota the local government will be providing financial assistance up to $1500 for buying an ebike starting July 2024. I'm waiting for that date to buy an ebike.

I've heard of some other younger people who are getting ebikes for similar reasons. For me this isn't about going green or getting out, it's about the cheapest means of transportation.

I love your videos, they're very informative. Just wanted to let you know work commuters exist

[larryrockemann]

By far, yours is the most informational, educational, and encouraging video site for ebike riders and those considering the purchase of a bike. Thanks for all the time and care you put into doing these. So very helpful!

[jayziac]

Most of the major complaints can be reduced by going with a NON-FAT TIRE ebike. If you want the comfort still, just make sure to get tires that are 2 in or thinner, with front suspension, and a suspension seat post. With non-fat tire ebikes, the frames can be thinner, motors smaller, less dead weight to have to move around, longer battery range on a smaller & lighter weight battery. Most ebike importers make bigger profits on the fat tires, but a few are starting to sell product lines that is more efficient (much more popular in Europe & Asia).

[sharonw]

Buy from a bike the internet. You can see what you are getting, you can test ride before buying and the personnel staff can answer any question you may have about ebikes or accessories. I just purchased a step through, 36 volt / 250 watt motor / top speed of 20 mph / range 20 to 50 miles / disc brakes / electric horn / and has both pedal assist and throttle that is equipped with a boost control for extra power. Headlamp and tail light are automatic. Also came with fenders and luggage rack and a free annual tune up for life, $1799 but was on sale for $1599, so far I love this bike as I am 79...the wind and hills no longer a challenge for me, my Cannondale and Fuji have just been retired. Been riding bikes for about 40 years now.

[GrnArrow]

I have an Aventon Aventure I bought from my local dealer last month. The one advantage that I had when buying locally was that I was able to try out my bike and make sure it fit perfectly as I initially had questions on how I would fit on it. I found that in the end that it did fit me perfectly and I've been enjoying it since. As for battery range, I'm only able to get about 25 to 30 miles out of it per charge. That is less than what Aventon advertises on their website. Of course, there are factors involve that make the range vary. One factor is my weight. I'm 300 lbs and the weight of the rider I believe is a big factor in battery range. Another factor is that I ride at pedal assist level 4. That helps me maintain a speed of around 20 mph. The higher pedal assist levels use more power, so I can understand why I'm not getting 40 miles out of my battery. I'm actually trying to train my legs to get used to riding again as I haven't been on a bike in 7 years. I'm hoping I may step down to PA2 or PA3 when my legs get stronger. Aside from all that, I'm happy that this bike can take me wherever I want to go around the city I live in and still have plenty of power left to see me home.

[ExpeditionOverlanding]

I've been in the market for an e-bike for awhile now and your channel has been amazing in helping me make an informed decision. Keep up the great work!

[AKCobra]

This is a really helpful video. I got into this last year, and now have 2 escooters and an ebike, and my wife has an ebike. After a year of experience I can say your video is spot on. The ones that really hit home were power and portability. My first scooter had a 500 watt moter which turned out to be not nearly enough to get me up the local hills (I weigh around 230). As a result it wasn't serving my purpose so I ordered my 2nd one, a dual motor 2000 watt beast that chews up hills and spits them out. My ebike which I just got is 750 watts and 1000 watt peak. It needs help on our largest hills, but I just engage my 2nd motor (my legs) and it gets up no problem.

Portability is another issue. The scooter no problem. It folds up and while it's heavy (around 75 lbs), it's not awkward so it's pretty easy to get into the back of the SUV. My wife's ebike is another story. It folds, and it's lighter than the scooter, but it's a big awkward mess trying to muscle the thing into the SUV. And my new one is even heavier and doesn't fold, so I have no delusions about getting it into the back. Honestly, if you get one of these and want to transport it, plan on getting a bike rack. I'm looking into those now as I'm fed up with dealing with my wifes, and I want to be able to use mine other than just around home.

[brucemoore]

Hi CC !! Just to let you know I really have enjoyed your EBIKE videos, and you were part of the reason I chose Cyrusher when I finally bought mine. I don't think you want the LONG story, so I will give you the condensed version. My biggest problem was a new term I learned called "AXLE SPINOUT". If you don't know what it is (but I'll bet you do) It is when the torque of the rear motor is so great (from a standstill - slight incline - no pedaling - throttle only programming - 200 lb male) that the axle of the rear wheel spins itself out of the fork and becomes dislodged. When this happens the bike is no longer functional, the slot in the fork becomes "chewed" and repeated attempts to drive it in this state are useless only causing more damage. Let's fast forward - to returning the bike (Cyrusher finally agreed) - getting the next model up (XF800) (for a very slight price increase). I stuck with them, because I did love the bike in every other way. I know you have all of their models. The problem re-occured with the new model, and I posted this problem many times on YouTube. One very helpful You Tube friend said - Oh, that's Axle Spinout - get this device on Amazon and it will prevent it from happening again. Whoever he was - God Bless Him!! It looks like no photos are allowed here, so will give everyone the name of this great anchor. Grin Technologies Universal Rear Ebike Torque Arm - Thick 1/4" Stainless Steel (Made in Canada). EXCELLENT REVIEWS !!! I bought it, I mounted it, and this problem went away 100% There are cheaper offerings, but I strongly suggest this one. I have no affiliation with this company whatsoever. 1200 miles later - I am smiling (and confident) on every ride

[subiesojourner]

A great and informative video. My wife and I went with the Lectric XP 2.0 step through after watching a bunch of videos. I'm in my mid 60's and she's in her late 50's so they seemed like the best choice for us.

[joemeeuwsen]

Great video!!! Your extra suggestion of service was probably the most important. Our local bike shop is gracious enough to do normal bike maintenance but as far as controller, battery, wiring, or motor is concerned you are on your own. That is why buying from your local bike shop is so important. Again, excellent video!

[carriebishop]

I'd like to tell you that I really enjoyed this video and thank you for helping us all out here to decide maybe what bike to go for I'm 65 years old and you're showing in this video the complaint but the solutions and I appreciate that so much

[megaphonejeff]

Thank you for all your efforts helping folks with the ebikes. I have never owned an ebike so this video is just super outstanding and very helpful for me. Thanks again, Jeff.

[ggebhard]

Thank you!! This was a real eye opener! I’m watching videos for a month or two and even though I know I need a light bike, no one has made weight an issue like you have! Why? Because most YT guys are trying to sell the bike they are demonstrating. Thank you for your honesty!!

[davevan]

You are so right about us old people buying these ebikes. I'm 68 an bought a Juiced Scorpion X. Love it. Granted there aren't really hills in Tampa but this thing goes plenty fast for me with no effort. And it weighs 100lbs. My friend has a 26 inch and it's a monster. 20 inch is just fine for me, even at 6 ft tall. Only complaint would be the brakes, which work fine but squeak very loud.. I was impressed at how in touch you are with your audience and how we ride. Thanks.

[billbetts]

Great information! 71 years old and thinking about e-bikes.