How do you choose the right electric bike?
Electric bikes are attracting more and more enthusiasts: according to a study published on April 24, 2026, by the Observatoire du Cycle, there are 9 million users in France. Are you also considering switching to an electric bike? In this article, we share our best expert advice to help you find the bike that truly suits your needs.
Key takeaways:
The choice of model depends on your main use. A city e-bike prioritizes comfort for commuting, a hybrid e-bike offers versatility for both roads and trails, while an electric mountain bike is essential for rides in hilly terrain or in the mountains.
Choose a battery from a recognized brand and a 36V voltage (depending on your needs). The battery’s location (on the frame or on the luggage rack) and the availability of spare parts are also important factors to consider.
An electric bike is an investment. Do not overlook quality (be cautious with entry-level models) and always check the warranty conditions.
What are the components of an electric bike?
Electric city bikes, electric hybrid bikes, electric mountain bikes, and electric folding bikes all belong to the large family of electric-assist bicycles. Before choosing your bike, it is essential to understand which components matter most. Make sure with your retailer that these elements are of good quality.
The battery
An electric bike battery is charged from a standard power outlet and assists the cyclist while pedaling.
The battery is sold with the electric bike. However, it can deteriorate over the years or be damaged, for example, by an impact. It cannot always be repaired, which means it may need to be replaced with a new or refurbished battery.
The motor
Keep in mind the difference between an electric-assist bike (e-bike), where the motor acts as a force multiplier that only activates to support your pedaling effort, and a fully electric bike (such as a Moovway) or an electric scooter. In the latter case, the motor operates autonomously: it completely replaces physical effort, since simply pressing a button allows the motor to drive the wheel and move the vehicle forward.
The controller
Also called the regulator, the controller is in some ways the brain of the bike’s motor system. This electronic motor management unit receives information from the sensor installed in the bottom bracket or the throttle to regulate motor power. It also manages the lights, the display, and the other components that make up your electric bike.
The display
The displays (or screens) found on electric bikes are either LED-based or equipped with an LCD screen. Depending on the model, they allow you to manage your assistance level, switch the lights on and off, and show the battery charge level as well as your speed. The most advanced models now feature a USB port so you can charge your smartphone while riding.
Want to learn more about the components of an e-bike? Read our article: The 6 elements that make your electric bike run
What criteria should you consider when choosing your e-bike?
Your needs and constraints
The e-bike range is wide, allowing every rider to enjoy the ride according to their expectations: commuting, a versatile bike for weekday and weekend activities, a touring bike… Consider your main use and any usage constraints, and share them with the retailers you meet. Here are a few pointers to help guide your choice:
For urban trips and commuting: if your goal is to replace the car for getting to work, choose a city e-bike. With its upright riding position, mudguards, and luggage rack, it is designed for comfort and practicality.
If you like to alternate between asphalt and forest paths, the electric hybrid bike is your best companion. Versatile, it offers the ideal compromise with wider tires and front suspension to absorb shocks.
For those who want to tackle elevation or escape to the mountains, an electric mountain bike is essential.
Whatever your situation, explain your needs and constraints in detail to your retailer: they will be able to advise you in the best possible way.
Budget
Be cautious with entry-level bikes sold in supermarkets. While the initial investment may seem appealing, maintenance and repairs can become expensive because of lower-quality components.
Whatever your budget, do not skip regular bike maintenance: lubricating the chain, changing brake pads, and following battery maintenance recommendations.
Battery location
Electric bikes currently on the market are systematically equipped with lithium batteries. Lighter and more efficient than older technologies (lead and nickel-cadmium), they come in all shapes and sizes and may be located on the luggage rack, behind the seat post, on the bottle holder, or integrated directly into the frame of your electric bike.
Spare parts availability
Over time, some spare parts may no longer be available. Therefore, if you are considering a second-hand model, ask the retailer about the availability of spare parts.
The battery: an important criterion when selecting your e-bike!
E-bike battery: key points to watch
Voltage
The higher the battery voltage, the stronger the feeling of power during use. We recommend avoiding 24V batteries, which are less powerful and increasingly rare on the market. Be cautious with 48V batteries: they are more expensive and often used for electric scooters. The ideal middle ground is 36V.
Exchange and warranty conditions
Check the warranty conditions in advance. At Doctibike, our products come with a 2-year warranty. Be sure to follow the conditions of use carefully to make the most of this.
Expert advice
Doris – Customer Service & Product Coordinator at Doctibike
"The battery is one of the most important components of your electric bike. It is better to choose a recognized brand such as Bosch. Battery lifespan is also a very important factor to take into account (the lifespan of an e-bike battery is generally estimated at between 3 and 5 years, depending on the model, usage, and maintenance). Finally, ask your retailer about your battery’s power, as this determines the range. To learn more, check out our guide on electric bike range.”
To conclude, as with any purchase, we recommend reading customer reviews to help you choose both your retailer and your electric bike. In any case, trying the bike before buying it is essential!
