A Smart Guide to Buying an Electric Bike

The increasing fuel prices and deteriorating pollution levels are driving the success of electric vehicles in India. In fact, many people are replacing their conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) two-wheelers with electric bikes. However, EVs are still relatively new in the Indian market and with limited options; it is not easy to choose the best electric bikes in India. The research options include either relying on the handful of reviews available on the Internet or seeking the assistance of your local technician in selecting the best electric scooter in India. Choosing the best electric scooter that meets your needs and fits your budget can be a daunting task. Today, in this article, we will look at all the factors you must consider before choosing an e-scooter.
 

Things to Consider While Purchasing Electric Bikes

 

Price Range

To avoid ruining your finances, it is important to set a budget before making any big purchase. In India, the majority of electric bikes cost between Rs 50,000 and Rs 1.5 lakh. However, the price should not be the only factor to influence your decision. Remember, entry-level bikes may have low battery capacity, underpowered motors, and a poor braking system. With the easy availability of bike finance, you can get a good e-scooter without compromising on the quality or cost. 
 

Speed Limit

Most youngsters believe that electric bikes and speed do not go hand in hand. However, this is not true for modern electric two-wheelers. Low-powered electric motorcycles, in the entry-level range, have around 50-60 kmph speed limit. However, if you opt for a high-powered e-bike, you can reach a speed of up to 115 kmph. The battery and motor power determine the e-bike speed. Therefore, before making a buying decision, talk to the dealer or hire a professional mechanic to help you grasp the technical theory behind e-bike speed.
 

Mileage per Charge

Unlike fuel-engine motorcycles, which can be refuelled in minutes, e-scooters take time to charge. Depending upon the battery size, e-bikes deliver a mileage of 50 km to 150+ km. The time it takes to charge a bike varies depending on the model. Some electric bikes may be fully charged in about an hour, while others might take up to three hours or even more. So, if you enjoy riding your bike down a long highway, then this factor could play an important role in your decision-making process.
 

Motor Power

Your bike's motor helps in making your vehicle's wheels go round on the road by generating torque. Different types of motors provide different power outputs. Buying an electric scooter with a poor motor would not only impair your riding pleasure but will also potentially destroy your engine if you travel a long distance in one stretch.
 

Battery Life

The battery is your electric bike's most costly component. If you buy an electric bike in India that has a low-quality battery, then you will have to replace it every few months. Check the battery type before arriving at any decision regarding the e-bike purchase. A new lithium-ion battery should always be prioritised over nickel or lead batteries. In addition, your riding pattern, daily distance coverage, and recharging method affect the life of your e-bike’s battery.
 

Charging Options

This is tricky. While it is easy to find petrol pumps in most parts of India, finding power stations to charge an electric vehicle might require some effort. So, before you book or buy an electric bike online, check the list of charging stations in and around your location or on your usual routes. Also, see if the bike you are buying can be charged at home. Ask for the home charging station installation from the dealer so that you can charge your e-bike at home before taking it out for a ride. Choose a detachable battery so that if you have two, you can easily swap the uncharged one for the charged one and resume your journey.
 

Warranty

Buying your dream bike on instalments just to discover that the components are not covered by a warranty can put you in serious financial difficulty in future. Electric bike components are quite expensive. The cost of a battery pack and an engine alone is enough to cover 3/4 of the cost of your e-bike. Most bike manufacturers offer a two to three-year manufacturer's warranty. However, before deciding on the best electric bike in India, make sure to read the warranty terms and conditions.
 

Loading Capacity

The overall bike weight impacts the loading capacity of your bike. When compared to fuel engine bikes, the electric scooters are lightweight. Several components are available in conventional motorcycles but not in e-bikes. If your job or business requires you to load heavy objects onto your vehicle, knowing your bike's loading capability is critical.
 

After Sales Support

Electric bikes are still relatively new in India, and most local mechanics are unfamiliar with their complex components. You may be mistaken if you believe that your local motor garage can aid you in repairing your damaged e-bike. Therefore, before deciding on the best electric scooter in India check the brand's list of authorised service centres and after-sales support offices in your city. 
 

Insurance Costs

The cost of insurance for an electric scooter varies from one model to another. So, make a list of your favourite electric scooters, compare quotes from several insurers, and choose the one whose overall cost is within your budget.
 
Also Read: Top Reasons To Finance Your Two-wheeler Purchase
 

How to Save Money While Buying an Electric Bike in India?

 

Incentive and Tax Benefits

The government is promoting electric vehicles to reduce the carbon footprint in India. Also, many state governments are offering incentives to encourage people to buy electric vehicles. The state government's subsidy is based on the battery capacity of the bike. Apart from the incentives, the relevant GST on electric vehicles is lower than that on fuel-powered vehicles. Therefore, before you buy an electric bike online, check the subsidy and tax benefits offered by the government. 
 

Insurance & Registration

You may be surprised to learn that not all electric motorcycles require registration. If you are looking to buy an electric bike in India with a power rating of less than 250 watts, you do not require registration. In addition, if you buy an electric scooter on bike finance, the lender covers the cost of insurance and registration in the loan amount.
 

Two-wheeler Loan

Numerous lenders offer bike finance to buy an electric bike in India. To save a significant amount on your purchase and to obtain a low-interest two-wheeler loan, you must check your lender's bike loan eligibility and the essential documents required for a bike loan. In addition, calculate your monthly obligations in advance using the bike finance EMI calculator. Knowing your EMI beforehand not only helps in better comparison but also helps you to save a lot of money in the long run. 
 
Also Read: Things to Keep in Mind While Choosing the Right Lender for Two-Wheeler Finance
 

To Conclude

In terms of the current market, electric bikes and scooters have saturated the two-wheeler sector. However, while selecting the best electric bike in India to meet your needs, keep all of the above considerations in mind and make an informed decision.