Choosing the Right E-Bike: A Buyer's Guide for electric bikes
Electric bikes have transformed the way people get around, offering a perfect blend of fun, fitness, and eco-friendly transport. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring scenic trails, or simply seeking a comfortable way to stay active, e-bikes deliver freedom and versatility for every body and every ability.
Quick Guide to Electric Bikes:
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Market Growth: The Australian e-bike market is projected to reach $2.18 billion by 2028, growing at 13.65% annually.
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Popular Types: Commuter/trekking bikes, folding bikes, cargo bikes, mountain bikes, and stable e-trikes.
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Legal Requirements: Road-legal e-bikes must have a 250W motor and 25 km/h pedal-assist speed limit.
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Typical Range: 30-120 km per charge (premium models exceed 150 km).
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Average Price: Around $2,500, with quality entry-level models starting from $1,500-$2,500.
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Top Brands: Velectrix, Kalkhoff, Tern, Vamos, and our own Trojan brand.
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Where to Buy: Specialist retailers like EveryBody eBikes offer test rides, expert advice, and nationwide support.
The beauty of e-bikes lies in their ability to make cycling accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Pedal-assist technology means you can tackle hills without strain, arrive at your destination feeling fresh, and choose how much effort you want to put in. For older riders, those returning to cycling after years away, or anyone concerned about balance or fitness, e-bikes open up a world of possibility.
As Andrea Herklots, owner-operator of Everybody eBikes, I've spent years helping thousands of people find their perfect ride, from active seniors refinding the joy of cycling to families seeking eco-friendly transport solutions. My mission with electric bikes is simple: to ensure every body finds a bike that fits their lifestyle, their ability, and their dreams of staying active and independent.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about e-bikes in Australia, from understanding different types and features to navigating regulations, choosing trusted brands, and finding expert support near you.

Choosing an electric bike can feel like a big decision with so many options available. But don't worry, we're here to break it down for you. Our goal is to help you find an electric bike that perfectly matches your needs, whether you're looking for an eco-friendly commute, a fun way to stay active, or a reliable mode of transport for your family.
Understanding E-Bike Types and Key Features
The world of e-bikes Australia is diverse, with a model designed for almost every purpose. Understanding the different types and their key features is your first step towards finding your perfect ride.
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Commuter & Trekking Bikes: These are your versatile workhorses, perfect for daily commutes, weekend leisure rides, and even light touring. Our trekking bikes offer a comfortable, upright riding position, often equipped with racks and mudguards, making them ideal for carrying essentials and navigating various terrains. Brands like Kalkhoff and Vamos excel in this category.
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Folding Bikes: Need an e-bike that can come with you on public transport, fit in a small apartment, or tuck away in your caravan? Our folding bikes are compact champions. Models like the ezi-Step 20" Folding eBike start at $1,995 and are popular with families and riders seeking basic support and stability, even offering optional adult stabilisers for those concerned about balance.
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Cargo E-Bikes: If you're looking to replace your car for school runs, grocery shopping, or even business deliveries, cargo e-bikes are an absolute game-changer. They're designed to carry significant loads, often with space for children or large items. The Tern Orox S12, for example, is a versatile, high-capacity option ideal for off-road adventures, family transport (up to 2 passengers), and professional use.
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E-Trikes: Offering unparalleled stability, e-trikes (or tricycles) are fantastic for anyone seeking extra balance and confidence. They are particularly popular with seniors, individuals with mobility challenges, or those returning to cycling. Our range includes robust models like the Trojan Fat Tyre Electric Trike, which is great for all conditions and carrying cargo, and the Trident semi-recumbent e-trike, designed for superior comfort and a lower centre of gravity.
When considering an electric bike, key components like the motor, battery, and brakes are crucial.
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Motor Types: You'll typically find two main types:
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Hub Motors: Located in the front or rear wheel hub, these are often found in more affordable models and provide a direct push.
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Mid-Drive Motors: Positioned in the centre of the bike (at the pedals), these motors power the bike through its gears, offering a more natural ride feel, better hill-climbing ability, and often greater efficiency. Find which e-bike motor suits you best for your riding style. Many of our bikes feature high-quality Bafang and Bosch motors, renowned for their reliability and performance.
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Battery Capacity: Measured in Watt-hours (Wh), this determines your e-bike's range. A higher Wh means a longer ride. Our premium models often come with Panasonic or Samsung battery cells for optimal performance and longevity.
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Torque: Measured in Newton-meters (Nm), torque indicates the motor's pulling power, especially useful for hills and heavier loads. A higher torque value makes it easier to start from a standstill and climb steep inclines.
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Brakes: Reliable stopping power is essential. You'll find either mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes offer superior modulation and stopping power, especially in wet conditions.
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Frame Types: From traditional cross-bar designs for durability to step-through frames for easy mounting and dismounting, comfort and fit are paramount. We believe comfort first: finding your perfect e-bike for effortless journeys is key to an enjoyable ride.
Australian E-Bike Laws, Range, and Charging
Navigating the rules for e-bikes Australia is straightforward once you know the basics.
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Legal Regulations: For an electric bike to be road-legal, it must comply with strict Australian standards for "pedelecs":
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Motor Limit: A maximum continuous rated power output of 250W.
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Speed Assist: The motor must only provide assistance when you are pedalling, and this assistance must cut off once you reach 25 km/h.
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Throttle: If an e-bike has a throttle, it must only provide power up to 6 km/h (a "pushing aid"). Any throttle that assists beyond this speed means the bike is no longer considered a bicycle and can only be ridden on private property. For instance, if the optional throttle is used on our Trojan Fat Tyre Electric Trike, it is no longer EN15194 compliant and can only be ridden on privately owned land.
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Helmets: Wearing an approved helmet is mandatory, just like with traditional bicycles.
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Typical Range: The range of most e-bikes in Australia is between 30 km and 120 km per charge. Premium models, especially those with larger batteries, can exceed 150 km. Factors like terrain, rider weight, and the level of pedal assistance you use will significantly impact your actual range. For example, the Trojan Fat Tyre Electric Trike offers an impressive range of up to 120km on a single charge thanks to its 48V 20Ah battery.
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Charging Time: Most e-bikes take between 3 to 6 hours for a full charge. Larger capacity batteries or slower chargers might take a bit longer. Proper e-bike battery care is essential for extending its lifespan and maintaining warranty validity. Always use the manufacturer's recommended charger.
With the right electric bike, you can explore incredible destinations like the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, covering distances that might be challenging on a traditional bike.
Popular Brands and Models for electric bikes
At Everybody eBikes, we pride ourselves on offering a curated selection of Australia's best bikes: top picks for every rider. We feature brands renowned for their high quality, innovative design, and reliable performance.
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Velectrix: An Australian-designed brand known for its quality, comfort, and innovation.
- The Velectrix Cruiser Pulse STX - Belt is a stylish, low-maintenance e-bike with a classic cruiser look. It's perfect for relaxed urban rides and easy commuting, featuring a clean, durable belt drive and a low step-through frame for effortless mounting.
- The Velectrix Ascent Pulse X is a powerful e-mountain bike built for adventure seekers. It is ideal for tackling off-road trails and hilly urban areas with confidence.
- The Velectrix SUV and SUV+ models are fantastic for general commuting, shopping, and carrying cargo. The SUV+ version is our most powerful fat tyre e-bike, offering an impressive carrying capacity for heavy loads.
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Tern: Leading the way in cargo e-bikes, Tern offers exceptional utility and compact designs.
- The Tern Quick Haul Long is a versatile, high-capacity cargo e-bike built for adventure. It's perfect for families, professionals, and anyone needing serious carrying power.
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Kalkhoff: A premium German e-bike brand, Kalkhoff is synonymous with quality and integration, especially with the Bosch Smart System.
- The Kalkhoff Endeavour range, such as the Endeavour 5.B Move+, is a premium choice for long-distance trekking and tackling hills. It is designed for power, endurance, and a seamlessly integrated riding experience.
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Vamos: Known for comfort and practicality.
- The Vamos Rapido features a comfort-oriented, step-through design ideal for city commuting and easy handling. Its combination of a hub motor, suspension, and reliable brakes provides a smooth, dependable ride.
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Trojan: Our very own brand, designed for robust performance and stability.
- The Trojan Fat Tyre Electric Trike is a versatile and powerful trike. Its chunky tyres make it perfect for all conditions and carrying capacity, offering a fantastic choice for someone who needs stability but still wants adventure.
We only stock electric bikes that feature high-quality components from trusted names like Shimano, Bafang, and Bosch. This commitment to using the best available components ensures that every bike we offer is specialist high-quality factory made, undergoing full quality assurance testing in production and assembly. We even go a step further with external QA testing by a specialist European QA/QC company for all new models, ensuring perfect design and reliability.
Your Investment: Budget and Maintenance for electric bikes
Investing in an electric bike is a smart move, and understanding the costs and how to care for your new ride will help you make the most of it.
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Average Price: The average price of an e-bike in Australia is around $2,500. However, you can find quality entry-level e-bikes for anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500. For trikes, the typical price range is $3,500 to $25,000, with options like the Trojan Family Fat Tyre Electric Tricycle offering an affordable entry-level option at $6,495 (was $7,950). Our ezi-Step 20" Folding eBike starts at $1,995. When budgeting for an e-bike, consider what features are most important for your lifestyle. Our expert tips for buying a quality budget e-bike in Australia can guide you.
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A Note on Funding: While funding through programs like the NDIS or Aged Care is an option for some, the application and approval processes can often involve lengthy delays, sometimes stretching for months or even years. Life is too short to spend it waiting on paperwork. Every ride you miss while waiting is a moment of joy lost. Choosing to purchase privately means you can start your journey to independence and activity today, without delay.
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Maintenance Essentials: An e-bike requires similar care to a traditional bicycle, with extra attention to the electrical components. Regular e-bike maintenance essentials include keeping the chain clean, checking tyre pressure, and ensuring brakes are working correctly. For the battery, store it in a cool, dry place and avoid fully discharging it. We offer comprehensive servicing packages in our Brisbane workshop to keep your ride in top condition.
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Servicing Schedule: We recommend a servicing schedule every 6-12 months, or sooner if you're a frequent rider. Our workshop offers:
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Checkup Package: $100
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Standard Service: $169 (with a $20 discount for repeat customers)
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Premium Package: $299 (with a $30 discount for repeat customers)
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Battery Testing: $50
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Mechanical Diagnosis: $100
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Electrical Diagnosis: $200
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Mechanical Labour: $150/hr
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Tyre/Tube Changes: $25 for simple, $50 for motor/gear hubs
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Brake Bleeds: $55 per side
Please note, a $75 cleaning fee may apply if your bike is not brought in reasonably clean.
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Warranty and After-Sales Support: All quality e-bikes come with a warranty, typically 1 to 2 years for the motor and battery. We stand by the products we sell and offer reliable after-sales support. We also have a nationwide network of partners and distributors, ensuring you have access to service and support wherever you are in Australia or New Zealand.
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Essential Accessories: Don't forget to equip yourself with the right essential accessories for safety and convenience. We recommend high-quality Lazer helmets for protection and Abus locks for security. You can explore our full range of accessories, including bike bags, pannier bags, baskets, and bells, in-store or online.

Find Your Perfect Ride with Australia's Inclusive E-Bike Experts
Choosing the right electric bike is a personal journey, and we believe it should be an enjoyable one. That's why we emphasise the importance of test rides. Experiencing an e-bike allows you to feel the power, assess the comfort, and ensure it's the perfect fit for you.
At Everybody eBikes, our role extends beyond being a bike shop; we are your partners in inclusive cycling. Our inclusive cycling mission means we offer personalised, customer-centric guidance, focusing on custom advice and even customisation and adaptations to ensure your bike perfectly meets your unique needs. We understand that every body is different, and we're dedicated to breaking down barriers to cycling.
Our main workshop and showroom are located in Brisbane, where our expert team provides professional servicing and support. However, we're proud to offer a nationwide dealer network across Queensland (including Cairns), Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, and even New Zealand. This means you can easily find a local dealer to assist you with sales, service, and test rides.
Ready to start on your e-biking adventure? We invite you to book a test ride at our Brisbane showroom or connect with one of our trusted partners. Our team is here to answer all your questions, offer expert advice, and help you explore our full range of e-bikes to find the one that brings you joy, freedom, and independence. Let's get you riding!