Electric hybrids pack in the best bits of a road bike and a mountain bike, as well as a powerful electric motor to provide pedal assistance. Convenient as a commuter, terrific as a tourer and ideal for adventures, an electric hybrid is the perfect go anywhere, do anything bike.
If you’re thinking of joining the e-bike revolution but don’t know where to start, Halfords is here to help. In this electric hybrid bikes buyer’s guide, we explain what an e-bike is and walk you through the steps to help you find the right bike for your riding style.
What is an electric hybrid bike?
Hybrid bikes combine the best aspects of road and mountain bikes into one unique package. Rugged frames extended gearing ranges, wide tyres and the ability to fit essential extras such as mudguards and a pannier rack mean a hybrid offers unrivalled versatility. A hybrid bike is equally at home on your urban commute as they are on a weekend ride around the countryside.
Electric hybrid bikes are the same as a normal pedal-powered hybrid, but with the addition of a powerful motor that assists while you ride. That means no more struggling over hills or arriving at work exhausted. The battery-powered boost can help you ride longer than before, which is why they’re an ideal choice for commuters, leisure riders and tourers.
Electric bike motors will power you to speeds of 15.5mph (the legal limit!) before cutting out. You’re in charge of the power and the assistance, with most electric hybrid bikes allowing you to choose how much pedal power support you receive.
Before diving into the details, we need to clear up a few misunderstandings about e-bikes. Electric bikes aren’t motorbikes, you don’t need a license to ride them, and there isn’t a throttle that you need to control.
How to select the proper electric hybrid bike?
Before shopping for a new electric hybrid bike, it’s worth doing some research to understand some of the choices you’ll need to make about critical aspects such as the motor and battery, frame and suspension.
Here are some of the choices you’ll need to make:
Motor and battery size
When assessing e-bike options, consider the size of the motor and the capacity of the rechargeable battery. The bigger the battery, the longer it will provide powered assistance.
The pay-off is the increase in weight. If you’re planning on touring with your bike, we suggest you invest in a bigger motor capable of propelling you and your luggage. A lighter bike with a smaller battery may be a better choice if you've have a short commute.
Before buying an electric hybrid bike, carefully consider the range you need to cover on each ride (or round trip). Remember that the range figures given are estimates and will be affected by the terrain you ride, the level of assistance, rider weights and weather conditions.
As with everything, you get what you pay for. At the top of our e-bike range is the spectacular Boardman HYB 8.9E Mens Hybrid Electric Bike. This hardwearing hybrid packs a lightweight Fazua Evation drive system, which delivers smooth power for up to 60 miles.
Environmentally friendly, convenient and versatile, there’s a lot to like about electric hybrid bikes. So, why not head over to Halfords.com , where you’ll find our complete range, all from top brands.
Frame
There are two common types of electric hybrid bikes: step-through frames and crossbar frames.
Step-through frames have no crossbar running along the top, which means you can swing your leg through the frame. Step-through bikes are common in cities across Europe. They’re easy to ride and easy to get on and off. One of our most popular electric bikes, the Pendleton Somerby’s low step-through frame makes the bike a convenient and practical choice.
Hybrid bikes with a crossbar are more like traditional mountain bikes and road bikes. They’re sportier and handle better than step-through models. A great example, the Carrera Subway has a crossbar and packs a lot into an impressive package.
Suspension
A suspension fork will soak up the lumps and bumps of the surface you’re riding on, including off-road tracks.
If you’re planning on using your hybrid off the road, on towpaths, mixed-use paths, cycle paths and bridleways, then we’d recommend seriously considering a hybrid with a suspension front fork.
Suspension
A suspension fork will soak up the lumps and bumps of the surface you’re riding on, including off-road tracks.
If you’re planning on using your hybrid off the road, on towpaths, mixed-use paths, cycle paths and bridleways, then we’d recommend seriously considering a hybrid with a suspension front fork.
Standard hybrid electric bike features
Electric hybrid bikes have specific features designed to make long-distance rides on-road and off-road more comfortable, including flat handlebars, disc brakes, and wide tyres.
Here are some of the standard features you’ll see on electric hybrid bikes:
Flat handlebars
When riding through urban areas while commuting, you want to be comfortable, and that’s why most hybrid bikes are fitted with flat handlebars.
Flat bars provide a comfortable, upright riding position that is pleasant for covering long distances, cutting in and out of traffic, and nipping around obstacles. An upright riding position is also better for riding in traffic, providing better visibility of the road ahead so you can easily spot emerging dangers.
Disc brakes
From road to mountain bikes, disc brakes are fast becoming the most popular option thanks to their superior performance in all conditions – and that’s why most electric hybrid bikes come equipped with them.
A great example, the disc brakes fitted to the Carrera Subway Mens Electric Hybrid are high-performance, low-maintenance and work in all weathers – making them ideal for on-road and off-road rides
Wide tyres
Most electric hybrid bikes can tackle everything from smooth tarmac and cobbled streets to canal paths and are comfortable to ride in all conditions – and one of the big reasons for this is their wide tyres.
Many are fitted with tyres that are wider than road bike tyres but narrower than mountain bike tyres. This extra rubber between the wheel and road helps absorb vibrations as you ride along. When you need to head off-road, onto gravel, shale or even mud, they’ll provide the grip you need to keep you stable.
Mudguards, pannier racks, lights and kickstands
When it comes to riding around town or commuting to work, convenience matters, and that’s why most hybrid bikes have mounts for mudguards and panniers. Some commuter hybrids come with these essentials already fitted.
You may also see fixed lights on hybrid e-bikes. It’s becoming a common feature because most e-bike power systems have a separate lighting circuit that you can control from the e-bike display unit.
The benefits are better visibility, and you’ll never need to worry about replacing light batteries ever again!
Ready to shop for a new electric bike?
At Halfords, we have the UK’s largest range of electric hybrids in stock and ready to ride! You can shop the entire range online, get exclusive deals, and access affordable finance options.
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CARRERA IMPEL IM-1 |
CARRERA IMPEL IM-2 |
CARRERA IMPEL IM-3 |
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| Battery | Internal 367 WH providing up to 50 miles of assistance | Internal 367 WH providing up to 50 miles of assistance | Internal 496 WH providing up to 75 miles of assistance |
| Display | LED - Light Display | LCD - Screen Display | LCD - Screen Display |
| Gears | 1 | 9 | 10 |
| Brakes | V-Brakes | Mechanical Disc Brakes | Hydraulic Disc Brakes |
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Additional Features |
USB charging allows you to charge other devices from the USB port on the display | USB charging allows you to charge other devices from the USB port on the display | |
| Shop Now | Shop Now | Shop Now |
If you can visit your local Halfords store, you can get up close and personal with our range of e-bikes.
Our in-store technicians can help you select a suitable e-bike, answer any questions you might have and discuss finance options.
Find your local Halfords storeWant to test-ride an e-bike?
Halfords is giving every rider the chance to test ride an e-bike. Find a suitable slot and book a test ride online. You can choose from a wide range of makes and models, enjoying up to 6 hours of pedalling pleasure.
Book an e-bike test rideMore reasons to buy an electric hybrid bike…
Electric hybrid bikes are versatile, convenient and equally adept on a commute, touring adventure or relaxed leisure rides. But that’s not all. There are lots of reasons why you should consider an electric hybrid bike as your next bike:
They make cycling accessible for everyone
Pedal assistance reduces the fear of cycling and adds more fun. The battery-powered motor provides extra assistance, meaning riders of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy life on two wheels. As your fitness and confidence increase, you can use less motor power and more pedal power.
E-bikes are making cycling more accessible for everyone.
They cut time, costs and stress from every commute
Do you fancy riding to work but are put off by the thought of walking into the office exhausted? Or are you’re worried the ride is too far? An electric hybrid bike makes commuting to work easier and more accessible than ever!
On busy city streets, you’ll be able to move faster than cars and public transport. Accelerating away from traffic lights can make the stop-start nature of city riding a little bit more fun, too (mainly as you shoot away from other road riders!).
If you’re new to cycling or are worried about cycling long distances on your commute, an electric bike can take the fear out of the journey and the sting out of the legs. Over time, you can build up your strength and stamina, and you’ll find yourself using less assistance (and needing to charge the battery less often).
Arrive fresh
You’ll no longer need to work up a sweat over your local leg-sapping climbs; the motor can take most of the strain for you, keeping you feeling fresher for longer. You can even cycle in your work clothes - great if you’re heading to a meeting or don’t have showers at work.
However, if you want a workout or simply don’t need pedal assistance for a certain ride, turn it down (or off entirely) and enjoy your ride!
The future of urban transport
In busy cities across the UK, bikes are the future. An electric hybrid bike is a genuine alternative to owning a car, especially in congested towns and cities where travelling, even short distances, can take hours.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re slicing through traffic on your way to work, picking up your weekly shop or simply moseying on down to the pub for a swift half with friends – an electric hybrid bike is a low cost, low maintenance, low-stress way to travel. And that’s without considering the environmental benefits of e-bikes and the improvements to your health from regular cycling.
Many cities are now introducing clean air zones too, which means additional charges for those driving – something you can avoid by riding an electric bike. So, whichever way you look at it, electric bikes are the future of urban transport.
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