With a growing popularity, the electric bike has today become an integral part of the urban landscape in France. A question often arises when considering purchasing this vehicle: how much does an electric bike cost?
Through this article, we explain the reasons why some models are more expensive than others, the factors that impact the cost, the additional fees to consider, and the subsidies available to reduce the initial investment.
How much does an electric bike cost in 2025?
Practical and eco-friendly, the electric bike presents itself as an ideal alternative to thermal cars. In 2025, the price of an electric bike can vary depending on the range and model chosen. But before we delve into this topic, let’s first look at the main market trends.
High-end electric bikes: the pinnacle of performance and durability
If you are the demanding type because your electric bike accompanies you on all your wild adventures, the high-end models are made for you!
High-end electric bikes have a price exceeding €3000, sometimes reaching €6000 and more. This range is distinguished by more efficient batteries, more powerful motors, and frames made from more durable materials.
The premium aspect will therefore be directly felt in this category, which generally attracts true high-speed enthusiasts.
The Garrett Miller Z electric two-seater cargo bike falls into this category. This fully suspended and 100% all-terrain model will delight the most demanding riders. At Weebot, this bike is offered at the lowest market price, which is €2790.
Mid-range electric bikes: the category of compromises
Entering a price range of €1500 to €3000, mid-range electric bikes are often well-equipped, with satisfactory autonomy and quality components. They are well-suited for daily use, combining comfort and reliability to convince any connoisseur in the field.
Entry-level electric bikes: accessible, but not very efficient
Entry-level electric bikes are both practical and affordable, regularly used for short trips or occasional use. They are primarily aimed at those on a budget dreaming of a reliable vehicle, but also at people looking to discover the joys of electric biking.
Entry-level electric bikes cost around €500 to €1500, with a range generally less than 100 km. And with an average motor of 250W, this range of electric bike prevents any road madness.
What type of electric bike for what price?
|
Type of bike |
Price range |
Main use |
|
Urban bikes |
600 to 3,500 € |
Daily commuting in the city, offering comfort and practicality. |
|
Folding bikes |
400 to 1,500 € |
Multimodal vehicle, offering space-saving and ease of storage. |
|
Electric mountain bikes |
800 to 6,000 € |
Practices for hiking and riding on rough terrain, offering off-road performance. |
|
Electric cargo bikes |
2,000 to 6,000 € and more |
Used for transporting passengers and heavy loads, ideal for large families and professionals. |
What are the factors that influence the price?
Several elements can influence the price of an electric bike. It is not just about the brand or the power. To better understand the differences in prices in the market, we will analyze all these key factors.
The engine: The element that determines performance
As with any vehicle, the type and power are key elements that directly influence the cost of the device. In the case of electric bikes, there are two main types of motorization: pedal motors, friction motors, and hub motors.
Pedal-assist motors are very popular today, due to their better assistance technologies. They offer excellent efficiency and adapt to any type of electric bike.
As for the friction motors, they operate like an inverted dynamo and are mainly used for sports and tourism purposes.
Finally, the hub motors or wheel motors are the most common and accessible. They are often found on entry-level models.
The other element to consider regarding the motor is the torque. It determines part of the force produced by the motor. The higher its value, the smoother the acceleration will be, and the less effort you will need to climb slopes. Depending on the model of the electric bike, the torque can range from 30 to 85 Nm, and even up to 130 Nm for the latest generations of motors.
The battery: a determining factor of autonomy
On an electric vehicle, the battery is certainly the most important component of all. Expressed in Wh, it determines the bike's range and ensures the proper functioning of the wheels. The battery's range is often a real headache for users. Despite the existence of summary tables from several brands, it remains difficult to estimate as there are so many factors to take into account.
So, the battery's amperage is not the only factor that determines its range. One must also consider the weight of the cyclist, the climate, the condition of the road, and more. A 500Wh battery is certainly more expensive than a 300Wh model, but it technically allows for riding a greater distance.
The quality of the components: a guarantee of comfort and safety
Another determining factor is the price of the electric bike: the quality of its components. We are talking here about the braking system, transmission, and suspensions. Hydraulic brakes are now very common and offer increased safety thanks to quick and efficient braking. A smooth transmission and good suspensions enhance riding comfort and allow you to fully enjoy your electric bike.
The brand and their technological innovations
Some brands justify their higher prices by the technological innovations integrated into their devices, such as power sensors, Bluetooth connectivity, or advanced security systems. These gadgets enhance the user experience and make daily life easier for cyclists.
The weight of the electric bike: a compromise between performance and cost
The weight of an electric bike directly impacts its performance and price. Lighter models, made with high-quality materials, are often more expensive but more maneuverable and portable. Conversely, a heavier bike, equipped with powerful motors and large-capacity batteries, is more performant and therefore, more expensive.
Lightness and maneuverability: a key factor in the price of a bicycle
The weight of an electric bike is directly influenced by the materials used in its design, and this significantly impacts its cost. For example, an aluminum frame, which is lighter and more durable than a steel frame, can reduce the overall weight of the bike by 1.5 to 2 kg. This reduction improves maneuverability, but these lighter materials, often used in mid-range and high-end models, significantly increase the price.
An entry-level electric bike made of steel, weighing around 25 to 30 kg, can cost between €500 and €1500, while a lighter model, with an aluminum or carbon frame, can reach prices of €2500 to €4000.
You will have understood that the choice of material has a direct impact on the financial accessibility of the bike while influencing the ease of transport, especially for those living in apartments or needing to transport their bike regularly.
Weight and performance: a cost factor related to autonomy
The weight of an electric bike is not limited to its transport; it also influences its performance, particularly the range and power.
Heavier bikes are often associated with more powerful motors (500W and above, for example) and larger capacity batteries (750 Wh and above).
An electric bike equipped with a 500 Wh battery and a 250W motor, typically found in entry-level models, allows for a range of 50 to 80 km, and costs between €1000 and €2000.
On the other hand, a high-end model with a 750 Wh battery and a 500W or 750W motor has a range of 100 to 150 km and will cost between €3000 and €6000 depending on additional features (suspension, frame materials, etc.).
This compromise between weight and performance meets the needs of different types of users, but it is important to understand that increased performance and a higher weight result in a higher cost.
By combining these different points, we understand why the prices of electric bikes vary so much. Before buying, it is advisable to clearly define your needs and budget. This will allow you to more easily identify the models with the best value for money.
Should additional fees be anticipated?
In addition to the purchase price, buyers must also take into account certain additional costs that can increase the long-term cost of the electric bike. In this section, we will look at these costs and explain their importance for your electric bike.
The charging of the electric bike
Compared to other types of electric vehicles (car, scooter, etc.), charging an electric bike remains very economical. In France, a full charge of an electric bike costs on average between 10 and 25 cents, depending on the battery capacity and the rate of your electricity provider. To know the exact price, you just need to do the calculation: multiply the capacity of your battery by the price you pay for your electricity. Overall, this amounts to between 8.43 and 23.48 cents per charge.
Maintenance and any necessary repairs
Like any vehicle, the electric bike requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This includes changing the tires, maintaining the brakes, and the battery. Over a year, this represents a budget of approximately €50 to €200.
Bicycle insurance and security
Investing in a good lock may prove necessary to park your device safely on the street. And to be even more at ease, why not take out theft and damage insurance? This would allow you to receive compensation in case of damage or theft of your bike.
"For use in an urban area, it would also be interesting to take out liability insurance. This protects you financially by covering the compensation of third parties."
What assistance is available to reduce the price of an electric bike?
To encourage the purchase of electric bikes and promote green mobility, the government has implemented numerous attractive subsidies. Bike bonuses, conversion grants, local and regional aid, etc., these financial aids are available under certain conditions.
The Bike Bonus
The Bicycle Bonus is a government subsidy available for the purchase or rental of a bicycle (classic and electric). The ecological bonus "VAE" particularly facilitates the acquisition of a new or second-hand electric bicycle, capped at €400 per bicycle and subject to income conditions. However, you are advised to hurry if you want to take advantage of this aid, as it will be definitively removed on February 14, 2025.
Local and regional aid
"Today, many municipalities and regions offer additional assistance to facilitate the purchase of an electric bike. Cities, for example, offer up to €500, depending on the chosen model and under certain income conditions."
The conversion bonus
Just like the bicycle bonus, the conversion premium will disappear on February 14, 2025. It is set at 40% of the purchase cost, with a limit of €3,000 that can be combined with the bicycle bonus (if your RFR is less than or equal to €7,100).
Conclusion
As you have seen, the price of an electric bike can vary widely depending on many criteria. Before investing, it is crucial to determine your needs and budget to choose the model that will suit you best. Don't hesitate to compare offers and consult the available state aids to lighten your investment. At Weebot, we offer models with the best value for money. Come take a look!