A matter of weight 

How many kilos do eBikes weigh?

A matter of weight 

How many kilos do eBikes weigh?

eBike Weight: This is how heavy electric bikes really are

Electric bikes usually weigh more than conventional bikes, mainly because of the motor and battery. But what does 'more' mean? How heavy is an eBike as a rule, and what do the drive and battery contribute to the weight? Find out more about the weight of an eBike here.

How pedelecs work

eBikes – we usually mean pedelecs by this – have a built-in electric motor. When you pedal, the Bosch drive unit in the bottom bracket area helps you up to a speed of 25 kilometres per hour. As a rule, you have a choice of four support levels, which you can select via the on-board computer. The pedal support makes it easier for you to cover longer distances and to tackle ascents. The eMTB mode for Bosch Performance Line and Performance Line CX even makes uphill riding a unique experience: It offers optimised power and maximum traction and control.

Bosch does not manufacture the complete bicycles - only the drive units, recharcheable batteries and on-board computers. Renowned manufacturers use these components in their eBikes. The technology is perfectly coordinated - the Performance Line CX is the most powerful drive unit from Bosch.

Which eBikes weigh how much on the scales

The weight of eBikes is higher than that of bicycles without electric drives; pedelecs are around six to ten kilograms heavier than comparable conventional bicycles. The exact weight varies depending on the manufacturer, type and frame material. There are ultra-light e-racing bikes with carbon frames that weigh less than ten kilograms. eCargo bikes must be particularly resilient and weigh up to 40 kilograms. eMTBs come in at 15 to 28 kilos and practical folding bikes for commuters weigh around 20 kilos. A standard eBike usually weighs between 20 and 25 kilograms including motor and battery.

For the eMountain bike category “Light eMTB”, Bosch eBike Systems has developed the Performance Line SX. It is lighter weight than other Bosch drive units and has an even more natural riding sensation. Its low weight also makes it suitable for eGravel and eUrban bikes.

This is how many kilos the battery and drive contribute

Electric motors from Bosch eBike Systems weigh between three and four kilograms. Drives on the rear wheel hub are somewhat lighter than mid-drive motors, but they are rarely used nowadays due to their disadvantages. Batteries from Bosch eBike Systems weigh between three and four kilograms. They fit on the luggage rack, neatly on the frame or cleverly integrated into the frame. As the battery capacity increases, so does the weight. eBike batteries from Bosch have an energy content of 300 to 625 watt hours.

Other factors that influence the weight of an eBike

Whether an eBike is light or a heavy also depends on the material of the frame. Steel is the heaviest; carbon the lightest, but also the most expensive and most fragile. This is why most choose aluminium for their eMountain bike. The material offers a good compromise between weight and price.

Other factors that influence the weight of an eBike: Disc brakes are often installed on modern eBikes. They weigh slightly more than rim brakes. The new Bosch ABS also adds some weight to the eBike, but also provides a significant safety enhancement.

It is important that the brakes, the frame and all other components are adapted to the weight of the eBike. A consultation with the specialist dealer can help. Click here for the Bosch eBike dealer search.