Long Levers - Help Please!

[MaryPoppins]

Hi everyone,
I'm looking to buy an e-bike for my 20ish mile round commute which is mostly flat with a couple of hills thrown in. Budget-wise, I'm thinking £1500 - £2500 but to purchase through the Cyclescheme. I have started looking online but have become instantly bamboozled by the options. One big factor - I am 6ft 6 ins so I need something with a 'large' frame. I would really appreciate some pointers.

So far, I have been looking (online) at the Orbea Gain F20, Giant Explore, Kalkhoff Endeavour or the Cannondale Neo but then get a bit lost. Any personal experience would be really helpful.
Thanks

 

[RobF]

You need to decide if you want a flat bar bike or a roadie style drop bar one.

The Orbea Gain is a little different from the others in that it has a light assist motor and a smaller battery.

That may be sufficient for your needs, but it won't be as good on steep hills as the others.

Most people who commute find they need mudguards and a rack for carrying stuff.

They can be retrofitted to nearly all bikes, but are often neater if bought as factory spec.

The Kalkhoff also has lights, which at this price point are usually decent.

You may find you want to supplement those with a set of rechargeables.

 

[MaryPoppins]

Thanks Rob. Definitely a flat bar and it's interesting what you say about the Orbea motor - it looks like this is the same (ebikemotion) that is the Ribble Hybrid which is a gorgeous looking bike. But, as you say, it may not get me up the hills without some degree of effort in my work clothes!

I would definitely want something specced up - mudguards, rack, lights. Will keep looking but thanks for the input.

 

[Gaz]

My Whyte Coniston has been great, size wise for me, at a tad over 6'4" (36" inside leg and size 14's).

Three years into ownership and still thoroughly enjoying it.

Gaz

 

[RobF]

Thanks Rob. Definitely a flat bar and it's interesting what you say about the Orbea motor - it looks like this is the same (ebikemotion) that is the Ribble Hybrid which is a gorgeous looking bike. But, as you say, it may not get me up the hills without some degree of effort in my work clothes!

I would definitely want something specced up - mudguards, rack, lights. Will keep looking but thanks for the input.

The Orbea does have the same motor as the Ribble.

Wide choice of flat bar fully equipped trekking bikes.

Cube are usually good value, and there are several different Raleigh Motuses.

A hub gear is a good choice for a commuter unless you have very steep hills because first may not be quite as low as a derailer bike.

Advantages of a hub is long chain life because the chain always runs in perfect alignment, is never derailed, and the higher chain line keeps it cleaner.

Hub gears are close to maintenance free, all they need is a very occasional cable adjustment.

Handy being able to change at rest on a commute which involves lots of starting and stopping.

 

[sjpt]

Advantages of a hub is long chain life because the chain always runs in perfect alignment, is never derailed, and the higher chain line keeps it cleaner.

and the chain is wider and stronger.