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Ignore the sceptics – electric bikes are the business. Power over hills, get one over on local traffic, wave goodbye to public transport, and have fun doing it!
For electric bike converts like ourselves, e-bike wattage is one of the first topics would-be buyers hit upon. 500W e-bikes are a popular rating. But how fast can a 500W electric bike go? How far can it be ridden?
In this article, Discerning Cyclist will aim to answer those questions (and much more besides).
E-Bike Wattage Explained
The wattage of an e-bike refers to the power output of its motor. This figure can be calculated as follows – bear with us here because this is important – multiply the voltage supplied by the battery (in volts) by the maximum current flowing from the battery to the motor (in amps).
For example, a 36V battery with a 15A controller would have a motor with a 540W output. It’s important to note that different manufacturers may use various methods to calculate the wattage of their e-bike motors, such as the maximum continuous output that the motor can sustain without overheating.
Additionally, it’s important to distinguish between the wattage of the motor and the watt-hour (Wh) rating of the battery. The battery rating refers to the capacity of the battery to deliver a certain number of watts to the motor per hour.
Electric bike batteries usually have a Wh rating of between 300 and 500, though more powerful 750Wh batteries are becoming more common. Some e-bikes even have two battery ports to increase their range.
500W Electric Bike
Now, back to that 500W electric bike. 500W electric bikes are a popular choice for those looking for extra power and speed from their ride.
These bikes are equipped with a motor that is capable of delivering 500 watts of power, which can be helpful when tackling hilly terrain or when you just want to move a little faster.
Perform a quick tinkle on the keyboard and up pops plenty of websites advertising the best 500W e-bike, the one with the longest range , or even the one with the fastest acceleration. So which is best? Read on to look at 500W electric bikes in detail.
How Fast Does a 500W Electric Bike Go?
At double the most common wattage for electric bike motors, 500W electric bike’s are fast – most will comfortably offer assistance over and above 20mph, with some even reaching 25mph.
But before you get too excited, you must be mindful of the relevant electric bike laws in the country you’re riding in – the top speed limit being a critical one.
In the United Kingdom and the European Union, electric bikes, also known as “electrically assisted pedal cycles” (EAPCs), are required to have a maximum continuous power output of no more than 250W. They should also not assist when over speeds of 15.5mph.
In the United States, the rules regarding the power output of electric bikes vary by state, but the maximum is generally 750W, with the accompanying maximum speed threshold set at 20mph.
500w E-Bike Top Speed
The top speed of a 500W electric bike will vary from model to model. The prevailing riding conditions will also impact the bike’s top speed.
That said, it would be safe to assume that most 500W electric bikes (if not restricted by law) will have a top speed figure north of 20mph.
How Far Can a 500w Electric Bike Go?
A larger capacity battery means you can go further on a single charge, which can be helpful for longer rides or for commuting to work.
But with a hungry motor to power, many 500W electric bikes won’t have a huge riding range.
500W E-Bike Range
In our straw poll, every 500W electric bike we surveyed had a riding range between 25-50 miles. Good, but no better than an electric bike with a standard 250W e-bike motor.
Can a 500W E-Bike Climb a Hill?
Hills are the bain of many a city or commuter cyclist. But with the rise of electric bikes, even the steepest of inclines are not only rideable but fun to tackle.
With the gutsy power of a 500W e-bike motor, hills feel no more than an inconvenience on the way to your destination.
500W Electric Bike Uphill
Of course, hill climbing performance will vary from rider to rider and motor to motor, but it’s safe to assume that a 500W will perform well on the average hill.
Is 500 Watts “Enough” for an E-Bike?
Ultimately, the best wattage for an electric bike is a matter of personal preference. Some riders may prefer the highest wattage available, while others are content with a lower-wattage motor.
Experienced cyclists may find that a 250W motor provides sufficient power, while those new to cycling or seeking quick acceleration and hill-climbing capabilities may prefer a higher-wattage motor.
And, as we’ve already seen, not every 500W electric bike motor is alike. Some have been tuned for top speed, some for hill performance and some for instant acceleration.
The best way to determine the right wattage for you is to test-ride a few different electric bikes before making a purchase.
500W E-Bike Pros and Cons
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Excellent top speed – will suit most people | Riding range is not great |
| Decent acceleration from standing start | Heavy overall bike weight |
| Performs well when climbing hills | |
| May not fit legal requirements |
What is the Difference Between a 500w and 1000w Electric Bike?
Clearly, the gulf between a 500W electric bike and a bike with a 1000W motor will be notable.
At 1000W, these are some of the fastest electric bikes available today. 1000W electric bikes will deliver powerful speed performance, excellent climbing on hills and better assistance for heavier riders.
However, speed isn’t everything. Most 1000W electric bikes are not the lightest e-bikes around. With a gutsy, watt-hungry motor and a larger capacity battery to power it, there’s a weight penalty to pay when riding a 1000W e-bike.
Some 1000W electric bikes are sold with two batteries to compensate for the extra power required, but again, this will make the overall e-bike much heavier.
When it comes to choosing between a 500W electric bike and a 1000W e-bike, it will be a trade-off between overall price, top speed, riding range and hill performance. Your requirements may differ from the next person, but in our opinion, a 500W electric bike offers a happy medium.
500W vs 1000W eBike Comparison
| 500 Watt E-Bike | 1000 Watt E-Bike |
|---|---|
| Delivering assistance speeds over and above 20mph – this will be enough for most | For when speed is of the essence |
| Flattens out hills with aplomb | Laughs in the face of hills |
| Offers acceptable riding range | Will require more visits to the charger |
Best 500w Electric Bikes (Top 4 Picks)
1. Aventon Pace 500
-
£1,320 -
$1,599 -
€1,516
Prices are approximate
Aventon’s Pace 500 is, as the suggests, a 500W electric bike. A hybrid or urban e-bike, the Pace 500 will suit most riders looking to get around at a good lick. The quoted top speed by Aventon is 28mph. The average riding range of 40 miles is acceptable too. The Pace 500 comes in two colours and two different frame sizes.
2. Gocycle G4
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£2,339
-
$2,832
-
€2,685
Prices are approximate
Gocycle electric bikes are some of the most recognisable around. The Gocycle G4 is the brand’s base model, but with its proprietary motor, enclosed drivetrain and quick-fold, this is one fine e-bike. For customers in the UK and EU the front motor hub is limited to 250W, but for customers in the US this rises to 500W.
3. Viribus Getaway Electric Folding Bike
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£552
-
$669
-
€634
Prices are approximate
The Getaway folding bike for adults gives you the most optimal riding experience. With a 576Wh battery that runs up to 50 miles per charge, you can take your foldable e-bike to faraway lands and indulge in adventure. The fat tires on this folding e-bike provide stability and comfort, which you’ll need on long rides to your favorite camping spot, or wherever you like to go. The tri-fold design allows you to fold the bike in just 10 seconds.
4. Evelo Galaxy Lux
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£2,442
-
$2,959
-
€2,804
Prices are approximate
Smooth, quiet and so easy to use – Galaxy Lux is built on a compact platform ideal for beginner and seasoned riders from 4’10” to 5’10”.
With an easy to get on and off step-through frame, 24″ wheels for extra stability, handlebars designed for an upright sitting position, as well a fully automatic shifting system – Enviolo Automatiq, high-power mid-drive motor system and maintenance-free Gates Carbon Belt Drive – this is the bike that’s easy to ride and stress-free to own.
Overall, 500W electric bikes are a solid choice for those who want a little extra power and a longer range from their ride. Just be sure to consider the weight of the bike and any local laws or regulations before making a purchase.
