Topic: news E-Bike Buyer’s Guide: Tips on Shopping for Electric Bikes in China

I would add this: 1. Brakes are crucial - make sure both rear and front have disc brakes. Drum brakes wear quickly and aren't so easy to replace. 2: Size matters - make sure you fit the bike and the bike fits your needs and location. Big flashy bikes look good and go fast but in poor cities are quickly targeted. Bigger bikes can be hard to park in very congested urban areas and will be scratched and dented by clumsy locals not to mention being harder to control if you are inexperienced. 3. Money matters: don't spend more than 4,000 on a bike. Like most things made here, they fall apart easily and the most essential parts will need replacing within 9-12 months. If you are a complete newbie you can pick up second hand/ refurbished/ stolen and repainted ebikes in various areas of your city - often besides ebike markets or from expats. I don't suggest a second hand bike because the parts might be pretty much shot within a few months but they are a good way to learn to ride and can be a good short term investment if you are new to China and unsure how long you might stay. 4.Battery. Bigger batteries mean more power but they take longer to charge and being lead dont hold as much charge in winter. Lithium batteries are more portable and longer lasting but are more expensive and there has been a spate of fires from over charging (at least in HZ where i live). 5. Riding. If you are clueless then just follow everyone else. If you are unsure of the route to work or back home then follow a bus or alternatively use your map app. Whatever you do, keep your eyes on the road at all times and drive defensively. That means anticipate accidents and trouble spots and never expect a local to ride logically - just expect the unexpected and you will be fine. Cheers.