Introduction
A fat tire bike can be generally recognized by its bigger and wider tires, which gives it a more imposing look than the average bicycle. It is a preferred option for commuters and adventurers of all types since it is ideal for different situations. Slick city streets can be easily navigated using one. On the trail, a fat tire ebike is perfect for navigating tight corners on the different terrains you encounter, from sandy dunes to thick snow.
The versatility of fat bikes across rocky grounds and smooth streets is one of the reasons for their increasing popularity. Why keep two when one can do it all? There are many benefits to be enjoyed from riding a fat tire electric bicycle. However, getting the best one requires knowing how to identify it correctly. This article provides information to guide you.
Choosing your First Electric Fat Bike
A fat bike is one of the best ways to travel, allowing you to downsize your car or avoid public transport. There are several things to consider when choosing one. These include the following:
Frame
The first fat bike was created out of a need to commute conveniently on rocky terrain. At the time, the ingenious inventor managed to weld some wheel rims together for a wider front fork. Now, there are many high-quality options to explore.
The frame is crucial to the durability of the e-bike and the level of comfort you enjoy when riding it. You have to consider the quality it is made of before choosing. This is because you could purchase a durable bike made of stainless steel, which will make it too heavy to lift for stowage. The best choices tend to be reliable, durable, and lightweight. You need a high-quality electric bicycle built from aluminum, which is just as strong but much lighter. To enjoy maximum comfort, ensure you get a bike with the accurate frame size for your body proportions.
Suspension
Fat bikes use a suspension system, which is needed to enhance the quality of comfort enjoyed on rides. You may not need one if most of your traveling is done on smooth asphalt roads and city streets. However, a quality suspension system is needed if you intend to go off-road from time to time. It helps the e-bike provide better shock absorption for a balanced and steady ride across rough terrain.
Front and rear suspension systems are the two most commonly used. Opt for the one most suitable for your terrain. A bike with a front fork or full hydraulic suspension is your best bet for intense offroading.
Battery
The battery is a necessity on any electric bicycle, needed to power every aspect of your ride. Measured in Watts (W), you have to pay attention to the information provided in the e-bike specs. The capacity, voltage, range, and manufacturer are details you should not miss when choosing the best fat bike for your needs. The capacity affects the range, which is the potential distance you can travel per single full charge of the battery.
To enjoy long-range on your fat e-bike, choose one with a high-quality lithium-ion battery from a reputable brand like Samsung, LG, or Panasonic. A voltage of 36V or 48V and a capacity of at least 672Wh is enough to get some range. An example is the Himiway Zebra, which uses a 48V 20Ah Samsung/LG battery with 960Wh capacity. With this, you can enjoy a range of up to 80 miles using pedal assist.
Motor
Fat bikes are built to provide smooth commutes across different terrains, especially rough ones. This is due to the motor that outputs power for riding up hilly climbs. It works with the pedal-assist system to push you up difficult parts of your adventure. Measured in Watts (W), the wattage determines the amount of torque it can generate. You need a motor of at least 500W if you intend to navigate rough terrain. With 250W, it will not be a problem commuting on city streets where you have less debris and obstacles.
The best motor for offroading has to be between 500W and 1000W. With anything within this range and above, you can conveniently move through any terrain with your rear rack loaded to payload capacity. The Himiway Cruiser uses a 750W geared hub motor, which can generate 86Nm of torque for climbing steep uphills.
Brakes
When riding a fat bike, the imposing build and larger components mean greater braking force than average is required. A standard e-bike has about two to four pistons, with each representing additional speed for quick application of the brakes. Fat bikes need a large rotor for a more forceful stoppage.
The two types of brakes commonly used are hydraulic and mechanical. There are several merits and demerits to using each, but the best is the one most suitable for your riding situation. Mechanical disc brakes are better preferred due to their affordability and low-maintenance requirements.
Benefits of Riding a Fat Bike
There are several reasons why a fat bike is the first choice for many riders. Some of these include the following:
Sturdy
Fat bikes are built bigger and designed with larger components. To ensure you can still carry them conveniently, aluminum is employed in their manufacture, which is just as durable but lighter than steel. This is also a way to identify if you are getting a high-quality option. The wider tires cover more of the ground’s surface, allowing it to balance better. When deflated to low pressure, you can still enjoy a comfortable enough ride. The tires alone allow fat bikes to provide better stability than regular e-bikes.
Versatile
A fat tire e-bike is perfect for those who intend to ride all through the year. The weather and road conditions hardly matter to someone dedicated to their hobby or sport. It gets better when you have a fat bike built to handle all the terrains you will encounter, including muddy, sandy, and snowy. With one, you can go camping or enjoy a road trip, since the rear rack is large enough to contain all the gear you need. You can also decide to use it to take care of your commute to and from work. Versatility is one of the reasons fat bikes are getting popular.
Better for Beginners
The high-quality features of fat tire e-bikes make them great for those learning to ride for the first time and those trying to get back to cycling. You enjoy improved ergonomics and balance from the wider tires, so you don’t need much additional support as you proceed. Even the most amateur beginner can have a great time on a fat bike. It is easier to focus on the ride itself once the fear of falling sideways is reduced.
Conclusion
Electric fat bikes are a preferred option by many for the increased convenience they provide. They are easier to ride and maintain and are suitable for multi-terrain riding. It is easier to stop using two e-bikes when you have this versatile option. To get the best one, ensure to go through the information in this article. Here, you will find some crucial factors to consider when choosing a fat bike and the benefits of doing this. You only have to get the best electric bikes for your personal specs. Our online store contains fat bikes with some of the best value for money in high-quality components and features. Visit today to see which Himiway e-bike is most suitable for your terrain.