7 reasons hills stop mattering on an eBike
The hill itself isn't really the problem. It's arriving tired, needing cycling gear, and hunting for a shower. Here's how an eBike takes all three away, and what to look for so it actually does.
Arrive fresh, not wrecked
A hill on the way in usually means turning up tired before the day has started. Pedal assist adds motor power every time you push, up to 25 km/h, so you get to the top with energy left for the day.
Ride in your work clothes
No lycra, no padded shorts, no change of clothes rolled up in the bag. Keep the assist up on the climb and ride in whatever you're wearing for the day.
Skip the shower
Because the motor does the heavy lifting on the hill, you're not arriving in a sweat. No need for an office shower, or to plan your day around one.
Torque does the climbing
Torque, measured in Nm, is the motor's pulling power and the best single number for hills. Around 50 Nm handles most climbs; 75 Nm or a 100 Nm mid-drive is for steep hills every day.
Manufacturer specs: Fiido M1 Pro 50 Nm, Engwe EP-2 3.0 Boost 75 Nm, Engwe L20 3.0 Pro 100 Nm.
Low gears keep you pedalling smoothly
On a steep pitch, a low gear lets you keep a steady, easy pedal while the motor pulls. More gears give you more room to find the right one. Look for 7 speeds or more.
The right tyres grip on the climb
Wider tyres hold on wet roads, gravel and broken surfaces when you're pushing uphill. Smaller 20-inch wheels are quicker to get going from a standstill on a slope.
The hill becomes the fun bit
The climb you used to dread turns into the part you look forward to. Feel it for yourself on a free test ride in Blanchardstown, Portobello or Cork, and save up to 52% through Cycle to Work.
