Newbie - looking at Electric bike for the fiancée

[Crazylegs1892]

Hello folks, hope everyone is well.

I'm in the research phase at the moment on electric bikes. I've currently narrowed it down to either a Wisper 905 Torque, or a Haibike Sduro Trekking 4 however this would be a second hand purchase where as the Wisper would be new.

I had initially tried to persuade my fiancée who has no clue about bikes into buying a Decathlon E-st 900 but from what I've read, the chains are weak. Also the more I read about mid-drive motors, they're expensive when they go wrong and more problematic too but are a more intuitive ride in comparison to a hub drive which is when I stumbled on the Wisper 905 Torque.

Based on what I've read so far, I'd have one in a heartbeat but I get the sense the missus doesn't like the look of them and would prefer something more expensive and better known. The Wisper seems to be a great bike, perfect for her especially as she's unfit and not confident on a bike. It would literally be used for work trips of only a few miles a day plus the occasional drive out towing our twins.

I'm just having a real job persuading her to go for one. We also tested a Specialized Como the other day which was fabulous as well.

 

[soundwave]

the yamaha motors can be serviced and most parts inc controllers can be bought but the batts are expensive but 3rd party ones can be bought for about 400 quid.

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[Nealh]

You will actually find that Wisper were designing /selling ebikes well before the likes of Bosh or Yamaha came on the scene , they may not be a household name in traditional pedal bike terms but are in/on the UK e bike scene as are Woosh bikes.

 

[matthewslack]

Get the fiance to test ride pulling loaded trailer with both types of drive system ... Listen to their feedback.

 

[Nealh]

Typically the two main drive systems are either hub drive or mid motor drive, the first tends to be simple cadence rotation sensor activation . Ideal for leisurely commute riding or a town bike for errands, they are best suited to a current control type controller systems with 5 power levels.
The latter system is typically torque sensing , this is more suited to sport riding and good rider input to get the best out of the torque multiplying used for the rotation sensor used.

If one has weak legs or weak stamina then the first option is better , if one likes to bust a gut and pedal very hard/fast then the latter option is better.

The only way to decide which is preferred is to test ride a sample of bikes, with the hub bikes though one has to make sure they are not the crappy speed control types that gives most folks and ebikes shop a false appreciation of how they operate.

Most ebike shops only sell the more expensive mid motor bikes because one they are blind and two there margins are higher selling more expensive bikes.
A good seller or shop will sell both systems and sell the one that suits the users use and ability best and not simply because they have been indoctrinated by the large brand suppliers who seem to collar the maerket..

 

[Crazylegs1892]

Thanks very much for the feedback folks. She's actually leaning towards a Wayfarer H7 Hub-Drive low step now.

 

[Johnny 61]

Recently bought a Haibike Trekking 6 High Step the 2022 model on sale cost £2,200 so about the same price as the Wayfarer you are considering. Did thorough research of all e-bike brands/models and the Yamaha mid drive motor. Haibike have an excellent reputation, build quality and built in Germany could not find a better option in this mid-price range. The bike is excellent rides very well, the motor assistance on high setting easily climbs the steepest of hills on the flat the eco+ (lowest assistance) works well conserving battery power. The good tork immediately cuts in when required motor is very quiet even on high when climbing.
If possible would suggest trying different bikes/brands to see what she feels most comfortable riding. Found e-bike dealers very easy to talk to and advice is tailored to the individuals riding/style requirements, experience and frame size required.

 

[Wisper Bikes]

Recently bought a Haibike Trekking 6 High Step the 2022 model on sale cost £2,200 so about the same price as the Wayfarer you are considering.

All good advice Johny, FYI the Wayfarer H7 is a little less expensive at £1,899.00.

All the best, David