You’ve probably seen those marketing claims like, “This electric bike can go up to 200 miles on a single charge.” But pay attention to the "up to" part—because that's the max range in the perfect conditions.
The whole idea of “long range” really depends on who you ask. For me, it’s about being able to ride the distance I need in a day, at a speed I’m comfortable with, without stressing over the battery dying halfway through.
Sure, some companies will talk up their bikes’ long range capabilities, but their idea of “long distance” might not really line up with what you actually need.
What “Long Range” Really Means
Long range is not a universal concept. For one person, it might mean riding 50 miles, while for someone else, it could mean 100 miles or more.
In my case, long range isn’t just about how far the bike can go on a single charge—it’s about knowing I can complete my ride without worrying about the battery running out.
Not all bikes marketed as having long range will meet your expectations. What works for one rider may not work for another.
It’s important to understand your own riding habits and what you consider long range before making a decision. So, if you’re thinking about buying a bike with long range, what should you really be looking for?
Comfortable Saddle
No matter how powerful your motor or how big your battery is, a comfortable electric bike saddle is everything for long rides. If the saddle doesn’t fit right, you’re not going to last long, no matter how far the bike can go.
Trust me, it was always the biggest issue for me on long rides. Without the right saddle, even a bike with crazy range just won’t cut it. A good saddle makes all the difference, especially when you’re on the bike for hours.
When you’re picking a saddle, it’s all about comfort and fit. Men and women usually need different kinds of saddles since we’re built differently. Women’s saddles are often wider and have a cutout in the middle to reduce pressure, while men’s saddles tend to be narrower and focus more on support where it’s needed most.
One thing you’ll notice is that some bikes let you swap the saddle out for a different one, while others have a fixed saddle because of how the bike is designed. If your bike has a removable saddle, that’s awesome—you can always change it later if it’s not comfy enough. There are plenty of options on Amazon if you want something different.
But if you’re looking at a bike with a fixed saddle, you’ll want to check out the size and design. Take the Qiolor Tiger electric bike long distance, for example.
Its saddle is really long and wide, designed to be comfortable for both men and women. The foam is soft but still gives good support, so you won’t feel sore on longer rides.
Battery Capacity
A bigger battery gives you more power to go farther, but that doesn’t come without a trade-off. It can add weight to your bike, and of course, it can bump up the cost. In most ebikes, you'll see batteries with different voltage options, like 36V, 48V, or even 52V.
Generally, the higher the voltage, the more power you get, which translates to either longer range or faster speeds. But if you’re thinking about hitting longer distances or pushing for higher speeds, a 48V or 52V battery will be your best bet.
Some electric bikes come with a removable battery, carrying a backup can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re out on a trail or riding far from home. Sure, removable batteries might not be as sleek as those integrated ones, but they give you that flexibility to swap in a fresh battery when needed.
Qiolor Tiger best eBike for long distance are designed with integrated batteries that are hidden in the frame for a cleaner. It’s designed so well that unless you take a close look, you wouldn’t even guess it's an e-bike. It gives off more of a motorcycle vibe, but you still get the advantage of swapping the battery out if needed.
Motor Power
A high power motor is absolutely essential for making those long rides easier and more enjoyable. Why? Because a 750W motor, or even more powerful options, gives you the boost you need to maintain high speeds, tackle steep hills, and power through rough terrain without breaking a sweat.
If you're planning on long distance trips, especially on varied or hilly terrain, a lower-powered motor just won't cut it. It’ll drain your battery too quickly, and you’ll struggle to keep up with the distance. A 750W motor (or higher) ensures you have the power to handle whatever challenges the road throws at you.
More power means more battery consumption, but for long-range rides, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks
Choosing the Right Riding Style
For long distance riding, you’ve got two main choices: light and efficient, or heavy-duty and fast.
Light, Efficient Riding (Up to 70 Miles / 112 km): If you want to cover long distances without pushing too hard, go for a lightweight setup. Choose tires that roll smoothly and reduce drag, and opt for a bike that keeps things simple. This way, you’ll get the most out of your battery and won’t have to worry about running out of power too soon. It’s perfect for riders who prefer a relaxed pace and want to make sure they can go the distance without draining their battery.
Heavier, Faster Riding for Longer Distances: If you’re looking for speed or planning to ride more than 70 miles (112 km), you’ll need a beefier setup. A larger motor and battery are essential here. This approach lets you ride faster and cover more ground, but it’ll eat up your battery faster. So, make sure your bike has the power to keep you going without running out of juice too soon.
Long Distance Touring with the Qiolor Tiger
For me, a long distance ride is all about the experience. My goal was simple: ride to the beach, camp, and wake up early to watch the sunrise.
Since I’m not a fan of heavy loads, I kept it light—just a 28L outdoor bag with the essentials. Riding the Qiolor Tiger, I had no issues at all.
The bike effortlessly handled the 120-mile round trip, even with a few long, gradual slopes along the way. The ride was smooth and stress free.
FAQs
Can an electric bike handle long, gradual slopes?
Yes, most modern electric bikes, including the Qiolor Tiger, are designed to handle long, gradual slopes with ease. As long as the bike has a strong motor and adequate battery capacity, you'll have no issues climbing hills during your long-distance rides.
How do I calculate the battery range for my ride?
To estimate the range, consider factors like battery size, terrain, and how much you weigh. Lighter riders on flat terrain can expect a longer range than heavier riders or those riding on hilly terrain. Always make sure your battery is fully charged and consider carrying a backup charger if you’re going on a particularly long trip.
What should I consider when choosing an electric bike for long-distance touring?
Focus on comfort, range, and motor performance. Make sure the saddle suits your riding style, the bike has enough range to meet your needs, and the motor is powerful enough to handle long, challenging routes. Additionally, look for a bike that is sturdy but lightweight enough for comfortable touring.
Read More
How Much Does it Cost to Charge Your Electric Bike?
Why Electric Bikes? Distance, Effort, or Speed?
What Should I Look Out for When Purchasing a Used Commuter E-Bike?
Is Rear Suspension Necessary on an Electric Bike?
How to Adjust Brake Calipers and Eliminate Brake Rub on Your E-Bike
