Woman resting on a bench with a white step through frame electric bike beside her, overlooking the ocean under a blue sky.

Different Types of E-Bikes and Their Best Use Cases

May 13, 2025

With so many models, motor styles, and features out there, choosing the right electric bike can feel like navigating a maze. This electric bike guide will help you understand the different e-bike types UK riders have to choose from and highlight their ideal use cases. Whether you’re searching for a pedal-assist ride for your morning commute or a rugged trike to carry groceries uphill, we’ll walk you through what matters most. And if you’re ready to ride, you might just find your dream bike at Glide & Gear.

E-Bike Categories: What You Need to Know

Before diving into the different e-bike categories, let’s explore the three official classes of e-bikes:

Class 1: Pedal-Assist Only

Assists only when you pedal, up to 20 mph. Perfectly legal on cycle paths and pavements in most areas of the UK.

Class 2: Pedal-Assist + Throttle

Offers throttle functionality so you can cruise without pedalling. Also capped at 20 mph, though less common in the UK due to stricter regulations.

Class 3: Speed Pedelecs

Offers pedal-assist up to 28 mph, generally restricted from bike paths and may require extra licensing depending on the region.

Most e-bikes sold in the UK fall under Class 1, making them accessible to riders of all abilities without any licensing requirements. When comparing pedal assist vs throttle, Class 1 offers the most versatility and legality across regions.

City E-Bikes vs Mountain E-Bikes

Urban and off-road e-bikes differ significantly in their design and purpose.

City E-Bikes

Ideal for daily errands, leisure rides and urban commutes. Lightweight frames, comfortable seating, and features like mudguards and racks make them a go-to for everyday convenience.

Top Pick: Wisper Tailwind City Low Crossbar E-Bike

Wisper Tailwind City Low Crossbar Electric Bike 250W wisper Black 540Wh [70 Mile Range]

A sleek, comfort-oriented ride for city streets and light countryside paths. Its 250W high-torque motor and ergonomic features make it a perfect option for those seeking a practical yet stylish electric city bike.

Mountain E-Bikes

Built for trails, hills and technical climbs. These bikes offer beefier tyres, superior suspension, and powerful torque to tackle rugged terrain.

Top Pick: Revom T2 Fat Tyre Electric Mountain Tricycle

Revom T2 Fat Tyre Electric Mountain Tricycle 250W revom Black Rear Bag (+£69)

With a 48v motor and all-terrain 4.0" tyres, this trike is your ultimate exploration tool. Equipped with front and rear crates, it also doubles as a capable utility vehicle.

Folding E-Bikes for Commuters

If you're short on storage space or rely on public transport for part of your commute, folding e-bikes are a revelation.

Compact folding e-bike with fat tyres and built-in battery, perfect for adventure cycling and space-saving storage, displayed beside rider in outdoor setting.

Best Use Cases:

Multi-modal commuting (bike + train)
Urban riders in apartments or flats
Caravanners and boaters

Top Pick: Dawes Arc Folding Electric Bike

Dawes Arc Folding Electric Bike 250W dawes

Compact, stylish, and commuter-ready. With a 375Wh battery offering up to 40 miles of range and 20” wheels for a cushioned ride, it’s a brilliant option for urban explorers.

Cargo E-Bikes for Commuters

Need to haul kids, groceries, or deliveries? Cargo e-bikes turn cycling into a practical, everyday vehicle alternative.

Small dog sitting in a bike trailer of electric cargo bike during an outdoor adventure, showcasing a pet-friendly cycling setup in a natural setting.

Best Use Cases:

Family school runs
Grocery shopping
Eco-friendly urban delivery

Top Pick: Amcargobikes Ultimate Harmony Cargo Trike

Amcargobikes Ultimate Harmony Electric Cargo Tricycle amcargobikes

This Danish-designed electric trike combines beauty with brawn. With seating for four kids, a powerful 250W Dapu motor, and TEKRO hydraulic disc brakes, it’s safety and storage rolled into one.

Commuter E-Bikes

For those doing 5–20 mile round-trips daily, a commuter-specific e-bike delivers performance and comfort with minimal fuss.

Cyclist on a commuter electric bike riding past a busy urban street, highlighting the speed and efficiency of e-bikes for city commuting.

Best Use Cases:

City-to-suburb daily riders
Long commutes with mixed terrain
Paved road and cycle path use

Top Pick: Wisper 905 Crossbar Touring E-Bike

Wisper 905 Crossbar Touring Electric Bike Black 250W wisper

Perfect for both road and gravel, this hybrid workhorse offers up to 100 miles of range (with a 700Wh battery), a torque-sensing power pack for natural ride feel, and sturdy components that thrive on longer journeys.

Step Through E-Bikes

Step-through e-bikes provide easy mounting and dismounting—ideal for riders with mobility challenges or those looking for a more casual upright ride.

A woman in a teal jacket sits on a bench, enjoying the view with a Hygge step-through electric bike parked beside her. Featuring a sleek design, rear rack, and ergonomic saddle, this e-bike is perfect for relaxed rides and daily commuting. Available at Glide & Gear.

Best Use Cases:

Older riders
Riders recovering from injury
People wearing restrictive clothing

Top Pick: Revom ST04 Step Through Tourer

Revom ST04 Step Through Electric Bike 250W revom Grey

Designed for comfort and endurance, the ST04 has a whopping 20Ah battery for 70+ miles per charge, ergonomic swept-back handlebars, and a plush ride that makes every outing a breeze.

Mountain E-Bikes

Love getting off the beaten path? Mountain E-Bikes offer technical agility, rugged tyres, and the power to push you uphill without burning out.

Electric mountain bike parked on a scenic hill at sunset, overlooking a rural village and forest – perfect for off-road and commuter e-bike adventures in the UK.

Best Use Cases:

Off-road and trail riding
Hilly commutes
Adventure seekers

Top Pick: Revom T2 Fat Tyre Electric Mountain Tricycle

Revom T2 Fat Tyre Electric Mountain Tricycle 250W revom

Mentioned earlier for its cargo features, this trike also dominates rough trails with its 720Wh battery, push-button parking brakes, and oversized tyres.

Choosing the Right Motor & Battery Setup

When comparing e-bikes, consider both motor placement and battery capacity.

Rear Hub vs Mid-Drive Motors

Rear hub motors (like Bafang or Hyena) are great for flat to moderately hilly areas and cost less.
Mid-drive motors (like Bosch or Shimano) deliver better hill-climbing ability and a more balanced ride, but often at a higher price.

Battery Capacity & Range

Batteries range from 250Wh to 720Wh+. Think of it as fuel capacity:

<375Wh: Up to 40 miles (Dawes Arc Folding)
375–575Wh: Up to 75 miles (Wisper 905, Wisper Tailwind)
700Wh+: Up to 100 miles (Revom ST04, Wisper 905 upgrade)

Glide & Gear’s Top E-Bike Picks

Looking for the right e-bike in the UK? Glide & Gear offers a carefully curated range to suit every rider:

1. Revom ST04 Tourer

Revom ST04 Step Through Electric Bike 250W revom Blue

The ultimate long-distance comfort bike. Perfect for riders who value back support, extended range, and smooth suspension.

2. Revom T2 Fat Tyre Trike

Revom T2 Fat Tyre Electric Mountain Tricycle 250W revom Green Rear Bag (+£69)

Your go-anywhere, carry-anything three-wheeled powerhouse. Built for hills, terrain, and utility.

3. Wisper 905 Crossbar Touring

A hybrid marvel with torque sensor precision. For riders who want city comfort and country capability in one package.

4. Wisper Tailwind City Low Crossbar

Wisper Tailwind City Low Crossbar Electric Bike 250W wisper Stone 540Wh [70 Mile Range]

Stylish and practical, this model offers an upright ride and multiple battery options for flexible city travel.

5. Dawes Arc Folding

A commuter's dream: compact, powerful, and simple to fold. Ideal for train + bike lifestyles.

6. Dallingridge Malvern

Dallingridge Malvern Hybrid Electric Bike 250W Silver Dallingridge

Adventure meets elegance. A hybrid bike that shines off-road and on the daily commute.

7. Amcargobikes Ultimate Harmony

A top-tier cargo solution for families or small business owners. Safe, powerful, and beautifully built.

Final Thoughts: Which E-Bike Is Right for You?

There’s never been a better time to make the switch to an e-bike. Whether you’re curious about pedal assist vs throttle, or you want to explore the full range of e-bike types UK riders love, it all comes down to your lifestyle and priorities.

From folding bikes for the train station dash to long-range tourers for scenic routes, Glide & Gear offers a handpicked range that combines performance with peace of mind.

Ready to Ride?

Discover your ideal e-bike today at Glide & Gear and take advantage of seasonal savings while they last. Because the best journeys start with the right bike.

Have questions or need help choosing? Our experts are always here to help you find the right electric companion for your journey.

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frequently asked questions

Who are Glide & Gear?

Glide & Gear are a specialist UK-based electric bike store offering expert advice, top brands, and reliable delivery across the UK.

Click here to explore what Glide & Gear has to offer.

Do you offer flexible payment?

Yes, we offer flexible payment and buy now, pay later options including Klarna and PayPal's Pay in 3 amongst others.

Click here to learn more about our flexible payment options.

Can I speak to someone before buying?

Of course. Contact us here for one-to-one expert advice.

I need assistance in choosing a ride. Can you help?

Of course! Take our 2-min quiz to help you find the perfect ride for your needs.

Alternatively, you can consult one of our many buying guides listed below:

If you're looking for something more specific, refer to our guides by electric bike type:

If you still need any assistance, we're always here to help! Simply contact us and we can help you find the ride of your dreams.

Are electric bikes road legal in the UK?

Yes. Electric bikes are legal in the UK as long as they comply with UK's Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) Standards.

Effectively, a bike is road legal if it has a motor of 250W that cuts of once the rider reaches a speed of 15.5mph.

For more information, please refer to our legal guide.

Do I need a licence or insurance?

No licence or insurance is required for road-legal e-bikes with pedal assist in the UK.

However, we do always recommend our customers to insure their rides to protect against theft and injury.

At Glide & Gear, we offer 14-days worth of free insurance for any new bike purchased via our partners at Cycler Insurance.*

Click here for more information.

*Ts&Cs Apply

Can I purchase a bike using a Cycle to Work Scheme?

Yes, of course! We at Glide & Gear accept all major cycle to work schemes.

Click here to learn more about cycle to work and how to make a purchase with us using a cycle to work scheme.

Can electric bikes be used in the rain in the UK?

Yes — all the e-bikes listed above are weather-resistant and built to handle British wet weather conditions. While you should avoid puddles and ensure proper drying, they’re safe for daily use, even in drizzle.

How do I maintain my electric bike?

Maintaining your electric bike is essential for safe, smooth rides and to extend its lifespan. With a little regular care, you can keep your e-bike performing at its best.

To help you get started, we’ve put together a simple maintenance guide you can use as a go-to resource.