Choosing an e-bike for delivery is not like choosing a leisure e-bike. Intensive use — loaded, constant stop-starts, 40 to 80 km/day — tests the motor, battery and transmission. Here are the criteria that matter, in order.
1. The motor: pedal-assist over hub
- Pedal-assist motor (central): it pushes through the transmission, so better efficiency when climbing loaded, centered weight, better traction. It's the delivery choice. Downside: it wears out chain and cassette faster (but these are cheap parts to replace).
- Hub motor (wheel): cheaper, simpler, but worse uphill when loaded and weight is off-center. Acceptable in flat city.
The torque (Nm) matters more than rated power: loaded, uphill, at restart, that's what pushes. Aim for generous torque.
2. The battery: Wh and charging strategy
Catalog range is measured empty, flat. In delivery, it counts much less. Two approaches:
- Large battery (≥ 625 Wh) to last the day.
- Two batteries (one on bike, one charging): the real comfort, zero dead-battery risk mid-shift.
The battery does 300–500 cycles/year in delivery instead of five years for a regular person: it's the most expensive component and the one that decides end-of-life. Verify that a compatible spare battery exists and stays available.
3. Transmission: simple and robust
In intensive use, simplicity wins:
- Single chainring: fewer parts, simple adjustment.
- Belt + integrated hub gears (Enviolo, Shimano Nexus/Alfine): virtually maintenance-free, ideal for delivery, more expensive upfront.
