When it comes to design, e-bikes can be categorized into two classes which are Step through and Step over E-bikes. The most visible difference is the bike frame design, that is, a step over e-bike has a tube at the top (top tube) while a step through ebike does not.
However, that is merely the tip of the iceberg, as how an electric bike has been designed is not only referring to its appearance. It also talks about its functionality and performance.
Being newly introduced to e-bikes, it is understandable that you may not be conversant with the pros and cons of every type. However, it is essential that you know the vital features of the step over and step through ebike before you make your decision.
On that note, this article has been put together to give an insight into step through and step over e-bikes so as to know the better one for you.
Step Through E-Bikes
The step through e-bikes have been designed to have a stepping pad and lower frame. The design enables riders to mount easily without necessarily raising their legs high. Moreso, a step through electric bike gives room to ride in an upright position.
It has been spread that the step through e-bikes are the bikes for women. This has some iota of truth attached to it, as, in the early 20th century, the step through frame design was initially built to make riding of bike an easy thing for women.
During that period, women often wore long skirts and dresses most times. That made it virtually impossible for them to ride a step over bike without their clothes getting torn. Hence, the step through bike design was created.
Nevertheless, in recent days, things have been quite different, as the dressing style of both men and women has significantly changed since the days of the early 20s. This means the step through bike design is now for everybody.
Many people often choose the step through bike design because they are typically into riding casually around town. The convenient mounting and upright position it gives to the rider makes it comfortable to ride every day, such as going to work. In addition, those with movement issues will obtain a great advantage from this design.
Furthermore, some step through e-bike models have been built to ride in hilly terrain. However, they are not so prevalent among mountain riders. This is because the upright position is not best for riding fast across woods and hills.
Advantages of Step Through E-Bikes
Convenience
The low frame feature with a stepping pad makes it possible to handle the e-bike with ease. That is, it is possible for you to get on and off with ease. Also, the upright position enables a comfortable ride.
Perfect for Casual Riders
A step through electric bike is perfect for riding every day. If your priority is not speed and you just need an electric bike for a casual ride on beaches, the step through e-bike design is the best option.
Freedom to Wear Anything
A good thing about the step through electric bike design is that there is no restriction to what you can wear to ride it with ease and comfort. You can ride it in formal attire, sportswear, and a skirt.
Disadvantages of Step Through E-Bikes
Weight
Step through electric bikes have a weak geometry of the design. Therefore, in order to compensate, they are often built with sturdier and heavier materials that will guarantee a safe ride.
Low Speed
Stability and comfort are often available at the expense of speed. Although not always the case, many step through electric bikes are developed without paying optimum attention to speed.
Poor Performance In Hilly Terrain
Bike frames are taken through a lot of stress in the steep terrain. And as a result of the weak geometry in step through electric bikes, the frame may bend during rides in hilly terrain.
Step Over Electric Bikes
Contrary to the step through e-bikes, step over electric bikes have a strong geometry, thanks to their outstanding triangle frame design. They are widely known among those who take biking with more seriousness.
These step over e-bikes are designed to tolerate a high level of stress during rides, thereby making them the best option for riding in mountainous terrain. The design is also excellent for those who would like their electric bike to have power and speed without necessarily letting go of balance. No wonder step over e-bikes is common among sports riders.
Advantages of Step Over Electric Bikes
Weight
The step over e-bikes are often built from thin and materials that are light in weight. This gives room for more speed, and then pedaling becomes easier.
Durability
As a result of the strong frame geometry, the step over e-bikes can withstand much more, compared to the step through e-bikes.
Excellent Performance In Every Terrain
The particular triangle frame design and the materials which are light in weight make step over electric bikes perfect for riding in every terrain. The bent-over position during rides allows higher speed and maneuverability.
Disadvantages of Step Over Electric Bikes
Comfort
The better frame geometry of the step over e-bikes is built at the expense of comfort. Since the top tube is very high, you are required to apply more effort into mounting the bike, compared to the step through e-bikes. Meanwhile, the bent-over position needed during rides may not be comfortable for everybody.
Material of Frame
Due to the fact that step over e-bikes are often developed to be light in weight, the materials to use need to be thinner or weaker. However, the design of the frame significantly compensates for the materials. Additionally, you can find step over e-bikes built from suitable strong materials, but they are often more expensive.
Which Is Better?
Having described and highlighted the pros and cons of the step through and step over electric bikes, the next thing is to say the better one.
It is expedient to know that choosing the better electric bike option depends on personal preference. For instance, if you need an electric bike for casual rides, a step through bike is recommended. On the flip side, if you’re a sportsperson looking for a thrill when riding an electric bike in steep terrain, a step over e-bike is undoubtedly the better choice.
Hence, your choice of electric bike should be based on your needs and riding style.
