1. Legal first
In NSW, choose a bike that complies with EN 15194. It's legal now and will be after 1 March 2029, when the limit drops to 250W (Transport for NSW).
2. Hub or mid-drive?
Hub motors are simpler and cheaper. Mid-drives feel more natural on hills. Both can be legal.
3. Battery & range
Range claims vary with rider weight, hills and assist level. Buy from sellers who stand behind their batteries, and use the original charger.
4. Budget
Quality commuter e-bikes are commonly $2,000โ$5,000. Cheap online bikes may skimp on brakes, batteries or legality.
Red flags: "unlockable" speed modes, throttles above 6 km/h, peak power quoted without continuous power, no EN 15194 information.