RetireJapan

Starting my research into mamacharis, we had a baby this year and will want some wheels to get around soon.

Questions.

- how does the Amp affect the power? I see they generally range from 8-16 amps. But some of the more expensive models are just 8. We live in Nakano which is not too hilly.

- I’m most attracted to the design of the BIKKE and Gytto. I was told these are the best brands? (Bridgestone and Panasonic) any other brands I should look at.

- does getting the “20” model make it more comfortable for me to ride? I’m 183cm/6ft. It’s not clear from reading exactly where this size feature actually applies to the design.

- 99% sure I will buy used on メルカリ. I see some for sale that have warranty and new tires etc. any experiences in Tokyo? I also have a neighbor that has a BIKKE he is no longer using.

Thank you!

-p

PaulP wrote: ↑Sun Dec 22, 2024 3:33 am Starting my research into mamacharis, we had a baby this year and will want some wheels to get around soon.

Questions.

- how does the Amp affect the power? I see they generally range from 8-16 amps. But some of the more expensive models are just 8. We live in Nakano which is not too hilly.

- I’m most attracted to the design of the BIKKE and Gytto. I was told these are the best brands? (Bridgestone and Panasonic) any other brands I should look at.

- does getting the “20” model make it more comfortable for me to ride? I’m 183cm/6ft. It’s not clear from reading exactly where this size feature actually applies to the design.

- 99% sure I will buy used on メルカリ. I see some for sale that have warranty and new tires etc. any experiences in Tokyo? I also have a neighbor that has a BIKKE he is no longer using.

Thank you!

-p

Your actually height, is not as relevant as your femur/leg length. Have you ever been fitted for a bike?

You do not want to get a bike that is too small for you as it can do a number on your knees, it is not a minor issue. Go to a good bike store like Y-Road, just to see where you are between frame sizes.

Do not buy a E-bike that cannot be easily serviced where you live. Domestic is recommended, but check in your area first.

1st- Does it fit me?
2nd - Is it a safe model with a well reviewed child seat?
3rd - Can it be serviced near me?
4th - Warranty and such?
5th - How fast/easily does it charge?
6th - Cost consideration

Batteries are expensive and if you use it regularly their capacity reduces fairly quickly. I’ve had my pedal assist bicycle for about six years and after four the battery was down to about 60%. Fortunately there was a recall and Bridgestone provided a brand new one free of charge.

Be aware if you are buying a second hand model the range might be reduced considerably.

I am on my 4th E-bike in Japan and use it daily for longer distances, best invention ever.

Batteries:

The Ampere matters a lot when going uphill, especially when having a passenger or heavy luggage. 12 up would be ideal.

There are E-bikes that recharge the battery (to a certain extent) when going downhill. I never noticed a big difference, but newer models may have improved that feature.

The battery life can be extended if you use it wisely. (There are usually 3 levels and of course you can also turn it off).

Also, I have a spare battery and use them alternating, to avoid accidentally having an unloaded battery - as I live on a hill.

Material and chain:

I now (four years so far) have a Bridgestone, made from non rusting materials, including a chain that looks like a band (don’t know the official name), this chain is maintenance free (for about 10 years I was told) it does not require oil, so far very good.

Other features:

The saddles here are usually way too low, check out if it can be raised enough that it fits your legs.

Personally I prefer the bicycles with inward pointing handles, so I can sit more or less upright, it puts less of a strain on the back, but this is a matter of taste.

Where to buy:

I would not buy secondhand or online. Best to buy it at the shop where you intend to go for maintenance. It should be a real bicycle shop, not just a corner in a mall, with constantly revolving personnel, who are not very good at their job (did that mistake once ). Thus you will likely get very good service, including minor repairs/maintenance for free. The extra money when buying there, is worth it in my opinion.

The saddles here are usually way too low, check out if it can be raised enough that it fits your legs.

Brands:

The three big ones: Yamaha, Panasonic and Bridgestone are all good. Foreign models might be problematic due to spare parts and maintenance issues.

Good luck.

Thanks for all the great advice. Very helpful.