Within the electric bicycle segment, road e-bikes are perhaps the most controversial among cyclists. Many consider that they adulterate the essence of cycling and are a technology that encourages cheating in competition. Electric mountain bikes are already almost a category of their own and are used to tackle more demanding routes, with steeper slopes, more technical sections... They are increasingly accepted even among those who, a few years ago, fervently criticized them. But what exactly is a road bike for? From a purely touring perspective, road e-bikes are models that have been well received by a specific cyclist profile who fervently defends this new way of pedaling. Practically speaking, is it worth buying an electric road bike? Who is interested in this type of bicycle? We answer these questions with this guide on electric road bikes.

What exactly is an electric road bike?

Let's first clarify the concept of an electric road bike. It is a pedal-assist bike thanks to the installation of a motor, a battery, and electronic systems with sensors. These latter systems adapt the pedaling assistance to the cyclist and turn it off as soon as 25 km/h is reached. It is thus the same system as mountain, gravel or urban e-bikes. On the other hand, the bikes retain much of the design and geometry of the conventional versions, generally with an Endurance or Gran Fondo design. They have logical modifications in the down tube and bottom bracket due to the inclusion of the motor or battery. But the rest of the elements are the same or very similar to those of a non-motorized bicycle. However, they have some peculiarities different from other types of e-bikes, as we will see below:

Motors

Unlike electric mountain bikes and some urban or gravel bikes, we can find versions with rear hub motors instead of being located in the bottom bracket. Since weight distribution or lowering the bike's center of gravity is not as important as in an MTB, manufacturers can play more with this position. As for performance, in general, they are lower than a mountain e-bike, also due to the lower weight of the frame and components. They are similar to the average torque of an urban electric bike, between 30 Nm and 40 Nm. Likewise, the most commonly used motors are different, more compact, generally from the Fazua or Mahle EbikeMotion brands (rear hub).

The weight of an electric road bike, with a carbon frame, ranges between 10 and 14 kg

Integrated batteries

The most recent models of electric road bikes they come with the battery integrated inside the down tube to preserve the aesthetics, geometry, and contain the weight. Their capacity is usually smaller than that of mountain bikes, ranging between 250 Wh and 500 Wh, compared to the 600 Wh or even 750 Wh that e-MTBs already include.

Control Commands

Here there are also differences compared to electric mountain bikes. In general, the display connected to the electric assist system is omitted, opting for a compact, ergonomic, and intuitive remote control. Some of them include LED indicators to show the battery charge level. Others have connectivity with cycling computers (Garmin, Wahoo, Sigma) to view energy data or assist mode on screen.

Transmissions and Gear Ratios

An element that may raise doubts for those considering buying this type of bike is the transmission. Mountain e-bikes use single chainring transmissions, something that is not yet fully accepted on the road. Are the gear ratios of a road electric bike the same as those of a regular bike? Generally yes, opting for a pure endurance range, with compact chainrings (50/34) and 11-32 or 11-34 cassettes. The idea is to make pedaling as natural and comfortable as possible. But e-road is also becoming a special territory for the expansion of single chainring road transmissions. There are already reference models that come with it as standard, like the Specialized Turbo Creo SL with a 1x11 setup and a 46-tooth chainring. On the other hand, the chains are durable and have special coatings to withstand the increased wear from electric assistance.

Brakes

In this specific segment of bicycles, disc brakes have also become the norm for their superior braking in various conditions and better integration with the wheel and frame. The diameter of the discs is also generous, at 160 mm, to facilitate better cooling.

The maximum range of a road electric bike is usually around 100 kilometers

Which type of cyclist are they recommended for

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Having seen their main features, it is time to answer the big question of this post. These electric bikes are intended for road cyclists who, due to age or certain physical limitations, cannot complete long-distance road routes or climb passes comfortably. They can also be an attractive option for any cyclist who is not used to riding on the road. A second bike option to do long-distance routes affordably and comfortably, complete chains of mountain passes, or simply keep up with more experienced group riding partners. The typical profile of the cyclist who buys a road electric bike is someone over 50-55 years old who has been consistently cycling for more than 20 years in a local club and, due to age, finds it difficult to keep up with their usually younger group riding partners. So they decide to switch to a road e-bike to continue doing the same routes and at the same pace.

Maintenance: is it more expensive than that of a conventional bicycle?

This is one of the questions that also generates a lot of doubts and can discourage the purchase of an e-road. The answer is the same as the one we offer in our buying guide about mountain e-bikes. Certain components will indeed wear out faster than on a conventional bike: the chain, brake pads, and rear tire, due to the action of electric assistance. In addition, you have to consider the possibility of motor or battery failure. In general, they tend to be durable and do not present major problems. But you should always keep in mind that, in case of a breakdown, it will be quite costly. By performing regular check-ups with the help of a mechanic and keeping the e-bike clean (avoid washing with high-pressure water), you will be able to enjoy the bike without major problems.

Tips for choosing an electric road bike

If you have already decided to buy an electric road bike, pay attention to the following aspects to choose the one that best suits your needs, goals, and type of use:

Battery capacity and range

These are related but not identical concepts. Many brands give approximate range data or do not mention it at all. This is because the real range of the e-bike depends on external and variable factors such as the rider's weight, their pedaling style, the type of terrain, or weather conditions. The battery capacity is an objective fact and can give us an idea of the approximate range with a single charge. For long rides, of 90-100 km, it is advisable to have a high-capacity battery, from 350 Wh onwards. However, there are models with the option to buy an additional battery extender that is installed on the bottle cage mount and adds extra kilometers.

Motor power delivery

The delivery of motor power—or torque—is a parameter measured in Newton meters (Nm). The higher this figure, the faster and stronger the electric assistance will kick in. The delivery is essentially the equivalent of acceleration. But before focusing on torque data, we recommend that you pay attention to the different assistance modes available. Some electric bikes only offer one power delivery mode, while others have different modes depending on the type of use required in each case. There are also bikes that allow you to customize the power delivery modes via associated software or mobile app. It is better for the pedal assist to be as similar as possible to that of a conventional bike. A natural and restrained assistance, as well as customizable, will give you just the right help at the right moment. In addition, it will allow you to control the bike better, maintain a steady pedaling cadence, and thus save battery.

Our favorite electric road bikes

The range of electric road bikes grows year after year. Brands and manufacturers are paying more and more attention to this cycling segment. This is the top 5 we propose. This selection has been made based on our experience and personal preferences.

Specialized Turbo Creo SL

A state-of-the-art electric bike from Specialized, though with a high price tag. It features endurance geometry and the Future Shock mini front suspension, integrated into the head tube. It offers 195 km of range and comes in both aluminum and carbon versions.

Trek Domane +LT

Exclusive carbon model. It integrates the Fazua assist system with up to 104 km of range. It is inspired by the geometry and design of the Trek conventional Domane.

Scott Addict eRide

The e-road from Scott features an HMX carbon frame and a Mahle rear hub motor, which provides a more traditional bike look. It also comes in a Contessa version for women.

Pinarello Nytro Roadstar

Pinarello is a benchmark brand in the world of road bikes that has its own electric model. The Nytro Roadstar features Fazua assist with three modes integrated into an aluminum frame with a carbon fork.

Lapierre e-Sensium

One of the most attractive options in terms of value for money. It has an aluminum frame and electric assist with a Mahle rear hub motor. Within the range, there are specific versions for women or with a conventional flat handlebar.