E-Bike Frameset

Buying advice for: Trekking / Touring: Frameset

• Frame material

  Aluminium frames are widely used in general and therefore also in trekking and touring e-bikes. They are light, stiff and offer good durability, making them ideal for use in a variety of environments. Aluminium frames are also relatively inexpensive and offer a good balance between weight, stiffness and price. Carbon frames are popular for high-end e-bikes. They are light, stiff and provide excellent damping of vibrations, resulting in a smooth ride. However, carbon frames are also more expensive than aluminium frames and may require special maintenance. Steel frames are known for their durability and comfort. They offer a smooth ride and excellent shock absorption, making them ideal for longer rides or use on poor roads. Titanium frames are rare, but can be found on some high-end e-bike framesets. They offer a unique combination of lightness, durability and corrosion resistance.

• Frame types

  The diamond frame is the classic bicycle frame type with a triangular frame consisting of a top tube, seat tube and down tube. Diamond frames offer a balanced combination of stiffness and comfort and are particularly popular with sportier trekking and touring e-bikes. Wave frames, also known as trapezoidal frames, have a lowered top tube, which makes it easier to get on the bike. Step-through frames have a low top tube that allows the rider to comfortably step over the bike without having to lift their leg over the top tube. These frames are particularly popular with riders who prefer a simple and accessible bike configuration. Mixte frames are a variation of the diamond frame where the top tube has two additional bars that run parallel to the top tube and extend to the seat tube. These frames offer improved stiffness and robustness and are often found on traditional or vintage-inspired trekking and touring e-bikes.

• Geometry

  E-bikes can have different frame types that differ in their geometry and construction. The frame shape can vary depending on the intended use. The geometry of a trekking and touring e-bike frameset is often designed to provide a comfortable and stable riding position suitable for long rides. This can include a more upright riding position and a longer head tube for comfort, as well as a longer wheelbase for stability. Trekking and touring e-bike framesets often have mounting points for pannier racks, mudguards, bottle cages and other accessories. This allows the rider to equip the bike for longer tours and cycle holidays and to transport luggage or equipment. It is important to consider the rider's individual requirements and preferences in order to choose a bike with a suitable geometry.

• Size

  The size of an e-bike frame is often measured by the length of the seat tube or the frame height. The frame height is usually measured in centimetres and refers to the length of the seat tube from the bottom bracket to the top of the seat tube where the saddle is mounted. The correct frame height depends on the rider's leg length. Body height is particularly important when selecting the correct frame size. Riders should choose the frame size that best suits their height to ensure a comfortable and ergonomic riding position. A frame size that is too large or too small can lead to discomfort or poor ride quality. Crotch length is also important when choosing the right frame size. Riders should ensure that they have enough standover height to stand comfortably over the top tube of the frame.