Bicycles and Cycling Gear: Fit, Mounts and Power

Whole bike, part or accessory: what has to fit what

Cycling listings divide into whole bikes, parts and repair items, bags and accessories, and protective gear. Most mistakes are fit mistakes. Wheel diameter, tire width, handlebar diameter and seatpost size all have to match what is already on the bike, which is why a replacement part should be chosen from the size printed on the old one. Repairs and upgrades start in Bike Parts & Repair Tools.

Mount style decides whether a light, phone holder or bike computer works on your bike. Handlebar, frame, seatpost, seat and spoke mounts are all sold, and the clamp must close on your bar or tube. Check the stated diameter range, the supported phone screen size and how the device is charged. Computers and GPS units may also need a specific mount from the same maker, so read the listing carefully.

Electric bikes: volts, amp-hours and watts explained

On an electric bike, battery capacity is volts multiplied by amp-hours: 36 V at 7.8 Ah is roughly 280 Wh. More watt-hours means more range, though the real distance depends on rider weight, hills and assist level. Motor power in watts describes power output, not range. Folding models are described by wheel size, such as 16 in, and by rated load and folded dimensions, which decide whether the bike fits in a trunk or an apartment. Complete machines are collected in Hybrid & Electric Bikes.

Protective gear and safety add-ons complete the setup. Helmets are sized by head circumference and should sit level on the head with a snug strap, pads are sized by limb circumference, and a rear light is for being seen while a front light is for seeing. Choose children's gear by the measurement the maker names rather than by age alone.

Questions about Bicycles and Cycling Gear: Fit, Mounts and Power

How is a folding electric bike sized?

Mostly by wheel diameter, such as 16 or 20 inches, because the frame and fold are built around it. Check the rider height range, the folded dimensions and the rated load as well, and compare battery capacity in watt-hours before motor watts.

How do I calculate an e-bike battery's watt-hours?

Multiply the voltage by the amp-hour rating. A 36 V, 7.8 Ah pack holds about 280 Wh, and a 48 V, 10 Ah pack holds 480 Wh. Compare watt-hours rather than amp-hours alone, because amp-hours at different voltages are not comparable.

Will a phone mount or light fit any handlebar?

Only within its stated clamp range. Bars differ in diameter, and aero or oversized bars can fall outside a clamp meant for standard ones. Check the diameter range, the mount style and the supported phone size before choosing.