Before you get bogged down by all the technicalities like the type of drive train and specialized features that modern e-bikes now offer, its best to first ask ‘how’ and ‘where’ you are going to use your electric bike. This will help you determine the battery size and range you will need, and the power of the motor and the maximum speed that your e-bike should achieve. There are bikes designed specifically for city and road use, and there are models that are best suited for off-roading in mountain trails and rugged bike paths. You need to know your usage requirements so you can get a bike with features and capabilities that cater to your needs.
Electric road bikes are known for their speed. Their compact frames are built for cruising on roads. They generally have a decent range. This may be the best electric bike for city use. Meanwhile, mountain e-bikes feature powerful motors and a more robust and heavier frame to withstand the rigors of off-road terrains. They are fitted with thicker treaded tires for riding down trails and rough roads. But while these electric bikes offer speed and power, they do so at the expense of range, which is not ideal if you intend to use the bike on electric mode for long distances. A good alternative would be to with electric hybrid bikes which feature a lower power but highly efficient electric motor and a bigger battery for an extended range. There are also folding versions of these electric bikes which are great for moving around the city and taking public transportation such as busses and trains along the route.