“How far can an electric bike really go?”

It’s one of the most common questions people ask before buying their first e-bike and for good reason. Range can make the difference between a stress-free adventure and an anxious glance at your battery level.

But the answer isn’t as simple as quoting a single number. How far an e-bike can go depends on a mix of factors: battery capacity, terrain, weather, and even how you ride. What you see on paper isn’t always what you’ll get in the real world.

At Ribble, we’ve designed our e-bikes to be as efficient as possible. Lightweight frames paired with stealthy battery systems mean you get more miles per watt-hour than most. With the he option to extend your range further, you’re never held back by the limits of the battery alone.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what determines e-bike range, share practical tips to make every charge go further, and show how Ribble’s electric bikes compare in real-world conditions.

There’s no one-size-fits-all figure for e-bike range because it’s influenced by a handful of variables working together:

• Battery capacity – Measured in watt-hours (Wh). More watt-hours generally equal more range, but weight plays a huge part. A heavier e-bike needs more power to move, which can quickly cancel out that bigger battery.
• Rider weight and load – The combined weight of rider, kit, and accessories has a direct impact on energy use. A lightweight bike gives you more miles from the same charge.
• Terrain – Hilly rides drain batteries faster than flat routes. The steeper the gradient, the harder the motor works.
• Tyre choice and pressure – Wide, knobbly tyres create rolling resistance; slicker, well-inflated tyres roll more freely and save power.
• Weather conditions – Headwinds, cold temperatures, and wet surfaces all add drag, reducing efficiency.

The key advantage with Ribble e-bikes is our efficiency. Our E-bikes weigh significantly less than many competitors, so every watt-hour goes further.

So, how far can an electric bike go on average?

Most e-bikes can travel between 25 and 70 miles (40–110 km) on a single charge. That’s the sweet spot you’ll see quoted across the industry. Some long-range electric bikes push this higher, but usually at the cost of weight and ride quality.

At Ribble, our e-bikes are designed to make the most of every watt. Depending on the model, you can expect up to 140 km per charge in real-world conditions. And with the option of a range extender, that figure climbs even further, perfect for big days in the saddle.

The question isn’t just “what’s the longest-range electric bike?” It’s about what delivers the most efficient, enjoyable ride for the distance you want to cover. Carrying an oversized battery might look impressive on paper, but it doesn’t feel as good when you’re hauling extra kilos uphill.

At the heart of every e-bike is the battery. Our e-bikes use discreet, high-capacity cells integrated into the downtube for a clean look and optimal balance.

When it comes to choosing a battery for an electric bike, you’ll often see big numbers thrown around. But efficiency matters more than size. A lightweight Ribble e-bike needs less power to maintain speed, so you squeeze more miles from the same capacity compared to bulkier alternatives.

For longer rides, our e-bike range extender is the game-changer. Compact and bottle-shaped, it fits neatly onto your frame and plugs directly into the system, effectively boosting your capacity.

Charging & care tips:

• Charge smart: Avoid letting the battery completely drain. Top it up regularly to prolong lifespan.
• **Storage: **Keep it between 10–20°C when not in use, and recharge once a month if stored for long periods.
• Protection: Don’t leave it out in extreme cold or heat—temperature swings reduce performance.

**Pro Tip: **If you are panning a long ride, map in coffee stops or lunch breaks near charging points. With a range extender, you’ll rarely need them but it’s a good fallback.

Even with the best battery, how you ride makes a big difference to how far your e-bike will go.

• Use lower assist modes on flats – Save the higher settings for climbs or headwinds.
• Keep tyres inflated – Soft tyres increase drag. Stick to recommended pressures.
• Maintain your drivetrain – A clean, well-lubed chain reduces friction and power loss.
• Avoid constant stop-start – Smooth, consistent pedalling is more efficient than frequent surges.
• Ride steady – Sudden accelerations drain the battery faster than maintaining a rolling speed.

Our e-bikes don’t carry bulky, drag-inducing systems, so you’re not wasting energy just to move the extra mass. You get the best of both worlds: a bike that rides like a traditional road or gravel machine, with electric assistance when you need it.

Range is one of the biggest factors people weigh up before investing in an e-bike and rightly so. But it isn’t just about battery size. Rider weight, terrain, tyre choice, and weather all play their part.

That’s why we has focused on what really matters: building lightweight, efficient bikes that give you more miles for every watt-hour. Add in the option of a range extender, and you’ve got the freedom to ride as far as your legs will take you, without the battery holding you back.

Whether you’re commuting, adventuring, or chasing all-day epics, Ribble e-bikes are built to keep you moving. Lightweight, stealthy, and smartly designed so you can ride further, ride better, and ride with confidence.

Explore Ribble’s Electric Bike range