Let’s face it: electric bikes can be heavy and cumbersome, making them difficult to manage. Even ebikes with small frames can be a challenge, particularly for short riders. Why? In large part because they are so heavy, but also because many ebikes with so-called step-through frames can still be difficult to mount and dismount. And then there’s the issue of the riding position. It is common for bikes designed to be used on trails to come with straight handlebars that force the rider into a leaning-forward position. This position is exacerbated for short people and can be very uncomfortable.
Factors that Contribute to an Ideal E-bike for Short or Petite Riders?
Weight
Most ebikes weigh 26-28kgs, with some weighing even more than that. Carbon fibre frames can weigh significantly less, but they can also be very expensive. MeloYelo designed the SuperLite e-bike that weighs just 22kg, including the battery while being robust enough for use on grade 3 and grade 4 trails. Then there’s the Zoomin Z1, weighing in at just 19kgs including battery. However, be aware that designers created the Z1 specifically for urban use.
Frame design
- How low and how wide is the step-through? It is important that you not only try mounting and dismounting an ebike you’re interested in to see how easily you can do this.
- When you’re sitting on the saddle, perhaps at its lowest position, can you put your feet flat on the ground or are you on tip-toes? And, how do you feel about this?
Handlebars
Handlebars, as well as the stem that attaches the handlebars to the bike, come in a wide variety of forms. For a shorter rider, the distance they have to reach when sitting on their bike to the handlebars can be problematic. This problem is easily resolved either through replacing straight handlebars with swept-back handlebars, or through adding an adjustable stem which allows the handlebars to be moved closer to the rider – or, the best solution may be a combination of both of these.
Wheel size
The most common wheel size on electric bikes is 27.5” which may be too big for shorter riders. Some ebikes, including the MeloYelo SuperLite, come with 26” wheels on a small frame, potentially making them a much more comfortable option for short riders. There are also ebikes with 20” wheels, many of which also have folding frames. These can be a viable option for riding around town and on very easy off-road trails but are not suitable for more than that.
MeloYelo is designing a new ebike, appropriately named “The Shortee,” that is specifically designed for shorter riders and will be on 24” wheels with wider-than-usual tyres. Riders who are around 150cm tall will be able to:
- Have their feet flat on the ground while seated on the saddle;
- Easily reach the handlebars while sitting in an upright position;
- Enjoy a low and wide step-through frame, making the bike easy to mount and dismount;
- Tackle moderately challenging trail rides
If The Shortee sounds like a bike that might interest you, send an email to MeloYelo so that you can be notified once it becomes available (expected mid 2025).
Frequently asked questions
What is the ideal weight of an e-bike for short people?
Lighter weight bikes are easier to manoeuvre, whether you’re riding the bike, walking with the bike, or lifting the bike. There are tradeoffs you need to consider though. For instance, the Zoomin Z1 weighs only 19kgs, including the battery, making it an extremely light e-bike, but designers built it for urban use, not trail use. If you’re going to be riding an ebike on off-road trails then a 22kg bike such as the SuperLite will be about the lightest that is suitable for such conditions.
What adjustments can be made to an ebike so that it is comfortable for me?
- The height of the saddle can be adjusted.
- You can fit different handlebars, for instance, fitting handlebars that “sweep back” towards the rider, enabling the rider to enjoy a more upright and comfortable riding position.
- You can change the stem, which connects the handlebars to the frame, to position the handlebars more comfortably.
- A dropper seat post can be added. With a dropper seat post, you can flick a switch on the handlebars to lower the saddle when you’re coming to a stop, allowing you to put your feet flat on the ground. Then, when you’re off-riding, flick the switch again to raise the saddle into a comfy riding position.
How do I know which E-bike is Best for me?
The first thing is to know how you will be using the bike. If you’re just going to be riding around town and urban cycleways, then you won’t need a bike with a heavy frame, big battery, wide tyres and suspension. If you plan on enjoying off-road trails, you’ll need more substantial components, which can add some weight.
The next—and most important—thing you can do is test-ride a number of different e-bikes. This ensures that the bike you eventually choose fits you and is comfortable for you. MeloYelo agents offer comprehensive test rides, away from busy streets and with no sales pressure.
Conclusion
Don’t let your height hold you back! The perfect e-bike is out there, waiting to be discovered. With a little research and a few test rides, you can find an electric ride that fits you like a glove. An agent who takes the time to adjust or change components will help you enjoy all the benefits of e-biking. Happy riding!
