Buying Guides and Advice
Buying Guides and Advice
Bike Lights Buying Guide
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Bike Lights Whether you're a daily commuter, a weekend road warrior, or a trail-shredding mountain biker, having the right set of bike lights is crucial for your safety. Not only do they illuminate your path in low-light conditions, but they also make you visible to other road users. With a bewildering array of options on the market, choosing the right lights can be a daunting task. This guide will shine a light on the key features to consider and help you find the perfect set for your needs. "To See" vs. "To Be Seen": Understanding the Basics Bike lights generally fall into two categories: "To See" Lights: These are powerful front lights designed to illuminate the path ahead of you, allowing you to see potholes, debris, and other obstacles on dark roads or trails. "To Be Seen" Lights: These lights are designed to make you visible to other road users. They include both front and rear lights and are essential for riding in any light conditions, including during the day. Key Features to Consider When shopping for bike lights, keep these key features in mind: Brightness (Lumens): The brightness of a bike light is measured in lumens. The higher the lumen count, the brighter the light. The number of lumens you need depends on your riding environment: Well-lit urban areas (being seen): 100-500 lumens for a front light is sufficient. Dark suburban roads or unlit bike paths (seeing): 500-1200 lumens for a front light is recommended. Off-road or trail riding (seeing in complete darkness): 1200+ lumens is ideal. Rear lights typically have a lower lumen output, with anything from 20 to 300 lumens being effective for visibility. Beam Pattern: The beam pattern affects how the light is distributed. Narrow/Spot Beam: Concentrates the light in a small area, which is great for seeing far down the road at high speeds. Wide/Flood Beam: Spreads the light over a larger area, improving peripheral vision, which is useful for navigating technical trails. Combination Beam: Many lights offer a combination of spot and flood beams, providing a versatile option for various riding conditions. Battery Life and Charging: USB Rechargeable: Most modern bike lights are USB rechargeable, which is convenient and cost-effective. Check the charging time and make sure it fits your lifestyle. Disposable Batteries: Some cheaper lights still use disposable batteries. These can be a good backup option, but they are less environmentally friendly and can be costly in the long run. Run Time: Pay close attention to the claimed run time for different light modes. A light's run time on its brightest setting will be significantly shorter than on a flashing or lower-power mode. Mounting Options: Your lights should be easy to mount and secure on your bike. Handlebar and Seatpost Mounts: These are the most common mounting locations. Look for sturdy, tool-free mounts that are easy to use. Helmet Mounts: A helmet-mounted light is a great addition for mountain bikers as it allows you to direct the light where you are looking, especially around corners. Other Mounts: Some lights can be mounted on racks, bags, or clothing for added visibility. Durability and Weather Resistance: If you ride in all weather conditions, look for lights with a good level of water resistance. The IP rating (Ingress Protection) indicates how well a light is protected against dust and water. An IPX4 rating is sufficient for rain, while an IPX7 rating means the light can be submerged in water. Matching Lights to Your Riding Style Urban Commuting: For city riding, the priority is being seen by motorists, pedestrians, and other cyclists. A front light of 100-500 lumens with a flashing mode and a bright rear flasher (20-100 lumens) is a good setup. Road Cycling: If you're riding on unlit roads, you'll need a more powerful front light to see the road ahead. A front light of 500-1200 lumens or more, paired with a bright rear light, will keep you safe. Mountain Biking: For trail riding at night, you'll need a powerful lighting system to navigate technical terrain. A combination of a bright handlebar-mounted light (1200+ lumens) and a helmet-mounted light for looking through turns is the ideal setup. Conclusion Investing in a good set of bike lights is one of the most important things you can do to improve your safety on the road or trail. By considering your riding style and the key features outlined in this guide, you can choose a lighting system that will keep you visible and illuminate your way, no matter where or when you ride. Ride safe!
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Jackets And Vests Buying Guide
A good cycling-specific jacket can last you years and be useful in a variety of ways. Many cycling jackets can be layered over a jersey for warmth, and often have reflective features for visibility in traffic. A thin jacket can be stuffed into a jersey pocket to prevent overheating. Jackets & Vests When buying a mountain biking jacket ensure that you get a close fit to avoid catching branches. If you are looking at road jerseys it is a good idea to look at reflective features if riding in traffic. See All Jackets and Vests Cycling Jackets Cycling jackets often have a special cut that makes them specific to riding a bike: the back of the jacket will be longer than the front and the sleeves will also be cut at an angle so that while in riding position the arms won't shrink up and your back will stay comfortably covered. See All Jackets and Vests Vests Vests are also great because they keep your core warm and can be used with arm warmers for quick removal during a ride. Cycling jackets and vests often come in bright colours to keep you visible on the road. A nice thin jacket can also be handy as sun protection as well. See All Jackets and Vests When you need a bit more warmth, cycling specific jackets and vests offer the optimal level of warmth, ventilation and protection for active riders. Particularly if you're setting off for a wet ride, a jacket will protect your arms and torso from the rain, while still being lightweight and non-restrictive. A vest is perfect for cooler rides where you just want to block some of the wind chill around your chest. Vests are generally wind proof at the front, and well ventilated at the back to prevent over heating. They're also lightweight and compact enough to take off and tuck into your jersey pockets if you do get too hot.
Bags And Backpacks Buying Guide
When choosing a cycling backpack, there are a couple of important considerations to make in order to get the right product for you. First, you'll want to ensure that your backpack has an adjustable chest strap to stop it from moving around too much when you're on the move. Second, consider which size backpack you'll need. Ideally you'll want just enough room to carry your essentials - if you get a backpack that is too large you'll be carrying unnecessary weight which of course will slow you down over longer rides. Backpacks with a capacity of around 15-30L are a safe bet for most riding scenarios. Finally, if you're going to be commuting to work, some cycling specific backpacks include a separate wet laundry compartment which is great for keeping your sweaty riding gear away from your other belongings. Hydration Backpacks If you're covering serious distances, a hydration pack is worthy investment as it will allow you to comfortably carry around 2-3L of water which is much more than you can fit in frame mounted water bottles. Most hydration packs will also be designed to carry the basics like weather protection, maps and energy bars which means you'll be able to stay out on the trails longer! It is important to pick the right size hydration pack for the type of riding you'll be doing as whilst larger capacity models will allow you to carry more H2O, you'll also be carrying more weight which isn't fun when you're only out for a quick blast along the trails. See All Hydration Backpacks Saddle Bags As the name suggests, Saddle Bags sit neatly under the saddle of your bike and are easily attached using either velcro or clip in fasteners. A saddle bag is a valuable inclusion in any cyclists kit as these little gems are the perfect place to store your wallet, keys, spare tubes and small tools. Saddle bags come in a range of sizes to suit different riders needs and are one of the most common accessories you'll see out on the road. See All Saddle Bags Pannier Bags Pannier bags are a popular way for commuters and travellers to carry their gear thanks to their large storage capacity and convenient mounting position which allows weight to be distributed evenly across your bike. Most riders fit their Pannier bags over the rear tyre however it is possible to use them over both the front and rear wheels for maximum storage space on longer rides. The majority of Pannier bags feature quick release mounts meaning you can easily remove them once you arrive at your destination and begin exploring without needing to worry about leaving all of your belongings with your bike. See All Pannier Bags A cycling bag is an essential piece of equipment for any rider both professional and leisure. When you're planning an extended journey or one that sees you venturing away from home, it is important to have the right equipment on hand, should an unfavourable situation arise. Our wide range of bags & backpacks will allow you to find a bike bag that is perfectly suited to your needs. Choose from a wide range of reputable brands including Camelbak, Deuter and Tioga. Pannier bags are the perfect solution to carrying all your extra bike spares and safety equipment, while backpacks are great for adventurous mountain bike rides or cyclists on the go.
Handlebars Buying Guide
Handlebar design and dimensions are integral to how your bike handles and ultimately, how well it fits you. Bikes will generally come with handlebars of the appropriate size and shape, however, an upgrade can give you that extra performance edge. Road Bike Handlebars The most important consideration when buying road bike handlebars is width with the goal being to try and match the width of the bars to your shoulders to ensure a comfortable riding position. Secondly, you'll need to decide on what shape you require. The curve in road bike handlebars is referred to as 'drop' with a larger drop allowing for a more aggressive and aerodynamic riding position, however if you're not confident you'll be able to stay down in your drops for long periods of time then a more compact design might be the best for you. Finally, you should consider what material you'll require. Road bike bars are available in both carbon and aluminium and the choice largely depends on how much weight you want to save vs. how deep your pockets are. Shop Road Handlebars Mountain Bike Handlebars As is the case with road bikes, mountain bike handlebars come in a variety of widths to suit different rider sizes and styles. Wider bars provide greater control in corners, but can be a handful around obstacles in a tight and twisty trail. If you're into downhill riding then you'll want extra strong bars to put up with the rough ground and heavily landings you'll be encountering on the trails, whereas if cross-country riding is more your style then you will be more concerned with weight rather than strength. It is also important to ensure that you get the correct diameter bar to fit your stem with the most common size being 31.8mm. The final consideration to make is rise, which refers to how much higher the ends of the bars sit in relation to the centre clamp. A lower rise gives a more aggressive riding position however won't be as comfortable over longer rides as bars with a larger rise. Shop MTB Handlebars
Bike Stems Buying Guide
The right size bike stem will greatly improve your riding efficiency and comfort. They are available in varying lengths to accommodate riders of different heights. Short stems provide a more upright riding position. While a longer stem will produce a more 'stretched out' position. Stems are also available in a variety of angles which allows you to effectively raise or lower your handlebars to achieve the optimal riding position. See All Bike Stems
6 Reasons To Ride An Electric Bike
Electric bikes have taken Europe by storm and have since made their way into the Australian market. While the category has been around for a while, in recent years they have improved in leaps and bounds. These are the top 6 reasons we think you should ride an electric bike: Read Our Quick Guide to E-bikes Here 1. Free yourself from public transport Tired of listening to the dreary lady on the train complain about her job, while you get a waft of the guy behind you who hasn't showered for a week? Sounds like a terrible way to start your day. Alternatively, you could be on your electric bike, breathing in the fresh air and taking in the scenery. Not only will you have a more calculated arrival time, you will start the day feeling refreshed. Oh, and did we mention, hybrid electric bikes are environmentally friendly too? 2. Save time The congestion of the city can be an absolute nightmare! Hours are wasted on the crawl through traffic in the morning. Not to mention the build-up of frustration in the process. Ditch the car, and save yourself some valuable time. With most compliant Pedelec electric bikes, the same road rules apply as if you were on a regular bike, allowing you to zip past traffic, and make use of the cycle and footpaths. You might even buy yourself some extra time to stop for a coffee. 3. Save money The initial cost of an electric bike starts from around $2,000 AUD. In comparison to a car, this is marginal. Not to mention the amount you will save yourself on refueling, which for some is a minimum of $50 a week. It also eliminates the cost of inner-city parking, which we all know is quite exorbitant. As long as they are maintained well, an electric bike should only need servicing annually. 4. No registration or license required Australia's regulations recently changed, and we can now ride electric bikes registration and license free. This is provided that the motor is under 250 watts and that the bike does not exceed a speed of 25km/h. 5. They are easy to use Put simply, they are a bike, but with added pedal assistance giving it an extra oomph. They have been designed to help you get through rides with no hassle and no sweat, giving you more time and energy to focus on other things. 6. Feed your ego Riding can be intimidating when you're just starting out, or if your fitness levels are low. Electric bikes are a great way to build up confidence and with the added benefit of pedal assist, you will be able to keep up with your mates who have been riding for a while. There is no longer an excuse not to hop on your bike, explore new grounds and feel the joy that comes from riding an electric bike. The best thing you can do when considering buying an electric bike is to try them for yourself. Every e-bike at every 99 Bikes store is available to take home for a 24 hour demo. Or visit one of our 99 Bikes stores that specialises in e-bikes. These stores offer the very best in e-bikes advice and an extended range of options to suit any budget. Visit an E-bike Specialist Store
Electric Commuter Bike Buying Guide
Electric bikes or e-bikes aren't the future anymore, they're here right now and they're perfect for commuting. Commuter bikes are also referred to as hybrid bikes and they have a mix of mountain bike suspension for comfort combined with a few streamlined features from road bikes for added speed. Electric commuter bikes take this to the next level with pedal assist e-bike components that boost your speed when you start to pedal, giving you a lot of speed for minimal effort. In places such as Copenhagen, 56% of people commute on a bike however, Australia is much more spread out and often much warmer so this stops people from riding. Enter the electric bike, ideal for commuting without breaking a sweat. Below are our top picks depending on your riding needs: Best Electric Folding Bike: Velectrix Foldaway Bike - Simple and lightweight design which folds away easily for storage or to carry on public transport. Best All-round Electric Bike: Cube Touring Hybrid - Built with powerful hydraulic disc brakes and suspension fork that combines with the lightweight alloy frame and integrated battery for a crisp ride. Best Urban Electric Bike: Merida eSpresso - With an option to suit every rider, this urban specific range is simple, lightweight and incredibly reliable. Best Lifestyle Electric Bike: Norco Scene VLT - Style blends with fashion thanks to the strep-through frame, Shimano STePS e-bike components and handy dropper post that helps get your feet on the ground when you need to stop. What to look for in an electric commuter bike Drive Unit & Battery No surprises here, the best electric bicycles are powered by reliable batteries that offer plenty of range and a powerful drive unit to match. Electric push bikes which are power assisted are subject to laws and regulations that limit power to 250 watts and a maximum speed of 25km/hr, which is still plenty of power for the electric assist to help you on your commute. This means that most of the drive units out there will offer a similar amount of power however, the battery range tends to differ based on price point. Shimano's STePS e-bike system and Bosch's e-bike system lead the way in the industry offering the most reliable e-bike riding experience. Some of the smaller brands such as XDS and Velectrix will use their own e-bike drive unit and battery which has been developed to a reliable standard so that you can still ride with confidence. How long does an electric bike motor last is a common question and the answer is that e-bikes tend to come with a range of 40-90km from a single charge. With a charging time of between 3 and 6 hours you will have plenty of time to recharge at work if you need to. Mid-drive Motor vs Hub Drive There are a couple of options when it comes to the location of the e-bike components. Firstly, Hub motors place the motor in the centre of the wheel, while mid-drive motors are close to the middle of the bike and transfer power through the chain. Mid-drive units are becoming increasingly common as they are usually smaller, lighter and by using the chain to transfer the power you can use lower gears to climb so that you can climb steeper and longer hills without overworking the drive unit. Most mid-drive units are built directly into the frame these days and ensure that you get a balanced feel and crisp look. Mid-drive units can do a lot more work and therefore can put a lot of strain on your chain which increases the risk of the chain snapping. They are also usually found on more expensive bikes and if they are built into the frame they can be harder to fix and maintain. While hub drive motors are simple, reliable and cost effective. All of the components are housed within the hub, so they are a lot less likely to require maintenance. They don't put any extra stress on your chain, but the flip side of that is they usually allow just a single gear ratio. This means that you'll be fine when you're zipping around on the flat, but they won't work as well on very hilly terrain. They also add extra weight and limit the components you can use when it comes to rims and tyres. In the end both are great options, if you have a short and flat commute then a hub drive is more than capable, however mid-drive offers more versatility and are found on higher quality bikes so you'll usually get increased design quality and reliability. Brakes While they do try to minimise the extra weight on e-bikes, there is still extra weight compared to your traditional bike and for this reason most electric bikes are equipped with disc brakes. The lower end models will come with mechanical disc brakes, while the higher end models will be equipped with hydraulic disc brakes from the likes of SRAM and Shimano. This will give you reliable and powerful braking control in all conditions so that you can ride with confidence. Urban environments are full of distractions and potential hazards so disc brakes really are a great option for any commuter. Frame & Fork The best electric bikes will be built with an alloy frame and fork, or a suspension fork. This minimises weight while still giving you excellent durability, the lightweight design allows you to get extra range out of your e-bike. Suspension forks can be handy even in the city as you might need to go over gutters or lips and you'll be able to manage, the added versatility means you'll still cope off-road as well. While a rigid fork is usually found on cruiser bikes and folding bikes for simplicity, style and reduced cost. Extra Features Many e-bikes will come with displays that tell you a range of stats from speed, to distance travelled and range. Lots of commuter electric bikes come with front racks, rear racks and panniers as standard as manufacturers understand that these are essentials for commuting. Some bikes take that to another level, such as the Norco Scene VLT which has a dropper post so that you can easily put your feet on the ground when you need to stop at the traffic lights, a very handy feature which riders rave about. While there is a range of electric bikes specifically built for commuting, sometimes an electric mountain bike or an electric cruiser bike might be the best option. An electric mountain bike gives you a ride that is more durable and versatile, capable of going off-road and handling rough terrain if need be. While electric cruiser bikes offer a much more relaxed geometry that you can also ride in style on the weekends when you're riding with friends. Shop our wide range of electric bikes for sale in-store or online today. Whether you're after an entry level electric bike so that you don't have to use an unreliable electric bike conversion kit or a top of the line electric machine, we have you sorted. Shop In Store & Online There is a wide range of electric commuter bikes available both in store and online at 99 Bikes. Find A Store Shop Electric Hybrid Shop Electric Folding Shop Electric Merida Bikes Shop Electric Cube Bikes Shop Electric Norco Bikes Shop Electric VelectriX Bikes
5 Reasons To Get Your Kids Into Riding
More Riding, Less Scrolling: 5 Reasons to Get Kids Into RidingLet's be honest, today's kids can swipe before they can ride a bike. Screens have taken over everything — entertainment, learning, socialising. But what if we told you there’s a simple, fun, and timeless solution that pulls them away from glowing rectangles and into real-life adventure? Enter: the bicycle. The original freedom machine. Here are our top five reasons your kids need more riding and less scrolling — and why now is the perfect time to buy a kids bike. Reason #1 Getting Active! Scrolling feels like activity, but it’s really just thumb gymnastics. Riding a bike? That’s full-body movement — legs pumping, heart thumping, lungs working, brain firing. Cycling helps build: Balance Coordination Strength Endurance Reason #2 - Outside Is Still a Thing (And It’s Awesome) Screens might offer virtual worlds, but nothing beats the real one! Biking makes the outdoors feel exciting again. Suddenly, a trip around the block turns into an expedition. A nearby hill becomes Everest. That trail behind the park? Probably leads to a dragon’s lair. Plus, riding outside naturally boosts mood, attention span, and vitamin D — no subscription required. Reason #3 - It's Social Cycling gets kids talking, laughing, and racing with real-life friends. It’s spontaneous, messy, and filled with those little moments they’ll actually remember. No feeds, no filters. Just: “Last one to the stop sign’s a rotten egg!” Reason #4 - Tired Kids Sleep Better Biking is one of the best ways to wear them out in all the right ways. A 45-minute ride = fewer bedtime battles, deeper sleep, and a break from the blue-light bedtime loop that ruins melatonin Reason #5 - Riding Sparks Real Joy Riding is actually so much fun. The freedom and adventure that you feel when riding a bike - there’s nothing like it.Best of all? Those moments become memories. Gift memories that last a lifetime this Christmas. Shop All Kids Bikes Here
A Parent's Guide: How to Choose a Safe Bike for Your Child
There are few things more exciting than the day your child gets their new bike. It’s a ticket to freedom, adventure, and fun. As a parent, you want to ensure that every ride is as safe as it is enjoyable. At 99 Bikes, the world's most approachable bike shops, we believe a safe bike is the foundation for a lifetime of happy cycling. Here are the key things to consider when choosing the perfect, safe bike for your little one. It All Starts with the Helmet Before they even throw a leg over the bike, the first rule of safe cycling is a helmet. A well-fitting helmet is the single most important piece of safety equipment. It's critical that the helmet conforms to Australian Standard AS/NZS 2063, which ensures it has passed rigorous safety tests. A helmet that is too loose can slip out of place during a fall, and one that is too tight will be uncomfortable and won't be worn. For a complete guide on how to choose the right size and ensure it's fitted correctly, we highly recommend reading our detailed article on how to fit a kids' helmet. The "Just Right" Fit: Sizing for Confidence A bike that is too big or too small can be frustrating and dangerous. A bike that’s too large is difficult to control and makes it hard for a child to reach the ground with their feet, which is essential for stability and confidence. A bike that’s too small can be cramped and awkward to pedal. Both scenarios can destroy your child's confidence and make it harder for them to manoeuvre the bike effectively. To take the guesswork out of it, our shops have easy-to-use, height-based sizing guides. Better yet, we encourage you to bring your kids in to try out different sizes and find the bike that feels perfect for them. For a more detailed breakdown on how to choose the right size and what to look for in different types of kids' bikes, our complete Kids Bike Buying Guide is packed with all the helpful information you need. Built Right and Safety Checked A bike is more than just its parts; it’s how those parts are put together that counts. You can have peace of mind knowing that every single bike at 99 Bikes—whether for a test ride or a purchase—is built and meticulously safety-checked by our professional mechanics. We ensure the brakes are correctly adjusted, the wheels are true, and every nut and bolt is tightened to the correct specification. This means that from the very first pedal stroke, every bike we sell is ready to provide a fun, safe ride for your children. Understanding the Brakes As your child grows, their bike's braking system change. The smallest kids' bikes often feature a rear coaster brake, which is intuitive to use—they simply pedal backward to stop. As they move to larger bikes with hand-operated brakes, they gain to perform more controlled braking. It’s important to teach your child to use both brakes together. The front brake provides the majority of the stopping power, but using it too aggressively on its own can cause the rear wheel to lift and potentially pull you over the handlebars. A little practice in a safe area is all it takes to master using both brakes smoothly and safely. Lighter is Better: Steel vs. Aluminium Have you ever tried to pick up a kid's bike? Some can be surprisingly heavy! The weight of a bike makes a huge difference to a child. Lighter bikes, typically made from aluminium instead of steel, are far easier for a small rider to pedal, handle, and manoeuvre. This means they can get up to speed more easily, tackle small hills, and have more fun on their ride. And let’s be honest, a lighter bike is also a lot easier for you to carry back to the car or home from the park when they've run out of energy. Suitable Contact Points The three points where your child connects with the bike are the saddle, the handlebar grips, and the pedals. For your child to love riding, these contact points need to be comfortable and sturdy. A saddle that they find comfortable, soft grips that are easy for small hands to hold, and wide, stable pedals all contribute to a positive experience. Sturdy, well-made components ensure that these crucial parts will stand up to the rigors of learning to ride, keeping your child secure and in control. Shop All Kids Bikes
Get Your Bike Ride2Work Ready!
Keen to celebrate Ride2Work Day on October 15 but not sure where to begin?We’ve partnered with Bicycle Network to bring you a quick and easy checklist to help make your commute safe, smooth, and stress-free. Quick Bike Check Tyres:Inflate tyres to the recommended pressure (check the sidewall). Inspect for cracks, cuts, or worn tread. Replace if damaged—old tyres can lead to punctures or blowouts. Brakes:Squeeze both brakes to ensure they feel firm and responsive. Check pads for wear—if they’re thin or grooved, replace them. Squealing could mean misalignment or contamination. Chain:Keep your chain clean and lubricated for smooth riding and longer drivetrain life. Wipe it down, then apply bike-specific lube. Don’t overdo it—excess oil attracts dirt. Gears:Shift through all gears while riding. If they skip, clunk, or resist shifting, your bike may need a tune-up or cable adjustment. Book A Service Here Accessories Check Helmet:We recommend replacing your helmet every 3 years or immediately after a crash, even if there's no visible damage. Lights:Front light = white; rear = red. Essential for night and low-light conditions. Keep batteries charged or carry spares. Lock:Use a sturdy D-lock or heavy-duty chain. Always lock the frame (and ideally the wheels) to something solid. Repair Kit:Include a spare tube, tyre levers, mini-pump or CO₂, and optionally a multi-tool. A simple kit can save you from getting stranded. Rain Jacket & Spare Clothes:Pack a lightweight jacket and dry clothes, especially for commutes or longer rides, just in case! Shop All Accessories Here Register Your Commute Here
Choosing a Segway Ninebot Electric Scooter
Choosing your perfect set of wheels can be a tough decision, especially with so many great options available. If you're weighing up purchasing a Segway Ninebot electric scooter against an electric bike, other brands or need to understand which model is right for you, we're here to help you make the right choice for your lifestyle. Jump to model comparison Is an Electric Scooter the Right Ride for You? Electric scooters are fantastic for a variety of situations, but they have their own unique set of strengths. Let's break down some key considerations to see if a scooter is the perfect fit for your needs. The "Last Mile" and Short Trips An electric scooter is an unbeatable companion for the "last mile" of your commute. If your daily journey involves a train, (most buses in Australia don’t allow e-scooters unless they are under a certain size) a foldable scooter can be easily carried on board and then used to zip from the station to your office. They are perfect for short trips around the neighborhood, a quick ride to the shops, or meeting up with friends. However, if you're looking at a longer commute, the extended range and seated comfort of an e-bike might be a more suitable option. Carrying Capacity: Travelling Light One of the main differences to consider is carrying capacity. With an electric scooter, you're generally limited to what you can comfortably carry in a backpack. If your trips often involve picking up groceries, carrying a gym bag, or other larger items the ability to add racks and panniers to an electric bike gives it a significant advantage. Portability and Security Electric scooters are champions of portability. Their lightweight and foldable design means you can easily bring them inside your home or office, keeping them safe from theft and the elements. While you may still want to consider a lock for quick stops, the ability to keep your scooter with you is a major plus. Additionally, many Segway models come with tracking features, offering an extra layer of security if your scooter is stolen. Terrain Modern e-scooters are more robust than ever, but their smaller wheels mean they perform best on smoother, paved surfaces. An e-bike, with its larger wheels and more substantial frame, will generally offer a more comfortable and stable ride on rougher roads or uneven paths. However some of the premium electric scooters are designed to take on more varied terrain. A Closer Look at Segway Ninebot Scooters at 99 Bikes Here’s a breakdown of some popular Segway Ninebot models available at 99 Bikes to help you find the perfect match: Segway Ninebot E3 Pro Electric Scooter The Segway Ninebot E3 Pro is a fantastic all-rounder, offering a great balance of power, range, and portability. Its 800W motor can tackle hills with ease, and the dual suspension ensures a smooth and comfortable ride. With a range of up to 55km and a simple folding mechanism, it's an excellent choice for daily commutes and weekend fun. The durable magnesium alloy frame and IPX5 water resistance mean it's built to last. Pros: Powerful 800W motor handles hills well. Dual suspension for a comfortable ride. Good range of up to 55km. Durable and water-resistant frame. Unique folding mechanism allowing it to fit under most train seating Cons: A 7-hour charge time requires some planning. May not be suitable for very rough terrain. More info about the Segway Ninebot E3 Pro Segway Ninebot MAX G3 Electric Scooter For those who need to go the distance, the Segway Ninebot Kickscooter MAX G3 is a powerhouse. With an impressive range of up to 80km (extendable to 120km with an optional battery), this scooter is built for long rides. The 2000W peak motor provides rapid acceleration, and the dual hydraulic suspension can handle a variety of terrains. It's packed with smart features like Bluetooth unlocking and Apple Find My integration, making it a premium choice for the serious scooter enthusiast. Pros: Exceptional range, perfect for long commutes. Powerful 2000W peak motor. Dual hydraulic suspension for a very smooth ride. Smart features including Apple Find My. Cons: Heavier than other models, making it less portable. The higher performance and features come at a higher price point. More info about the Segway Ninebot MAX G3 Segway Ninebot ZT3 Pro Electric Scooter The Segway Ninebot ZT3 Pro is designed for those who want a robust and comfortable ride across various conditions. Its 1600W brushless motor and 11-inch all-terrain tubeless tires make it capable of handling both city streets and light trails. The advanced suspension system and smart traction control provide a stable and safe ride, while the long-range battery gives you the freedom to explore. The large dashboard and Apple Find My integration add to its user-friendly and secure design. Pros: Powerful motor and all-terrain tires. Advanced suspension and traction control for safety. Long range of up to 70km. Quick 4-hour charge time. Cons: At the heavier end for scooters, which could impact portability. More info about the Segway Ninebot ZT3 Pro Making Your Decision Ultimately, the choice comes down to your individual needs. If your priorities are portability, ease of use for short trips, and seamless integration with public transport, a Segway Ninebot electric scooter is an excellent choice. If you need to travel longer distances, carry more cargo, or tackle varied terrain, an electric bike might be the better fit. We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision. Feel free to visit us at 99 Bikes to test ride our range of e-scooters and e-bikes and find your perfect ride!
Our Top 5 Hardtail Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
There are a few features that take a hardtail from good to great. We always look for a solid frame that can take a beating, a fork that smooths out the bumps without feeling like a pogo stick, reliable brakes, and a gear setup that actually works when you’re halfway up a climb. Now for under a grand you know you’re not getting all the bells and whistles you’d see on a pro-level bike, but you can still find some seriously capable rigs that’ll happily smash out trails, handle your weekend rides, and even double as your commuter if you want. So, here are five of our favourites under $1,000. Pedal Ranger 4 Check it out here If you’re after something that’ll do a bit of everything without emptying your wallet, the Ranger 4 is a solid shout. It’s got comfort sorted with a padded saddle, chunky grips, and wide bars so you’re not hunched over or rattled to bits. The alloy suspension fork takes the edge off bumps, and the Shimano 3x7 drivetrain gives you plenty of gears to work with. The V-brakes aren’t as fancy as disc brakes, but they’re simple, reliable, and easy to maintain. Throw in quick-release wheels and sealed bearings (translation: fewer workshop visits), and you’ve got yourself a dependable all-rounder. Merida Big Seven 10 D Check it out here The Big Seven 10 D is a proper entry-level trail bike. Featuring a lightweight alloy frame, 100mm fork to soak up the rough stuff, and hydraulic disc brakes for confident stopping in any weather. It’s running a 3x7 drivetrain, so you’ve got gears for days whether you’re grinding up climbs or spinning down fire roads. The upright geometry makes it feel comfortable and controlled rather than twitchy. If you’re looking for a first “real” mountain bike, this one ticks a lot of boxes. Silverback SE Series 7 29" Check it out here The SE Series 7 rolls on 29” wheels, which means more grip, more speed, and more stability when compared to 27.5” wheels on the models mentioned above. It’s got a strong but lightweight hydroformed frame, 100mm Suntour fork, and a simple Shimano drivetrain that’ll get the job done. Braking comes from mechanical discs, not as sharp as hydraulics but still plenty of stopping power for casual trail riding. Bonus: the wheels are tubeless-ready, so if you want to upgrade down the line, you can. Merida Big.Nine 20 Check it out here Another Merida, but this time on 29-inch wheels. The Big.Nine 20 is built for versatility. It goes well for trails, commutes, and weekend spins. You get a Shimano 1x8 drivetrain, which keeps things nice and simple: one shifter, no front derailleur, less faff. Hydraulic disc brakes mean confidence on steep or wet descents, and the 100mm Suntour fork (with lockout) gives you control over whether you want it plush or firm. It’s a bike that feels equally at home on dirt or tarmac. Silverback SE Series 9 29" Check it out here This one edges closer to the performance end of the under-$1000 bracket. You’re looking at a hydroformed T6 alloy frame, an air-sprung Suntour fork (lighter and more tunable than coil), and a 9-speed Shimano drivetrain. Hydraulic discs give you consistent braking power, and there’s generous clearance for chunky 2.35” tires. If you want something that feels ready to push a bit harder on the trails, this is probably the pick of the bunch. When you’re looking for a mountain bike under $1,000 you’re not going to be chasing carbon frames or top-end drivetrains. You’re looking for smart design, reliable parts, and a bike that makes you want to keep riding. Each of these bikes nails that in its own way: some focus on comfort, some on simplicity, and some lean toward performance. The best one? Depends on what you want to ride. But honestly, any of these five will give you a solid start without blowing your budget.
Bmx Bikes Buying Guide
BMX bikes are used for a wide range of BMX disciplines, including BMX race, dirt, freestyle, street, park, and more. Given their size, durability, and simplicity, BMX bikes are a great option for older children and adolescents. As you progress through the kids range, models become stronger, more rugged and more suitable for racing and tricks. BMX Bikes BMX frames are generally made from steel or aluminium, with higher end bikes made from chromoly. Chromoly has a high strength to weight ratio, making it ideal for the rigours of BMX. They come in a variety of wheel sizes, with the race variety generally 20", but ranging anywhere from 16" to 26". Dirt jump and freestyle BMX bikes are generally 16" to 20", depending on the age and size of the rider. See All BMX Bikes The best BMX bikes at the best price. BMX bikes for freestyle and street riding, plus race BMX. Bikes from big brands like WeThePeople, Mongoose, Pilgrim, Colony, Academy, Stolen, Mirraco, GT and DK BMX. These bikes are made tough, prepared for the onslaught which youth will bring. Put your BMX bike on lay-by today, or see our finance options to get your favourite BMX in your garage today. Cheap BMX bikes suitable for any budget. Boys BMX bikes and girls BMX bikes perfect for riding to school, skate parks, or just general fun!
