Ebike Frame Styles

Bikes come in a range of frame shapes and ebike frame styles and to confuse you even more, different brands may refer to the same style of frame by a different name. Here is a quick guide to help you understand what they are.

Crossbar

This is the most common frame design. It is the default frame style design that has been around since bikes were invented over 100 years ago. It is instantly recognisable due to it’s double-diamond shape.

Step-Through Or Easy-Entry

This frame design eliminates the top crossbar and is the most practical frame design when you mount the bike. No more slinging your leg over. To compensate for the loss of the top bar, the downtube is often beefed up to retain it’s rigidity. TIP: You can mount these frames on rear carriers by fitting a fake crossbar. Contact us for more details.

Some brands may refer to this design as an Open or a Low-step frame.

Trapeze

This frame-style sits in between the crossbar and step through. It features a lower crossbar and offers riders the ability to step ‘over’ rather than through the frame.

Some brands may refer to this design as a Low-Standover frame.

Further Reading

• Ebikes and the Law
• The Top 6 Ebike Accessories you need
• The Future of Commuting with Our Range of Electric Bikes for sale

Compact

This ebike frame style is quite niche and usually feature smaller 20″ or 24″ wheels. Primarily designed as a utility bike for riders short on storage space they often feature bars that can be easily turned 90 degrees or folded flat to save space when stored or transported.

Folding

These are as described.  They feature a frame hinge that allows the bike to be folded in half and then the bars and pedals folded down and inwards too. 16″ or 20″ wheels are common.

Cargo – Longtail

Cargo frames are super-strong and long (hence the name!) so they can carry a lot of weight. They usually feature cargo ‘options’ to accommodate the type of cargo you want to carry like people, children or goods.

Cargo – Box

These frames feature a front or rear box set on two or three wheels which is designed to carry a lot of weight. People, children and cargo are common and they are very popular as a commercial vehicle.