250W vs 1000W E-Bikes: What’s the Difference
(and Why You’ll Probably Want the 1000W)
Let’s settle this once and for all - what’s the actual difference between a 250W and 1000W e-bike? Is one better? Faster? More fun? Less sweat-inducing?
We get this question on the daily, so here’s the no-BS breakdown (with a little Rodi flavour, of course).
250W - The Legal Lightweight Cruiser
250W is the most common motor size in Australia. It’s the max wattage allowed for pedal assist bikes without needing a licence or rego - so it’s totally road legal, and cruisy for casual rides.
👉 Perfect for: flat coastal trails, Sunday brunch rides, people who don’t mind pedalling a bit harder.
💬 What we hear from riders:
“It’s great on flats but I still feel like I’m doing most of the work up hills.”
1000W - (The Hill-Conquering, Lazy-Leg Loving Upgrade)
Here’s where things get spicy. A 1000W motor gives you more torque, more power, and more hell yes moments - especially if you ride on hills, carry a passenger, or just want to feel the wind in your teeth without sweating through your shirt.
And yep, they’re still legal - as long as you leave the settings as-is (no speed unlocking or hacks). Straight out of the box, our 1000W bikes are compliant and wildly fun.
👉 Perfect for: hilly areas, heavier riders, towing kids, carrying cargo, or just wanting less effort / more vibes.
💬 What the community says:
“I tried the 250W and it was good. Then I hopped on the 1000W and nearly cried from happiness.”
So, Which One’s Right for You?
Let’s break it down:
💨 Power level?
The 250W gives you a smooth, steady cruise. The 1000W? It’s like your legs grew a secret turbo button.
🏔️ Hills?
250W can do them, but you’ll still feel the burn. The 1000W floats up like it’s on a cloud - zero puffing, maximum smug.
👯♀️ Carrying passengers or cargo?
250W works best with light loads. 1000W is built to haul your mate, your beach gear, or your entire picnic setup without blinking.
🧠 Legal stuff?
Both are totally road legal in WA - as long as the 1000W stays factory set (no unlocking or dodgy tweaks).
💦 Sweat factor?
250W = medium to spicy.
1000W = barely a glisten.
🦵 Pedalling required?
250W: yep, especially on hills.
1000W: only if you feel like pretending you worked hard.
Final Verdict?
If you’re riding flat trails and want a cruisy beach bike - the 250W is great.
If you want power, glide up hills, carry more, and laugh at headwinds - go 1000W.
👉 Book your free test ride and feel the difference.
But warning: once you try 1000W, there’s no going back.