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That is what online reviews are for.

And oftentimes, download the user manual. If at all possible, I download the manual before making any purchase decision. It can answer questions such as: What’s included in the box? What cables/accessories will I need? Will the specs be fit for purpose?

User manuals are unbiased and usually a very accurate way to figure out lots of things about a product, especially something complicated and/or expensive, before purchase.

Unfortunately I have seen companies who are paywalling or purchase-walling manual downloads.






> Unfortunately I have seen companies who are paywalling or purchase-walling manual downloads.

This is itself an enormous red flag of its own. I would never buy any product from a company that has its manuals online but then makes it difficult to actually download them. That's a worse sign than the manuals just not being up at all.


Bosch isn't one of those manufacturers thought. All their manuals are available online, so it's just a matter of doing your homework before purchase.

Bosch are nasty in many ways though. Their ebike battery and motor system in particular is extremely hostile to diy anything. Repair, generic battery with Bosch motor, using your Bosch ebike battery outside the ebike, ...

I wouldn't mind seeing some legislation that forced compatibility between different ebike systems, especially battery DRM....

A good start would be strong push to unify all rechargeable batteries.

And not just bikes, but all the various tools, from cordless drills to lawnmovers.




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