E-bike recommendations for recreational cycling
Hello
I'm considering an e-bike (currently riding an analogue bike) for recreational cycling for fitness/fun. Riding on combination of roads/paved bike paths and gravel trails e.g. rail trails, but I don't do any mountain biking. I would like to possibly be able to do some bikepacking along rail trails so ability to carry some load will be helpful. I already do overnight hiking so have pretty lightweight camping gear for that. I'm not planning to use for daily commuting, just recreational use.
The models I've been looking at but having trouble figuring out what will best suit my needs, so hoping to get some advice or if anyone has any of these bikes and has any feedback about them. I'll try to organise some test rides but feedback from someone who has ridden one long term will also be helpful. Or hints on which specs I should be focusing on - from my reading so far torque is important for carrying loads and going uphill. I would like to be able to cover up to about 60-80 km in a day and looking at mostly rail trails so not incredibly steep but something that can cope with some hills.
Merida eSpresso 500 EQ Electric Hybrid Bike 630Wh Battery Matte Green/Black $3299
Merida eSpresso 400 EQ Electric Hybrid Bike Dark Silver/Black $2699
Merida eSpresso CC 400 EQ Electric Hybrid Bike Metallic Black/Gunmetal Grey $3499
Merida eSpresso CC 300 EQ SE Electric Hybrid Bike Metallic Black/Gunmetal Grey $2664
Merida eSpresso 775 EQ Electric Hybrid Bike 750Wh Battery Matte Dark Silver/Black $3499
For reference I am 163 cm tall woman. I would consider purchasing second hand as well, if anyone has recommendations of where to look for second hand? (i.e. any particular facebook groups that are good - I am based in Melbourne - or second hand dealers/shops - and what to check to make sure I'm not purchasing a bike that has been stolen).
thank you in advance :)