> I decided to go with the cheaper option.

Check this out, they're NL based. No relationship with them. One of my bike forum colleagues bought one after using several non electric bikes and is very happy with it. It's not overly expensive, it's slick, light, fast, has lights, belt drive, you can mount a rack, fenders, kickstand. The only downside is that the battery is not removable to charge indoors.

https://www.tenways.com/products/cgo600

The best part of NL is that it's so flat, you don't actually need an e-bike (unless you're over 60) and you get to exercise more as a bonus.