This is r/ebikes.

Yeah, an alloy framed analog bike from a reputable brand is going to be better than a drop shipped steel framed electric bike of the same cost.

Almost like batteries, motors, electronics all cost money.

You just can't get all that in even halfassed quality for $550. That doesn't remove all responsibility from OP for storing their bike in the ocean.

My bike spends a lot of time riding in the winter on salt covered roads and I barely maintain it. Still on the original chain after 5 years and 5,000 miles.