Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among city dwellers who want to minimise their carbon footprints without breaking a sweat on their route to work.
Electric bikes are also becoming more popular among students who wish to commute from one side of campus to the other without being late for class.
Whatever your reason for shopping for an electric bike, we’ve compiled a list of the greatest bargains available.
These e-bikes fluctuate in price and capability, so you’re likely to find something that fits your demands within your price range.
What is an Electric Bike?
A motorised bicycle with an integrated electric motor used to help propulsion is known as an electric bicycle (e-bike, eBike, etc.).
There are many different types of electric bikes available across the world, but they typically fall into two major categories: bikes that help the rider’s pedal power (i.e. pedelecs) and bikes that add a throttle, combining moped-style capabilities.
Both may still be pedalled by the rider and are thus not electric motorbikes.
Electric bikes utilise rechargeable batteries and may go at speeds ranging from 25 to 32 km/h (16 to 20 mph).
High-powered variations may frequently exceed 45 km/h (28 mph).
In certain areas, like as Germany in 2013, they are gaining popularity and displacing traditional bicycles, while in others, such as China in 2010, they are replacing fossil fuel-powered mopeds and small motorbikes.
Many electric bikes (e.g., pedelecs) are legally categorised as bicycles rather than mopeds or motorbikes, depending on local rules. This exempts them from stricter restrictions governing the certification and operation of more powerful two-wheelers, which are sometimes referred to as electric motorbikes. E-bikes can also be classified individually and governed by separate electric bicycle rules.
The vehicles are known as EAPCs (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles) in the United Kingdom and EPACs (Electrically Power Assisted Cycles) in the European Union.
E-bikes are electric-powered variants of motorised bicycles, which have been around since the late 1800s.
They are used in several bicycle-sharing programmes.
The Three Classes of E-Bikes
Following the decision of which form of bike is ideal for you, the next significant consideration is which class of electric bike is appropriate for your needs.
In the United States, there are three classifications based on the type of support and the speed at which the motor propels you. The majority of electric motorcycles are classified as class 1 or class 3. Class 1 motorcycles include a motor (maximum 750w) that helps you pedal up to 20 mph.
Class 3, commonly known as “speed pedelecs,” can have up to a 750w motor (or 1 horsepower) and can help you at speeds of up to 28 mph. Both are legal in most states and towns and do not require a licence.
Class 2 cars, which were uncommon just a year ago, are becoming more popular, particularly at cheaper prices. These versions have a throttle that can push a bike to and sustain 20 mph without the need for constant pedalling.
Some motorcycles blur the lines. Aventon’s popular Pace 500, for example, is technically a Class 3 electric bike since it can achieve speeds of up to 28 mph, but it also has a throttle that can reach speeds of up to 20 mph (the maximum legal speed for a throttle).
Two E-Bike Terms to Know
Torque: Torque is a rotating measurement of force that is measured in newton-meters (or Nm) and is the quantity to pay attention to when determining the output of an e-bike motor. Greater torque means more power off the line and more pep in your step.
The more torque required by the bike, the heavier it is. Lighter road bikes generally have 30 to 40Nm of torque, trail and cargo bikes have at least 80Nm, and most commuter bikes lie somewhere in the middle.
Watt Hours: The battery capacity of an e-bike is measured in watt-hours (or Wh), which measures the quantity of energy stored in the battery and the number of watts it can supply every hour.
The greater the number, the greater the range; however, the greater the speed, the less range you have.
So, if a 504Wh battery and a 500-watt motor provide one hour of ride time at maximum assist, riding at half that power will double your range.
Other E-Bike Features to Consider
Battery Locking: As the number of electric bike possibilities grows, manufacturers are incorporating batteries more fluidly, making the bike appear sleeker (and more like a real bike).
Most batteries lock to the bike and come with a key that allows you to unlock and remove them, which serves several purposes: you can remove the battery and charge it off the bike, a locked battery deters (and hopefully prevents) a thief from stealing it, and an e-bike with the battery removed is safer to haul on a bike rack and lighter to carry up steps.
A detachable battery makes charging off the bike easier.
Wider Tires: Because e-bikes can maintain higher speeds for longer periods of time than normal bikes, you need more control.
Wider tyres give better grip and let you to leave the pavement without penalty, and a suspension fork will assist you navigate some of the rougher terrain you may encounter.
Good disc brakes are also required for slowing down a big bike at high speeds. This is not the place to cut corners.
Integrated Lights: Some e-bikes include an integrated lighting system that activates when the bike is powered on.
While this is a fantastic feature to have, it is not a deal breaker if your bike does not have it.
With so many amazing bike lights available, attaching your own is just as simple.
We tested the stability of kickstands and the luggage capacity of panniers during our e-bike studies.
How We Tested
Each model was reviewed by our team of professional bike testers based on its overall quality, safety features, handling, motor, battery life, and if the components and features added to the overall quality of the ride.
We put the majority of these bikes through their paces on our neighbourhood roads, commuting to and from work, stocking up on groceries and beer, and draining their batteries to see how far they could go on a single charge.
A couple of the motorcycles featured were unavailable for testing.
In those circumstances, we compared the bikes’ value and performance to similar models we had evaluated using the experience of our test team, interviews with product managers, and extensive research.
Best Electric Bikes for Every Kind of Ride
Best for Most People
Specialized Como SL
If this is your first bike, I strongly advise you to go with an established manufacturer with a broad support network of linked dealers and stores, so you may try a few without having to build or repair it yourself.
Almost every major bicycle brand now offers an entry-level step-through commuter electric bicycle, and we particularly enjoy the light, elegant Specialized e-bike.
We still enjoy our previous top selection, the Cannondale Adventure Neo 3 EQ, but it’s becoming more difficult to find in stock.
The Turbo Como SL also offers low-maintenance features, such as an internal hub drive and a weather-resistant belt drive, as well as all the bells and whistles, including integrated fenders, lights, display, rack, and bell.
It also boasts Specialized’s compact, unique motor, which is one of the variables that contribute to it being around 10 to 20 pounds lighter than the competition and simpler to get over obstacles and onto bike racks. I enjoy the colours, as I do with all of Specialized’s bikes. Electra is an alternative.
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Another Great Newbie Electric bike
Cowboy 4 ST
VanMoof’s ebikes are frequently lauded as the finest for novices, but we chose the Cowboy 4 ST for the simple reason that if an electric bike is highly reliant on an app on your phone, it should have a charger.
The 4 ST, like the VanMoof, is gorgeous, low-maintenance, and simple to install right out of the box. The stem, on the other hand, features a built-in quad lock mechanism and wireless charging.
Simply purchase a suitable phone cover (a minor, though slightly inconvenient, extra expenditure) and using Google Maps to move about town is simple and painless.
You can also monitor the battery level on your phone and effortlessly pop it in and out of the frame for charging inside.
It’s unusual to find things like a carbon belt drive and lights that switch on automatically when it gets dark at this price.
The rear hub motor has a power output of only 250 watts, which may not be adequate if you live in a mountainous location.
You may also only unlock it through the app.
The 4 ST is designed for riders 5’6″ and taller, making it just a tad too large for me at 5’2″. It is also available with a high top tube, but we prefer the convenience of a step-through.
Best Utility Electric bike
Rad Power Bikes RadRunner
This year, I’ve tried numerous newer Rad Power Bikes models, but it’s exceedingly tough to find a bike that delivers greater value for money than the RadRunner.
For many years, this was the bike that most people I knew bought. It’s also the bike I see the most in my city of Portland, Oregon, owing to an almost magical combination of price and utility.
Rad Power Bikes, situated in Seattle, ships directly to customers. Custom hub-motor drivetrains, a 120-pound capacity rack, and huge, stable Kenda tyres are included on the bikes.
Their motors are also more powerful than many of our other recommendations, at 750 watts. It serves as both a comfortable beach cruiser and a commuting bike for children. We must disclose that the parents of a child who died while riding a Rad Power Bike have filed a lawsuit against the firm.
However, the owner’s handbook states that the bike is reserved for those above the age of 18. Please do not leave your youngsters unattended in a powerful electric car. Flyer M880 ($1,799) as an alternative
Best Affordable Electric bike
Propella 7-Speed (V3.4)
Unless you’re already an electric bike fanatic, you’re definitely looking for something affordable, preferably around $1,000.
If you want a dependable motor and a frame that won’t buckle at 15 mph, this is a difficult choice.
Propella’s 7-speed is the greatest low-cost bike we’ve discovered. Parker Hall, a reviewer, points out that it includes reliable components like a Samsung battery and Shimano disc brakes, as well as unique options like a suspension seat. It sends straight to you, which is convenient if you want to avoid going to a bike store. Propella bikes are updated every several months. We’re only advising you that because it’s a direct-to-consumer bike, your local shop may have trouble fixing it. Aventon Soltera ($1,199) is an alternative.
Best for Road Racers
LeMond Bikes Prolog
Greg LeMond’s all-carbon-fiber electric bike series is perhaps the most popular among bike enthusiasts.
Its everyday commuter is the Prolog.
With its amazingly light frame, gorgeous matte paint job, and fancy-schmancy custom-designed fenders, you may mistake this for a luxury bike.
But don’t worry: it’s a functional bike.
It contains robust, adaptable, and easy-to-repair components from well-known manufacturers, including a one-button Mahle drive system, a Shimano gravel-specific gearing system, and Panaracer gravel tyres.
And because an electric bike is lighter than an acoustic cycle, you can go at breakneck speed.
Just a heads up: the LeMond website may be finicky, so you may want to contact them personally.
Alternative: Turbo Vado SL
Best Cargo Electric bike
Tern Quick Haul P9
Putting a motor on a bike has enabled me to accomplish all of my chores and errands on a bike rather than in a car.
Cargo bikes, however, have drawbacks in that they may be large and expensive. Tern’s most recent Quick Haul is neither.
Instead of a carbon belt drive, it uses a traditional chain drivetrain with a derailleur. Because the front fork does not fold, it is a little more difficult to travel and store.
However, it feels like a Tern in every crucial way—small but still a remarkably strong and competent cargo electric bike.
For two weeks, I rode this bike to and from school with my 40-pound 5-year-old, and we both appreciated how much quicker and more manoeuvrable it is than our GSD. This is the bike you acquire if you just have room and money for one bike that you can use to commute to work as well as pick up food at the farmer’s market on Saturday mornings.
Best Cargo Electric bike for Families
Urban Arrow Family Electric Cargo Bike
The R & M Load was formerly my favourite bakfiets, or Dutch-style front-box cargo bicycle.
However, the Urban Arrow Family) is far less expensive and includes many of the same characteristics that drew me to the Load, such as comfort and mobility.
However, because it lacks suspension, it is better suited for smoother roads.
I like the Enviolo continuously variable shifters because they allow you to downshift when the bike is still.
Instead of wobbling and frightening children hurrying downshift while pedalling, you can utilise walk assistance to push the bike to an appropriate location, downshift while standing still, and then cycle uphill at the torque and power level of your choice.
The Bosch Performance motor is temporarily unavailable, but the more powerful Bosch Cargo Line motor is available.
Xtracycle and Bullitt bicycles are alternatives.
Best Commuter Electric bike
Batch E-Bike
This is the electric bike equivalent of a Honda Civic.
Rather than splurging on frills like a suspension seat post or an integrated light-up display, Batch opted for a high-end Bosch powertrain, Shimano components, and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. It’s not a thrilling journey, and it may be monotonous to look at.
You’ll also need to purchase your own lighting. However, it is dependable, reasonably priced, and will transport you there and back for as long as you want.
Several members of the Gear crew have been looking for the cheapest, most dependable daily commuter electric bike.
Best Micro Electric bike
Jackrabbit Bike
Micromobility, which refers to small personal cars, is the next big thing in electric biking. Tiny bikes are less expensive, easier to carry, and store.
And, like little everything else, they’re absolutely seductive.
The bike weighs an incredible 23 pounds, is easy to construct right out of the box, and can fold down to conserve even more space.
It lacks pedals, so you won’t knock yourself in the jaw with your knees; instead, you accelerate by adjusting a thumb throttle.
My only reservation is that the little battery and motor aren’t particularly powerful. I’m barely 120 pounds, and pressing on the gas only gets me to around 10 miles per hour.
In addition, the range is only about 10 miles, which isn’t much when compared to our other selections. Propella Mini ($999) is an alternative.
The Best Folding Electric bike
Montague M-E1
Folding bikes are ideal for apartment dwellers, although they are often rather small.
The M-E1 is full-size and nearly identical to a non-folding bike. It boasts dependable components, such as a Shimano mid-drive engine, a comfortable seat, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, and all the bells and whistles, such as integrated lights, fenders, a replaceable battery, and an easy-to-read display. Most significantly, Julian says he can ride it about without feeling embarrassed, which is always a bonus.
The Best Mountain Electric bike
Canyon Spectral:ON CFR
The presence of electric bikes on trails has caused considerable controversy. Still, if you enjoy the activity but are getting older, an e-MTB is the greatest way to stay active.
With a bigger 29-inch front wheel and a smaller 27.5-inch back wheel on a full-carbon frame with front and rear suspension, the Spectral:On CFR is a fun ride.
You may choose between a 720-watt-hour and a 900-watt-hour battery (the tiny frame size is only available with the 720); the 720-watt battery has a reported range of roughly 51 miles.
Pearson experienced quick, strong, and enjoyable 15- to 25-mile singletrack rides that left the battery just halfway charged.
As usual, test out a new electric mountain bike to ensure you understand how it feels before attempting an electric assist on nasty terrain.
A More Affordable Folding Electric bike
Lectric Electric bikes Lectric XP 2.0
The XP 2.0 by Lectric has a remarkable design for a foldable e-bike.
The 3-inch-wide tyres set on 20-inch wheels, as well as the industrial-styled aluminium frame, allow you to travel to areas that typical folding bikes cannot.
Furthermore, with folded dimensions of 37″ x 18″ x 28″, the XP 2.0 may be kept in areas where non-folding electric bikes cannot. The 500-watt hub motor is powered by an integrated battery hidden in the frame.
This allows for a stated range of 45 miles. A seven-speed transmission provides gearing for different terrain, and a throttle allows you to travel without pedalling. It has a suspension fork and a big and readable LCD screen.
The bike comes standard as a Class 2 e-bike, but it may be upgraded to a Class 3, raising the maximum speed to 28mph.
Mentions of Merit
Other Electric bikes We Enjoy Riding
Over the last year, we’ve tried a number of bikes. Here are others that didn’t receive their own space above but are nonetheless worth mentioning:
- Wing Freedom X ($1,548)
- The Gocycle G4I+ ($4,999)
- The Bunch Original Electric Cargo Bike ($3,999)
- Brompton Electric Folding Bike ($3,800)
Best E-Bike Deals: 7 Great electric bikes for Sale to Check Out Right Now
- Velowave 750W motor 7-speed e-bike
- Miclon Cybertrack 350W motor 21-speed e-bike
- TotGuard 500W motor 21-speed e-bike
- eAhora 500W 9-speed e-bike
- Hittroad 350W 21-speed e-bike
- Wallke F3 500W 7-speed e-bike
- Charge Thru Electric Bike
FAQs
Are electric dirt bikes road legal UK?
Road Legal: Yes Electric moped (L1e) with a top speed of 30MPH that requires the required licence, registration, insurance, and road tax (currently free for electric vehicles).
How much does a Pedego Electric bikes cost?
Pedego bikes are often more expensive than the normal price range of the e-bike market.
The most affordable model costs $1,495 while the most costly model costs $5,495. A Pedego Bike typically costs between $2,000 and $2,500.
How fast does the Himiway electric bike go?
What is the maximum speed of the Himiway electric bike? Himiway’s peak speed in the US market is roughly 23mph without pedalling, which is perfectly legal.
How long does a rad electric bike battery last?
A battery with these specs will last around 5 years of Rad riding!
Frequent riders: a rider who drains and recharges a full battery every day, seven days a week, will get around 2.5 years out of their battery.
How long does the battery last on an Ancheer electric bike?
ANCHEER electric bike comes with a professional replaceable lithium battery (charger included), with a battery capacity of 36V 8Ah that can last 22-50 kilometres.
How fast is a fat tire electric bike?
POWERFUL 500W MOTOR: The 26″ fat tyre electric bike has a powerful high-speed 500W motor with a peak speed of 21.6mph, offering enough of power for our riding.
How long does the Jetson electric bike battery last?
Make your Jetson last longer! Our e-bikes, e-scooters, and hoverboards include rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries that are designed to survive 300 to 500 charge cycles.
What is the point of an e-mountain bike?
One of the most significant advantages of an e-mountain bike is its increased range. It allows you to cover more ground in less time than a normal bike.
However, the electric motor’s increased assistance means that you may cover your typical riding distance with significantly less energy.
Conclusion
Make sure you can utilise your electric bike before purchasing it! There are rules in many towns and states that govern when and where you can ride an electric bike.
At least 22 states already employ this three-tiered approach, and they may limit when and where certain types of electrc bikes may be used, depending on whether they have a throttle or can help over 20 mph. Cities may also have legislation governing the use of mountain electric bikes on single-track routes.
If your state treats electric bikes similarly to motorcycles and mopeds, you may need a licence to ride one. And, above all, always wear a helmet. You are aware of this.
