Find a bike shop near you | Trek Retailers

CNET logo

Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement

  • Personal Mobility

Best Electric Bike for 2024

We've got e-bike picks for almost any budget, plus answers to your electric bike questions.

trek electric bike gumtree

Electric commuter bikes weren't always as common as they are today. But the ability to zoom around the city without tiring yourself out has made these eco-friendly modes of transport incredibly popular. Plus, if you're in school , an e-bike is perfect for getting around campus without breaking a sweat. But which is the best electric bike option for you?

The market for electric rideables is straight-up booming and, as a result, we've had to divide our recommendations into two different categories: the best electric bikes, which you'll find below, and the  best electric scooters and skateboards . Most of the rideables were tested on a commute through sections of midtown Manhattan, bike paths  around Central Park  or on the  West Side Highway bike path . Note, these all fall into the category of "commuter bike," and we don't recommend trying to traverse rough terrain on one of these babies. 

If you do get into rideables and electric commuter bikes, be sure to be safe by keeping several guidelines in mind. Keep your battery charged and make it a habit to check your tires often. Leave enough space between yourself and both cars and riders on plain old human-powered bikes and scooters. Ride and pass with caution, because an electric bicycle will go faster than a traditional bike or scooter. Most importantly, wear a helmet every time you ride. 

 width=

Woom Up 5 and 6

Young cyclists can ride longer and farther.

In June, Woom launched its first e-bike for kids/teens in the US. The Woom Up  e-bike has a unique design meant only for children and is powered by a 250-watt  Fazua  drive system combined with an SRAM NX 11-gear drivetrain, adjustable air suspension fork and hydraulic disc brakes. Some hills or distances can be intimidating at times and having that electric boost when needed makes getting out and about stress-free. The Woom Up has three levels of pedal-assist up to 12 mph, to make those long rides with our kids painless and with fewer complaints. There is even a non-assist mode for times they want to do it on their own. 

Woom currently offers two models: The Up 5 is $3,599 (£2,645, AU$4,790) with 24-inch wheels designed for 7 to 11-year-olds who are 50-57-inches tall, and the Woom Up 6 at $3,749 ( £3,665, AU$4,985) equipped with 26-inch wheels built for kids 10 to 14 years old who are 55-65-inches tall. The Up 5 weighs just under 36 pounds while the Up 6 is 37 pounds. 

For those not familiar with the Fazua system, it's a lightweight and compact battery-and-motor combo that can be easily removed, shaving off 7.3 pounds and leaving you with a high-end traditional bicycle. The battery can be charged on or off the bicycle. The Fazua Rider app lets you view bike data such as speed, mileage, battery charge, navigation, motor power and more. Riders can adjust bicycle assistance levels on the fly by using the touch sensor toward the front of the frame, with each level of assistance indicated by illuminating in different colors. 

The frame is made from lightweight, high-quality 6061 T6 aluminum with butted and hydroformed tubes. The fork has a hydraulic air suspension, adjustable compression and rebound damping, plus lock-out. The brakes are Promax hydraulic disc brakes and children's hand-sized ergonomic brake levers.

I tested, or should I say my daughter tested the Up 5 and it was a simple and quick assembly process with some minor adjusting for my daughter's comfort, and the tools were included. Instructions for assembly along with instructions for use are included and are also available on the company's website. 

My daughter really enjoyed the ride, and there was little motor resistance that you might find on some other e-bikes. The tires were great for going on- and off-road along with the front suspension. Both bikes support up to 160 pounds, but I took the Up 5 for a quick spin to confirm her feedback. The bike handled great and didn't make any creaking noises when I hopped on and off. The seat was comfortable even for my larger frame, but again it's ergonomically designed to fit children. 

The battery performance will vary depending on the rider's size, terrain and assistance level, but I only had to charge it once after she used it on and off for a week. The price tag might be intimidating given how fast kids grow. But the resale value is good, along with the quality of the product. 

trek electric bike gumtree

Niner RLT e9 RDO Gravel Bike

E-bike that breaks barriers.

There's always been a divide between e-bike riders and hard-core cyclists because the latter think the former are cheating. I use e-bikes and scooters to run errands and commute to and from work. It's not about exercise as much as it is trying to get from one point to another in a timely fashion and not show up all sweaty. However, if you're somewhere in between and don't have space for multiple bikes, the Niner RLT e9 RD0 is the only bike you'll need. 

Of those I've tested, the Niner is the easiest to ride like a traditional bicycle. It's relatively light for an e-bike at only 40 pounds with its battery and 34 pounds without. It's powered by a Bosch Line CX Gen 4 motor that can assist you in pedaling up to 28 mph. The battery, which is nicely hidden in the frame but still removable, takes approximately 6 hours to fully charge and will last you about 75 miles depending on your riding style.

The frame is composed of Niner's highest-quality Race Day Optimized carbon fiber. The model I received shipped with 700c wheels, but the e9 can also support 650b wheels. The bike is complemented with an assortment of high-end parts, a gorgeous finish that lives up to its name -- electric moss green -- and a credo on the top of the frame that says "Pedal Dammit." The bike handles like a dream and is effortless to ride with or without assistance due to the Bosch motor's lag-free resistance.

The Shimano SLX M7000 11-42T cassette provides 11 speeds while the Bosch mid-drive motor gets you four levels of assistance -- Eco, Tour, Sport and Turbo -- which allowed me to easily reach speeds of up to 35 mph. It ships with Schwalbe G-One Speed Performance 700X50C tires and some beautifully designed Shimano RT-EM810 180MM Centerlock hydraulic disc brakes. The custom Niner seat is fairly comfortable, but it ships without pedals. Lastly, it has a display that's easy to see in direct sunlight and shows the assist mode along with traveling speed, battery level and other info.

I've covered micromobility products at all prices and I can assure you that the $5,995 is worth it. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed riding this bike. Considering how light the bike is, you may only use the pedal assistance on hills, which is what I mostly did. And the fact that at first glance you can barely tell it's an e-bike is a testament to how well it's designed.

Check out Niner Bikes' NEW RLT e9 RDO Introduction video .

trek electric bike gumtree

Priority Current e-bike

Quality that exceeds its price.

The $3,299  Priority Current  is a great e-bike that performs like and resembles a normal bike. It can be used with its 500-watt mid-drive torque-sensing motor on or completely turned off. There are a lot of e-bikes out there that are pretty much useless or unbearable to ride if not providing some level of assistance. That is not the case with the Current: You don't experience dead weight or motor resistance -- a common issue with a lot of other hub-motor e-bikes. 

The Current uses a proprietary mid-drive motor that allows riders to take full advantage of the  Envolio  NuVinci gearing system and the  Gates Carbon Drive CDX  to make for a smooth ride, and requires minimum upkeep. With a mid-drive motor and rear gearing, both the rider and the bike's motor need to do less work when shifting, and changing gears even on an incline is effortless and silent. If you've never tried an Envolio system I strongly recommend hitting up a local bike shop and seeing if it has any Envolio-equpped bikes for a test ride. 

When it comes time to stop, the Current has Tektro dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes. The cables are run internally through the frame for a clean look and where the cables exit the frame there's a protective wrap around them to prevent any damage to the housing.

The 500wh 48v battery is integrated into the frame and can be charged on or off the bike within 5 or 6 hours. The Current ships as a Class 1 e-bike, which means you get motorized pedal assist up to 20 mph. It can easily be changed to a Class 3 (28-mph pedal assistance) from the bicycle's console, however. Depending on the pedal assist mode you use, it can travel about 30 to 60 miles on a full charge. The 4-inch display console is a nice size that can be seen in direct sunlight as well as at night. The display shows battery level and current speed along with assist level, and this pedal assist bike also has a USB port to charge mobile devices. 

The 6061 aluminum step-through frame design is ideal regardless of gender, so getting on and off the bike is a hassle-free experience. Its handlebars are wide with ergonomic grips and a height-adjustable stem to get that perfect comfort level. The overall bike weight is approximately 45 pounds. 

Front and rear fenders keep the dirt on the street and off your clothes, and automatic head and taillights are standard to brighten your darkest days. The bike even has a gel-filled seat for added comfort. Priority really thought of everything.

trek electric bike gumtree

Riese & Müller Load 60 Touring HS

Best of everything.

The Riese & Müller Load 60 Touring HS is a premium ride with premium features and a premium price: $8,669. I made a special trip to e-bike shop  Propel  in Brooklyn to test this bike, which is an excellent option for living in the city without a car. 

One of the first things I noticed when standing over the bike was how long the front cargo area is. Amazingly though, once I started moving, it handled so smoothly it was like riding a normal bike, even on some of the bumpiest side streets of Brooklyn. The Load 60 comes equipped with both front and rear suspension as well as a comfortable gel seat. 

A small but welcome feature is its rear-slanting seat tube. As you raise it for taller riders, the farther back it goes, providing better leg extension. It has a quick-release adjustable stem tube that can be moved backward, forward, up and down, making it easier to find a handlebar sweet spot if you need to share it with family and friends. It'll accommodate rider heights from 5 feet even to 6 feet, 5 inches, and its low-profile frame makes maneuvering sharp and responsive. 

The front cargo area can seat two small kids or one larger child and they can be secured in place with its five-point belts over a soft cushion seat. There is also a small storage space underneath the seat. For those not looking to transport kids, there is also a lockbox option great for messengering, carrying tools, groceries -- you name it. The cargo area can support up to 200 pounds, and the bike itself can support a total weight of 551 pounds; it weighs approximately 80.7 pounds on its own.

The model I tested had two Bosch PowerPack 500 Performance batteries, but the bike can run on a single battery. The batteries powered the bike's 250-watt motor to a top pedal-assisted speed of 28 mph. There's a Shimano SLX 11-speed, 11-46 cassette to help keep you moving, too. Travel distance is all going to depend on the level of assistance you use, along with the terrain and bike load. Charge time is about six to seven hours depending on battery level. I never totally deplete any micromobility battery because it's not healthy and usually the product's performance drops. 

There's a built-in display to show your current assist mode, battery level, speed and other info. There's also a mobile phone application that can provide you with this information along with some other features. 

The model I tested had a rear rack that can also be used for additional storage. I can not emphasize enough how smooth and comfortable the Load 60 rides. For a full list of specifications and customizations, check out  Riese & Müller . If you're in the New York City area, you can check it out at  Propel  in Brooklyn.

trek electric bike gumtree

Biktrix Juggernaut HD Duo

Will get you to the mountaintop.

Biktrix, a Canada-based e-bike manufacturer that's been around since 2014, launched its latest bike, the  Juggernaut HD Duo , on  Indiegogo  and absolutely crushed its $30,000 goal. The bike just recently started shipping to backers, but I got a chance to test out an early sample of the $3,399 Juggernaut HD Duo and it's definitely a fun ride.

The model I tested came with two 52-volt, 17.5-Ah batteries that add 20 pounds to the already heavy 83-pound bike, bringing its total weight to 103 pounds -- not great if you live in a walk-up. You can also get it with two 39-Ah batteries for greater travel distances between charges.

The two batteries are removable, with one integrated into the frame and the other resting on top of the downtube. Chargers are included for both and can be fully charged in about 6 to 8 hours with the batteries on or off the bike. The bike can draw power from both batteries or just the integrated one. The bike wires are neatly channeled through the frame with some padded wraps to protect the frame where they exit. 

The bike rides like a monster truck on its 26-inch wheels and I found its front suspension smoothed out the bumpy New York City streets. Front and rear fenders come standard and I can't wait for snow so I can test it out. For anyone near a beach, it can also run on sand. The off-road model I tested was uncapped, letting it reach up to 35 mph (56 kph); the street version would adhere to local regulations. 

I got the bike up to 32 mph -- not bad considering my size and lack of aerodynamics. My mood would determine the total distance I could travel. It's not a bicycle that needs charging every day but I happen to have a bit of a speed bug in me and that would cut the expected travel distance by 30% to 40%. The estimated travel distance is over 100 miles and that is possible, depending on the rider's weight, terrain and use of assistance and throttle. I personally like to pedal but love dialing up that assistance, especially since I ride with cars more than in the bike lane, especially when going fast. Most of the time I ride with the pedal assistance set at 2 or 3 and kick it up to 5 when cars start getting too close.

The Juggernaut HD Duo can support a max load of 380 pounds with a rear rack that can support 50 pounds. Sitting on it I felt powerful, from its sheer size and power and the sound the off-road tires made on the concrete. It's a mid-drive e-bike powered by a 1,000-watt  BBSHD   Bafang  motor with a 10-speed Shimano cassette.

The bike can be pedaled with or without assistance or powered solely with its motor using the thumb throttle. You get a choice of Eco or Sport modes and five levels of assistance. Shifting is definitely something the rider has to do on the Duo and it's almost like driving a stick shift minus the clutch. The Juggernaut is equipped with dual 180mm disc hydraulic brakes to slow you down fast, with a rear brake light that illuminates when braking whether the headlights are on or not.

The DPC-18 full-color display for the bike is approximately 4 inches and visible at any time of day. The display shows current speed, battery level, mode (Eco or Sport), assist level, time, trip odometer and total miles traveled. In addition, there's a USB-A port for charging mobile devices. 

Lastly, the Juggernaut HD Duo is available to order in four colors: blue, black, camo and reptilian.

See Biktrix's video of the Juggernaut HD Duo .

trek electric bike gumtree

Swagtron EB5 Pro

Best electric bike for small spaces and small budgets.

Great for a commuter with limited storage space. The  Swagtron EB5 Pro  is a folding pedal-assist bike with an electric motor that also has its own throttle (so you don't really have to pedal at all). With a full battery, it can travel up to 15 miles at a speed of 15 mph. This folding bike is a single speed, and you can turn all the powered features and pedal-assist mode off and use it like a regular bike. It weighs a solid 37 pounds and the seat supports riders of up to 264 pounds, but when the seat is folded down, this commuter bike is surprisingly small.

See our Swagtron EB5 Pro gallery .

trek electric bike gumtree

Fits and goes anywhere

The Charge XC is a clean-looking e-bike that's made to go anywhere -- dirt, gravel or on the road -- for $2,499. The XC doesn't have a throttle, but it does have three levels of assist (eco, normal and high) and I found the 250-watt mid-drive Shimano motor was just enough to tackle any hill. Its front shocks were great for getting around the bumpy New York streets. 

The motor was efficient enough with the Shimano E8035 integrated battery that I always had enough juice to get home. The bike has a travel distance of up to 50 miles depending on the assist level you're using and its charge time is approximately 7 hours. With no throttle and a pedal-assist that gets you up to 20 mph (32 kmh), the Charge XC is a  Class 1 e-bicycle . Along with pedal assist, the XC also has eight manual gears and dual 180mm hydraulic brakes that work in any weather and on any slope. And its puncture-resistant Goodyear knobby tires work well on- or off-road. 

The frame is made from aluminum, weighs 55 pounds (25 kilograms) and supports riders of up to 300 pounds (136 kilograms). The pedals fold and the handlebars rotate in line with the bike for easy storage. I have to say that was a standout feature for me, living in a typical small Manhattan apartment. This electric road bike currently comes in one color, charcoal, which I personally think is a great color for a city bike. You don't need a key to use it but it does have one for removing the integrated battery -- a welcome feature I've seen more and more on e-bikes. 

The bike's comfortable seat made the ride more enjoyable, and it also has front and rear fenders that'll keep you dry on wet roads, as well as a rainproof battery cover. The XC is equipped with both headlights and taillights along with a rack that can support up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms), making it great for a quick run to the market. 

Other nice touches include a display that's clean, low-key and easy to read with an option of white-on-black or black-on-white characters (the latter was easier to see in sunlight). The tire caps tell you when tire pressure is low so there's no more guessing, and you get a portable hand pump along with the tools needed to assemble the bike. The box it comes in is cleverly designed to hold the wheel to assist with the installation. 

I would recommend the Charge XC for anyone who enjoys riding and doesn't want too much assistance but wouldn't mind an extra boost from time to time.

trek electric bike gumtree

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner

Best electric bike for customization.

If it can be put on a bicycle, Rad Power Bikes probably offers it. With a slew of accessories, you can outfit one of the company's nine different electric bike models for cargo, kids or just riding through the mud. 

We got our hands on the RadRunner 1 electric bike with a rear bench and foot pegs. This particular configuration is great for a parent wanting to get out and run errands with their little ones on board the electric cargo bike. The 48-volt, 14-amp-hour battery powers a 750-watt motor that can pedal-assist or throttle the RadRunner up to 20 mph. With four levels of assistance, riders can increase or decrease it to help conserve battery, if necessary, or make it up steep hills.

The step-through frame makes it easy to mount and dismount, even with a passenger or packages on the rear of the bike. The RadRunner is rated to support up to 300 pounds. I can assure you it does that, as my passengers and I pushed past the weight limit without any problems.

Read our RadRunner 1 hands-on .

Our Dog Ruby enjoying her first e-bike ride.

trek electric bike gumtree

Bunch Bike Original 2020 Edition

Best cargo e-bike for hauling a lot of stuff (or kids).

The $4,999  Bunch Bike Original 2020 Edition  can definitely replace a car, especially here in New York City. You'll just need an adequate parking space if you don't have a garage. The bike design reminds me of an old ice cream vendor's tricycle from back in the day, with a cooler at the front of the bike. 

The Bunch Bike, while not huge, will require some storage space. Its size, or at least its storage capacity, is its advantage, though, and was immediately put to use by my entire family. This cargo bike can seat up to four children and has seat belts to keep them safe and secure. Under the benches, there is additional storage space that can be locked. The bicycle has a rear-wheel key lock that prevents anyone from rolling the bike away while you're running errands. 

We used the bike for Costco runs, trips to our storage locker and to take George, our cat, to the vet in his carrier. For these types of trips with other cargo bikes, we also had to use our backpacks, but not with the Bunch bike; everything fit in the cargo box easily, and it was a cinch riding back and forth. 

The bike is powered by a 500-watt brushless hub motor paired with an eight-speed Shimano cassette. Its battery can be charged on or off the frame and takes about six to seven hours to top off. The bike is easy to ride even with assistance off and doesn't have the motor drag I've experienced with some e-bikes with hub motors. Also, the beauty of three wheels is the ability to have three hydraulic disc brakes that stop the bike on a dime. 

There are five levels of pedal assistance and a thumb throttle that I mostly used for take-offs on inclines. The assistance goes up to 20 mph, which is more than fast enough. Since the bicycle has three wheels, it does require some getting used to, especially when turning. There was also some flexing in the frame while riding that the company says is the company's anti-tip technology. An outer frame protects the cargo bay along with the wheels. It also has some nicely placed square foot plates used to step in and out of the cargo space. There's even a rain cover that can be purchased to keep the cargo area dry or block the wind on a chilly day. 

The overall ride of the bike is better when there are passengers in the cargo area or there's something heavy there to provide some ballast. Surprisingly, the bike itself is lighter than it looks (though it's still 152 pounds), and it helps to have whatever you're carting closer to the driver to prevent any possible tipping when dismounting. 

The bike has front and rear lights along with reflectors on the front of the cargo bay. A large display gives you at-a-glance access to important stats but the placement of the pedal-assist controls could be better; I would sometimes accidentally hit both the increase and decrease buttons with my thumb. Other than that, the layout is really nice, and overall it is a bunch of fun to ride. 

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4

Carry the kids or groceries on a budget.

Rad Power Bikes is a fierce competitor in the e-bike market, offering 10 different models, all competitively priced. One of the first Rad Power Bikes I reviewed was the Rad Runner that was both versatile and inexpensive. It could be customized for cargo or a single small passenger. But what if you had two little ones? That's where the $1,899  RadWagon 4  comes in: Riders can seat two children on the back with a bench and running board along the bottom for a footrest, or you can add a rear basket for additional carrying capabilities with a second basket on the front for still more capacity. The rear rack in particular is great for runs to Trader Joe's and Costco. It can easily carry a case of wine, too. 

Made from  6061 aluminum , the well-constructed RadWagon 4 has a seven-speed Shimano cassette and a 750-watt hub motor with five levels of cadence assistance to get you up to 20 mph via pedaling or throttle alone. The battery fully charges in 5 to 6 hours and travels anywhere between 25 to 45 miles on a full charge depending on bike load, terrain and pedal assistance. The battery can also be charged on or off the bicycle and is removed using the same key that's also needed to start the RadWagon 4. 

Riders from 5 feet, 1 inch up to 6 feet, 4 inches tall will fit on the bike, and it can support a total weight of 350 pounds. The RadWagon 4 itself weighs 73 pounds and has dual-cable disc brakes that work in all weather conditions. It also has a unique 22-by-3-inch tire that gives riders almost fat-tire stability and a little more height than a 20-inch, improving the overall performance without sizing out smaller riders. 

A durable steel center stand keeps the bike upright while you load it up, and it has a mid-step frame to make taking off or getting started with weight on the bike an easier process. Simply straddle the bike and push forward to take off. No need to try and balance and mount a bicycle with young ones or groceries loaded on. 

The RadWagon has a smooth ride, and the ability to angle the handlebars to maintain an upright position makes long rides a breeze, even with one hand and a full load. The bicycle is equipped with both front and rear lights that also indicate braking; they can be manually toggled on and off or set to activate automatically. The backlit LCD display provides battery level, speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, pedal-assist level and other bits of information. There is also a 5-volt USB port under the display to charge mobile devices. 

trek electric bike gumtree

Roadster V2 Gravel Edition

Fantastic entry-level e-bike.

The Roadster capitalizes on everything I like about my standard bike but now with the benefit of being electric. It's very light weight, sitting at around 33 pounds, so picking it up and carrying it is easy. The brake cables are nicely integrated inside the tube instead of being fastened along the frame. This is a class 3 e-bike and can reach up to around 24 miles per hour with the assist. It has 700x42 off-road tires and 160mm disc brakes but doesn't come with any extra accessories like a kickstand, lights or fenders.

The Roadster features a 36-volt battery, which will get you around 20-30 miles on average. Of course, that varies depending on the terrain, how much pedal assist you're using, and so on. This bike doesn't have a huge battery, and that's obvious from its frame size. The battery has been fine during my testing, but if you want even more juice, Ride1Up does offer an additional, external, 7 amp hour battery . It adds another 250 watts, doubling the total supply. It attaches to the water bottle screws and retails for $375 on Ride1Up's website. 

The Roadster's battery can't be removed from the bike for charging. This will make managing the bike more difficult, since you'll need to be able to set it down near an outlet. Keep this in mind if you store your bike outside or in something like a bike locker. The upside, however, is it means no one can steal your battery when locking up in public, a component bike thieves often go for if they can't take the entire thing.  

The Roadster V2 Gravel Edition is not only a great entry level e-bike, it's a great bike for anyone. Its light weight makes it easy to carry and store inside, while the gate belt makes upkeep clean and effortless. The Roadster's sleek design helps it blend in with a standard bike, and the integrated battery can't be removed or stolen. Despite its one gear, the five levels of pedal assist should be enough for most people, and if not, the addition of a throttle is extremely welcome. Plus, you get all this at one of the cheapest prices I've seen on the market, with options to go even cheaper if need be.

trek electric bike gumtree

Juiced Bikes Camp Scrambler

Unique and fast, on- or off-road (update: out of stock).

The $1,799 Camp Scrambler from Juiced bikes is as fun as it is unique, and as comfortable as it is fast. The long banana seat is reminiscent of a conventional bike from the '70s, but with a modern twist. The Camp Scrambler electric bike comes with a 750-watt Bafang rear hub motor and can pedal-assist up to 28 mph and throttle up to 20 mph. It's powered by a 52-volt battery that lets riders travel up to 50 miles on a single charge. Recharge time is approximately 4 hours. There are seven pedal-assist modes and a Shimano seven-speed freewheel cassette for shifting gears as well.

The long seat is cozy for riders of all sizes, with room for a second rider (my speed-demon daughter loves to ride on the front section of the seat) and the high handlebars are pleasing for long rides. I've put more than 500 miles on one and still enjoy riding it every bit as much as I did at the start. The wide Kendra knobby tires make it easy to hop on- and off-road, but for those who strictly ride pavement and want a road bike, there's the City Scambler , which has a similar look and specifications to a street tire. 

The bicycle weighs 71 pounds and can support riders of up to 275 pounds. Lights on the front and rear of the electric bike help for nighttime visibility, and it comes with a bell to let people know you're coming down the lane. Dual hydraulic brakes bring the Scrambler bike to a stop quickly and safely. The hydraulic disc brake system and the whole package make for a great riding experience.

Read our Juiced Bikes Camp Scrambler first take .

trek electric bike gumtree

Trek Allant Plus 9.9S

Best electric bike for deep pockets (update: out of stock).

The $6,300 Trek Allant Plus 9.9S hits a lot of premium notes. The design is sleek, with a Removable Integrated Battery or RIB, as Trek calls it, built right into the frame. There's also an optional secondary 500-watt-hour battery that mounts just above the integrated one for extra range. 

The built-in display shows riding mode, speed and other info, while the Bosch app for iOS and Android keeps track of where you've gone and how long it took to get there. The frame is made from lightweight carbon fiber, but still hits 51 pounds. 

In my hands-on testing, the Allant handled as if it were gliding over the pavement, and having the option to use the 75 Newton-meters of torque from the  Bosch motor  with pedal assist -- taking you up to 28 mph -- adds to the experience.

See our gallery of the Trek Allant Plus 9.9S .

trek electric bike gumtree

TurboAnt Thunder T1

Ideal daily commuter and weekend warrior bike for those on a budget (update: out of stock).

The TurboAnt Thunder T1 is a fat-tire electric bike with impressive performance for its reasonable $1,699 price, especially with the recent price increases on electric scooters and bicycles.

The T1 is a class 3 electric bike, and ships with all the tools necessary for assembly secured in cardboard and foam packaging. Building it was pretty straightforward and took about 25 minutes. 

A 750-watt Bafang hub motor powers the Thunder T1 and can assist in speeds up to 28 mph. In addition to five levels of pedal-assistance, the Thunder T1 is equipped with a twist throttle. A bonus feature I've seldom seen on e-bikes is the ability to toggle the throttle off with a button push. This is great for mounting and dismounting the bike and trail riding down steep slopes. For those who may want to get a workout, the T1 has a Shimano seven-speed derailleur. As with most hub motors, expect some motor drag with assist off. The powerful motor flattened out many steep inclines and, with the addition of the throttle, even starting midslope was painless. 

The bike, with its removable 48-volt, 14Ah battery, weighs in at just under 73 pounds (33 kilograms) and can support a rider up to 264 pounds. Rolling on 26-by-4-inch Kenda fat tires and an RST adjustable alloy front fork, you feel like you can roll over anything: snow, gravel or even bumpy New York streets. TurboAnt claims you can get up to 60 miles on a full charge, depending on how the bike is used, the terrain and rider size.

The removable battery can be charged on or off the bike and takes roughly seven hours to fully charge. In addition, there's a USB-A port on the battery that can be used to charge portable devices such as a phone or GoPro camera. 

The T1 handles nicely and has a sleek look to it. The bike has both front and rear fenders to keep whatever is on the ground off of the rider and bright rear and front LED lights. Also, while I prefer hydraulic brakes for their reliability and less maintenance, the Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes with 180mm rotors worked fine. 

The seat is comfortable, as are the handgrips, and the Promax MA-593S stem can be adjusted to find the perfect spot. The LCD on the handlebars is easy to read in direct sunlight and provides current speed, battery level, distance traveled and assistance level. 

The TurboAnt Thunder T1 works as a daily commuter or for those weekends off-road and even if you run into a little bad weather, it's no problem. Well-constructed and fairly priced for what you're getting, I'd recommend it for those on a budget.

Juiced Bikes HyperScorpion Express

Best electric cargo bike for speed demons (update: out of stock).

The $2,899  Juiced Bikes HyperScorpion Express  is a modern e-bike that pays homage to mopeds of the past. It has that classic moped look and feel: From its frame design to comfortably high handlebars, rearview mirrors and a 2,000-lumen headlight (my favorite addition). The bright yellow Express is essentially  the company's HyperScorpion e-bike  but with a cargo basket that's currently not sold separately, front and rear signal lights and rear brake lights. It also has adjustable front and rear suspension that is great for bumpy roads and generally gives you a better, safer hauling experience.

Riders can easily use it to cruise around town or put its 1,000-watt Bafang hub motor to work. Powered by a 52-volt 19.2 Ah battery, riders 275 pounds or less can hit 30 miles per hour and reach an estimated 60 miles on a single charge, depending on your assist level and speed. A full charge takes about seven hours, but you can buy a $139  Turbo charger  to double the charging speed.

This bike is excellent for relaxed rides but has a lot of oomph to get up and go when you want. One minute I would find myself cruising in the bike lane, and the next I'd be gunning it in the car lane. There are six levels of assistance -- Eco, 1, 2, 3 Sport and Race -- and with each level of assistance, riders will hit higher speeds with less effort (at the cost of battery life). You do have the option to pedal or use the throttle: With an eight-speed Shimano cassette, there are many ways to ride and conserve battery. 

Riding with zero assistance is not fun at all, though, and you will notice some motor drag. When trying to save power I found myself using Eco mode, which gives it enough assistance to zero out the bike's full 102 pounds of weight. 

What makes the Express great for deliveries, in addition to its exclusive cargo basket and vibrant color, is its powerful motor, solid build quality and security features: key ignition to start the bike, a key battery lock and an alarm with a remote that sounds if someone touches or attempts to move the bicycle. 

The street tires on this bike are designed to minimize flats while the custom cast aluminum mag not only adds some style but, due to the build quality, requires little maintenance compared to traditional spoked wheels. However, they do add more weight to the bike. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes stop the bike on a dime, too. 

Juiced Bikes offers a one-year warranty on electrical/mechanical components and frame upon factory default. 

trek electric bike gumtree

A rich experience for a modest budget (Update: Sold out)

One of the most appealing aspects of the $2,298 VanMoof S3 is it doesn't look like a traditional e-bike. The wires and battery are housed inside the frame with integrated lights to give it a sleek, immaculate look. Even the shipping package is an experience, with a pull-tab to open the box and the tools necessary to put it together. The overall experience gave me the same feeling as opening an Apple product. 

But the appeal doesn't stop at the packaging nor how it looks. The VanMoof continues its premium experience with a slew of features, starting with its antitheft capabilities. A button located on the frame by the back wheel locks it to prevent it from being rolled away. If the bike is lifted, it triggers an alarm and starts its lights flashing. Should someone still get away with your S3, the bike also has GSM and Bluetooth theft tracking so you can locate it.

At an additional cost, VanMoof also provides a service to locate your bicycle if it does indeed go missing. If you can't locate it on your own, Vanmoof has a team of bike hunters -- again, there's a small fee at purchase for the service -- and if the team is unable to find your bike, VanMoof will replace it with one of equal value.

A subtle matrix display is integrated into the top tube that shows your current speed, whether the bike is locked, the battery level and warning messages. It can be hard to see in direct sunlight, but you can also keep an eye on your battery level via the bike's mobile app if you plan to travel long distances. 

Available for iOS and Android, the app allows you to do everything from locking and unlocking the bike to changing horn sounds and at what speeds the gears change and controlling the lights, as well as tracking your rides. Yes, the S3 is an automatic, switching the gears for you with its fully enclosed drive chain. It can take a while to get used to (it did for me), but a boost button on the right side of the handlebar helped with the adjustment period. For example, I would be on an incline and pedaling aggressively and then the gear would change. But with the boost -- made possible by a 350-watt front-hub motor -- the bike quickly gets up to 20 mph (32 kmh), making it easy to get up any hill or pass any obstacle. The S3 is powered by a 504-Wh-capacity integrated LG battery and has hydraulic brakes, and weighs 46 pounds. It can support riders from 5 feet, 8 inches to 6 feet, 9 inches tall and up to 264 pounds. It can travel approximately 60 miles on a full charge, which takes about 4 hours; a 50% charge takes approximately 80 minutes. 

Overall, the S3 itself is a smooth and comfortable ride and a great city bike. You won't have to worry about losing it or people trying to steal parts of it, and the 28-inch wheels come with a proprietary wheel lock. I'm definitely a fan of its single, solid color (black or sky blue) -- especially for a city bike where the more low-key you are, the better. 

If you're on the fence, VanMoof has actual retail stores and allows test rides before purchasing.

Watch our video of the VanMoof S3 electric bike .

More for quick transport

  • Best Cheap E-Bikes and Electric Scooters
  • Best Motorcycle Helmets for 2023

We update this list regularly. Below are answers to some of the most common e-bike questions. 

How fast can an electric bike go?

Before we can go into top speeds, we first need to go over e-bike classifications. There are three classes. 

  • Class 1 is an e-bike where the motor only supplies pedal assistance while the rider is pedaling and has a max assisted speed of 20 mph.
  • Class 2 follows the same pedal-assist top speed as class 1 but also has a throttle enabling the rider to get around without pedaling. 
  • Class 3 has a top assist speed of 28 mph and can be either pedal-assist only or pedal-assist along with throttle-assistance.

These classes are limited to 1 horsepower (750 watts). That said, some (air quotes) e-bikes can hit 50 or even 60 mph. But they are more like motorcycles with pedals. They are not optimized as traditional bicycles for pedaling from point A to B and do not legally fit into the class 1-3 category. Typically only class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed where traditional bicycles are. 

Do I need a permit or license to operate an e-bike?

The short answer is no; however, riders must meet their state's minimum age limit (which can vary). In New York, that's 16. 

Should I buy an electric bike or an electric scooter?

It's frankly pretty fun to have one of each. But if you need a reason to pick one over the other, an e-bike can also be used as a traditional bike so riders benefit from getting a workout along with the fact you can travel further, even on a dead battery. In addition, most people I talk to feel better on bicycles because they've had more experience riding them.

Here are some of the best electric rideables available right now

trek electric bike gumtree

All about electric bicycles and more

ALL ABOUT ELECTRIC BICYCLES

E-BIKES COMPARED BY QUALITY, RELIABILITY & COST

We are e-bikes obsessed and may earn a commission if you buy something through our site. More...

Bicycle Size Calculator

Find out what size bike you need. Just pick a type of bicycle and enter your details. Perfect when you're looking to buy a bike.

Bicycle Saddle Height Calculator

Find the ideal saddle height for your bike to ensure safe, comfortable riding. Includes instructions and diagrams to help adjust your saddle.

Measure a Bicycle Frame

Get instructions for measuring your bike along with a list of suitable rider heights. Perfect when you're selling a bike.

complete electric bike guide

Image source: Aventon.com

Electric bicycles (also known as e-bicycles, pedelecs, pedal-assist bikes, and electric-assist bikes, are becoming an increasingly common sight on the streets around the world.

Though many are still confused about their traits and benefits, e-bikes have had an undeniable role in putting more and more people on two wheels, enabling them to spend more time outdoors.

E-bikes combine an electric motor and battery with the traditional bicycle frame to provide a boost in power that makes pedaling uphill and accelerating from a dead stop much easier.

If you’re in two minds about whether or not an e-bike is the right choice for you, or you have trouble choosing the right one, this comprehensive guide will tell you ALL there is to know to make the right decision.

All you need is around 15 minutes to read through the information below and order your next e-bike.

What you will learn today:

  • What Is an E-Bike?

Who Are Electric Bikes For?

Why should you get an e-bike.

  • Why Are Electric Bikes Trending?
  • Electric Bicycle Parts that Make an E-Bike

The Three Classes of Electric Bicycles

  • Assist Levels and the Range
  • How To Choose the Right Electric Bike?

How Much Should You Spend on an Electric Bicycle?

Electric bike brands.

  • DIY E-bikes
  • Common Myths About E-Bikes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an electric bike.

Put simply, an electric bike is a bicycle with an integrated electric motor and battery that assists the rider while pedaling. However, an electric-assist bike is not a scooter, though some types come with a throttle.

To classify as an electric bicycle, it needs to have pedals and the motor should only assist the rider when pedaling, instead of propelling them at all times like a scooter.

rad power bikes radmission e-bike

E-bicycles typically have a rear hub or a mid-drive motor, paired with a frame-mounted battery pack, along with a traditional drivetrain. (Image source: Radpowerbikes.com)

If you wish, you can pedal on your own, without any assistance, and then ramp up the assistance level when you come across a steep hill or become tired.

Depending on the country and the local laws, electrically-powered bicycles usually have a maximum assisted speed between 15 mph and 28 mph.

Electric-assist bicycles usually have power or cadence sensors which allows them to gauge how much power to supplement the rider with, depending on how FAST or how HARD they’re pedaling at a given time.

  • Read more:  What Is an Ebike? Full Guide

Electric bicycles are a good choice for anyone who likes cycling but does not like becoming too tired by pedaling very hard.

They’re excellent for:

  • Rehabilitation

If you commute on a daily basis (in or out of the city), an e-bike is a great way to get to your destination quickly, without breaking a sweat. If you struggle with an acute or a chronic injury, an e-bike can allow you to pedal without straining your muscles and joints too hard. Electric bicycles are also a phenomenal choice for the elderly, who are not as fit as they used to be, as well as for those who are trying to get more fit and lose weight.

But they’re not limited to these four groups. If you’re simply a regular Joe who wants to have fun and zoom around town on an electric pedelec, there shouldn’t be anyone stopping you.

There are many right reasons to get an e-bike and no wrong reasons. There are as many ways of using an electric bike as there are traditional bikes, if not more. You can commute, run errands, haul cargo, get fit, or ride leisurely.

One of the main reasons why people get an electric bicycle is because they want to ride farther or go faster than their bodies allow them to on a traditional bike. On an electrified bicycle, you can cover significantly greater distances in the same amount of time while getting much less tired. Who wouldn’t like that?

man and woman sitting next to lectric xp 3.0

Electric bikes let you ride further and enjoy the ride more. (Image source: Lectricebikes.com)

Some hardcore cyclists might consider e-bikes to be a way of cheating (which is far from the truth), but they’re not primarily intended for performance cyclists anyway. Instead of cheating, we call it “playing smart”.

Electric bikes can also help you save a lot of money in the long run if you replace your car with one. You’ll not only save money on gas but also on car maintenance fees, as well as on medical costs by improving your health and lowering your risks of chronic diseases.

Last but not any less important, electric bikes are a blast to ride! Once you feel the push they provide and feel the ease with which you can accelerate and maintain speed, it’s hard to go back!

Why Are Electric Bicycles Trending?

If you pay some attention to your surroundings on your morning commute, you’re likely to see more electric bicycles on the road than ever before. Why is that?

There are two main reasons:

  • Electric bicycles are becoming cheaper.
  • People are realizing the benefits of e-bikes and overcoming stereotypes.

Namely, electric bicycles are a lot cheaper now than they ever were. Budget-oriented people can get a basic model for less than $1,000 that will get the job done. The reason is that battery production costs are dropping and the other electric components are becoming cheaper and more accessible as well.

Servicing an electric-assist bicycle is a lot easier nowadays as well, as there are more mechanics who understand how these electric machines work and know how to repair them.

Electric bicycles are also a lot “greener” and better for the environment than cars with internal combustion motors. That’s becoming an increasingly important factor for a lot of people when choosing their preferred mode of transportation in the face of global warming and climate change.

Electric Parts that Make an E-Bike

At first glance, electric bikes are not much different than traditional bikes. They have a similar frame, two wheels, pedals, handlebars, and a traditional drivetrain. However, they also have a few components that you’re not likely to find on an ordinary bicycle.

The components in question are the electric parts such as the motor, battery, controller, throttle, pedal-assist sensors, and display. The motor is the heart of the electric system, whereas the other components center around it, allowing it to power the bike and assist the rider.

Let’s learn more about how these components work and what their roles are.

  • Related guide:  How Do Electric Bikes Work?

The Motor Explained

The motor is the most important electric component of any electric bicycle. It’s what gives you the power to overcome a steep hill, fight headwinds, or keep pedaling when you feel all your energy is drained.

Depending on how much money you want to spend and how you plan to use your electrically-powered bicycle, motors differ in terms of type and placement.

The three main types of motors commonly found on modern electric bicycles are direct-drive, geared hub, and mid-drive motors.

Direct Drive

radcity with a direct drive motor

Direct-drive hub motors are cheaper than geared hub motors but are not as popular anymore. (Image source: Radpowerbikes.com)

Direct drive motors are the cheapest type you can get, but they come with some advantages and disadvantages. They’re usually placed either on the front or on the rear wheel, depending on the price of the bicycle. The cheapest e-bikes come with front-hub direct drive motors.

DD motors have no gears. This means that the motor makes one rotation every time the wheel makes one rotation. That’s a great solution on flat terrain while the wheel is spinning quickly because the motor can provide a lot of power. However, it’s a poor setup on steep hills when the wheel is spinning more slowly so the motor makes fewer rotations as well.

One of the benefits of DD motors is that they cool more efficiently, so they are often more durable than geared hub motors, even though they’re not as practical.

Geared Hub Motor

aventon sinch with a geared hub motor

Geared hub motors are quieter and better for climbing hills than direct-drive hub motors. (Image source: Aventon.com)

As you may guess, geared hub motors are placed inside the wheel hub and they have gearings. They’re commonly placed inside the rear wheel hub and are seen on mid-range electric bicycles.

The benefit of geared hub motors is that the motor can turn several times (typically around 5) for each rotation of the wheel, thanks to its geared nature. This is good for steep uphill rides because the motor can still deliver sufficient power, even though the wheel is turning slowly.

The disadvantage of this motor is that it does not dissipate heat as well as DD motors. The entire motor and gearing is placed inside a compact casing, which looks good, but traps heat even better.

Marin Sausalito E1 Shimano STEPs drive unit.

Mid-drive motors are most common on more expensive bikes, offering the best riding experience and the most hill-climbing power. (Image source: Marinbikes.com)

Mid-drive motors are the best type you can get. As such, they’re often found on more expensive mid-range e-bikes and on high-end models.

Because mid-drive motors usually have torque sensors and supplement power directly to the pedals, they often feel more natural than hub motors. Torque sensors analyze how HARD you’re pedaling instead of how fast your wheels or pedals are turning, which means you’ll get assistance when you need it the most.

Mid-drive motors are also geared, though they have a separate gears housing, so they can be geared a lot lower than geared hub motors. That makes them the best choice for e-MTB and e-Road bikes.

These motors also have the ability to change the gearing ratio for optimal power output, which is what makes them the superior choice.

Motor Placement Effect on Ride Feel

Another factor you need to consider when choosing which e-bike to get is the effect of the motor’s position on ride feel.

Namely, front-hub motors act similarly to front-wheel-drive cars. They’re nippy and responsive in the corners, but they don’t have as much traction as rear-wheel types.

Consequently, rear-hub motors improve traction because there is more weight on the rear wheel due to rider placement. They also provide more stable handling and need to be more sophisticated because they interact with the gears and other parts at the rear of the bike.

Finally, mid-drive motors are the best choice because they are located low, right under your center of balance. They make the bike more stable and make for a more natural riding feel.

The Battery Pack Explained

The battery pack provides the motor with energy and determines the range. Batteries used to be big, expensive, and heavy, but they are usually none of those things today.

Marin Sausalito E1 Shimano STEPs battery.

The battery pack is typically placed on top or inside the downtube, depending on the manufacturer and the price range of the e-bike. (Image source: Marinbikes.com)

Modern batteries on expensive e-bikes usually fit inside the downtube, so they are placed completely out of sight. Cheaper models usually have batteries placed on the downtube or on the rear rack, plus they are heavier and don’t look as good.

Almost all modern electric bicycles come with lithium-ion batteries. However, in the past, e-bikes used to be powered by lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, or nickel metal hydride batteries. These are now considered to be outdated because they are heavier, less durable, and less eco-friendly.

Lithium-ion batteries are the same type that’s found in electric cars and most other electronic devices we use every day, including smartphones and laptop computers.

Battery capacity is usually measured in Amp-hours (Ah) or Watt-hours (Wh). The two basically measure the same thing, but Watt-hours is becoming the standard measurement because it is more consumer-friendly.

Since most e-bikes nowadays have 36V motors, you can easily convert Ah to Wh by multiplying the battery capacity in Amp-hours by the voltage of the motor. Thus, a 10 Ah battery usually equals a 360 Wh battery (10Ah x 36V = 360Wh).

Cheap electric bicycles can have a battery capacity in the range of 150–200Wh, whereas the most common range is 300–500Wh. More expensive models can have bigger batteries with capacities of over 600Wh, up to even 1,000Wh.

An exception to this rule is Rad Power bikes which are considered to be entry-level but have 672 Wh batteries, which is deemed quite high.

Charging & Durability

Depending on the manufacturer, battery capacity, and build quality, a full charge typically takes between two and a half and six hours. If your battery is at the higher end of this range, you can simply charge it overnight.

electric bicycle charging

Depending on the baterry size and make, you should be able to get a full charge within 4-6 hours

Lithium-ion batteries are usually rated for around 800 full charge cycles. That equals around three years of weekday commuting. However, most manufacturers claim that you can get around 2,000 half-charge cycles, which means that it is advisable to charge your battery whenever you get a chance.

With proper care, which means storing the battery away from extreme heat and cold, you can usually get even more life out of your pack.

Once the battery dies or its durability significantly decreases, you can simply replace it with a new one.

We won’t go into too much detail about controllers here. The reason is that they are a bit more complex than other components and not as important for beginners to understand.

A controller basically serves as a “bridge” between the battery and the motor, controlling the speed of the motor and the amount of power it drains from the battery.

Therefore, controllers are very important when it comes to the range of the bike, the amount of assistance a motor can provide, and the ride feel.

Pedal-Assist Sensors

Pedal-assist sensors are another important part of electric bicycles that you should understand. Namely, there are two types of these sensors:

A cadence sensor is basically a magnetic ring that attaches to the cranks and tells the motor how fast you’re turning the pedals. This way, the motor determines how much power to send your way. Cadence sensors are found on cheaper electric bikes because of their apparent downsides compared to torque sensors.

Torque sensors, on the other hand, tell the motor how hard you’re pedaling, which is why they are the superior choice. When the sensor detects you’re exerting more power on the pedals, it will instruct the motor to provide you with more assistance.

The last piece of the electric bicycle puzzle is the display. Most e-bikes use either simple LED displays or more complex LCD displays.

electric bicycle display

An e-bike display will usually show your current speed, pedal assist level, remaining battery, and allow you to change the battery’s settings.

LED displays simply have a series of LED lights that show the remaining battery charge and the pedal-assist level, along with a few buttons to control the bike.

On the other hand, LCD displays are found on more expensive models and provide the rider with more options and more information. In addition to showing the pedal-assist level and battery charge, they can also track rides, showing distance, speed, time, odometer, and a few other functions.

The e-bike industry and the legislators in the US recognize three distinct categories of e-bikes. These differ in terms of having or not having a throttle, as well as in terms of the maximum assisted speed.

These three categories are called classes. However, it’s important to note that these “classes” have nothing to do with the product quality. Therefore, a Class 1 e-bike is in no way inherently better than a Class 2 or a Class 3 e-bike. They just have different characteristics and components.

Class 1 e-bikes are electric bicycles that are only pedal-assist and don’t have a throttle. These bikes have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. To go faster than that, the rider needs to turn the pedals and propel the bike solely with the power of their legs.

co-op cycles cty e2.1 class 1 ebike

Co-op Cycles CTY e2.1 is a class 1 e-bike with a 20 mph top assisted speed and no throttle. (Image source: REI.com)

In parts of Europe, this Class is, in fact, limited to 15 mph with motor wattage up to 250W. In the USA, motor wattage is limited to 750W.

Class 1 e-bikes are usually city bikes that are meant for urban commutes and recreational riding. This is also the most common and the most affordable class of e-bikes. These bikes can generally be ridden everywhere a traditional bike is allowed, without any need for additional licensing.

Class 2 e-bikes have the same maximum allowed speed as Class 1 models, which is 20 mph. However, in addition to the pedal-assist function, they also have a throttle. Therefore, they can be ridden both as a pedelec and as an electric scooter.

charge city class 2 e-bike

Charge City is a popular class 2 e-bike with a 20 mph top assisted speed, as well as a thumb throttle. (Image source: Chargebikes.com)

Class 2 electric bicycles are less common than Class 1 models because they are usually more heavily regulated in many countries around the world. The throttle is usually added to cargo bikes and heavier city and mountain bikes to help riders pick up speed more easily when starting from a dead stop.

In parts of Europe, Class 2 e-bikes are considered to be motor vehicles, so they are banned from trails and other bicycle infrastructure. Their top speed is also limited to 15 mph, with motor wattage of up to 250W.

Class 3 e-bikes are pedal-assist only, but their maximum assisted speed is limited to 28 mph. They have no throttle, so the motor assists the rider only when the pedals are turning. This type is also called “Speed Pedelec”.

cannondale topstone class 3 ebike

Class 3 e-bikes have no throttle and assist the rider up to 28 mph. (Image source: REI.com)

E-Road and E-MTB bikes are commonly built as Class 3 bikes because their riders are more performance-oriented and require higher maximum and average speeds. However, in some places in the US and around the world, Class 3 e-bikes are considered motor vehicles and require a license to ride.

Assist Levels and the Range—How Far Can an E-Bike Really Go?

One of the most important factors most future e-bike owners consider is the range. How far your electrically powered bicycle can go on one charge makes all the difference. The last thing you want to do is run out of battery mid-ride, having to pedal the bike over a steep hill. An e-bike with an empty battery is just a heavy bike.

The range of your e-bike is determined by two main factors:

  • Battery capacity
  • Assist level you use

However, other variable factors include your weight, your position on the bike, tire pressure, the terrain, riding style, etc.

e-bike display on a handlebar

An e-bike display will show you the current assist level you’re in, as well as the remaining battery capacity or estimated remaining range. (Image source: Aventon.com)

A battery with a higher capacity will give you more range, but it will also weigh more and increase the cost of the bike. Therefore, you should try to determine how much range you really need. Still, you should buy an electric bike with more range than you think you need, as that way you don’t need to charge the battery as often. Also, the range will drop as the battery ages, which is why it is advisable to have a higher capacity to start off.

  • Read more:  Electric Bike Range: How Far Can an E-Bike Really Go?

To estimate the minimum range you can get from your e-bike, you can divide your battery’s capacity in Watt-hours by 20. Therefore, a 350Wh battery should give you at least 17.5 miles of range. But, if you’re prudent and you use low assist levels, you can get as much as 40-50 miles out of the same battery.

Assist Levels Explained

All e-bikes allow you to choose the amount of assistance you need from the motor by selecting the appropriate assistance level. Most bikes have between 3 and 5 assist levels, while some also have a “walk mode” that assists you while pushing the bike.

Naturally, the higher the assist level you choose, the more power the motor will send your way, the easier you will have to pedal, and the faster you will go. At the same time, as the assist level increases, the range of your e-bike decreases. So it’s important to find some golden middle.

  • Read more: Throttle vs. Pedal-Assist Explained

When it comes to the throttle, most models allow you to fine-tune the amount of power you get by twisting the throttle to a certain degree. Therefore, using a throttle does not automatically mean that you will be draining your battery faster.

How To Choose An Electric Bike?

It’s quite easy to become overwhelmed and confused when you first come across the huge number and variety of electric bicycles on the market.

But choosing the right type of e-bike and staying happy and content with it is easier than you think. You should consider the type of bike you need, the style, the cost, and a few other factors.

To simplify things, all you need to do is follow the steps we’ve listed below until you end up with the best e-bike for your needs.

So, the first step is:

#1: Choosing the Right Type

different types of ebikes

E-Bikes come in all different shapes and sizes, suitable for different types of riders and uses.

Just like regular bikes, e-bikes can be split into several categories based on their intended use. It’s important to think hard about what type of riding you plan to do the most in order to get the electric bike that meets most of your requirements.

Mountain E-Bikes

The electric mountain bike market is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the industry. Mountain bikes are generally considered to be heavier and more robust than other types, so many riders don’t mind the added weight of the motor and battery.

Most e-MTBs are Class 1 or Class 3 bikes, but there are Class 2 models as well. Mid-drive motors are considered a standard in this category because of the smoothness of power they deliver.

The batteries are usually located on the downtube or are integrated inside the downtube and vary in capacity, with 400-500Wh being the average.

There are different types of e-MTBs you can get, such as hardtail and full-suspension, enduro, trail, XC, and so on.

Best Electric Mountain Bikes

Road E-Bikes

Electric road bikes are not as popular as other types because they are generally more expensive. Weight is very important for road cyclists, which is why e-road bikes usually have sophisticated lightweight batteries integrated into the downtube, as well as expensive lightweight motors.

Most e-road bikes are Class 3 models, with a 28 mph maximum assisted speed. Their battery capacity and range differ from one model to another but are generally higher than on other types. For example, the Specialized Turbo Vado promises a range of 80–100 miles with a 320–480Wh battery.

Best Road Electric Bikes

Folding E-Bikes

Folding electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas. They are usually used by commuters in the city because they are easy to store and transport.

Folding e-bikes typically have 20″ wheels and rear wheel hub motors. They are often Class 1 or Class 2 models, so they come with or without the throttle function.

Most budget models have 250W motors, but there are more powerful models with 500W or even 750W motors, with higher capacity batteries as well.

Best Folding Electric Bikes

Hybrid E-Bikes

Hybrid electric bicycles are available with different setups and in different price categories. They can either be cheap and intended for recreational riders or expensive and intended for fitness riders.

This type is quite popular because of the practicality it offers. Step-through electric bikes , in particular, provide easy mounting and dismounting. It typically has wider tires, so it can be ridden on paved and unpaved roads. Depending on the price tag, your e-hybrid bike can have a 250W, 500W, or 750W motor, with or without the throttle.

Best Hybrid Electric Bikes

Cruiser and City E-Bikes

Cruiser and city e-bikes are usually the cheapest options on the market. They are often built around frames made from steel or aluminum. Many cruiser and city electric bicycles have medium-capacity batteries mounted on the rear rack or on the seat tube.

E-cruiser and e-city bikes are usually Class 1 or Class 2 bicycles with a 20 mph maximum assisted speed. They are also often quite heavy and powered by geared or direct-drive hub motors.

Best Cruiser Electric Bikes     Best City Electric Bikes

Cargo E-Bikes

Electric cargo bikes are becoming more and more popular, especially in big cities. Families are using them as a replacement for their car, to save money on gas and maintenance costs. An electric cargo bike can typically carry two kids or up to 120 lbs of cargo on its integrated rear rack, which is more than enough for most ordinary people.

E-cargo bikes often have more powerful mid-drive or geared rear hub motors and many come with a throttle. This allows the rider to have more control over the pedal-assisted power, which is especially important when starting to pedal fully loaded.

Best Electric Cargo Bikes

#2: How Often and How Far Do You Ride?

Now that you’ve determined what type of e-bike would suit your needs the best, you need to think about how often and how far you plan to ride.

If you plan to ride frequently and do longer commutes, you should invest more in your electric bicycle in order to get better and more durable components.

More money will also get you a better battery and more range. If you ride every day or do long miles, you’ll be annoyed if you have to charge your bike every day or even carry a spare battery, just in case.

#3: Where Do You Ride?

Consider where you plan to ride. Are you going to be riding mostly in the city on smooth pavement or in the country on dirt roads? Also, do you plan to ride on flat or hilly terrain?

marin alpine trail electric mountain bike

Electric mountain bikes are ideal for rides on extreme off-road terrain. (Image source: Marinbikes.com)

If you plan to ride in urban conditions, you should get a city, cruiser, or a folding bike. These will prove to be the most comfortable and the most practical choice. If you ride off-road, get an e-MTB bike, or go with an e-hybrid model if you plan to do a little bit of both.

Depending on what kind of terrain you plan to tackle, you can choose between direct drive motors on the one hand and geared hub or mid-drive motors on the other. Direct drive motors are a good budget option for flat terrain. However, if there are many steep hills in your area, it is advisable to go with a geared hub or mid-drive setup.

#4: Getting the Right Size

Once you’re certain about the type and model of e-bike you want to get, make sure to get the right size. Many cruiser, city, folding, and cargo electric bicycles are built around one-size-fits-all frames. In reality, these frames don’t fit EVERYONE. They are often too big for very short riders or too small for very tall riders.

To get the right frame size based on your height and inseam length, consider a good bike size chart or our bicycle size calculator . If you get the wrong frame size, you’ll feel uncomfortable when riding, and you might even end up with pain or serious injury.

#5: E-Bike Features and Accessories to Consider

For some riders, certain features and accessories can be absolutely essential. For other riders, these can be redundant and just increase the price of the bike unnecessarily.

aventon e-bike with lights, fenders, and a rack

If you ride in urban conditions, look for an e-bike with front and rear lights, fenders, a rear rack, and a kickstand. (Image source: Aventon.com)

Here are a few popular features and accessories you should consider when buying an e-bike.

  • Throttle:  A throttle is a great feature if you need help starting the bike. It’s a great addition to cargo bikes or city bikes that you plan to use for hauling additional weight or taking your kids to school. However, the throttle will turn your e-bike into a Class 2 bike that might be subject to additional regulations.
  • Lights:  Most e-bikes have integrated front and rear lights powered by the battery. We believe this is a must. On some bikes, the taillight also functions as a brake light, improving the visibility and safety of the rider.
  • Racks:  Many electric-assisted bicycles have an integrated rear rack. This is a good thing if you plan to carry cargo or take your kids for a spin. Otherwise, an integrated rear rack will just add unnecessary weight.
  • Display:  Consider what kind of display you’d like your e-bike to come with. Cheaper models have simple displays with LED indicators for battery charge and pedal-assist level. They don’t track your rides or show ride metrics such as speed, time, distance, odometer, etc. If you want these functions, get an e-bike with a more expensive LCD screen.
  • Smartphone Integration:  Some modern high-end e-bikes will connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth and a dedicated app. This way, you can track your rides, track your bike with GPS, gain access to service records, and so on. This is a fun feature to have if you have a higher budget.

Now that you know what kind of e-bike is right for you, you should also consider how much money you’d like to spend. Just like traditional bicycles, electric bikes come at different price points, from ultra-cheap to ultra high-end. Therefore, you get what you pay for.

Let’s take a closer look at some examples of price points, so you can determine which range would cover most of your needs.

  • Read more:  How Much Does an Electric Bike Cost?

Ultra-Cheap: Under $500

Ultra-cheap electric bikes that cost less than $500 are not an option we recommend, but they’re still available on the market. In the majority of cases, these are imported Chinese brands with very basic and unreliable components.

black ancheer 500W ebike

Amazon sells a large number of e-bikes under $500, but you typically get what you pay for.

They’re usually built around compact frames with small wheels, no-name bike parts, weak motors, and small capacity batteries. You really get what you pay for.

If you plan to use your e-bike for serious, regular commutes and ride it more than once in a blue moon, we recommend moving on to the next category.

Best Electric Bikes Under $500

Entry Level: $500 to $1,000

The price range up to $1,000 consists of significantly more reliable models. These are still basic, budget e-bikes, but they’re equipped with noticeably better components. There are plenty of compact e-bikes, cruisers, and city bikes, in this price category.

The majority of these bicycles have unimpressive 250W motors, slightly better batteries than the previous category, and entry-level Shimano components, such as Tourney. You can get a bike from this price range for regular use, but don’t expect too much in terms of power and range.

Best Electric Bikes Under $1,000

Mid-Range: $1,000 to $3,000

This is the right category for real e-bike enthusiasts who don’t want to break the bank but want to get good value for their money. By spending more than $1,000 on your e-bike, you’ll get significantly better electrical and mechanical components.

These electric-assist bicycles use better aluminum frames, better wheels and tires, and higher-quality components and brakes from Shimano, SRAM, and Tektro.

The motors offer more power (500W or more) and batteries usually have upwards of 400 Wh capacity. If you want an e-bike that you can use and abuse every day to commute, transport kids, or haul cargo for years, this is how much money you should be looking to spend.

Best Electric Bikes Under $2,000

Premium: $3,000 to $5,000

Electric bicycles that cost upwards of $3,000 come with high-quality components. You won’t find any cheap brands or crappy parts. This goes for the motor and battery, as well as for the frame, wheels, drivetrain, brakes, and so on.

tern folding electric bike

Tern’s folding electric bikes come at a premium but offer a large number of high-end features and rider-friendly solutions. (Image source: REI.com)

In fact, this is the price range where you stop seeing hub motors. These are replaced by mid-drive motors from renowned companies such as Bosch, Yamaha, Brose, Shimano, and others. They offer much better performance and more natural assistance than hub motors.

If you’re buying an electric mountain bike, this price range will get you better suspension (hardtail or full-suspension) and even a full-carbon frame as you approach the $5,000 price tag.

High-End: $5,000 to $10,000

Finally, if you have money to spare and you want the best of the best in terms of performance, motor power, battery capacity, and bicycle components, you should be spending between $5,000 and $10,000.

This is where all the superbikes are, usually intended for mountain bikers and road cyclists who need an additional push when out and about.

Interestingly, though, the electrical components here are not much better compared to the price range just below. However, all other components are. You get a premium suspension, high-grade carbon frames, electric shifting, and other mouth-watering stuff.

As e-bikes have exploded in popularity in recent years, in the USA and worldwide, we’ve been seeing more and more quality brands popping up.

best electric bike brands

There are dozens of brands on the market that specialize in manufacturing e-bikes, with new ones popping up on a regular basis.

If you’re new to the e-bike world, you might not know which brands to trust and which to stay away from. For that reason, we’ve created this list of the most reliable and renowned electric bike brands whose bikes are commonly found on the market.

They’re not mentioned in any particular order, so you can expect decent quality bicycles in different price ranges from all of them.

Trek is one of the biggest bicycle manufacturers in the world, with one of the biggest selections of e-bikes as well. They offer recreational electric models, but also high-end e-MTB and e-road performance bikes. Trek also owns Electra, another popular e-bike brand that specializes in city and cruiser e-bikes. Both Trek and Electra models are equipped with Bosch electronic parts, which guarantees quality and durability.

Ancheer specializes in budget electric bikes that cost under $1,000. They make folding, MTB, hybrid, and city electric bikes. This brand is recommended for e-bike beginners with a limited budget, who don’t intend to ride too seriously. The motors are typically 250W to 500W with up to 12Ah batteries.

Sondors is a USA-based company that makes quality mid-range e-bikes in different categories, many of which are pretty unique. It produces fat bikes, city bikes, folding bikes, MTBs, and retro moto-like e-bikes. Sondors electric bicycles are popular for their authentic design, powerful 500W or 750W motors, and massive batteries with up to 1,000 Wh capacity.

Jetson makes ultra-budget scooters and e-bikes that typically cost under $500. This is a Chinese-based company whose products are quite popular on Amazon. They mostly make compact e-bikes with or without pedals, but they have some more expensive hybrid and MTB models as well.

Schwinn is one of the oldest and most well-known bike brands in the industry. Unfortunately, their market share in recent years is not huge, but they do make a few quality electric bikes. They partner with Bosch, so the electronics are dependable and capable of pulling the weight. At the moment, Schwinn has road/gravel, hybrid, MTB, and city bikes, and even trikes.

Nakto is another manufacturer of budget e-bikes with most products in the $500 to $1,000 price range. Though, they do have a few bikes that are more expensive than that. Nakto’s most popular models are fat bikes and MTBs, but they also make several attractive city, commuter, and folding bikes. Their models mostly come with 250–500W rear hub motors and medium-capacity batteries.

Razor is a popular brand that makes different types of affordable electric vehicles. They don’t really have e-bikes with pedals and pedal-assistance, but they make scooters, electric motos, trikes, hoverboards, and other cool stuff.

Specialized

Specialized is a premium brand that makes high-end bicycles and electric bicycles. Their electric assortment starts at around $3,000 and goes up to almost $15,000. These are high-end bicycles intended for commuters and fitness riders, as well as performance riders who want a state-of-the-art road or full-suspension MTB with the best possible parts and components. You can’t really go wrong with one of these.

Rad Power Bikes

Rad Power is a young American company that specializes in affordable and unique electric bicycles. The price range they operate is roughly between $1,000 and $1,700. This will get you a Bafang rear hub motor (500W or 750W), a high-capacity 672Wh battery, a quality aluminum frame, and numerous thoughtful accessories. Rad makes folding, compact, hybrid, city, cargo, and fat bikes, most of which put an emphasis on practicality and everyday use.

DIY E-bikes—Electric Bike Conversion Kits

Electric bikes can be an expensive investment, even though there are many manufacturers out there that offer great budget e-bikes.

Still, there can be many reasons why you wouldn’t want to buy a new bike—your old bike has sentimental value, you don’t want to create more waste, or you simply don’t have a lot of money to spend.

Whatever the reason, electric bike conversion kits are an excellent alternative. They allow you to transform your old regular bike into an e-bike by fitting it with a motor and a battery at a fraction of the price of a new unit.

  • Read More:  Electric Bike Conversion Kits Guide

What’s an Electric Bike Conversion Kit?

An electric bike conversion kit is a set of electric components that you can fit on your traditional bike to turn it into an electric bike. Depending on which kit you get, it will consist of a motor, battery, controller, sensors, and a display.

e-bike conversion kit

E-bike conversion kits come with all the necessary bits and pieces to turn almost any normal bike into an e-bike with minimal effort. (Image source: Amazon.com)

There are several types of these conversion kits available on the market, which you can read more about below. Front and rear hub motor conversion kits are by far the most popular option, though all-in-one wheels are the easiest to fit.

Basic kits usually cost between $200 and $400, but they can get more expensive than that, depending on the brand and the quality of the parts.

Are cheap electric bike conversion kits worth the money?

If $200 is all you can spend toward getting an electric bike, there isn’t really a better option than a cheap conversion kit. Keep in mind that these kits usually have basic 250W front or rear hub motors and limited-capacity batteries.

These will be good enough for flat rides and for fighting a headwind, but they will probably struggle to keep up on steep hills. The battery will likely give you a 20–30-mile range.

If you want something better than that, you’ll have to spend more money.

Types of Electric Bike Conversion Kits

As mentioned above, there are several types of electric bike conversion kits that you can get. These differ in price, power, performance, weight, installation procedure, and looks.

Read about them in a bit more detail below to find out which one is the right type for you.

Front Hub Motors

Front hub motors are the easiest type to install. They are either geared or direct-drive, so make sure you understand the differences between the two. We’ve written about them already on this page.

These have the fewest potential compatibility issues. The only thing you need to make sure before purchasing one is that there is enough space between the forks of your bike for it.

These kits also come with other components such as a battery, controller, and sensors that need to be mounted on the frame. Make sure that there is enough room for them to fit where they should as well.

Rear Hub Motors

Rear hub motors are slightly more complicated to install, simply because there are more potential compatibility issues. When purchasing a rear hub conversion kit, make sure that there is enough space between the dropouts and that the chain line will not get pushed out too much out of line.

Rear hub motors are also either geared or direct drive. This conversion kit also includes a battery, controller, and sensors, so make sure that there is space for them on the bike.

Mid-Drive Systems

Mid-drive conversion kits are the most expensive, but the best types. They also have the most potential compatibility problems, so make sure you know what’s required to fit one on your bike before ordering it. It’s advisable to contact a local professional if you’re not one.

They require the correct width of the bottom bracket, the correct threading pattern, and enough room on the bike to fit the motor and the battery.

Mid-drive kits provide the best performance and the most natural pedal assistance. Therefore, this is the type we recommend for serious riders and regular commuters.

All-in-One Electric Bike Conversion Wheels

If you want a quick and easy solution, all-in-one electric bike conversion wheels are for you. As you can guess from the name, all of the electrical components (motor, battery, controller, sensors) are fitted inside the wheel. Therefore, all you need to do to start riding is take the old wheel off, put the new one on, and start pedaling.

Some modern all-in-one wheels also offer wireless smartphone compatibility, so you can control the assistance by using your phone.

A Few Tips on How to Build Your Own Electric Bike

Do you still think an e-bike conversion kit is a good choice for you and you want to retrofit your current bike? If that’s a yes, here are a few tips on how not to mess up.

rubee x e-bike conversion kit

Some modern e-bike conversion kits, such as the Rubbee X simply attach to your bike’s seat post and turn the rear wheel with friction. (Image source: Rubbee.co.uk)

Make sure you pay attention to these potential issues so your DIY e-bike rides as good as new.

Geared or Direct-Drive? 

If you’re getting a kit with a hub motor, decide whether you want a geared or a direct-drive unit. Direct-drive units are a good solution for flat rides, but geared units are better for very hilly areas.

Consider the weight. 

Adding a conversion kit is going to increase the weight of your bike. Consequently, this will affect how the bike handles and how it feels to ride it. Make sure to distribute the weight equally on the frame and to put the battery low to the ground to improve the overall balance.

Can you do it yourself? 

If you’re not a bike mechanic or an electrician, it’s better to find someone who is. Converting the bike yourself will decrease the costs, but it can also increase them if you mess something up.

Ensure there is enough space on the bike. 

Before purchasing a particular conversion kit, make sure that there is enough room for the parts to fit on the bike. Specifically, check whether there is enough clearance in the fork/rear dropouts/bottom bracket for the motor and that there is enough room in the frame for the battery.

Make sure the kit is road legal. 

Not all conversion kits are road legal. Depending on where you live, the rules can be more or less stringent. The laws typically limit the use of a throttle and the power of the motor, so make sure that you’re familiar with these before getting a kit that you won’t be able to ride legally.

Consider the brand’s reputation. 

Finally, consider the reputation and the quality of the brand when buying a conversion kit. There are many cheap kits from China that you can purchase for less than $200 most of the time. But are these worth the hassle?

8 Common Myths About E-Bikes

E-bikes have an undeserved bad reputation with some people. In most cases, the main reason is a lack of information about what an e-bike is and isn’t and about what it can and can’t do.

juiced hyperscorpion moped style e-bike

Image source: Juicedbikes.com

As a result, there are many myths that get passed around without questioning their truth. We believe that fact is stronger than fiction, so let’s debunk the biggest and most misleading ones.

Myth 1: E-Bikes Are Fast and Dangerous

Fact: Electric bicycles are neither of these two things. Most e-bikes have a maximum assisted speed of between 15 and 28 mph, which is not at all much faster than regular bikes. These speeds are pretty similar to road bikes. The only difference is that you can maintain that speed for longer thanks to the electric components.

Myth 2: Electric Bikes Are Way Too Heavy

Fact: E-bikes are a bit heavier than regular bikes, but not by much. Regular bikes weigh around 30 lbs on average, whereas e-bikes weigh around 50 lbs on average. This is a negligible amount considering the extra power and assistance the motor provides to the rider.

Myth 3: Electric Bikes = Cheating!

Fact: E-bikes don’t equal cheating, they equal empowering! If you’re riding an e-bike, it does not mean that you’re cheating, it means that you’re riding past your current abilities, which is the only way for some people to ride. Plus, you can still get a hard workout on an e-bike and lose weight, if that’s your goal. Just don’t go around stealing people’s Strava QOMs/KOMs, pretending you’re on a road bike.

Myth 4: E-Bikes Require Maintenance and Don’t Last

Fact: This is a myth. Electric-assist bicycles require the same amount of maintenance, most of the time. On a day-to-day basis, all you need to do is clean and lube the chain, inflate the tires, and make sure the brakes and derailleurs are adjusted. Of course, you also need to charge the battery. If you buy a quality e-bike, the electric components rarely need any maintenance or repairs. Read more about this in our electric bike maintenance and repair guide .

Myth 5: Electric Bicycles Are for Lazy or Old People

Fact: This is one of the biggest and most misleading myths about e-bikes. They’re a great option for everyone, not just for people who are lazy, injured, or too old to pedal hard every day. Even if you’re a road racer, you can benefit from an e-bike—instead of getting too tired from your Z2 work commute, save that energy for structured training afterwards by commuting on an e-bike.

Myth 6: E-Bikes Are Not Environmentally Friendly

Fact: Are e-bikes as clean as regular bikes? They’re not, but they are still considered environmentally friendly, especially when compared to cars. E-bikes don’t produce toxic exhaust fumes and their batteries and electronic parts can be recycled and reused. By swapping your car for an electric bike, you will be doing the environment a huge favor.

Myth 7: Electric Bikes Are Expensive

Fact: This is another common myth about e-bikes. The cheapest e-bikes cost the same as regular bikes and the most expensive e-bikes are not more expensive than the priciest regular bikes. You can get a budget e-bike for less than $500, a mid-range model for $1,000 to $3,000, or you can go all-in and get a high-end model for much more than that. Therefore, there’s an e-bike out there for everyone’s budget.

Myth 8: You Can’t Ride an E-Bike in the Rain

Fact:  The electrical components on most e-bikes are sealed and fully waterproof. The only exception is some ultra-cheap e-bikes made in China that cut costs by skipping this step. So, can you ride an electric bike in the rain ? Absolutely! E-bikes can be ridden in all conditions, just like regular bicycles, just avoid riding in severe downpours.

Is it worth getting an electric bike?

Yes, e-bikes are definitely worth the money. If you feel like you need some assistance when pedaling, for whatever reason, you will benefit from an e-bike. It will allow you to go faster, save time, and pedal for longer without getting tired.

What are the disadvantages of electric bikes?

The main disadvantages of e-bikes are weight, cost, and complexity. Namely, neither of these three downsides are dealbreakers, but e-bikes are heavier than regular bikes, more expensive, and more complicated to use.

Do electric bikes charge when you pedal?

No, most electric bikes do not charge when pedaling, but there are some models that do. It all depends on what e-bike you have and what kind of electronics it uses.

How fast does an electric bike go?

Depending on the class, e-bikes have a maximum assisted speed of between 15 and 28 mph. However, if you keep pedaling, you can go faster than that, even though the electric motor will no longer be assisting you.

Do you need to pedal an electric bike?

Yes, most electric bikes need to be pedaled. The motor is there only to supplement power to the rider and make pedaling easier. The exception to this rule is e-bikes with a throttle, which can move the bike without pedaling. However, using the throttle too much will usually drain the battery too fast so this is not a practical solution.

What should I look for when buying an e-bike?

When buying your next e-bike, you should pay attention to the brand, the mechanical and electronic components, the power and the range, the frame, and the size of the bicycle. These are the most important features to consider, but all other matter as well and should not be taken lightly.

Can an electric bike go up hills?

Yes, electric bikes can go up hills. Depending on the type and power of the motor they have, they will be slower or faster up very steep hills. For example, geared hub and mid-drive motors are superior to direct drive motors when it comes to uphill rides. Also, it is advisable to get a motor that has more than 250W of power if you live in a very hilly area to get the pedaling assistance you need.

Can you lose weight on an electric bike?

Yes, you can easily lose weight on an electric bike. Even though an electric bike has a motor, you’re still doing most of the work by pedaling. If you want to get a good workout and burn calories, you can simply reduce the assistance level and pedal harder.

Are electric bike conversion kits any good?

Electric bike conversion kits are a good solution for riders on a tight budget or those who are not ready to say goodbye to their current bicycles. Depending on how much money you’re willing to spend and how good your current bicycle is, you can end up with a high-quality electric bicycle that will serve you for years and thousands of miles.

How long do batteries last on electric bicycles?

The Li-ion batteries on e-bikes are usually rated for around 800 full charging cycles or 2,000 half charge cycles. Therefore, they can last for at least three years of everyday cycling and charging.

Are electric bikes good for exercise?

Yes, e-bikes are a good option for exercising. You can still pedal hard and get a good workout by lowering the assistance level. As a matter of fact, when you get too tired, instead of going home, you can keep pedaling and working out by increasing the assistance level. In that regard, they’re even better for exercising than regular bikes.

Can I ride an electric bike in the rain?

Yes, you can ride most electric bicycles in the rain. Most e-bikes have electric components that are sealed and fully water-resistant. Therefore, there is no reason not to ride them in the rain or even in the snow.

Can you ride an e-bike with an empty battery?

Yes, you can still ride an e-bike even if the battery is completely empty. You won’t be able to use pedal-assistance or the throttle, but you can turn the pedals as you would on a normal bike. The only problem is that e-bikes are usually a bit heavier than regular bikes, so you might have a problem pedaling too far this way.

Electric bicycles, also known as e-bikes, pedelecs, pedal-assist bikes, and electric-assist bikes, are becoming an increasingly common sight on the streets around the world.

Though many are still confused about their traits and benefits, e-bikes have had an undeniable role in putting more and more people on two wheels, enabling them to spend more time outdoors. E-bikes combine an electric motor and battery with the traditional bicycle frame to provide a boost in power that makes pedaling uphill and accelerating from a dead stop much easier.

If you're in two minds about whether or not an e-bike is the right choice for you, or you have trouble choosing the right one, this comprehensive guide will tell you ALL there is to know to make the right decision. All you need is around 15 minutes to read through the information below and order your next e-bike.

What you will le a rn today:

  • Electric bike reviews

Put simply, an electric bike is a bicycle with an integrated electric motor and battery that assists the rider while pedaling. However, an electric-assist bike is not a scooter, though some types come with a throttle. To classify as an electric bicycle, it needs to have pedals and the motor should only assist the rider when pedaling, instead of propelling them at all times like a scooter.

If you wish, you can pedal on your own, without any assistance, and then ramp up the assistance level when you come across a steep hill or become tired. Depending on the country and the local laws, electrically-powered bicycles usually have a maximum assisted speed between 15 mph and 28 mph. Electric-assist bicycles usually have power or cadence sensors which allows them to gauge how much power to supplement the rider with, depending on how FAST or how HARD they're pedaling at a given time.

Electric bicycles are a good choice for anyone who likes cycling but does not like becoming too tired by pedaling very hard. They're excellent for:

  • Elderly people

If you commute on a daily basis (in or out of the city), an e-bike is a great way to get to your destination quickly, without breaking a sweat. If you struggle with an acute or a chronic injury, an e-bike can allow you to pedal without straining your muscles and joints too hard. Electric bicycles are also a phenomenal choice for the elderly, who are not as fit as they used to be, as well as for those who are trying to get more fit and lose weight. But they're not limited to these four groups. If you're simply a regular Joe who wants to have fun and zoom around town on an electric pedelec, there shouldn't be anyone stopping you.

There are many right reasons to get an e-bike and no wrong reasons. There are as many ways of using an electric bike as there are traditional bikes, if not more. You can commute, run errands, haul cargo, get fit, or ride leisurely. One of the main reasons why people get an electric bicycle is because they want to ride farther or go faster than their bodies allow them to on a traditional bike. On an electrified bicycle, you can cover significantly greater distances in the same amount of time while getting much less tired. Who wouldn't like that? Some hardcore cyclists might consider e-bikes to be a way of cheating (which is far from the truth), but they're not primarily intended for performance cyclists anyway. Instead of cheating, we call it "playing smart". Electric bikes can also help you save a lot of money in the long run if you replace your car with one. You'll not only save money on gas but also on car maintenance fees, as well as on medical costs by improving your health and lowering your risks of chronic diseases. Last but not any less important, electric bikes are a blast to ride! Once you feel the push they provide and feel the ease with which you can accelerate and maintain speed, it's hard to go back!

If you pay some attention to your surroundings on your morning commute, you're likely to see more electric bicycles on the road than ever before. Why is that? There are two main reasons:

Namely, electric bicycles are a lot cheaper now than they ever were. Budget-oriented people can get a basic model for less than $1,000 that will get the job done. The reason is that battery production costs are dropping and the other electric components are becoming cheaper and more accessible as well. Servicing an electric-assist bicycle is a lot easier nowadays as well, as there are more mechanics who understand how these electric machines work and know how to repair them. Electric bicycles are also a lot "greener" and better for the environment than cars with internal combustion motors. That's becoming an increasingly important factor for a lot of people when choosing their preferred mode of transportation in the face of global warming and climate change.

At first glance, electric bikes are not much different than traditional bikes. They have a similar frame, two wheels, pedals, handlebars, and a traditional drivetrain. However, they also have a few components that you're not likely to find on an ordinary bicycle. The components in question are the electric parts such as the motor, battery, controller, throttle, pedal-assist sensors, and display. The motor is the heart of the electric system, whereas the other components center around it, allowing it to power the bike and assist the rider. Let's learn more about how these components work and what their roles are.

The motor is the most important electric component of any electric bicycle. It's what gives you the power to overcome a steep hill, fight headwinds, or keep pedaling when you feel all your energy is drained. Depending on how much money you want to spend and how you plan to use your electrically-powered bicycle, motors differ in terms of type and placement. The three main types of motors commonly found on modern electric bicycles are direct-drive, geared hub, and mid-drive motors.

Direct drive motors are the cheapest type you can get, but they come with some advantages and disadvantages. They're usually placed either on the front or on the rear wheel, depending on the price of the bicycle. The cheapest e-bikes come with front-hub direct drive motors. DD motors have no gears. This means that the motor makes one rotation every time the wheel makes one rotation. That's a great solution on flat terrain while the wheel is spinning quickly because the motor can provide a lot of power. However, it's a poor setup on steep hills when the wheel is spinning more slowly so the motor makes fewer rotations as well. One of the benefits of DD motors is that they cool more efficiently, so they are often more durable than geared hub motors, even though they're not as practical.

As you may guess, geared hub motors are placed inside the wheel hub and they have gearings. They're commonly placed inside the rear wheel hub and are seen on mid-range electric bicycles. The benefit of geared hub motors is that the motor can turn several times (typically around 5) for each rotation of the wheel, thanks to its geared nature. This is good for steep uphill rides because the motor can still deliver sufficient power, even though the wheel is turning slowly. The disadvantage of this motor is that it does not dissipate heat as well as DD motors. The entire motor and gearing is placed inside a compact casing, which looks good, but traps heat even better.

Mid-drive motors are the best type you can get. As such, they're often found on more expensive mid-range e-bikes and on high-end models. Because mid-drive motors usually have torque sensors and supplement power directly to the pedals, they often feel more natural than hub motors. Torque sensors analyze how HARD you're pedaling instead of how fast your wheels or pedals are turning, which means you'll get assistance when you need it the most. Mid-drive motors are also geared, though they have a separate gears housing, so they can be geared a lot lower than geared hub motors. That makes them the best choice for e-MTB and e-Road bikes. These motors also have the ability to change the gearing ratio for optimal power output, which is what makes them the superior choice.

Another factor you need to consider when choosing which e-bike to get is the effect of the motor's position on ride feel. Namely, front-hub motors act similarly to front-wheel-drive cars. They're nippy and responsive in the corners, but they don't have as much traction as rear-wheel types. Consequently, rear-hub motors improve traction because there is more weight on the rear wheel due to rider placement. They also provide more stable handling and need to be more sophisticated because they interact with the gears and other parts at the rear of the bike. Finally, mid-drive motors are the best choice because they are located low, right under your center of balance. They make the bike more stable and make for a more natural riding feel.

The battery pack provides the motor with energy and determines the range. Batteries used to be big, expensive, and heavy, but they are usually none of those things today. Modern batteries on expensive e-bikes usually fit inside the downtube, so they are placed completely out of sight. Cheaper models usually have batteries placed on the downtube or on the rear rack, plus they are heavier and don't look as good.

Almost all modern electric bicycles come with lithium-ion batteries. However, in the past, e-bikes used to be powered by lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, or nickel metal hydride batteries. These are now considered to be outdated because they are heavier, less durable, and less eco-friendly. Lithium-ion batteries are the same type that's found in electric cars and most other electronic devices we use every day, including smartphones and laptop computers.

Battery capacity is usually measured in Amp-hours (Ah) or Watt-hours (Wh). The two basically measure the same thing, but Watt-hours is becoming the standard measurement because it is more consumer-friendly. Since most e-bikes nowadays have 36V motors, you can easily convert Ah to Wh by multiplying the battery capacity in Amp-hours by the voltage of the motor. Thus, a 10 Ah battery usually equals a 360 Wh battery (10Ah x 36V = 360Wh). Cheap electric bicycles can have a battery capacity in the range of 150–200Wh, whereas the most common range is 300–500Wh. More expensive models can have bigger batteries with capacities of over 600Wh, up to even 1,000Wh. An exception to this rule is Rad Power bikes which are considered to be entry-level but have 672 Wh batteries, which is deemed quite high.

Depending on the manufacturer, battery capacity, and build quality, a full charge typically takes between two and a half and six hours. If your battery is at the higher end of this range, you can simply charge it overnight. Lithium-ion batteries are usually rated for around 800 full charge cycles. That equals around three years of weekday commuting. However, most manufacturers claim that you can get around 2,000 half-charge cycles, which means that it is advisable to charge your battery whenever you get a chance. With proper care, which means storing the battery away from extreme heat and cold, you can usually get even more life out of your pack. Once the battery dies or its durability significantly decreases, you can simply replace it with a new one.

We won't go into too much detail about controllers here. The reason is that they are a bit more complex than other components and not as important for beginners to understand. A controller basically serves as a "bridge" between the battery and the motor, controlling the speed of the motor and the amount of power it drains from the battery. Therefore, controllers are very important when it comes to the range of the bike, the amount of assistance a motor can provide, and the ride feel.

A cadence sensor is basically a magnetic ring that attaches to the cranks and tells the motor how fast you're turning the pedals. This way, the motor determines how much power to send your way. Cadence sensors are found on cheaper electric bikes because of their apparent downsides compared to torque sensors. Torque sensors, on the other hand, tell the motor how hard you're pedaling, which is why they are the superior choice. When the sensor detects you're exerting more power on the pedals, it will instruct the motor to provide you with more assistance.

The last piece of the electric bicycle puzzle is the display. Most e-bikes use either simple LED displays or more complex LCD displays. LED displays simply have a series of LED lights that show the remaining battery charge and the pedal-assist level, along with a few buttons to control the bike. On the other hand, LCD displays are found on more expensive models and provide the rider with more options and more information. In addition to showing the pedal-assist level and battery charge, they can also track rides, showing distance, speed, time, odometer, and a few other functions.

The e-bike industry and the legislators in the US recognize three distinct categories of e-bikes. These differ in terms of having or not having a throttle, as well as in terms of the maximum assisted speed. These three categories are called classes. However, it's important to note that these "classes" have nothing to do with the product quality. Therefore, a Class 1 e-bike is in no way inherently better than a Class 2 or a Class 3 e-bike. They just have different characteristics and components.

Class 1 e-bikes are electric bicycles that are only pedal-assist and don't have a throttle. These bikes have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. To go faster than that, the rider needs to turn the pedals and propel the bike solely with the power of their legs. In parts of Europe, this Class is, in fact, limited to 15 mph with motor wattage up to 250W. In the USA, motor wattage is limited to 750W. Class 1 e-bikes are usually city bikes that are meant for urban commutes and recreational riding. This is also the most common and the most affordable class of e-bikes. These bikes can generally be ridden everywhere a traditional bike is allowed, without any need for additional licensing.

Class 2 e-bikes have the same maximum allowed speed as Class 1 models, which is 20 mph. However, in addition to the pedal-assist function, they also have a throttle. Therefore, they can be ridden both as a pedelec and as an electric scooter. Class 2 electric bicycles are less common than Class 1 models because they are usually more heavily regulated in many countries around the world. The throttle is usually added to cargo bikes and heavier city and mountain bikes to help riders pick up speed more easily when starting from a dead stop. In parts of Europe, Class 2 e-bikes are considered to be motor vehicles, so they are banned from trails and other bicycle infrastructure. Their top speed is also limited to 15 mph, with motor wattage of up to 250W.

Class 3 e-bikes are pedal-assist only, but their maximum assisted speed is limited to 28 mph. They have no throttle, so the motor assists the rider only when the pedals are turning. This type is also called "Speed Pedelec". E-Road and E-MTB bikes are commonly built as Class 3 bikes because their riders are more performance-oriented and require higher maximum and average speeds. However, in some places in the US and around the world, Class 3 e-bikes are considered motor vehicles and require a license to ride.

One of the most important factors most future e-bike owners consider is the range. How far your electrically powered bicycle can go on one charge makes all the difference. The last thing you want to do is run out of battery mid-ride, having to pedal the bike over a steep hill. An e-bike with an empty battery is just a heavy bike. The range of your e-bike is determined by two main factors:

However, other variable factors include your weight, your position on the bike, tire pressure, the terrain, riding style, etc. A battery with a higher capacity will give you more range, but it will also weigh more and increase the cost of the bike. Therefore, you should try to determine how much range you really need. Still, you should buy an electric bike with more range than you think you need, as that way you don't need to charge the battery as often. Also, the range will drop as the battery ages, which is why it is advisable to have a higher capacity to start off. To estimate the minimum range you can get from your e-bike, you can divide your battery's capacity in Watt-hours by 20. Therefore, a 350Wh battery should give you at least 17.5 miles of range. But, if you're prudent and you use low assist levels, you can get as much as 40-50 miles out of the same battery.

All e-bikes allow you to choose the amount of assistance you need from the motor by selecting the appropriate assistance level. Most bikes have between 3 and 5 assist levels, while some also have a "walk mode" that assists you while pushing the bike. Naturally, the higher the assist level you choose, the more power the motor will send your way, the easier you will have to pedal, and the faster you will go. At the same time, as the assist level increases, the range of your e-bike decreases. So it's important to find some golden middle. When it comes to the throttle, most models allow you to fine-tune the amount of power you get by twisting the throttle to a certain degree. Therefore, using a throttle does not automatically mean that you will be draining your battery faster.

It's quite easy to become overwhelmed and confused when you first come across the huge number and variety of electric bicycles on the market. But choosing the right type of e-bike and staying happy and content with it is easier than you think. You should consider the type of bike you need, the style, the cost, and a few other factors. To simplify things, all you need to do is follow the steps we've listed below until you end up with the best e-bike for your needs. So, the first step is:

Just like regular bikes, e-bikes can be split into several categories based on their intended use. It's important to think hard about what type of riding you plan to do the most in order to get the electric bike that meets most of your requirements.

The electric mountain bike market is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the industry. Mountain bikes are generally considered to be heavier and more robust than other types, so many riders don't mind the added weight of the motor and battery. Most e-MTBs are Class 1 or Class 3 bikes, but there are Class 2 models as well. Mid-drive motors are considered a standard in this category because of the smoothness of power they deliver. The batteries are usually located on the downtube or are integrated inside the downtube and vary in capacity, with 400-500Wh being the average. There are different types of e-MTBs you can get, such as hardtail and full-suspension, enduro, trail, XC, and so on.

Electric road bikes are not as popular as other types because they are generally more expensive. Weight is very important for road cyclists, which is why e-road bikes usually have sophisticated lightweight batteries integrated into the downtube, as well as expensive lightweight motors. Most e-road bikes are Class 3 models, with a 28 mph maximum assisted speed. Their battery capacity and range differ from one model to another but are generally higher than on other types. For example, the Specialized Turbo Vado promises a range of 80–100 miles with a 320–480Wh battery.

Folding electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas. They are usually used by commuters in the city because they are easy to store and transport. Folding e-bikes typically have 20" wheels and rear wheel hub motors. They are often Class 1 or Class 2 models, so they come with or without the throttle function. Most budget models have 250W motors, but there are more powerful models with 500W or even 750W motors, with higher capacity batteries as well.

Hybrid electric bicycles are available with different setups and in different price categories. They can either be cheap and intended for recreational riders or expensive and intended for fitness riders. This type is quite popular because of the practicality it offers. It typically has wider tires, so it can be ridden on paved and unpaved roads. Depending on the price tag, your e-hybrid bike can have a 250W, 500W, or 750W motor, with or without the throttle.

Cruiser and city e-bikes are usually the cheapest options on the market. They are often built around frames made from steel or aluminum. Many cruiser and city electric bicycles have medium-capacity batteries mounted on the rear rack or on the seat tube. E-cruiser and e-city bikes are usually Class 1 or Class 2 bicycles with a 20 mph maximum assisted speed. They are also often quite heavy and powered by geared or direct-drive hub motors.

Electric cargo bikes are becoming more and more popular, especially in big cities. Families are using them as a replacement for their car, to save money on gas and maintenance costs. An electric cargo bike can typically carry two kids or up to 120 lbs of cargo on its integrated rear rack, which is more than enough for most ordinary people. E-cargo bikes often have more powerful mid-drive or geared rear hub motors and many come with a throttle. This allows the rider to have more control over the pedal-assisted power, which is especially important when starting to pedal fully loaded.

Now that you've determined what type of e-bike would suit your needs the best, you need to think about how often and how far you plan to ride. If you plan to ride frequently and do longer commutes, you should invest more in your electric bicycle in order to get better and more durable components. More money will also get you a better battery and more range. If you ride every day or do long miles, you'll be annoyed if you have to charge your bike every day or even carry a spare battery, just in case.

Consider where you plan to ride. Are you going to be riding mostly in the city on smooth pavement or in the country on dirt roads? Also, do you plan to ride on flat or hilly terrain? If you plan to ride in urban conditions, you should get a city, cruiser, or a folding bike. These will prove to be the most comfortable and the most practical choice. If you ride off-road, get an e-MTB bike, or go with an e-hybrid model if you plan to do a little bit of both. Depending on what kind of terrain you plan to tackle, you can choose between direct drive motors on the one hand and geared hub or mid-drive motors on the other. Direct drive motors are a good budget option for flat terrain. However, if there are many steep hills in your area, it is advisable to go with a geared hub or mid-drive setup.

Once you're certain about the type and model of e-bike you want to get, make sure to get the right size. Many cruiser, city, folding, and cargo electric bicycles are built around one-size-fits-all frames. In reality, these frames don't fit EVERYONE. They are often too big for very short riders or too small for very tall riders. To get the right frame size based on your height and inseam length, consider a good bike size chart or our bicycle size calculator . If you get the wrong frame size, you'll feel uncomfortable when riding, and you might even end up with pain or serious injury.

For some riders, certain features and accessories can be absolutely essential. For other riders, these can be redundant and just increase the price of the bike unnecessarily. Here are a few popular features and accessories you should consider when buying an e-bike.

  • Throttle:  A throttle is a great feature if you need help starting the bike. It's a great addition to cargo bikes or city bikes that you plan to use for hauling additional weight or taking your kids to school. However, the throttle will turn your e-bike into a Class 2 bike that might be subject to additional regulations.
  • Display:  Consider what kind of display you'd like your e-bike to come with. Cheaper models have simple displays with LED indicators for battery charge and pedal-assist level. They don't track your rides or show ride metrics such as speed, time, distance, odometer, etc. If you want these functions, get an e-bike with a more expensive LCD screen.

Now that you know what kind of e-bike is right for you, you should also consider how much money you'd like to spend. Just like traditional bicycles, electric bikes come at different price points, from ultra-cheap to ultra high-end. Therefore, you get what you pay for. Let's take a closer look at some examples of price points, so you can determine which range would cover most of your needs.

Ultra-cheap electric bikes that cost less than $500 is not an option we recommend, but they're still available on the market. In the majority of cases, these are imported Chinese brands with very basic and unreliable components. They're usually built around compact frames with small wheels, no-name bike parts, weak motors, and small capacity batteries. You really get what you pay for. If you plan to use your e-bike for serious, regular commutes and ride it more than once in a blue moon, we recommend moving on to the next category.

The price range up to $1,000 consists of significantly more reliable models. These are still basic, budget e-bikes, but they're equipped with noticeably better components. There are plenty of compact e-bikes, cruisers, and city bikes, in this price category. The majority of these bicycles have unimpressive 250W motors, slightly better batteries than the previous category, and entry-level Shimano components, such as Tourney. You can get a bike from this price range for regular use, but don't expect too much in terms of power and range.

This is the right category for real e-bike enthusiasts who don't want to break the bank but want to get good value for their money. By spending more than $1,000 on your e-bike, you'll get significantly better electrical and mechanical components. These electric-assist bicycles use better aluminum frames, better wheels and tires, and higher-quality components and brakes from Shimano, SRAM, and Tektro. The motors offer more power (500W or more) and batteries usually have upwards of 400 Wh capacity. If you want an e-bike that you can use and abuse every day to commute, transport kids, or haul cargo for years, this is how much money you should be looking to spend.

Electric bicycles that cost upwards of $3,000 come with high-quality components. You won't find any cheap brands or crappy parts. This goes for the motor and battery, as well as for the frame, wheels, drivetrain, brakes, and so on. In fact, this is the price range where you stop seeing hub motors. These are replaced by mid-drive motors from renowned companies such as Bosch, Yamaha, Brose, Shimano, and others. They offer much better performance and more natural assistance than hub motors. If you're buying an electric mountain bike, this price range will get you better suspension (hardtail or full-suspension) and even a full-carbon frame as you approach the $5,000 price tag.

Finally, if you have money to spare and you want the best of the best in terms of performance, motor power, battery capacity, and bicycle components, you should be spending between $5,000 and $10,000. This is where all the superbikes are, usually intended for mountain bikers and road cyclists who need an additional push when out and about. Interestingly, though, the electrical components here are not much better compared to the price range just below. However, all other components are. You get a premium suspension, high-grade carbon frames, electric shifting, and other mouth-watering stuff.

As e-bikes have exploded in popularity in recent years, in the USA and worldwide, we've been seeing more and more quality brands popping up. If you're new to the e-bike world, you might not know which brands to trust and which to stay away from. For that reason, we've created this list of the most reliable and renowned electric bike brands whose bikes are commonly found on the market. They're not mentioned in any particular order, so you can expect decent quality bicycles in different price ranges from all of them.

Ancheer specializes in budget electric bikes that cost under $1,000. They make folding, MTB, hybrid, and city electric bikes. This brand is recommended for e-bike beginners with a limited budget, who don't intend to ride too seriously. The motors are typically 250W to 500W with up to 12Ah batteries.

Nakto is another manufacturer of budget e-bikes with most products in the $500 to $1,000 price range. Though, they do have a few bikes that are more expensive than that. Nakto's most popular models are fat bikes and MTBs, but they also make several attractive city, commuter, and folding bikes. Their models mostly come with 250–500W rear hub motors and medium-capacity batteries.

Razor is a popular brand that makes different types of affordable electric vehicles. They don't really have e-bikes with pedals and pedal-assistance, but they make scooters, electric motos, trikes, hoverboards, and other cool stuff.

Specialized is a premium brand that makes high-end bicycles and electric bicycles. Their electric assortment starts at around $3,000 and goes up to almost $15,000. These are high-end bicycles intended for commuters and fitness riders, as well as performance riders who want a state-of-the-art road or full-suspension MTB with the best possible parts and components. You can't really go wrong with one of these.

Electric bikes can be an expensive investment, even though there are many manufacturers out there that offer great budget e-bikes. Still, there can be many reasons why you wouldn't want to buy a new bike—your old bike has sentimental value, you don't want to create more waste, or you simply don't have a lot of money to spend. Whatever the reason, electric bike conversion kits are an excellent alternative. They allow you to transform your old regular bike into an e-bike by fitting it with a motor and a battery at a fraction of the price of a new unit.

What's an Electric Bike Conversion Kit?

An electric bike conversion kit is a set of electric components that you can fit on your traditional bike to turn it into an electric bike. Depending on which kit you get, it will consist of a motor, battery, controller, sensors, and a display. There are several types of these conversion kits available on the market, which you can read more about below. Front and rear hub motor conversion kits are by far the most popular option, though all-in-one wheels are the easiest to fit. Basic kits usually cost between $200 and $400, but they can get more expensive than that, depending on the brand and the quality of the parts. Are cheap electric bike conversion kits worth the money? If $200 is all you can spend toward getting an electric bike, there isn't really a better option than a cheap conversion kit. Keep in mind that these kits usually have basic 250W front or rear hub motors and limited-capacity batteries. These will be good enough for flat rides and for fighting a headwind, but they will probably struggle to keep up on steep hills. The battery will likely give you a 20–30-mile range. If you want something better than that, you'll have to spend more money.

As mentioned above, there are several types of electric bike conversion kits that you can get. These differ in price, power, performance, weight, installation procedure, and looks. Read about them in a bit more detail below to find out which one is the right type for you.

Front hub motors are the easiest type to install. They are either geared or direct-drive, so make sure you understand the differences between the two. We've written about them already on this page. These have the fewest potential compatibility issues. The only thing you need to make sure before purchasing one is that there is enough space between the forks of your bike for it. These kits also come with other components such as a battery, controller, and sensors that need to be mounted on the frame. Make sure that there is enough room for them to fit where they should as well.

Rear hub motors are slightly more complicated to install, simply because there are more potential compatibility issues. When purchasing a rear hub conversion kit, make sure that there is enough space between the dropouts and that the chain line will not get pushed out too much out of line. Rear hub motors are also either geared or direct drive. This conversion kit also includes a battery, controller, and sensors, so make sure that there is space for them on the bike.

Mid-drive conversion kits are the most expensive, but the best types. They also have the most potential compatibility problems, so make sure you know what's required to fit one on your bike before ordering it. It's advisable to contact a local professional if you're not one. They require the correct width of the bottom bracket, the correct threading pattern, and enough room on the bike to fit the motor and the battery. Mid-drive kits provide the best performance and the most natural pedal assistance. Therefore, this is the type we recommend for serious riders and regular commuters.

If you want a quick and easy solution, all-in-one electric bike conversion wheels are for you. As you can guess from the name, all of the electrical components (motor, battery, controller, sensors) are fitted inside the wheel. Therefore, all you need to do to start riding is take the old wheel off, put the new one on, and start pedaling. Some modern all-in-one wheels also offer wireless smartphone compatibility, so you can control the assistance by using your phone.

Do you still think an e-bike conversion kit is a good choice for you and you want to retrofit your current bike? If that's a yes, here are a few tips on how not to mess up. Make sure you pay attention to these potential issues so your DIY e-bike rides as good as new.

If you're getting a kit with a hub motor, decide whether you want a geared or a direct-drive unit. Direct-drive units are a good solution for flat rides, but geared units are better for very hilly areas.

If you're not a bike mechanic or an electrician, it's better to find someone who is. Converting the bike yourself will decrease the costs, but it can also increase them if you mess something up.

Not all conversion kits are road legal. Depending on where you live, the rules can be more or less stringent. The laws typically limit the use of a throttle and the power of the motor, so make sure that you're familiar with these before getting a kit that you won't be able to ride legally.

Consider the brand's reputation. 

E-bikes have an undeserved bad reputation with some people. In most cases, the main reason is a lack of information about what an e-bike is and isn't and about what it can and can't do. As a result, there are many myths that get passed around without questioning their truth. We believe that fact is stronger than fiction, so let's debunk the biggest and most misleading ones.

Fact: E-bikes don't equal cheating, they equal empowering! If you're riding an e-bike, it does not mean that you're cheating, it means that you're riding past your current abilities, which is the only way for some people to ride. Plus, you can still get a hard workout on an e-bike and lose weight, if that's your goal. Just don't go around stealing people's Strava QOMs/KOMs, pretending you're on a road bike.

Myth 4: E-Bikes Require Maintenance and Don't Last

Fact: This is a myth. Electric-assist bicycles require the same amount of maintenance, most of the time. On a day-to-day basis, all you need to do is clean and lube the chain, inflate the tires, and make sure the brakes and derailleurs are adjusted. Of course, you also need to charge the battery. If you buy a quality e-bike, the electric components rarely need any maintenance or repairs.

Fact: This is one of the biggest and most misleading myths about e-bikes. They're a great option for everyone, not just for people who are lazy, injured, or too old to pedal hard every day. Even if you're a road racer, you can benefit from an e-bike—instead of getting too tired from your Z2 work commute, save that energy for structured training afterwards by commuting on an e-bike.

Fact: Are e-bikes as clean as regular bikes? They're not, but they are still considered environmentally friendly, especially when compared to cars. E-bikes don't produce toxic exhaust fumes and their batteries and electronic parts can be recycled and reused. By swapping your car for an electric bike, you will be doing the environment a huge favor.

Fact: This is another common myth about e-bikes. The cheapest e-bikes cost the same as regular bikes and the most expensive e-bikes are not more expensive than the priciest regular bikes. You can get a budget e-bike for less than $500, a mid-range model for $1,000 to $3,000, or you can go all-in and get a high-end model for much more than that. Therefore, there's an e-bike out there for everyone's budget.

Myth 8: You Can't Ride an E-Bike in the Rain

Fact:  The electrical components on most e-bikes are sealed and fully waterproof. The only exception is some ultra-cheap e-bikes made in China that cut costs by skipping this step. Therefore, e-bikes can be ridden in all conditions, even when it's raining cats and dogs, just like regular bicycles.

Yes, you can easily lose weight on an electric bike. Even though an electric bike has a motor, you're still doing most of the work by pedaling. If you want to get a good workout and burn calories, you can simply reduce the assistance level and pedal harder.

Electric bike conversion kits are a good solution for riders on a tight budget or those who are not ready to say goodbye to their current bicycles. Depending on how much money you're willing to spend and how good your current bicycle is, you can end up with a high-quality electric bicycle that will serve you for years and thousands of miles.

Yes, e-bikes are a good option for exercising. You can still pedal hard and get a good workout by lowering the assistance level. As a matter of fact, when you get too tired, instead of going home, you can keep pedaling and working out by increasing the assistance level. In that regard, they're even better for exercising than regular bikes.

Yes, you can still ride an e-bike even if the battery is completely empty. You won't be able to use pedal-assistance or the throttle, but you can turn the pedals as you would on a normal bike. The only problem is that e-bikes are usually a bit heavier than regular bikes, so you might have a problem pedaling too far this way.

Go ahead and enjoy eBicycles :)

All About Electric Bicycles

eBicycles.com aims to cover all topics related to electric bicycles. Our goal is to serve as the hotspot for e-bike lovers by providing value through reviews, how-to articles, and detailed guides. Stay up-to-date with the world of e-bicycles and share your passion with us.

Recent Posts

  • Best Women’s Electric Bikes: Top Commuter, Cruiser, MTB, and Cargo Models
  • What Is an Ebike? Here’s Everything New Owners Need to Know
  • How Fast Do Electric Bikes Go? Ebike Speed Explained
  • Does Riding an Electric Bike Help You Lose Weight?
  • Electric Bike Batteries Explained: A Detailed, Beginner-Friendly Guide

FIND IT HERE

The best electric bikes of 2024

Our picks for the best electric bikes for riders of all types and budgets, based on dozens of reviews and tests.

  • The best for most people
  • Best budget ebike

Best fat tire ebike

  • Best for commuters

Best electric dirt bike

Best under $1,000

Best cargo ebike, best folding ebike, best front-storage cargo bike, best for long distances.

  • What to look for
  • Ebike rules and regulations

Meet our testers

  • How we test electric bikes

The best electric bike for most people

The best ebike for most people

It's not the flashiest, but we think the RadCity 5 Plus will more than fit the needs of most riders. It's comfortable, offers plenty of power, and comes with lights, fenders, and a rear rack for your gear. Plus, RadPower makes a lot of accessories that let you easily customize the bike.

In our tests, we found the RadCity 5 Plus to be responsive and powerful enough to get us up and down hills easily, and do so in comfort. It is a bit heavy at 64 pounds, but that should only be an issue if you try to go farther than it's 55-mile range.

Read more below .

The best affordable electric bike

For those who don't want to spend too much on an ebike, the Ride1Up Turris offers just about everything you could want, with few compromises. 

If you're looking for an ebike that can go anywhere, look no further. This bike is responsive, stable in all conditions, including snow, has both lights and turn signals, and even comes with fenders.

Read more below

The best for commuters

This affordable ebike has a neat feature: Its handlebars can turn sideways, so it'll take up less room when you have to store it in a hallway or some other cramped space. It's also fairly light, has a great range, and has a built-in rear rack.

This BMX-style fat tire bike delivers some great thrills on trails and dirt paths. It has a powerful motor to get you around, but no suspension.

This lightweight ebike lacks some niceties you'll find on more expensive rides — you'll have to provide your own lights and fenders — but it delivers a zippy ride around town at a great price.

The best cargo ebike

A truly versatile ebike that can be configured with dozens of accessories. It's also compact, powerful, very comfortable to ride, and one of the most affordable cargo bikes around.

Read more below 

Click to view more products...

This futuristic-looking ebike is made from carbon fiber, which keeps its weight to just 36 pounds. It has a speedy electronic shifter, responsive and powerful motor, and a great range for something this small. It ain't cheap, though.

Read more below.

When you need to haul really big loads, the Supercargo CL is your best bet. It has a ton of space, yet is very stable and even fun to ride.

Longest range

With dual batteries, this bike has the endurance to get you wherever you need to go. And, it's often on sale for a very reasonable price.

1. The best for most people 2. Best affordable ebike 3. Best fat tire ebike 4. Best for commuters 5. Best electric dirt bike 6. Best under $1,000 7. Best cargo ebike 8. Best folding ebike 9. Best front-storage cargo bike 10. Longest-range e-bike 11. What to look for 12. Electric bike FAQ 13. Ebike rules and regulations 14. How we test ebikes  

What makes for the best electric bike? With so many models out there, it's hard to know at a glance which model will get you where you need to go and which features you can and can't live without. That's why we've tested a number of the top models across all types of electric bikes to give you the best recommendations for your needs. 

We test the bikes by riding them around, to see how responsive their electric motors are when going up hills and getting started from a dead stop. We also gauge the comfort of the bikes over long miles, and note the ease with which we can use their various features, such as an accompanying smartphone app. And, we also test the bikes' battery life; while endurance is affected by many factors, such as terrain and temperature, we try to the best of our ability to see how the bikes live up to the company's estimates.

While many of the best electric bikes are expensive — upwards of $2,000 — they're coming down in price; in fact, we also have a list of the best budget electric bikes under $1,500. And before you do any riding, be sure to pick up one of the best bike helmets to keep your head safe, and one of the best bike locks to keep your ride secure. 

Read on for all our best electric bike picks. 

The best electric bikes you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

best electric bike

1. rad power radcity 5 plus.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

For the vast majority of riders, the Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus will be the best electric bike. It has a comfortable design, plenty of power, and a multitude of mounting points for things such as baskets and child seats. Plus, it comes with a rear rack and mudguards. Its 7-speed shifter, combined with three levels of pedal assistance and a twist throttle is more than enough to get you up even the steepest of hills.

Rad Power says that the RadCity5 should get upwards of 50+ miles on a charge; in our testing, it came fairly close — about 40 miles. 

We really enjoyed pedaling around on this bike, which is offered in both step-through and step-over models. Its battery, while not fully integrated into the downtube, provides plenty of range, and can also be used to charge your phone (with the right adapter). The one caveat is that this bike weighs a hefty 64 pounds, so you're not going to want to lug it up stairs.

At a starting price of $1,999, it's reasonably affordable, but you should check out our Rad Power Bikes promo codes for the latest discounts. 

Read our full Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus review .

Best affordable ebike

2. ride1up turris.

While there are plenty of great electric bikes that cost more than $2,000, the Ride1Up Turris shows that you can get a lot of value from an ebike that costs much less. During our testing, we found the Turris' 750W motor to be more than powerful enough for most situations. We were equally impressed with how quickly it responded when we started pedaling, as many budget ebikes exhibit a slight delay in these situations. (There was a slight lag when using just the throttle, though).

Other standout features include its mechanical disc brakes, easy-to-read digital display, and bright 60 Lux headlight. Included front and rear fenders helped keep our clothes clean on wet days, and its wide, 27.5 x 2.4-inch tires made for a comfortable ride — so much so that we thought that the front suspension felt a bit extraneous. 

There's no taillight, so you'll want to check out our picks for the best bike lights , and unlike some pricier ebikes, you'll have to assemble a few pieces of the bike yourself, including the handlebars, front wheel, and pedals. We also had to make a few adjustments to the fenders, which might mean a trip to your local bike shop. 

But for those who want an affordable electric bike to get around town, the Turris should be at the top of your list. 

Read our full Ride1Up Turris review .

3. Aventon Aventure.2

If you're looking for a fat-tire electric bike that's less than $2,000, the Aventon Aventure.2 is hard to beat. It's as good off-road as it is on pavement, has a beefy battery and a clear color display, as well as fenders that'll save your clothes from getting too muddy. Other niceties include a brake-activated rear light and turn signals.

The Aventure.2 has both pedal-assist and throttle modes, and the battery and wires are neatly integrated into the frame. What's more, the battery can be removed for charging. The battery lasted nearly the advertised 60 miles on a charge, but, as with other ebikes, we drained it much faster when we relied on the throttle.

While not as capable as a dedicated mountain bike, the Aventure.2 was able to get us up and over hilly terrain, and its torque sensor was quick to translate our pedaling into power. 

Our only real critiques were the bike's 77-pound weight and its front suspension fork, which felt unnecessary. Otherwise, it's an excellent bike for the price.

Read our full Aventon Aventure.2 review .

best for commuters

4. charge bikes city.

If you plan on commuting to work, Charge Bikes City may well be the best ebike for you. Not only does it come with features like full-fenders to keep the mud off and a rear rack for a pack or bag, but it does everything well for a very reasonable price. The Charge City has a five level power assist, as well as a full-power throttle button, should the need or hill arise. 

The biggest reason why we think this bike is best for commuters is that its handle bars fold flat, so you can more easily store it in an apartment or a cubicle at work. It comes with all the necessary bells and whistles a commuter is going to want, including the bell (actually a superior and very loud electronic horn). The bike is available in both step-over and step through, and in a few color options, too.

The City's electric assist is so smooth you'll think you're doing all the work yourself. At night, the bike's lights sufficiently lit up the road and the throttle helped us zip around potential trouble when we felt out of gas. Its advertised range of 50 miles held up, too; we found we only had to recharge the bike every three days using it on our regular commute.

Founded by folks from biking icon Cannondale, Charge's sui generis feature is that even newbies can assemble the bike right out of the box in 10 minutes or less. All you basically have to do is put the front wheel on. 

Read our full Charge Bikes City review

Best BMX-style bike

5. juiced ripracer.

The Juiced Ripracer is a lot of fun, and costs a lot less than you might think. It's one of the more affordable offroad ebikes we've tested, and it can go just about anywhere. This fat-tire bike has 20-inch wheels and a 40.3-inch wheelbase that's meant for trails and other unpaved surfaces. However, its lack of shock absorbers, like most e-mountain bikes, means you're in for a rougher ride. 

Its 750W motor delivered some real get-up-and-go, and, thanks to its low-end torque, was great for charging up hills. In one concession to its price, the Ripracer has a cadence, rather than a torque sensor, so you have to rotate the pedals a couple of time before the assist kicks in. As it's a BMX-style bike, the Ripracer is a lot smaller than other mountain e-bikes, which also makes it easier to maneuver around tight spaces. 

Read our full Juiced Ripracer review .

6. Ride1Up Roadster V2

At first glance, the Ride1Up Roadster V2 It looks like a regular, non-motorized commuter bike — the better to blend in with traditional rides — but concealed inside is a battery capable of up to 30 miles of range. 

The Roadster V2 is also one of the lightest ebikes we tested — it weighs just 33 pounds, so carrying it around shouldn't be a problem — and although there's no step-through model, Ride1Up offers it in two sizes to accommodate riders of nearly all heights. 

The Roadster V2 was fast and fun on flat and rolling terrain, and its belt drive made for a very quiet ride. However, this is a single-speed model, so it's a bit hard to get moving on hills. 

There are a few concessions to get to this price: The Roadster V2 doesn't have lights of any kind, nor does it have fenders, and it uses rim, rather than disc brakes. We also found its display to be on the small side. Still, if you can live with those compromises, you'll enjoy the Roadster V2.

Read our full Ride1Up Roadster V2 review .

7. RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus

How's this for an endorsement? Our reviewer loved this bike so much that he decided to buy one for himself. 

While it can't haul as heavy loads as some other larger (and much more expensive) cargo bikes, the RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus is more than capable of carrying you, your kids, and plenty of groceries wherever you need to go. We loved its responsive 750W motor, its comfortable ride, and its low center of gravity, thanks to its 3.3-inch thick, 20-inch tires.

However, we found it to be fairly heavy, tipping the scales at 75 pounds, so you're not going to want to try pedal it without any power assist. But we found its advertised 45-mile range to be pretty accurate, so long as we didn't go too heavy on the throttle.

Aside from its performance, what made the RadRunner 3 Plus stand out so much to us was its versatility: You can outfit the bike with any number of combinations of racks, seats, bags, and other accessories to truly customize it for your needs. And, its relatively low price for a cargo bike makes it a real bargain for those looking to replace their car with an electric bike.

Read our full RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus review .

8. Gocycle G4i+

The Gocycle G4i+ looks like something a supercar designer would build, which isn't surprising given that it was conceived by former McLaren sports car engineer Richard Thorpe. Not only is this bike's unique wheels-on-one-side and tapered body eye-catching, but we were able to fold it up in less than a minute into a size small enough to get us on and off a train, and past our security and into our office elevator. At 36 pounds, it's one of the lightest folding electric bikes out there, too. 

Despite that, this bike was a real pleasure to ride. Its electric shifter responded near instantly, as did the pedal assist and throttle. However, while the G4i+ has daytime running lights, you'll have to pay extra for a legit headlight, as well as mudguards. Also, the G4i+ has a great smartphone app, but one of the flimsiest methods of holding your phone on the bike itself — a cheap solution for a bike that costs $7,000. 

If you're looking for something slightly more affordable, GoCycle also sells the G4i ($5,999) and the G4 ($4,799). A 2022 version of the G4 has an injection molded composite mid-frame. Still too much for your wallet? Then you should check out the Brompton Electric C-Line Explore , which starts around $3,000. 

Read our full GoCycle G4i+ review .

9. Yuba Supercargo CL

The Yuba Supercargo CL can haul an astounding 500 pounds, making it one of the heftiest electric cargo bikes in its class. Yet, it offers a surprisingly stable ride, thanks to its low center of gravity. Its cargo area is very customizable, letting you convert it from a place to carry groceries to a space to tote your tots to soccer practice.  

Magna hydraulic brakes and a Bosch mid-drive motor were very responsive, though the relatively small 20-inch tires and lack of suspension did make bumps feel a bit jarring. The Supercargo CL starts at around $6,000, but is incredibly customizable; you can select from a range of accessories to adapt the cargo area to suit your needs. 

If you're looking for a cargo bike that can haul more than the Rad Power RadRunner 3 Plus, this is the model to consider.

Read our full Yuba Supercargo CL review .

10. NIU BQi-C3 Pro

There's nothing worse when running out of power when riding your electric bike, especially if you're miles from home — and at the bottom of a hill. With its dual batteries, the NIU BQi-C3 Pro is the best electric bike for those who have range anxiety, as it can give you up to 90 miles of range before you need to recharge. And, that's no boast — based on our testing, we found that 90-mile estimate to be pretty accurate, too. 

But range isn't the only thing we liked about the BQi-C3 Pro: It has mechanical disc brakes, front and rear lights, and a rear rack so you can carry things wherever you plan to go. A carbon belt drive is another nice-to-have feature, as it's quiet and easier to maintain than a traditional metal chain. Its step-through design also makes the bike easy to use for riders of all sizes; we tried it with both a 5' 11" rider and a 5' 3" rider, and both found it comfortable. 

Our only real complaint with the BQi-C3 Pro is that at 70.5 pounds, it's one of the heaviest electric bikes we've tested that's not a cargo bike, so this is not a model to buy if you have to go up any stairs. Still, the bike's 500W motor was more than powerful enough to get its bulk moving with ease. 

The bike's regular price is $2,199, but we've seen it on sale during the holidays for as low as $1,299, so wait for a sale to pick it up.

Read our full NIU BQi-C3 Pro review .

What to look for when buying an electric bike

Pedal-assist or throttle? All electric bikes have what's called pedal-assist; you start pedaling, and the bike's motor kicks in to make your ride a little easier. But you need to put in at least some work: you won't go anywhere unless you pedal. Most electric bikes will also let you set the level of assistance, so you can decide how hard you want to pedal.

However, some electric bikes will also have a throttle. Press a button or push a lever, and the bike will do all the work for you — no pedaling needed! Using a throttle will quickly eat up the battery life on the bike, so you'll get far less of a range if you don't want to pedal at all.

Motor type Less expensive electric bikes traditionally use a rear hub motor. Mid-drive motors located in the center pedal crank shaft tend to be more expensive but offer better overall balance and smoother shifting. 

Motors are also rated based on their power, measured in Watts. Typically, the least powerful motor will be 250 Watts, but unless you're a very large person or planning to go up really steep hills, the motor size shouldn’t be a major determining factor for your purchase. More important,  there is no industry standard for measuring Watts (is it continuous or peak and if peak, for how long?). So in general, a motor’s Watt rating isn’t a reliable indication of power.

Battery size Consider where you live. If you're in San Francisco you're going to want more help than if you're cruising around Austin. Watt hours (Wh) is the most important figure for comparison—it takes into account battery output and battery life to give you a better sense of available power. Higher Wh translates into more range. 

Many electric bike makers will also include an estimated range (usually about 40 miles) that you can get off a single charge. You should take this figure with a large grain of salt, as that number is usually determined under ideal circumstances: A fairly lightweight person riding on flat terrain with no wind, and at the perfect ambient temperature for the battery. Range is also dependent on the level of power assist being used, whether full-throttle has been applied and for how long, and your average speed. As they say, your mileage may vary.

Removable or built-in battery? Most bike batteries will handle rides of about 40 miles and need to be plugged in for at least a couple of hours to get to 80 percent of capacity. So if you have a more demanding commute, consider a model that lets you swap out the battery rather than a bike with an integrated battery. 

Also, if you live in a place where you can't bring your bike inside or get close to a wall outlet (such as if you live in a walk-up apartment), definitely look for a bike with a removable battery. It will make your life a lot easier.

Step-over or Step-through? Many electric bike makers will offer their bikes in two configurations: Step-over (which has a top bar that runs parallel to the ground) and Step-through (the bar is angled downwards). Once upon a time, step-through models were traditionally thought of as women's bikes, but that perception is changing. It's generally easier to get on and off a step-through bike, as you don't have to lift your leg over a bar. 

Safety features If you're planning to ride your electric bike in traffic or in low-light conditions (such as dawn and dusk), it's worth looking for an electric bike with built-in head and taillights. While increasingly common, it's not a standard feature on all models. 

Electric bike FAQ

What are the different types of electric bike.

Generally speaking, electric bikes fall into the same categories as non-electric bikes. Here's a quick summary of some of the kinds of electric bikes you'll find.

Road bike: These are meant solely for riding on roads, and are designed for speed. They will have thinner tires and curved handlebars, so that the rider will be crouched forward. Higher-end models may also be made out of carbon fiber, so as to make the bike as light as possible.

Mountain bike : Designed for off-road use, mountain bikes will have thick, knobby tires, full suspension, and a burlier frame to better absorb bumps and jumps. 

Fat tire bikes : Similar to mountain bikes, fat tire bikes are meant to be ridden off-road, usually on very soft ground, such as mud, sand, and snow. As their name suggests, these bikes have very wide tires — as much as four inches — which helps keep a grip on unsteadier terrain.

City/Commuter bike: Made for urban dwellers who need to get around town, a commuter bike will have tires that are somewhere in between a road and a mountain bike. Generally, the bikes will be configured so that the rider's back is vertical when seated, which gives them a better view of their surroundings.

Cargo bike: These bikes are made for carrying heavy loads, and will have a cargo area either in the front or rear of the bike. Because of the payload area, these bikes often tend to me much longer and heavier — and more expensive — than a typical bike.  

What is a good speed for an electric bike?

In the U.S., electric bikes are limited to 20 miles per hour; that is, they can only provide you with power — either through pedal-assist or with a throttle — until the bike hits 20 MPH. While you can easily go faster than 20 MPH on an electric bike, the rest of that power will have to be provided by you — or gravity. 

How much does an electric bike cost?

Electric bikes range widely in price. Some of the best cheap electric bikes start at around $1,000; you can certainly find models for less, but quality will be less. 

The bulk of electric bikes cost anywhere from $1,500 to around $2,500, and there are hundreds of models in this price range.  

Higher-end and specialized electric bikes — such as cargo bikes — will cost upwards of $3,000, and can easily reach $6,000 to $8,000, which is a sizable investment. 

rules and regulations

There has been a lot of confusion about ebikes (pedal assist versus throttle bikes) and where you can legally ride them. Some municipalities have banned ebikes from bicycle paths, for example. Many places classify ebikes depending on whether they can go full throttle and have a maximum speed of 20 or 28 mph. There are three official classifications:

Class 1: Ebikes that only assist while you pedal, with a top speed of 20 mph.

Class 2: Ebikes with a throttle that don't require you to pedal but have a top speed of 20 mph.

Class 3: Ebikes that only assist while you pedal, with a top speed of 28 mph.

So check your local regulations before you buy. And always wear a helmet.

Dan Cavallari is the former technical editor for VeloNews Magazine, who currently reviews electric bikes, the best bike lights , best bike locks , and other bike accessories for Tom's Guide. In addition to VeloNews, his work has appeared in Triathlete Magazine, Rouleur Magazine, CyclingTips.com, Road Bike Action, Mountain Bike Action, CycleVolta.com, Tomsguide.com, and much more. 

Dan also hosts two podcasts on his site, Slow Guy on the Fast Ride: One is about cycling and other outdoor activities, while the other looks at mental health issues. Most recently, Dan also covered the 2022 Tour de France. Dan lives outside of Denver, Colorado with his family. 

John R. Quain has been reviewing and testing video and audio equipment for more than 20 years. For Tom's Guide, he has reviewed televisions, HDTV antennas, electric bikes, electric cars, as well as other outdoor equipment. He is currently a contributor to The New York Times and the CBS News television program. John has also written our guide to the best bike helmets . 

how we test

All the bicycles in this feature were road (and in some cases, off-road) tested by Tom’s Guide reviewers and staff. 

The testing process begins when we first receive the bike; as most come only partly assembled, we assess the difficulty with which we have to put the final pieces together. Typically, this involves attaching the front wheel, handlebars, and pedals, but some bikes are easier to put together than others. 

Next, we take the bikes for a ride, evaluating their comfort, handling, responsiveness of their motors — some will be faster to apply power than others — as well as how they perform over a variety of terrain and conditions. For example, if we're testing a fat-tire bike, we'll take it off-roading; if we're testing a cargo bike, we'll load it with kids and grocery bags. 

If a bike has headlights and/or taillights, we'll also check to see how bright they are in dimmer conditions. After all, you're not going to only ride it during the day. We'll also try out any other safety features, such as bells and horns. 

We also evaluate the advertised battery range of an electric bike. Many companies will offer, shall we say, optimistic range estimates based on ideal riding conditions: A light rider using the lowest level of power assist, and traveling on a level road in 70-degree conditions. 

But, that's not reflective of real-world use. While it's impossible to replicate the exact same conditions from one bike review to the next, we do our best to provide as much detail in our reviews as to how we rode the bike (terrain, pedal assist levels) to determine how close to accurate the companies' claims are.

Finally, if an electric bike comes with an app — as is becoming increasingly common— we'll test it out too, to see how easy it is to use, and how well it works with the bike itself. 

Get the BEST of Tom’s Guide daily right in your inbox: Sign up now!

Upgrade your life with the Tom’s Guide newsletter. Subscribe now for a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and hottest deals. Elevate your everyday with our curated analysis and be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets.

Mike Prospero

Michael A. Prospero is the U.S. Editor-in-Chief for Tom’s Guide. He oversees all evergreen content and oversees the Homes, Smart Home, and Fitness/Wearables categories for the site. In his spare time, he also tests out the latest drones, electric scooters, and smart home gadgets, such as video doorbells. Before his tenure at Tom's Guide, he was the Reviews Editor for Laptop Magazine, a reporter at Fast Company, the Times of Trenton, and, many eons back, an intern at George magazine. He received his undergraduate degree from Boston College, where he worked on the campus newspaper The Heights, and then attended the Columbia University school of Journalism. When he’s not testing out the latest running watch, electric scooter, or skiing or training for a marathon, he’s probably using the latest sous vide machine, smoker, or pizza oven, to the delight — or chagrin — of his family.

  • John R. Quain

Propella 9S Pro V2 review: A great value

Heybike Mars 2.0 review

Lenovo laptop sale — save up to 30% on these top ThinkPads

  • Marc-G Hello, I noticed a couple of errors in the article around pricing on a couple of the bikes. Regarding the Gazelle Medeo T9 classic, your article list a starting price of $1999 but clicking the link takes you to their site where the least expensive model is $2499 and no model called Medeo T9 Classic is available nor can such a model be found with search. The second model is the VanMoof S3 which is listed in the article with a starting price of $1999 but going to the site shows a price of $2299. As someone trying to persuade his wife that an ebike would be a worthwhile purchase for me, I’d be grateful if you would clarify these discrepancies. One last thing. On the article itself, it says it was published 21 hours ago when it was actually published on July 21. I’m going to assume some aspect of it was updated but I can’t spot any changes to it and would appreciate it if whatever was updated could be noted somewhere. Many thanks for the article. Pricing confusion aside, it’s been quite helpful for me. Reply
  • Marc-G Thanks for the reply. Just went back to the top of this page and realized that it said 2020. However, if that’s the case, why is it made to look like a recent article? Does that mean all the authors did was change the title from best of 2020 to best of 2021? That seems kind of disingenuous to me. Reply
  • mprospero Hi Marc - We've recently updated the pricing for all the models. We've also added new ones to this list as we've reviewed them. Reply
  • GFujioka You do your readers a disservice and reveal your partiality by not listing the 64,5 lb weight of your number one bike. Cheers. Reply
  • gtilford One factor that seems to be missing from virtually every review-support. I have some friends who could not get parts for their ebikes for 6+months, and they were only 1 year old. I've had problems getting parts with a highly recommended brand. The bike is well made, it performs well, but parts are nearly unobtainable. If I knew then when I know now about parts availability I wouild not have purchased the brand. Reply
  • View All 5 Comments

Most Popular

By Sarah Chaney January 18, 2024

By Stephen Lambrechts January 11, 2024

By Dan Cavallari January 10, 2024

By Christian de Looper January 07, 2024

By Olivia Powell December 11, 2023

By Anthony Spadafora December 10, 2023

By Jennifer Rizzuto, Jane McGuire December 08, 2023

By Frances Daniels December 04, 2023

By Frances Daniels November 25, 2023

By Frances Daniels November 23, 2023

By Kate Kozuch November 21, 2023

  • 2 I tested the Roomba J9+ robot vacuum and mop for 2 weeks to see if it’s worth it
  • 3 I just watched the sci-fi movie that's No. 1 on Netflix — should you stream it or skip it?
  • 4 Forget playing with power — I just want to see Nintendo experiment more with the Switch 2
  • 5 Everything you need to know about non-toxic mattresses for greener sleep.

IMAGES

  1. Trek XM700 electric bike, city, hybrid

    trek electric bike gumtree

  2. Trek Verve+1 electric eBike, brand new in May 2020. Bosch Active Line

    trek electric bike gumtree

  3. 2019 trek electric mountain bike

    trek electric bike gumtree

  4. Trek 250w E bike Electric bicycle 15ah Big battery

    trek electric bike gumtree

  5. Trek electric bike

    trek electric bike gumtree

  6. Trek Electric E-Bike

    trek electric bike gumtree

VIDEO

  1. Demo ride E bikes Trek

  2. New E -bike

  3. I Was So Wrong About E-Bikes

  4. 2011 CBR250R For Sale

  5. 3 Cycling Products You Won’t Regret Buying

  6. Alula Trek bike shop and prices

COMMENTS

  1. Trek electric

    20. TREK POWERFLY LT9 ELECTRIC MTB. 2018 TREK POWERFLY LT9 EMTB IN LARGE. 27:5 INCH WHEELS.THIS BIKE IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION AS YOU CAN SEE IN THE PHOTOS. PURCHASED 14 MONTHS AGO FOR £2400, BUT £5200 NEW. WHILST OWNING THE BIKE IVE UPGRADED IN SEVERAL AREAS.

  2. Trek

    Find a trek on Gumtree, the #1 site for Electric bikes for Sale classifieds ads in the UK. Gumtree. Sell. Login/Register. Menu. Cars & Vehicles. For Sale. Property. Jobs. Services. Community. Pets. Cars & Vehicles. ... Trek electric bike with 29" wheels 250w 36v motor, and 20ah battery, so with the only legal specification in the UK. barely ...

  3. Trek Powerfly LT4 Full Suspension EMTB Electric Mountain Bike

    Here for sale is a lovely trek Powerfly LT4 Size is a 19.5" Large Frame (5'10 - 6'2) Specs: ☑️ Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminium, ABP, EVO link, tapered head tube, Knock Block, internal derailleur and dropper post routing, semi-integrated battery, G2 Geometry, Boost148, 1

  4. Trek electric

    Trek District +1 Midstep Electric Bike. Trek District +1 Midstep Electric bike Very good condition, Purchased in August 2022 for £2,275 Low Mileage (922 miles)and is well looked after, kept inside and with no rust. Just been serviced (Jan 2023) and is in immaculate condition Colour: Handsworth, West Midlands. £1,250.

  5. Trek electric for Sale

    Discover amazing local deals on Trek electric for sale Quick & hassle-free shopping with Gumtree, your local buying & selling community.

  6. trek electric bike

    trek electric bike Clear all. Top Trek Madone 6.9SSL Carbon Bicycle - Project One Model - 56cm. Price just dropped to $1950 This bike is about 10 years old and when launched was the flagship model in the Trek line up and new cost over $12,000 Super lightweight model and fully decked out comes in at just 7kg (lightest Trek Madone ever made!)

  7. Trek electric

    Find a trek electric on Gumtree, the #1 site for Stuff for Sale classifieds ads in the UK.

  8. Trek bikes

    Find a trek bikes on Gumtree , the #1 site for classifieds ads in the UK. Gumtree. Sell. Login/Register. Menu. Cars & Vehicles. For Sale. Property. Jobs. Services. Community. Pets. ... Electric Bikes - Etropolis TREK EVO Low Bar E-bike FOR SALE - 26'' 2023 0 mile Trade 0 cc. Adlington, Lancashire. £1,299.

  9. Electric bikes

    Use the Bike Finder to narrow your choices, compare models, and find the Trek that's right for you. Get started. Trek electric bikes add more speed, distance, and fun to any ride. No matter what type of riding you like to do, there's an ebike for you. Shop now!

  10. electric bike trek

    Find electric bike trek ads in our Bicycles category. Buy and sell almost anything on Gumtree classifieds.

  11. trek electric

    Find trek electric ads in our Bicycles category. Buy and sell almost anything on Gumtree classifieds.

  12. Trek Powerfly LT9 Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bicycle Bike

    Description. Here for sale is a lovely Trek Powerfly LT9 Electric Mountain Bike that has been very well looked after. ☑️ Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminium, ABP, Removable Integrated Battery (RIB), EVO link, tapered head tube, Knock Block, internal derailleur and dropper post routing, G2 Geometry, Boost148, 150 mm travel ☑️ Size: 18.5" ☑️ Fork: Fox Performance 36 Float, GRIP ...

  13. Trek Powerfly 4

    Description. Trek Powerfly 4 625w Electric Mountain Bike Grey & Green Upgraded Bosch Intuvia smart system controller, a 1x10 Shimano drivetrain and a suspension fork with lockout. Wheel 29˝ wheels, Medium frame. Mudguards, and rear rack. Very good condition This model gives you a longer-range battery than the standard Powerfly 4, so you'll never be short on fun.

  14. Used Electric bikes for Sale

    RRP £3,849 2022 Moustache Samedi 28.7 Open Frame BOSCH ebike electric bike. Purchased in April 2022 from Fully Charged E-Bike Store in London Bridge for £3,799. Full receipts available. I have been the only owner. Very light usage: only 114 hours and 1465km on the Odometer.

  15. electric bike trek

    Find electric bike trek ads. Buy and sell almost anything on Gumtree classifieds.

  16. 8 Results: trek electric mountain bike in Australia

    Item located in Canberra, ACT. Trek Rail 9 electric mountain bike. Rare XL frame size; black/olive colour. Trek's top-of-line electric mountain bike. Great condition, no accidents or issues, scuffs, marks, etc. Reluctant sale due to long-term (non-bike related) injury which has left me unable to use it this past year or for the foreseeable future.

  17. Find a bike shop near you

    Trek and Electra bike shops are your destination for the latest Trek bikes, Electra bikes and accessories, Bontrager cycling gear, service and tune-ups for bikes of any brand, and professional bike fit services through Trek Precision Fit. Whether you visit a Trek-owned store or one of our awesome independent partners, you'll find amazing ...

  18. Best Electric Bike for 2024

    Woom currently offers two models: The Up 5 is $3,599 (£2,645, AU$4,790) with 24-inch wheels designed for 7 to 11-year-olds who are 50-57-inches tall, and the Woom Up 6 at $3,749 ( £3,665, AU ...

  19. Your Full Guide to E-Bikes

    Most e-road bikes are Class 3 models, with a 28 mph maximum assisted speed. Their battery capacity and range differ from one model to another but are generally higher than on other types. For example, the Specialized Turbo Vado promises a range of 80-100 miles with a 320-480Wh battery. Best Road Electric Bikes.

  20. trek electric bike

    Item located in Canberra, ACT. Trek Rail 9 electric mountain bike. Rare XL frame size; black/olive colour. Trek's top-of-line electric mountain bike. Great condition, no accidents or issues, scuffs, marks, etc. Reluctant sale due to long-term (non-bike related) injury which has left me unable to use it this past year or for the foreseeable future.

  21. Electric bike

    Trek powerfly 7 electric bike Bike is in excellent condition only used on bridle Paths with just over 1300 miles. Frame size is large I am 5.11 inches if that helps. Has the 625 battery with the Bosch cx motor the more powerful one. Have keys charger and all the manuals.

  22. The best electric bikes of 2024

    1. Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus. For the vast majority of riders, the Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus will be the best electric bike. It has a comfortable design, plenty of power, and a multitude of mounting ...

  23. Trek

    Find trek ads in the Bikes & Mountain Bikes for Sale section. Search Gumtree free online classified ads for trek and more. one more thing. ... Trek Stache 5 MOUNTAIN bike 29er Converted to Brand New 1x12 Deore shifter, derailleur, cassette and chain Original Sun Ringle Duroc 50 rims and 3" tyres AIR Fork Manitou Machete Hydraulic Disc brakes ...