Best Commuter Electric Bikes of 2020
Here are our top picks for the best Commuter electric bikes of 2021. Our top five Commuter ebikes represent the best combination of features and value right now, but you can see all 312 of our detailed commuter ebike reviews listed by date here. Reviewing electric bikes is what we do and EBR has the industry’s most complete and objective reviews. Since 2012, we’ve helped millions of people find and choose the best ebike for their needs and budget. Let’s go!
Table of Contents:
- Best Premium Commuter Electric Bike
- Best Value Commuter Electric Bike
- Best Affordable Commuter Electric Bike
- Promoted Commuter Electric Bike
- Honorable Mention Commuter Electric Bike
Things to Consider:
- Weather. Your commute schedule is fixed, but weather is constantly changing. The solutions are fenders and a chain cover to keep you clean and dry, and lights to help you see in the dark early mornings and late evenings as seasons change. Integrated lights are best, because they’re permanently fixed to the bike frame, and they run off of the main ebike battery, so they won’t be left on accidentally and won’t run out at random times based on small independent cells.
- Safety. The path to and from work may include hazardous traffic zones. The solutions are reflective surfaces and lights that are visible from all angles. Reflective gear and a helmet with integrated lights can further enhance your visual footprint. Responsive drive systems that get-up-and-go the instant you need them to cross a street or faster Class 3 capability to keep up with traffic and command respect.
- Durability. Commuter ebikes get a lot of use in varied conditions, which increases wear on parts. In this instance, it makes sense to pay to get a dependable motor, battery, and drivetrain from a company with great support. Puncture resistant tires, and sturdier hardware (spokes, stem, rear rack) are also important considerations.
- Comfort. Frequent use and bumpy terrain will challenge the electric bike and your body. Solutions include higher volume tires, an adjustable suspension fork, a suspension seatpost or rear suspension, and quality touch points (locking ergonomic grips, adjustable angle or upright stems, wide sturdy platform pedals).
- Cargo. Backpacks are uncomfortable and create a sweaty back. An alternative is adding a sturdy rear rack that’s compatible with trunk bags and panniers. It’s nice if it has pannier blockers along the sides, and a bungee loop at the bottom. Rear racks shouldn’t block the saddle if you lower it all the way. Options upfront include mounting points on the fork or head tube to add pannier hangers or a tray rack or basket.
Best Premium Commuter Electric Bike for 2021
If money is no object and you’re looking for the absolute best, you can’t go wrong with the BULLS TWENTY8 E45. We chose this model because it is sold and supported through a wide network of BULLS dealers globally. It uses a top-of-the-line Bosch Performance Line Speed mid-drive motor that is fast but still efficient. Not all commuter ebikes are Class 3 (capable of ~28mph top speeds) but for some of us, this is an important attribute because it allows for shorter commute times and more respect from automobile traffic. Note the adjustable suspension fork, seat post suspension, adjustable angle stem and ergonomic grips, as well as five frame size choices and two frame styles (approachable mid-step and stiff performant high-step). Comfort and fit matter more when you’re riding every day. The hidden Bosch PowerTube battery is well protected, looks great, and will be supported for many years based on what we’ve seen from Bosch in the past. And, as with all of the bikes we label as commuting here on EBR, this one has great fenders, a rear rack for cargo, and excellent integrated lights. Having the headlight mounted on the stem/handlebar keeps you more visible because it’s high up… and it also points where you steer and won’t vibrate as much as a fork arch mounted light (like we see from most of other products below). Rounding off this ebike are premium hydraulic disc brakes, an easy to read removable Bosch Intuvia LCD display with Micro-USB charging port (for phones and other electronics), and a wide 11-42 tooth cassette that you’ll actually use thanks to the higher top speed possibilities. This ebike rocks! You can read more about it by clicking the title or image below, or add it to your compare list as you explore the site.
BULLS TWENTY8 E45 Review
A high-speed, feature-complete, urban electric bike with fenders, front suspension fork, suspension seat post, integrated lights and a nice modern rack. Available in 5 sizes including high-step and mid-step frame styles with a gel saddle and…...
Best Premium Commuter Electric Bike for 2021
This year, we have a tie for best premium-level commuter electric bike. While the BULLS TWENTY8 E45 excels in terms of power, approachability (two frame styles), and utility, it is not as lightweight, efficient, or quiet as the new Specialized Turbo Vado SL. While it’s only available in high-step frame styles for now, they do offer four frame sizes with proportional crank arms, stems, saddles, and handlebars to really dial in fit. Specialized is highly regarded for their beautiful designs and comfortable Body Geometry parts. While the SL 1.1 motor is weaker than the Bosch Performance Line Speed, and the primary battery pack offers less capacity than the Bosch PowerPack 500, the bike is just as fast and utilizes nicer fenders, lights, and suspension stem (for the 5.0 Vado SL models). I found this electric bike to be more satisfying and natural to ride, easier to lift, and still very capable in terms of range… in part because it’s so light and comfortable to pedal unassisted (or in the lowest level) but also because they offer 160 watt hour Range Extender battery packs for $450 each. These batteries are very compact and lightweight at just 2.3lbs (1.04kg). For those active riders who want one of the lightest, most capable, and very reasonably priced commuter electric bikes, this is a must-see. Specialized has been producing Class 3 ebikes since 2011, and they appear to be more committed to the space now than ever. The original Turbo is one of the first and coolest electric bikes I was able to cover when launching EBR. This is a company with a huge network of dealers, a great warranty, and a brand that many seek out… so it should hold its value. I would probably spend the extra money for a 5.0 level Vado SL, because it comes with a carbon fiber fork and Future Shock 1.5 suspension stem, but their all-aluminum 4.0 models have front fork bosses for those who need extra rack space. My biggest gripe about the bikes is that their default rear rack (included with the EQ models) is only rated to 33lbs (15kg). You can read more about the bike by clicking the title or image below, or add it to your compare list as you explore the site.
Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0 EQ Review
One of the best ebikes I've ever reviewed. Relatively light weight at 36.9lbs including integrated lights, a rear rack, and custom designed tubular fenders with extra long rubberized flaps to keep your feet dry. Reasonably priced for outstanding motor and battery technology. Class 3 speed-pedelec performance offers 28mph (45km/h) assisted speeds for fun, respect from automobiles, and overall faster commutes. Boost hub spacing provides sturdier spoke bracing angle, 12mm thru-axles provide stiffness and control at…...
Best Value Commuter Electric Bike for 2021
If you would like to spend a bit less, but not sacrifice too much in terms of quality of parts and performance, we think the DŌST DROP is an excellent choice. This ebike actually comes in two flavors, the step-thru that you see below (which is super approachable) or a high-step version called the KOPE that is a great choice for taller riders and those who want a stiffer frame. Part of the reason we favor mid-step and step-thru products on this list is because they are easier to mount and stabilize, even when loaded with gear. When people commute via ebike, they tend to load up the rear rack with panniers, a trunk bag, or both. This makes it difficult to swing your leg over the back, and it adds weight to the frame that can make it challenging to lean to one side while mounting. DŌST did an amazing job choosing premium parts that are known for reliability and appearance. The fenders, in particular, are done very well with hidden hardware and matching black struts that won’t bump out of place or rattle as much as cheaper stuff. With an integrated rear rack that provides lots of strength and reduced noise and maintenance (compared to a bolt-on rack), bright integrated lights, and a proven Bafang BBS02 mid-drive motor, plus the option for a double battery to extend range! This is one of the only ebikes we have seen anywhere near this price with so many great features including a throttle and Class 3 28mph top speeds. It will help you reach destinations faster, and the open system gives you lots of choices for how the bike will perform… it could be setup as Class 1, 2, or 3 depending on if you remove the throttle and how you set the speed. For a modest sum, you could add a suspension seat post to this ebike to achieve similar comfort as the BULLS premium winner above. Click the image or title below to visit the full review with more details, or add it to your compare list by clicking the box below.
DŌST DROP Review
An approachable step-thru electric bike with upgraded components and optional second battery pack. Adjustable angle stem improves fit, 100mm spring suspension fork offers compression lockout and preload, high quality 2.4" wide Schwalbe Super Moto-X tires offer stability, visible reflective sidewalls, and puncture protection lining built-in. Lots of great accessory options including bags, cup holders, suspension seat post, mirrors, and child seat. Powerful 750 watt Bafang BBS02 mid-drive motor blends into the purpose-built frame, alloy housing keeps…...
Best Affordable Commuter Electric Bike for 2021
If price point is your primary driver, but you still want a product that offers quality and reliability, the Rad Power Bikes RadCity Step-Thru 3 is an excellent choice. Just like the DŌST DROP above, Rad also offers a high-step version of the RadCity for larger riders and those looking for increased frame stiffness. Regular commuting means increased wear and tear on products, and use during inclement weather (rain, snow, etc.) that can lead to creaking, rust, and misaligned drivetrains. For all of these reasons, our value pick is not the cheapest commuting product we’ve covered in 2021, but one that we have seen excelling in the space for many years… In fact, our first review of the RadCity Step-Thru was way back in 2016 for the 2017 season! This is a company that still offers parts and batteries for some of their earliest products, and we love to see that! Despite being affordably priced, these are not “throwaway” electric bikes like we’ve seen from some big box retailers and online stores… brands that appear and then disappear before any warranty claims can be handled. Rad’s latest round of ebikes uses a common battery design that works with any model, so you and a friend or family member could get one for commuting, another for light neighborhood riding, and still another for off-road use while utilizing the same charger, same battery, and benefit from the same one year comprehensive warranty. What this product lacks compared to the two higher picks above is that it’s a Class 1 (only goes to 20mph) and uses mechanical disc brakes vs. hydraulic, as well as a less efficient hub motor. However, it does offer regenerative braking to recapture some of your energy when stopping or coasting down large hills. Just like the DŌST DROP, you can add a suspension seatpost aftermarket for $50 to $150 to this model to improve comfort for regular and longer rides, and Rad actually sells a post of their own that can be added at time of purchase. Click the image or title below to visit the full review with more details, or add it to your compare list by clicking the box below.
Rad Power Bikes RadCity Step-Thru 3 Review
A feature-complete, approachable step-thru, comfort oriented, hybrid electric bicycle with regenerative braking. It has a built-in USB charging port below the display, features a modular battery pack that works with all other Rad models of this generation, and comes with integrated lights! The headlight offers a bright 80 lumen center beam and a unique LED circle to keep you seen, while the rear light offers solid, flashing, and bright mode when the brakes are activated. Sturdy adjustable angle stem and long 350mm seat post improves fit for a wide range…...
Promoted Commuter Electric Bike for 2021
Magnum Bikes pays us to promote their Metro electric bike here on EBR, but it’s worth noting that this is an invitation-only service. That means, we only invite companies that have a great value proposition and with whom we’ve worked for many years. We reviewed this ebike before we extended the offer to advertise… Anyway, the Metro is priced above the RadCity, and offers some great upgrades including hydraulic disc brakes, a suspension seatpost, and a lighter weight geared hub motor. Magnum has chosen a mixte mid-step frame for their bike, much like the BULLS TWENTY8 E45 at the premium level above, because it blends approachability with stiffness and strength. Magnum sells direct online, much like Rad Power Bikes, but also has a vast network of dealers across the US, Canada, and Israel. With Class 3 28mph (45km/h) speed performance, a high capacity 624 watt hour battery pack (the highest of any ebike on this list, unless you buy the optional booster pack for the DŌST Drop), and a highly visible white frame with reflective tires, integrated lights, and luxury brown tires with matching brown grips and saddle… this is truly a stand-out choice for us, and a great value overall. We hope you can see why they are not just being promoted, but are actually a product we believe in, deserving of being shown on this list. If you’re willing to pay a bit more, but still looking for good value and possible hands-on support from a local shop, the Magnum Metro is a great choice. Click the image or title below to visit the full review with more details, or add it to your compare list by clicking the box below.
Magnum Metro Review
An approachable, mid-step, high-speed, urban electric bike with six levels of pedal assist plus throttle mode that can override with full power. Fairly comfortable with larger tires, a basic suspension fork, and cheap seat post shock... the…...
Honorable Mention Commuter Electric Bike for 2021
In many ways, the Riese & Müller Delite or dual battery Superdelite could be our Premium pick for best commuter ebike of 2021. However, the extremely high price point and slower build-to-order process (which can result in 1-3 month delays for North American customers) puts it out of reach for many of us. With that said, this ebike offers the best comfort of any of our recommendations. I personally suffer from back, neck, and shoulder pain from some ski accidents and a car accident that took place when I was a young boy. The prospect of commuting by electric bicycle is made much easier for my sensitive knees with the help of a motor, but if my back, neck, shoulders, and wrists are bounced around too much, the fun really starts to go, and I begin thinking about automobiles or the bus again. This is where a full suspension ebike really shines… it’s almost like a moped or motorcycle in terms of weight and feel. It offers some back and neck comfort (just like ebikes with a suspension fork and seatpost do), while also offering knee and cargo comfort, because it has a suspended rear rack! This particular bike, the Delite, can be setup with a chain and derailleur or the belt drive and internally geared hub featured in this particular review. All of the parts are premium, including hydraulic disc brakes, super bright lights with brake-light activation, and the trusted Bosch motor system (available in 20mph Class 2 or 28mph Class 3 configuration) and hidden Bosch PowerTube Battery. If money is no object, you’re patient about delivery, and you don’t mind a bit of extra weight, this is definitely an electric bike you should check out! Click the image or title below to visit the full review with more details, or add it to your compare list by clicking the box below.
Riese & Müller Delite GT Rohloff Review
Top of the line full suspension electric bike with sturdy suspended rear rack that will be gentle on a child-seat passenger or your cargo in a trunk bag and panniers. Custom hydroformed aluminum alloy frame positions the motor and battery weight low and center for excellent balance. Two color options and three frame sizes with adjustable stem provides excellent fit. Premium 65mm plastic fenders are durable and mounted with additional support arms to stay put…...
Each product covered on ElectricBikeReview.com includes a full list of specs that we measure by hand, an extensive album of photographs, and a detailed video with ride footage. You can compare any of our reviews side by side using the “Add to Compare List” checkbox. We’re doing our best here to serve the community, covering hundreds of electric bikes each year! For more help, visit our independent electric bike forums and share your height, weight, budget, intended use, and other details, so our moderators and members can give you some personalized feedback.
If you’re completely new to electric bicycles, check out my introduction video, which explains why I started EBR back in 2012. I’ve also posted an informal interview with my uncle Greg, who has been riding a full suspension electric mountain bike to work in Colorado, rain or shine, for several years! EBR makes money by listing shops on our directory map, charging for a limited number of promoted bike slots that will get more visibility, charging a nominal fee for some of our reviews (to help cover the costs of travel and production), and getting paid by YouTube for ads that play before our videos. We believe in transparency, and appreciate your visit here! Good luck, ride safe, and thanks for visiting :)