Unbiased, In-Depth Analysis of the Best Electric Bikes
Electric bikes or ebikes combine human power from pedaling with electronic power from a hub motor, mid drive, or friction drive powered by a battery pack. They come in all shapes and sizes, including trikes, tandems, folding, cargo, and more. A traditional analog bicycle can usually be converted to electric through the use of kits. Ebikes fall into three classes including Class 1 pedal assist only up to a set speed (usually 25kmh or 32kmh), Class 2 throttle only or throttle with pedal assist up to a set speed (usually 25kmh or 32kmh), and high speed Class 3 up to a set level (usually 45kmh 28mph).
The City Commuter has long been a favorite ebike model for me, especially from the Pedego lineup. It’s comfortable but more active than some of the cruisers they sell with a shorter handlebar and lighter frame. In recent years they’ve improved the way the throttle works (letting you override pedal assist) and introduced a smaller […]
The Haibike AMT RX is an “all mountain” full suspension electric bike with Bosch drive systems that are capable of powerful ascents and impressive range. It’s a step up from the Haibike FSRX which also offers full suspension but doesn’t include the CTD (climb, trail, descend) adjust from Fox, opting instead for a simple remote […]
This is the review for the 2015 E3 Sumo, in 2016 an updated model arrived with sturdy thru-axles, an optional $50 boost mode that acts like a throttle and a slightly altered paint job… it also costs a lot less! Check it out in the full review here. The E3 Sumo is one of the […]
The Turbo X is my favorite model so far in the Specialized Electric Bike lineup because it costs less than the original Turbo, rides super smooth thanks to the RockShox Paragon fork (with lockout) and looks mean in all-black matte finish (including the fork). Since late 2012 when Specialized introduced the first mainstream speed-pedelec to […]
While the 2016 version of the Raleigh Misceo iE appears unchanged at first glance, the frame has actaully been extended and the rear tubing is box vs. rounded for improved torsional rigidity. The drive unit is horizontal instead of being mounted at 45 degrees and you get automatic electronic shifting along with some other improvements. […]
The Excursion 2.0 is a folding electric bike from Energie Cycles, a division of Renewable Power Energy that’s based in Las Vegas and is known for producing higher quality batteries in Asia (used in hybrid busses, street sweepers and other large electric systems). Ironically, the batteries in this little electric bike are from another supplier […]
The Fusion Electric Bike blends entry-level components with affordable off-the-shelf batteries and a powerful direct-drive hub motor to deliver speed and range beyond that of most other ebikes I’ve tested in this sub $1,000 price range. It easily tops 30 mph in off-road performance mode and can travel in excess of 30 miles per charge […]
The Benelli Classica is a beautiful, well put together electric bike that would be perfect for neighborhood or city cruising. It offers four levels of pedal assist, a trigger throttle mode, eight gears to choose from and a bunch of extras like fenders, lights and a carry rack all at a pretty good price. I […]
The Metro E or “Ergofit” finds a sweet balance of utility, affordability and fit for a wide range of riders. It’s a unisex frame available in handsome metallic gray with silver accents. The shorter than average 16.5″ seat tube allows the saddle to be mounted much lower and the stem is also highly adjustable so […]
The BM-Apollos is a full suspension electric bike that’s well suited to trail and mountain riding with 120 mm of travel in the front and 190 mm in the rear. You get nimble 26″ wheels, responsive hydraulic disc brakes and a battery pack that keeps weight low and central on the frame. As with all […]
