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 Focus Jarifa Impulse 27R 3.0 is premium hardtail electric bike with 27.5″ wheels that perform well on trails, cross country or a bit of mountain terrain. For under $4k it delivers a sophisticated drive system and enormous battery that together, are capable of 100+ miles depending on the assist level in use. My favorite […]
This review is for the 2015 Sahel i8 from Kalkhoff. It’s fairly similar to the 2014 version but offers a more sophisticated LCD display panel with multiple readouts and comes with a head shock to smooth out the ride. Kalkhoff is a leading electric bike manufacturer in Germany known for producing premium, purpose built products. […]
This review is for the 2015 version of the Vika+, a new model was introduced in 2016 with fenders, a rear light (as well as the front), a slightly larger battery and two upgrade options for even larger battery packs for increased ranged. This model is priced a bit higher at $1,650 and you can […]
The EG Maui EX is a 2013/2014 electric cruiser designed for comfort and affordability. Compared with other cruisers I’ve reviewed, this one stands out as having lots of accessories including fenders, a rear rack, LED lights and a suspension fork with lockout. It rides comfortably and is priced well at ~$1,500 but many of the […]
Hi-Power Cycles is a Southern California based electric bike builder that offers a range of custom solutions. The HPC SuperMundo is their premiere cargo bike and it’s built on the steel-frame Yuba Mundo platform. It comes in one standard size (with adjustable seat height and stem angle) and is compatible with most of the Yuba […]
The BM-Night Hawk is professionally converted electric mountain bike that uses a proven drive system with quality batteries. What sets it apart from other trail or off-road oriented mid-level ebikes is the good weight distribution (battery and motor are low and center). By leveraging a centerdrive motor and custom front sprocket (that’s smaller than the […]
This review is for the 2015 Sahel Compact i8 from Kalkhoff. It’s fairly similar to the 2014 version but offers a more sophisticated LED display panel with multiple readouts and comes in white and black. The Kalkhoff Sahel Compact Impulse 8 is a fun, high quality compact electric bike that fits short and tall alike… […]
The XDURO Trekking line from Haibike offers a sporty but comfortable platform to commute or tour with. Both the Pro and RX models for 2015 come stock with full length fenders, a solid rear rack and integrated LED lights but the Pro offers nicer suspension, an upgraded chain, pedals and brakes. It also foregoes the […]
Blix introduced an improved Komfort+ model in 2016 with fenders, front and rear lights and an LCD display panel stock. It costs the same amount of money but weighs slightly more due to the accessories. To see that model and read the updated review click here. The Blix Komfort+ is an elegant city cruiser that’s […]
Mando is a global automotive parts manufacturer in South Korea which has been making ABS, ESP, ECS and EPS since 1962… I’m not sure what all of those acronyms mean, besides “anti lock braking system” but that’s besides the point here. These guys have experience and are large enough to experiment and enter new fields. […]
