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 most recent version of the IZIP E3 Path+ came out in 2016 and features a mid-drive motor from Shimano STePs instead of a gearless direct drive hub, this makes the frame more balanced front to rear and offers better efficiency and range by leveraging the cassette, the price also dropped. The latest review is […]
This is a review for the 2015 IZIP E3 Dash, in 2016 the motor was changed from a gearless direct drive hub to a mid-drive improving frame stiffness and efficiency, it dropped the twist throttle in favor of an optional $50 “boost button” that could be installed by dealers, read the full review here. The […]
The iGo metro is a value priced urban cruiser that offers a comfortable ride, beautiful aesthetic and high quality components. I was very impressed with the design which resembles the Pedego City Commuter but costs much less. It’s available in a high-step and low-step frame configuration with 18″ and 16.5″ sizes respectively to fit a […]
The Optibike Pioneer City is an efficient mid-drive style electric bike that offers a durable frame and drive system with lots of useful accessories. This is the kind of ebike you see a lot in Europe where people cycle to work on a daily basis and need to be able to carry supplies and stay […]
This second iteration of the Optibike Pioneer Allroad improves on the original in several key ways while keeping price constant. You still get the power and efficiency of a mid-drive motor (in fact it’s torquier now) and it’s quieter to operate. The suspension fork has been upgraded for improved strength and performance along with an […]
Volton has been making the Alation since 2012, it’s an affordably priced, off-road capable ebike with a purpose built frame designed to keep battery weight low and balanced. While older models use 350 and 500 watt geared rear hub motors in 2014 this new mid-drive version was introduced with an 8Fun BBS01 geared center drive. […]
The Aventura X30 is a commuter style electric bike that’s built for “adventure” and long range riding. For touring this bike would be excellent because it includes just about every accessory and add on you could want (aside from a bar-end mirror) and has a near-silent motor. The battery pack uses high density Lithium-ion cells […]
The Kalkhoff Agattue Premium Impulse 8 is a top of the line city style electric bike that would be excellent for long commutes thanks to its enormous battery pack and efficient mid-drive design. It leverages the Impulse II drive system that is smoother, quieter and smarter than the original Impulse used on earlier models. While […]
The F4W (fast forward) Peak is a basic high-step electric bike with average sized motor and battery that would be most useful for city and neighborhood riding. The suspension fork is as basic as they come but does include lockout (though no rebound adjustment) and the included mud guards are basically just for show (and […]
The Lapierre Overvolt FS 900 is a light weight full suspension eMountain bike designed for cross country (XC) and moderate downhill style riding. With 140mm of suspension travel on the front fork and rear swing arm you get comfort and performance. I’m a fan of the 27.5″ 650B wheels which provide improved traction and momentum […]
