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).
This review is for the 2015 Raleigh Tekoa iE. In 2016 a new version was released with silver paint, a nicer Shimano Deore XT drivetrain and a lower price point… otherwise the drivetrain and most other features on the bike remain unchanged. Read the most up to date review here. The Raleigh Tekoa-iE is a […]
The EG Athens 250 is a value priced around-town sort of electric bike with with many utilitarian features but just one type of frame (low step) in one size (medium) and two colors (black or white). It’s hard not to appreciate the value here with front and rear LED lights, a removable Lithium-ion battery pack, […]
This review is for the 2015 IZIP E3 Zuma, for an updated version check out the 2016 model which offers automatic battery sleep (after 30 days) and a new LED console ring vs. a plastic display block. The latest model is also priced slightly less at $2,499 vs. $2,550. The IZIP E3 Zuma has long […]
This review is for the 2015/2016 e-Joe Epik SE but the bike continues to be refined and updated. You can see my latest review by clicking here or continue reading to get the details on what the bike was like in its former iteration. Perhaps you’ve found one of these for sale as used or […]
The Trek FX+ is one of the higher end electric bikes I’ve tested from the earlier years for ebike technology in the US. It was introduced in 2010 and sold through 2012 with some units still available in shops but most now being offered second hand as used. Trek introduced a similar ebike in Europe […]
UPDATE! It appears that Polaris is no longer working with the manufacturer who designed and built these electric bikes, but that company is now selling their own line as PIM (Power in Motion) and you can connect with them through their official website at www.pimbicycles.com to possibly get replacement batteries, chargers, and other hardware. The […]
The Venture iE is a comfort hybrid from Raleigh that offers a powerful (but quiet) motor system designed by Currie Technologies, produced by TranzX. What you get here is a proven frame that comes in either high-step or step-thru configuration as well as multiple sizes for a perfect fit. This is probably my favorite ebike […]
The eProdigy Jasper is a well rounded, efficient and relatively affordable city style electric bike. This thing would work well for commuting or just cruising around the neighborhood thanks to the rear carry rack, fenders and suspension. It’s comfortable to ride and puts your back and neck in a more upright position which reduces fatigue […]
The Transport+ is one of the first electric bikes introduced by Trek in 2011. While it’s no longer being produced, this was an advanced ebike at the time with drive systems from BionX which included regenerative braking. The Transport+ came stock with lights, a front fender, folding running boards and an extra-large Bontrager cargo bag. […]
The Jetson Electric Mountain bike is the first bicycle-style ebike I’ve seen from the company which is traditionally known for scooter-style designs. This new model offers plenty of power, decent weight distribution and both pedal assist and throttle mode for a relatively low $2K but skimps on component quality and pushes the legal limit of […]
