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 Easy Motion Neo Prox features a folding stem, handle bars, pedals and removable seat post along with a compact frame but does not fold in half like the Neo Volt. This means it won’t get as small (for storing in closets, trunks or boats) but also means the frame is lighter, stiffer and the […]
The Vanmoof Electrified 3 is a city style electric bike that’s super simple, elegant and stealth. It’s quiet, clean and fairly efficient combining a front mounted hub motor and rear mounted internal gearing system. The batteries live inside the top tube and aren’t removable like some bikes but also aren’t obvious (and they are replaceable […]
The Long Beach Cruiser is one of my favorite Big Cat electric bikes. It’s well balanced with a centrally located battery pack. Has an emphasis on safety with front and rear LED lights and brakes that cut power to the motor. For me it was comfortable to ride having a suspension fork, padded saddle, oversized […]
The Big Cat Hampton folding ebike is a value driven electric bike with more basic components but a range of accessories that make it functional. The battery pack is mounted right where it should be (low and center) and the control panel lets you choose from three levels of assist to extend range and improve […]
The Big Cat Phantom is a value driven electric bike with more basic components but a range of accessories that make it functional. My biggest complaint is the single speed design because the bike pretty heavy at ~68 pounds. If you run out of juice it’s not going to be fun to pedal (or walk) […]
The Big Cat Cargo Bike is a value driven electric bike with more basic components but a range of accessories that make it functional. It’s got seven speeds for moving heavier loads or climbing hills and a suspension fork that reduces shock to the front rack area. I like that it comes with both pedal […]
Specialized took its time to craft and refine the first Turbo and in 2014 introduced the Turbo S which has a larger battery pack, smaller more integrated display / input system and a new color… black. It’s a stiffer electric bike that foregoes suspension in favor of power transfer and speed. The motor is silent […]
The XDURO FSRX is a full suspension “cross country” electric mountain bike that’s comfortable and stable on serious terrain. With 120 millimeters of travel on the front and rear suspension elements (RockShox and Fox respectively), a remote lockout feature, 15mm thru axles and massive 203mm x 180mm M615 hydraulic disc brakes by Shimano you don’t […]
I’m a fan of the Bosch centerdrive system given how responsive it is for mountain bike applications. It starts and stops almost immediately (as shown in the video review). The Gen2 design brings increased power at 350 watts for improved starting and climbing which is perfect for this 29er hardtail from Haibike. This is one […]
The XDURO Trekking RX is Haibike at its best. Originally known for producing powerful and sturdy off-road electric bikes like the AMT PRO, this bike is a pioneer in the touring and commuting category. You get nearly every accessory needed to deal with cargo transport, nighttime riding and damp weather conditions. There’s even a little […]
