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 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 […]
The Riide electric bike came to life on Kickstarter in February 2014 reaching more than 100% of its funding goal. At ~$1,800 it’s designed to be affordable but still offer quality components that will last and feel good cruising around a city landscape. This ebike is stealth… meaning it blends in with regular bicycles. The […]
The controversial ProdecoTech Outlaw SS is appropriately named… It’s an outlaw in the world of ebikes because it can only legally be operated in off-road or private spaces in most states. They do sell two street legal version of the bike in the Outlaw EX and SE (both with 750 watt motors and top speeds […]
The Organic Transit ELF (which stands for Electric, Light, Fun) is part recumbent trike, part velomobile and part cargo bike. Borne on Kickstarter in 2013, the first generation ELF reached more than double it’s funding goal and has turned heads and hearts all over the world with some owners scooting to the grocery store and […]
This review is for the original first generation line of ELF electric bikes launched in 2013 by Organic Transit. They used geared motors, had smaller 60 watt solar panels, stiffer steering and no front suspension. This is still a great product and may be found used, you can get replacement batteries and service through Organic […]
