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).
At present, in the world of electric bikes in America, frame size and fit can feel like a second level consideration vs. motor design, battery size and control interface. There are many small companies joining the movement and it is hard for them to offer variation because it’s expensive. These companies often choose the most […]
The original Neo Jumper is one of my all time favorite electric bikes. It’s fast, comfortable and offers both pedal assist and throttle mode. The primary difference between it and the new 650b model are larger 27.5″ wheels (versus 26″) that offer improved rolling efficiency over bumps and cracks. With remote lockout on its RockShox […]
The Pedego Tandem Cruiser offers a sturdy, classic design that’s intuitive and fun to ride with a friend. The oversized seats, elongated handlebars and balloon tires add just enough comfort while supporting an upright riding position. It may lack some of the fancier features like an LED display and pedal assist mode but the simple […]
The Apollo 93pd is my favorite electric bike from Emazing Bike. It’s clean, light weight and rugged. The larger 350 watt motor is powerful for accelerating and climbing but still efficient and light weight. To me, this bike just feels good and the suspension fork and larger 29er wheels with knobby tires are a big […]
The Kalkhoff Pro Connect S10 resembles the S27 in that it uses a Panasonic drive system with E-Performance. Includes an air suspension fork with lockout, fenders, lights, ergonomic grips and efficient 700C sized wheels. It’s a capable city bike, urban commuter or touring bike given the rear rack design and efficient mid-drive system with pedal […]
The Kalkhoff Pro Connect S27 uses the Panasonic E-Performance mid drive system offering excellent climbing ability and great range. This Euro style electric bike comes with fenders, rear rack and lights powered off the main battery but delivers more power and speed for a US market. While it does not offer a throttle mode, the […]
The OHM Urban XU700 is a top of the line commuter style electric bike that includes everything you’ll need to deal with hills, rain and storage. It includes matching fenders, hiqh quality Wellgo pedals, a Topeak Explorer rack and dynamo powered LED lights – front and rear. I would have liked to demo the bike […]
The Biruni Scarlett is a purpose built electric cargo bike with a unique step-through frame. It’s available in three colors including Scarlett (light blue), Metropolis (black) and Nantucket (light yellow, cream) or you can get a custom color for an additional $225. Biruni has also been producing regular non-electric cargo bikes since 2013. The Scarlett […]
The Biria Electric City Bike was a limited run model produced around 2013. You may be familiar with their 2012 Easy Boarding electric bicycle which offered a stronger battery, seat post shock and shorter frame that was designed to be easier to mount. The company has been focused on non-electric bikes and offers unique frame […]
The Neo Volt is one of the most powerful high quality folding electric bikes I’ve ridden. The addition of fenders, rear rack and dynamo powered LED lights make it more functional than the Sport version and it costs $100 less but the trade off is four extra pounds, one fewer gears and slightly narrower tires […]
