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 R8HD is Optibike’s mid-level “off road” offering. The HD stands for “heavy duty” and that alludes to the burlier suspension, rims, headset and tires that this bike offers over the standard R8. This bike delivers high end components, massive range and slightly discounted price over the R11 which features a larger motor and weighs […]
The R8 is Optibike’s “all around” offering. It’s an upper-mid level bike for them but super high end compared with most other ebikes. It’s very capable of taking on mountains but is accessorized more for town and light trail riding. If you’re focus is purely off road, you can upgrade to the R8HD (heavy duty) […]
This review is for the first generation IZIP E3 Dash which launched in 2014. The second generation model saw improvements in motor durability, control pad accessibility, saddle comfort and drivetrain components. The E3 Dash offers speed, quality and affordability that’s top notch. It’s one of my favorite new bikes in the IZIP line for 2014 […]
IZIP is taking a cue from Bosch and Optibike, delivering its first mid-drive system with the E3 Peak. The middrive or “centerdrive” motor offers excellent performance in technical off road settings and really compliments the sophisticated pedal assist features at work here. It allows the motor to leverage the rear cassett and compliment rider input […]
The eFlow series of electric bikes offer high performance, upgraded technology and balanced frame design. The E3 Flight is a less expensive version of the E3 Nitro and cuts cost (and weight) by removing the headset shock absorber, decreasing the size of the battery pack and removing one of the front chain rings. The end […]
The Phantom line of electric bikes from ProdecoTech has always been capable of folding, starting with the Phantom X… even though it’s a full sized ebike with 26″ wheels. This has several drawbacks including loss of stiffness in frame and increased weight but it also makes the bike easier to store. For the Phantom X3 […]
While the ProdecoTech Phantom X is not an ideal electric bike, which would keep weight lower to the ground and more centrally located on the frame, it is affordable. The design is very approachable with a three step startup that includes inserting the key, pressing the power button and activating the throttle. A small plastic […]
If you’re looking for an ebike with solid components and drive system that won’t cost a lot, the Stride 500 might be perfect. Now, you won’t be getting pedal assist, no front light or fenders and there’s no fancy computer system here… but what it offer, works well. And it even comes with a two […]
The Outlaw series from ProdecoTech features some of the coolest looking electric bikes I’ve seen. These things are monstrous with long travel suspension, oversized tires and enormous motors and battery packs. Unfortunately, the steep geometry of the front fork and high rigid position of the battery pack at the rear create a ride that feels […]
The ProdecoTech Mariner 7 is a folding electric bike that costs significantly less than competitors but takes a hit on weight, drive mode options, frame balance and in-person support. All ProdecoTech electric bikes cost less than competing brands because they are primarily sold online, bypassing a physical bike shop outlet. This savings is passed on […]
