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).
In the world of electric bicycles, most models are full sized high-step or step-thru. They tend to be stiff, smooth-rolling, and affordable because they’re the standard and production volume is high (creating economies of scale). In recent years, some companies have introduced folding models to target boaters, RVers, and even private plane owners… but these […]
It seems like 2017 is the year for Bosch powered electric bikes with neatly integrated downtube batteries… Prior to this year, most models from Felt, Haibike, Bulls, and others had the Powerpack 400 positioned on top of the downtube. This didn’t look great, took up the open triangle space for accessory mounts and lifting, limited […]
Trek is following in the footsteps of other premium high-speed electric assist manufacturers like Stromer and Specialized with their new Super Commuter+ 8S. It’s a well balanced, stiff, and stable e-bike available in eye-catching Viper Red with black accents… including the Bosch battery and motor hardware. It just looks great, and the attention to detail […]
Lapierre is a French bicycle brand based in Dijon France, it was founded all the way back in 1946 and became part of the Accell Group between 1993 and 1996, along with Haibike, Raleigh, and Diamondback. This transition has led to increased global distribution and I reviewed some of their first electric bikes to reach […]
The Cannondale Moterra is a Trail style electric bike with 130 mm air suspension from RockShox. It’s a great platform for all around mountain riding and delivers improved float and traction thanks to a pair of plus sized 2.8″ tires. The plus standard ranges from 2.6 to 3.0 and is becoming more and more common […]
The Raleigh Sprite iE is a perfect electric bike for someone who is willing to pay a little extra for reliability, a great warranty, and easier maintenance… but still, wants good value. The bike comes in two flavors (high-step and step-thru), four frame size options, and offers paint matched fanders, rear rack, and rigid alloy […]
As more and more electric mountain bikes switch to mid-drive motors for better climbing power, reduced unsprung weight, and increased range efficiency… Easy Motion has maintained and improved their hub-motor approach for the Evo line. Now, they do offer mid-drive models as well, such as the ATOM Lynx 4.8, but it costs ~$1,300 more and […]
The Haibike XDURO Trekking S RX, now called the Haibike XDURO Trekking 4.0, is an urban speed pedelec that’s geared towards commuting with integrated LED lights, a sturdy rear rack, and full-sized plastic fenders. The custom angular frame is designed to flex a bit for comfort with lower seat stays while providing a short nimble […]
The Spark is a powerful, well-balanced, cruiser style electric bike built around a sturdy high-step cantilever frame. Motiv produces a very similar model called the Sleek which is slightly smaller and offers a lower stand-over height. Both models are made primarily from Aluminum alloy but feature a vibration-dampening steel fork and full steel chain cover. […]
Riese & Müller have a long and interesting history designing bicycles and electric bikes. Their first model, the Birdy, was a full suspension folding bike that inspired a full line of suspended models and eventually lead to a philosophy of “Control Technology” meant to keep your wheels on the ground, providing traction. Nowhere is that […]
