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 Cannondale Contro E-Rigid takes a unique approach to building a tough urban electric bike. To me, this thing looks mean in all-black with balloon tires, tight alloy fenders, a single-side fork, and internally geared hub. It’s available in two frame sizes and the top tube is sloped, making it approachable for short riders or […]
The Evo City+ is so named because it has a more powerful motor than prior genrations, offering 500 watts nomial vs. 350. It’s an electric bike that can handle commuting in all sorts of conditions thanks to fenders, a chain cover, integrated lights, and reflective tires. The two sizes allow for a wider range of […]
The Raleigh Detour iE is a pedal-assisted version of the traditional unpowered Detour model. It offers efficiency and utility, well-suited to urban commuters who want help scaling hills, fighting wind, or just going further. The 700c wheels coast smoothly and an all-Aluminum frame and fork keep it lightweight… but trade a bit of comfort in […]
This is the second generation Cross Lite E model to hit the States from Bulls, a widely respected European brand launched in 2010. Now, the step-thru design makes it easier to mount and stand over for people with short legs and I love that they haven’t called it a women’s model… even though that’s likely […]
eVox is a Canadian company that prides itself on designing and producing electric bikes, start to finish. You may be familiar with their City model which is used for some bike share and rental programs in Canada. That design is easier to mount and stand over but quite a bit heavier at 52 lbs. vs. […]
The Load is a spectacular electric bike… it’s an ebike with a trunk! A sporty, front-mounted trunk that’s suspended to protect your valuable items or little people. For this review, I met with Chris Nolte, the owner of Propel Bikes, under the Brooklyn Queens Expressway at the Golconda Skate Park in Brooklyn New York. It […]
Haibike is a high-end German electric bike manufacturer that was one of the first to integrate with Bosch drive systems and enter the US market. What you see on the XDURO FullSeven Carbon Ultimate is a third generation Bosch Performance Line CX motor that is capable, fast, and fluid. It blends into the frame, and […]
EG is an electric bicycle brand that balances price against power and features. Some of the hardware they choose is at the basic or entry-level end of the spectrum, and I found that the stem on this particular bike felt a little loose, but the bikes are more affordable and work fine for recreational riding. […]
The E3 Dash has long been one of my favorite IZIP electric bike models. It looks great, is value priced, offers great urban accessories (fenders, integrated lights, and a rear rack in this case) and comes in several sizes for improved fit. While the 2017 version does not come in multiple colors, I feel like […]
Specialized has introduced four new urban electric bikes and the Vado 6.0 is their top-of-the-line offering. Compared with the original Specialized Turbo models, developed in 2010 and dating back to 2012 in the US, the Vado is more balanced and efficient. It relies on a mid-motor from Brose vs. a gearless hub from Go SwissDrive […]
