Hub Motor Electric Bike Reviews

This type of electric bike utilizes a hub motor (or two) that is built into the wheel. It’s the most affordable type of drive system and often works well with throttle operation. There are two types of hub motors: geared and gearless. Gearless tends to weigh more, provides less torque (especially at low speeds), produce some magnetic drag when not engaged, but may offer regenerative braking, and tend to be very durable and quiet. Geared hub motors tend to be compact, lightweight, and affordable, but they produce a bit of whirring noise during operation and may not be as durable over long periods of use. They freewheel efficiently without producing drag, but cannot provide regen braking. Since motor weight is positioned inside the bicycle wheel itself, it increases unsprung weight if the bike has suspension. It also requires custom spokes, wheels, and axles that bite into the frame to provide forward movement. For this reason, they may also require a torque arm to secure the axle against the frame.
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Velec CITI Review

  • MSRP: $2,099
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019, 2020

A lightweight, highly efficient, city style electric bicycle with hidden battery and compact quiet motor, comes with plastic fenders, a sturdy custom rack, and rear light for safety. Custom battery pack uses high quality Samsung cells that are energy dense, 3500 milliamp hours,…...

Gocycle GX Review

  • MSRP: $3,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A fully featured, lightweight, and unique design from the ground up folding electric bike from a company known for innovation and engineering, one of the sleekest and exotic folding bikes out there, a real head turner and joy to ride. Mechanically, the bike makes use of a Shimano Nexus 3 speed internally geared hub, this…...

Nakto Classic Review

  • MSRP: $749
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A step through cruiser ebike from a company looking to take over the entry level market, with bikes such as this their focus seems to be extremely competitive price points matched with a list of features and customer support and a US headquarters for peace of mind with fenders, rear rack, front basket, and battery integrated headlight for just $749 USD. 6 speed Shimano Tourney derailleur, 14-18 tooth cassette with a 44 tooth chain ring in…...

BPM Imports F-35X Review

  • MSRP: $1,695
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A value priced dual suspension fat tire electric bike with a unique frame design and driven by reliable brand name Bafang, Shimano, and Tektro electric and mechanical components, is at home commuting on the road or even off road on trails with it’s comfortable setup and zippy performance that can be programed for higher speeds. Mechanically, the bike is operated by a 7 speed Shimano Tourney system with a 42…...

e-Joe Epik Carbon Review

  • MSRP: $1,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

A sturdy folding electric bike with wider 2.25" tires for comfort and stability, a highly-adjustable suspension fork with lockout, sturdy cast alloy rims that won't go out of true, and powerful 180mm mechanical disc brakes. Internally mounted battery pack stays clean, dry, and positions weight at the center of the…...

2020 Surface 604 Colt Review

  • MSRP: $1,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

A feature-complete hybrid city electric bike available in two frame sizes, comes standard with a rear rack, fenders, and integrated Spanninga lights, the company has built a fairly large dealer network in both the US and Canada for test rides and warranty support. Offers responsive torque sensing pedal assist as well as trigger throttle override with full power,…...

Espin Sport Review

  • MSRP: $1,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

The Espin Sport is a feature-complete commuting and mixed-use Ebike that includes a rear rack, plastic fenders, integrated lights from Spanninga, and an SR Suntour suspension fork. The suspension fork works well with locking ergonomic rubber grips and a large Selle Royale…...

FLX Baby Maker Review

  • MSRP: $1,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

A single speed road bike with a reliable and smooth belt drive, very aesthetically pleasing, minimalist design that hides the battery and uses a no-nonsense display, also comes in a variety of color ways to choose from, a perfect setup for those that want an agile and stealthy setup. Driven by a 250-350 watt hub-drive motor from AKM, 25mph top speed, high-resolution 12 magnet…...

Surface 604 Shred Review

  • MSRP: $2,090
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

A value-priced hardtail cross country style electric mountain bike with 9-speed SRAM 11-34 tooth cassette, plus sized tires, higher top speed of 28 mph, super-responsive torque + cadence sensing bottom bracket, quiet motor, and trigger throttle that overrides assist for full power. Available in two frame sizes for improved fit and comfort, optional 14 amp hour battery…...

Urban Drivestyle UNI Moke Classic Review

  • MSRP: $2,990
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A fun and engaging retro-styled and motorcycle-esque ebike made for adventure with fat-tires, suspension, cool styling aesthetics like motorcycle style handlebars and extra large front headlight, great utility with the extra long seat and adjustable area foot pegs to add passengers in a number of configurations. Powered by a Bafang 500-750 watt rear hub motor that is engaged via either torque…...