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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IZIP E3 Loma Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A new and unique frame for 2019 that is striking and comes in two frame sizes, each with a different wheel size, both really look great in the two colors and reflective accents available. Some key features like battery intergraded front and rear lights, a throttle, and a battery…...

IZIP E3 Simi Review

  • MSRP: $1,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

All new for 2019, the IZIP E3 Simi is an affordable and lightweight cruiser with comfortable riding position and an SR Suntour rear hub motor, two frame styles and two color options, and an entry level price point. Mechanical disc brakes, paint matched steel frame, integrated lights, rear rack, comfortable riding geometry, swept…...

2019 Rad Power Bikes RadRover Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

An affordable, powerful, electric fat bike with responsive 12-magnet pedal assist and twist-throttle on demand, available in two colors with lots of accessory options including fenders and racks. Only one frame size but the top tube is sloped and the shorter stem pairs…...

2019 Rad Power Bikes RadMini Step-Thru Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

An approachable, folding, fat tire electric bike that's stable and off-road capable, complete with integrated lights, custom reflective tires, an adjustable suspension fork with lockout, and comfortable Velo saddle. Only available in one frame size and one color, but the handlebar and seat height…...

2019 Rad Power Bikes RadMini Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

The high-step version of a folding fat tire electric bike from Rad Power Bikes, reinforced frame with sturdy gussets, secure locking latches for both folding points, adjustable suspension fork with lockout. Powerful 750 watt Bafang rear hub motor with strong 48 volt battery allows for climbing…...

2019 Rad Power Bikes RadCity Step-Thru Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

An approachable, comfortable, and relatively affordable, city style electric bicycle that comes in one frame size, two colors, has an adjustable stem, swept-back handlebar, and suspension fork with lockout adjust. Ready for all sorts of ride conditions and applications with full-coverage plastic fenders, integrated LED…...

2019 Rad Power Bikes RadCity Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A sturdy, fairly comfortable, and relatively affordable, city style electric bicycle that comes in one color and two frame sizes, riser handlebars and adjustable stem improve fit range. Ready for all sorts of conditions and applications with full-coverage plastic fenders, LED lights, custom…...

2019 Rad Power Bikes RadWagon Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

An affordable, feature-rich, electric cargo bike with cadence sensing pedal assist and throttle on demand operation, available in one frame size with adjustable bars and two color options. Gearless direct-drive hub motor is heavier but super quiet, durable, and capable of regenerative braking…...

IZIP E3 TRLZ Review

  • MSRP: $1,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A value-priced hardtail electric mountain bike with basic 100mm SR Suntour spring suspension fork and knobby Vee Rubber tires, no lockout or preload adjust, no puncture protection or tubeless setup. Available in three frame sizes and two frame styles, I like the mid-step frame because…...

Desiknio Pinion Classic Review

  • MSRP: $6,135
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

Lightweight electric bike with downtube-integrated battery pack, efficient 250 watt geared hub motor, six-speed Pinion gearbox, clean and quiet Gates Carbon belt drive. Available in three frame sizes for optimal fit, carbon fiber fork and high-volume tires improve…...