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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SONDORS MXS Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

The MXS is a bold and powerful mountain bike spin on the classic SONDORS design, standing out from the crowd with bright colors and the iconic triangle battery compartment, available online-only in North America and covered by a one-year comprehensive warranty. A Mozo air suspension fork provides a solid 130mm of travel up front, the suspension…...

iGO Electric Core Extreme 2.0 Review

  • MSRP: $1,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

A feature-complete fat tire electric bike with durable plastic fenders, a sturdy rear rack, and integrated lights. Advanced 32 pulse cadence sensor is more responsive and durable than average. Powerful 48 volt battery system with independent 22 amp controller and 500 to 750 watt hub motor are very capable off-road. Great attention to detail with sturdy 12 gauge spokes, a steel derailleur guard that also…...

Aventon Level Review

  • MSRP: $1,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

The Aventon Level is a powerful and feature-rich Class 3 commuting electric bike, a new model from Aventon that is competitively priced with impressive quality components throughout. The Shimano Acera drivetrain feels smooth with a good gear range across eight speeds, Quik…...

SONDORS Fold XS Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

The Fold XS is a powerful and capable fat tire folding Ebike from SONDORS, coming in two eye-catching colors and covered by a one-year comprehensive warranty. Highly satisfying to ride thanks to the powerful 750 watt hub motor and excellent cadence…...

Synergy Kahuna Review

  • MSRP: $1,899
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

A full suspension folding fat tire electric bike, available in three timeless colors (dark blue, black, white). Powerful 750 watt Bafang geared hub motor feels very zippy and capable. Hydraulic disc brakes require less hand effort and offer adjustable-reach levers. Both brake levers also have motor inhibitors for safer stopping. Bright dual-beam headlight keeps you seen from multiple angles. No reflective paint or tire stripes…...

Aventon Sinch Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

The Aventon Sinch is a value-priced fat tire folder with a beautiful visual appearance thanks to internally routed cabling and paint-matched components, Kenda Krusade tires can tackle any terrain and include puncture resistance. A 500 watt motor from Shengyi provides satisfying power and is activated via either a…...

SONDORS Smart Step Review

  • MSRP: $1,199
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

The Smart Step is the first step-thru Ebike from SONDORS that is both approachable and easier to transport due to the unique foldable frame, covered by a one-year comprehensive warranty, and at a great price point of only $1199. Great ride comfort for a value-priced bike thanks to the coil suspension fork, plus-sized tires,…...

iGO Electric Core Elite II Review

  • MSRP: $1,899
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

An approachable step-thru commuter with stiff durable frame, great weight distribution, sturdy front and rear racks, nice integrated lights, comfortable and flexible geometry with tool-free adjustable angle stem, an entry-level suspension fork, and basic semi-ergonomic grips. Great attention to detail with all hardware accents in black (spokes, hubs, racks, handlebar etc.),…...

RIZE Bikes Blade Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

A feature-complete fat tire electric minibike with durable plastic fenders to keep you dry, an extra-long saddle and metal foot pegs for passengers. It comes with a custom rear rack that has plenty of space for a basket, trunk bag, or simple bungee cables to hold your extra gear. The bike can handle up to 300lb max weight.. Great safety features here, the rear axle is secured with a mini torque arm to…...

AddMotoR MOTAN M-66 R7 Review

  • MSRP: $1,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

The MOTAN M-66 R7 is a powerful, fast, and fun moped-style electric bike complete with passenger footpegs and a tool-free adjustable stem that makes it a breeze to adjust for riding with two people, lights and fenders are included with optional upgrades such as a rear rack or a backrest. Fat tires, Addshox suspension fork, and a soft banana-style seat make for a comfortable ride,…...