Unbiased, In-Depth Analysis of the Best Electric Bikes
This type of electric bike utilizes a motor system that is positioned at the middle of the frame, usually exerting force on the same chain that the rider is cycling as they pedal. They are known for their balanced weight distribution, unsprung weight advantage, battery use efficiency (because they benefit from gear shifting, just like the rider), and improved climbing power. Because they often require custom motor interfaces, mid-drive ebikes tend to cost more money. They exert more strain on the chain, belt, and drivetrain than hub motor and friction drive, and usually do not offer throttle on demand power. Most high-end and European ebikes utilize mid-drive motor systems.
Momentum’s been pretty quiet on the Vida E+ front since the last release in 2022, but they’re back with some big changes for 2025. And when I say big changes, I mean they’ve basically started from scratch, out goes the mid-drive and internal gear hub combo from 2022, and in comes a 500W rear hub […]
The e-bike market is flooded with bikes promising the world, but few deliver the kind of refined, no-fuss experience that the EVELO Omega brings to the table. This isn’t your typical budget cruiser with a motor slapped on, it’s a thoughtfully engineered machine that prioritizes rider comfort and mechanical simplicity above flashy features or aggressive […]
Seattle-based EVELO has been crafting premium direct-to-consumer electric bikes since 2011, setting themselves apart with innovative features and an industry-leading 4-year/20,000-mile warranty. With a knack for equipping their bikes with advanced drivetrains and mid-drive motors, EVELO appeals to consumers seeking performance and quality over budget-driven competitors. The Compass, EVELO’s only three-wheeled trike offering, breaks away […]
The TrailRush marks Ride1Up’s ambitious entry into the premium eMTB market, and frankly, I’ve been waiting for this moment. As someone who’s been following R1U since the release of their game-changing CF Racer1—that sleek 28-pound carbon fiber machine available in both road and gravel configurations—I’ve maintained sky-high expectations for whatever this brand tackles next. Built […]
Aventon has firmly established itself as a dominant force in the direct-to-consumer e-bike market, consistently delivering bikes that punch above their weight class. From the tech-laden Aventon Level.3 commuter with its 4G connectivity to the trail-crushing Ramblas eMTB, the brand has built a reputation for innovation that actually works in the real world. At the […]
Trek’s been building bikes that get riders stoked since their Wisconsin garage days in ’76. They’re the kind of brand that obsesses over every weld and gear shift, earning a cult following among roadies, trail hounds, and city commuters alike. For bike nerds like us, Trek’s name is shorthand for durability and smart design that […]
In a world where Heybike as a brand to me, and mid-drive motors are nothing new to me. But, a mid drive motor on a heybike? That is new to me. Oh, and coming in with a price tag of just $1,499? Well, now I’m in foreign territory. Meet the Heybike Alpha, an all-new fat […]
In a world where so many e-bike brands play it safe, cribbing ideas from each other like it’s an unspoken rule, Vvolt decided to go their own way with the Centauri II. At a glance, it’s a modern twist on some old-school concepts—think Cannondale’s Headshok days—with a monoshock suspension fork offering 30mm of travel nestled […]
The Ride1Up Prodigy V2 feels like it’s stepping into some serious competition territory, going toe-to-toe with legacy brands like Specialized, particularly their Turbo Como. Right away, you notice the Brose mid-drive motor—a feature usually seen on much pricier bikes—so that’s a strong start for Ride1Up. The geometry strikes a good balance between an upright commuter […]
This review was provided for free using a demo bike and accessories. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and writeup are not meant to be an endorsement of Momentum products. I welcome your corrections, additions, and feedback in the comments below, and the Momentum electric bike forums. Observations: Giant […]
