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.
Riese & Müller have a long and interesting history designing bicycles and electric bikes. Their first model, the Birdy, was a full suspension folding bike that inspired a full line of suspended models and eventually lead to a philosophy of “Control Technology” meant to keep your wheels on the ground, providing traction. Nowhere is that […]
For several years now (since 2014), Kalkhoff has been importing some of the most feature-rich, and comfortable, city style electric bikes to the US. This is a company with Dutch and German roots, known for utility and precision. What you get with their Agattu B7 model is a value-priced step-thru that has all of the […]
Bulls created something special with their SIX50 E 1.5. This is an affordable, trail capable, city capable, electric bike offered in four sizes, running top-of-the-line Bosch drive systems. For just over $3k you’re getting a bike that looks good, is sold through a wide network of dealers globally (in the US since late 2015), and […]
IZIP completely updated their hardtail trail bike, the Peak, going from the 2016 season to 2017. The price did rise $300, but in my opinion, it looks a lot better and is definitely using a smarter, more durable electric drive system. Moving from TranzX to Bosch brings shift detection which reduces drivetrain wear, faster pickup, […]
The Riese & Müller Charger GX Rohloff HS would be an excellent platform for touring and bikepacking… touring with a bit of off-road and camping along the way ;) it’s a rugged but comfortable, long-range capable, high-speed electric bike with some unique drivetrain features. You can get the Charger GX with a traditional eleven-speed cassette […]
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 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 […]
