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.
Haibike is a high-end German electric bike manufacturer that was one of the first to integrate with Bosch drive systems and enter the US market. What you see on the XDURO FullSeven Carbon Ultimate is a third generation Bosch Performance Line CX motor that is capable, fast, and fluid. It blends into the frame, and […]
The E3 Dash has long been one of my favorite IZIP electric bike models. It looks great, is value priced, offers great urban accessories (fenders, integrated lights, and a rear rack in this case) and comes in several sizes for improved fit. While the 2017 version does not come in multiple colors, I feel like […]
Specialized has introduced four new urban electric bikes and the Vado 6.0 is their top-of-the-line offering. Compared with the original Specialized Turbo models, developed in 2010 and dating back to 2012 in the US, the Vado is more balanced and efficient. It relies on a mid-motor from Brose vs. a gearless hub from Go SwissDrive […]
Electric bicycle technology is becoming smaller, lighter weight, and smarter. Electric mountain bikes are often on the forefront of new technology because they need to be powerful but also blend in… Nobody wants a loud motor disturbing the natural setting of a trail and most eMountain bike riders that I know, shy away from causing […]
If you like the style of city bikes, single speeds and fixies, but want an electric bike and are excited about the Class 3 speed pedelec (which can reach ~28 mph assisted vs. just 20 mph) then the Riese & Müller Roadster Touring HS would be an excellent option. While to does compromise on style […]
The Regroglide iE is one of my favorite electric bicycles from Raleigh. It strikes a perfect balance of quality, comfort, and value. In a world with so many hub motor powered cruisers, Raleigh has introduced a mid-drive concept that feels more balanced, offers better climbing ability and keeps the drivetrain clean and simple. You even […]
The Trek Powerfly 8 FS is a full suspension trail ebike with 130 mm RockShox air suspension. What really sets it apart from others in the space right now is the straight downtube (offering a higher stiffness to weight ratio) and adjustable seat stays with Mino Link plates that can be flipped for a slack […]
The Riese & Müller Packster combines comfort with utility so you can haul large loads (or children) without the vibration and discomfort that some other e-cargo bikes are known for. It comes stock with an alloy frame only, no wooden deck planks or front box. There are several options to customize the front area but […]
Yuba is a leader in the two-wheeled cargo bike space, and one of the first mainstream companies in the US that I saw experimenting with electric drive systems. It makes perfect sense because a fully loaded cargo bike can be quite heavy with groceries, lumber, children or even a second passenger! The Spicy Curry was […]
The 2017 IZIP E3 Sumo is a complete upgrade from prior year models. Instead of using the mid-tier TranzX motor system, IZIP has opted for the top-tier Bosch Performance Line CX motor system. This thing offers 75 Newton meters of peak torque output, shift-sensing and shift recommendation, as well as a compact design. Electric bike […]
