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.
On May 18, 2017 I was invited to a Specialized press event in Palo Alto California where the new Turbo Vado 6.0 was shown off. Before this event, I had created a placeholder review here as a way to study because Specialized had posted details about the new models on their website. Unfortunately, many of […]
On May 18, 2017 I was invited to a Specialized press event in Palo Alto California where the new Turbo Vado 6.0 was shown off. Before this event, I had created a placeholder review here as a way to study because Specialized had posted details about the new models on their website. Unfortunately, many of […]
The Bulls SIX50+ E FS 3 is a fun all-mountain ebike with Bosch CX drive system. It’s fun, because it can go almost anywhere with longer travel 150 mm suspension from RockShox and plus sized 2.8″ tires from Schwalbe. As a Class 1 electric bike with 20 mph top assisted speed, it would be allowed […]
If you’re looking for an electric bicycle that’s outfitted for urban commuting but tough enough to ride on packed trails occasionally, that can be optimized for high-torque to move heavy loads and climb or high-speed to get you to the office quicker, the Riese & Müller Charger Mixte models might be just the thing. It’s […]
In my opinion, Easy Motion has nailed the comfort commuting electric bicycle platform with the ATOM Diamond Wave model. It’s easy to mount and stand over (even with gear loaded onto the rack), it will keep you dry and clean with premium fenders and a unique full-wrap chain cover, and you’ll be safe in low-light […]
The Redux iE has quickly become my favorite electric bike in the Raleigh lineup… but it feels like an abusive relationship because the high speed and rigid all-Aluminum frame take a toll on my wrists, arms, back, neck and backside when the terrain gets rough. This isn’t unique to the Redux, and in fact the […]
The Giant Full-E+ 1 really impressed me. This is a full suspension electric bike from one of the “Big Three” including Giant, Trek and Specialized. They’ve got dealers all across the USA and have actually been producing electric bikes in Europe for a while so the technology is refined. At $5,300 this product is outfitted […]
One of my first mountain bikes was a Scott and it appealed to me due to style and use of the latest suspension technology. In recent years, the company has entered the ebike space and has an impressive line of products in Europe with a few making their way to the US in 2016. I […]
The Corratec LIFEBIKE presents itself almost like a medical device… a product that can improve heart rate, flexibility and even address obesity in a safe and fun way. And in my opinion, yes, it and other electric bicycle products do offer these benefits if used properly. You still get a workout with pedal-assist (you have […]
Riese & Müller is a special company… germinated in the late 80’s by a pair of mechanical engineering students in Germany studying at Darmstadt, these guys just wanted to keep their ears warm (inventing a pair of helmet-compatible ear muffs called Hot Ears). Soon after, in 1992 they developed a full suspension folding bicycle called […]
