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.
This review is for the 2016 Raleigh Sprite iE, click here for the latest version with a deeper, more updated look. The Raleigh Sprite iE is an approachable electric bike with a low-step frame that’s easy to mount and stand over. The seat goes way down (almost in line with the battery pack) and that’s […]
The original IZIP E3 Vibe has been completely remodeled for 2016 and is now called the Vibe Plus. The suspension fork is gone but the bike weighs nearly 10 pounds less and has a more streamlined battery pack. You get a more powerful and more efficient mid drive motor and a larger battery capacity but […]
The Spicy Curry is a mid-drive powered electric cargo bike from Yuba! I’ve covered several of their earlier electric bicycle including the smaller elBoda Boda and very similar elMundo but prefer the Spicy Curry for several reasons. The primary benefit is efficiency and power because the drive system leverages the same eight speed drivetrain that […]
The Haibike SDURO HardSeven SM is the most affordable model in the extensive Haibike lineup… and I’m going to help you understand why. While it still looks awesome thanks to an exciting paint scheme with matching fork, grips and saddle and the frame itself – still hydroformed with gravity cast mounting interface – is great, […]
The Haibike SDURO HardLife SL is a women’s specific variation of the Haibike SDURO HardSeven SL… They cost the same and have matched components and drive systems but the colors and sizes are slightly different. With the HardLife for women you get a nice matte white with light grey and hot-pink accents, the top tube […]
The XM700+ is Trek’s speed pedelec offering, capable of reaching 28 mph top speeds. It’s perfect for commuting, touring or trekking but you’ll need to add a rear rack for the later two unless you’re a super minimalist or okay wearing a backpack. I enjoyed riding this model more than the less expensive Trek Conduit+ […]
The Conduit+ is my favorite electric bike model from Trek at the time of this review because you get lots of quality accessories, four frame size options and a solid mid-drive system working with a 10 speed Shimano Deore drivetrain all for ~$3k. Not only does it include things like fenders, a pannier rack and […]
The Lift+ is Trek’s most affordable electric bike (unless you count the Townie Go! from Electra which is also owned by Trek). The Lift Plus is significantly lighter at just ~45 pounds and I’m a huge fan of the quick release seat tube clamp, quick release wheels and adjustable angle stem! You can dial this […]
The 2016 Electra Townie Go! switched from using a SRAM hub motor and rear mounted battery pack to the Bosch Centerdrive which is better in pretty much every way. Now, it is more expensive than the 2014 and 2015 models at $2,727 and it does weigh more at ~58 lbs but you get an eight […]
The CUBE Reaction Hybrid HPA Pro 29 is a “high performance aluminum” 29er (meaning the wheels are 29 inches in diameter) that offers excellent value as a trail bike or around-town platform. The larger wheel diameter (compared with a standard 26″ or 27.5″ design) feels stable, smooth and efficient. It’s closer to the size of […]
