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.
The Optibike Pioneer City is an efficient mid-drive style electric bike that offers a durable frame and drive system with lots of useful accessories. This is the kind of ebike you see a lot in Europe where people cycle to work on a daily basis and need to be able to carry supplies and stay […]
This second iteration of the Optibike Pioneer Allroad improves on the original in several key ways while keeping price constant. You still get the power and efficiency of a mid-drive motor (in fact it’s torquier now) and it’s quieter to operate. The suspension fork has been upgraded for improved strength and performance along with an […]
Volton has been making the Alation since 2012, it’s an affordably priced, off-road capable ebike with a purpose built frame designed to keep battery weight low and balanced. While older models use 350 and 500 watt geared rear hub motors in 2014 this new mid-drive version was introduced with an 8Fun BBS01 geared center drive. […]
The Kalkhoff Agattue Premium Impulse 8 is a top of the line city style electric bike that would be excellent for long commutes thanks to its enormous battery pack and efficient mid-drive design. It leverages the Impulse II drive system that is smoother, quieter and smarter than the original Impulse used on earlier models. While […]
The Lapierre Overvolt FS 900 is a light weight full suspension eMountain bike designed for cross country (XC) and moderate downhill style riding. With 140mm of suspension travel on the front fork and rear swing arm you get comfort and performance. I’m a fan of the 27.5″ 650B wheels which provide improved traction and momentum […]
The Lapierre Overvolt HT 900 is one of the lightest weight hardtail electric mountain bikes I’ve had the chance to test ride. It’s due out in the United States around Q4 2014 and will be the first Lapierre electric bike this side of the pond. In Europe, Lapierre has released one other Overvolt model (simply […]
There are only a handfull of electric bikes specifically designed for petite riders. The Pedego 24″ Cruiser comes to mind but doesn’t offer the same mid-drive setup seen here. The Banff is a beautifully accessorized city style cruiser that comes complete with front and rear racks, whicker baskets, fenders, lights and a unique center-drive that […]
The Evelo Aries offers a cool aesthetic and comfortable “full suspension” ride that’s best suited for on-road and light trail riding. The frame is relatively heavy, somewhat bouncy and limited to a medium size. It’s meant to offer the benefits of mid-drive (improved climbing ability, balance and range) at a value price but suffers from […]
The Evelo Aurora is a value driven mid-drive electric bike which means it benefits from the strengths of centerdrive (improved climbing ability, balance and range) but suffers from a couple of technical issues (slower pedal cadence and rougher shifting). These issues can be be addressed if you’re willing to pay a bit extra for the […]
iGo designed one of the first mid-drive electric bike systems sold in North America around 2005 and has since adapted it to several different models (see the Urban and Titan). The design hasn’t changed much over the years but the price has remained affordable and that’s in part due to Chinese manufacturing. The Tour is […]
