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This reivew is outdated but might be useful if you’re finding a used model or considering a deal on prior-year equipment. The latest version of the bike has been upgraded to a Bosch centerdrive and is available in two frame sizes. You can read more in the full review here and feel free to compare […]
This review is for the 2015 IZIP E3 Peak, click here for the most recent review which features a drivetrain upgrade, lower price point and a new color scheme (black with blue accents). The twist throttle has been dropped but IZIP now offers an optional $50 boost button instead. The 2015 IZIP E3 Peak is […]
The Thron Impulse Speed from Focus is one of those super high end full suspension mid-drive electric bikes that can dominate just about any terrain you throw at it. The big difference between it and something like the Felt DUALe or Haibike FS 27.5″ (which also use mid-drives and offer full suspension) is an impressive […]
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 […]
