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The phrase "as easy as riding a bike" is pretty common, but if you have ever actually ridden a hybrid bike, especially uphill or through bumpy terrain, you have probably had experiences that aren't all that easy. Electric bikes, which have become increasingly popular in the past few years, look like a standard bike but feature a motor and a battery. There are even folding versions that fit inside your vehicle if you want to avoid purchasing a bike rack. These bikes allow you to travel at faster speeds and tackle tough trails with ease. With this extra boost, the amount of effort you have to exert while riding can be lessened. This, along with the right cycling shoes, can make for a more comfortable ride. To help with your decision, we have gathered a list of the best electric bikes on the market.
The Best Electric Bikes - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Electric Bike: Charge Comfort 2 Step-Thru Electric Bike
- Runner Up: Charge City Electric Bike
- Best Electric Mountain Bike: ALLMTN 5 Mountain e-Bike
- Best Electric Bike Under $1,000: ANCHEER 26'' Electric E-Bike
- Best Electric Dirt Bike: PASELEC 27.5" Electric Bike
- Best Budget Electric Bike: ENGWE 250W Electric Bike
- Best Folding Electric Bike: Sailnovo 14'' Electric Bike
- Best Fat-Tire Electric Bike: RadRover 6 Plus
- Best Electric Bike for Commuting: Diamondback Union 1 e-Bike
- Best Micro Electric Bike: ANCHEER Folding Electric Bike
- Best Cargo Electric Bike: RadRunner 2
- Best Electric Commuter Bike: Charge Comfort 2 Step-Thru Electric Bike
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated. More importantly, each member of our team is a fitness enthusiast. Fitness may be our job, but it is also our passion. Therefore, we strive to bring you products that we trust and would personally use.
Best Overall Electric Bike - Charge Comfort 2 Step-Thru Electric Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 250W
- Top speed: 20 mph
- Weight: 55 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Key features: Foldable handlebars and pedals, child seat compatible rear rack
The Charge Comfort 2 Step-Thru Electric Bike has everything you need for your commute or joy ride around the city. This bike prioritizes comfort, with a low-step frame for easy mounting and dismounting, soft rubber grips, and a large ergonomic saddle. The integrated rear rack makes it easy to tote groceries or even a seat for your favorite passenger.
The Comfort 2 Step-Thru is also lightweight and foldable, making it easy to store. It features wider tires for more stability and a smoother ride. No matter where you’re headed, this model will get you there most comfortably.
What We Like
- Automatic tire pressure sensors
- Compact and easy to store
- Powerful motor
- Comfortable seat and handles
What We Don't Like
- Only 1 size option
- Heavier than some other Charge models
BUY: Charge Comfort 2 Step-Thru Electric Bike
Runner Up - Charge City Electric Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 250W
- Top speed: 20 mph
- Weight: 45 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Key features: Foldable handlebars and pedals, 5-level pedal assist, long-range battery
The Charge City Electric Bike has been designed to make your bike riding experience easier. This electric bike is a great overall option because it is suited for leisure, commuting, and exercise. Charge's five levels of pedal assist allow you to adjust and control your speed for these different types of bike rides and to match your preferences. The thumb throttle makes it simple to change between speed options. With these features, this electric bike can reach up to 20 miles per hour.
If you need to bring items such as your laptop, gym bag, or picnic basket along with you, they can be stored on the Charge City Electric Bike's sturdy rear rack. Even with this built-in carrying space, this electric bike is designed to be compact for indoor storage. The handlebars and pedals can be folded quickly to help this bike fit into small spaces if needed. Automatic lights are placed on the front and rear tires to make you visible while riding in low light or at night.
What We Like
- Front and rear lights included
- Folding handlebars and pedals
- Comfortable grips and seat
- Long-range battery
What We Don't Like
- Few gear options
- Front fenders may rub tires
BUY: Charge City Electric Bike
Best Electric Mountain Bike - ALLMTN 5 Mountain e-Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 250W
- Top speed: 20 mph
- Weight: 55 lbs.
- Weight capacity: N/A
- Key features: 160mm adjustable fork, mixed wheel design, handlebar data display
If mountain biking is your main purpose for purchasing an electric bike, the ALLMTN 5 Mountain e-Bike is our top recommendation. This bike's 160mm Lyrik Ultimate Fork can be adjusted to offer customized support. This is combined with a 150-millimeter rear suspension to ease bumps and long descents that you may encounter on mountain trails. A unique mixed-wheel design also makes this electric bike ideal for tough terrains. The front wheel is larger in size at 29 inches to improve rollover behavior. At 27.5 inches, the slightly smaller back wheel helps with traction.
When mountain trails get difficult, you can use pedal assist to activate this bike's motor and choose between 12 different gear options. This electric mountain bike's 250W motor can increase your travel speed up to 20 miles per hour. Additionally, 75Nm of torque fosters increased traction. These features are intended to make biking up steep inclines easier.
What We Like
- Increased control for tough terrains
- Powerful 250W motor
- Larger front wheel for comfortable rollover
- Handlebar display shows real-time battery life
What We Don't Like
- No rear rack
- Not foldable
Best Electric Bike Under $1,000 - ANCHEER 26'' Electric E-Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 500W
- Top speed: 20 mph
- Weight: 50 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 265 lbs.
- Key features: High speed motor, 21 speeds, removable battery
While under $1,000, the ANCHEER 26'' Electric E-Bike is a versatile electric bike option. Because there are 21 different gears to shift between, you can ride this bike on a wide range of terrains, from flat surfaces to uphill paths. The 500W motor can increase your speed up to 20 miles per hour. This gives you more control over your pace and can be helpful when mountain biking. You can easily toggle between this bike's modes, operate the brakes, and check the battery life on the display integrated into the handlebars.
To make your biking experience stable and comfortable, a front suspension fork is included in this electric bike's design. A smooth ride is also achieved with mechanical disc brakes in the front and rear. These brakes, which provide a powerful stop, are also important for safety and durability. With a 12.5Ah battery, this electric bike has a large range with 45 miles on the high end.
What We Like
- Good for beginners
- Long battery life
- Wide variety of speed options
- Affordable price point
What We Don't Like
- Saddle may be uncomfortable
- Heavy
BUY: ANCHEER 26'' Electric E-Bike
Best Electric Dirt Bike - PASELEC 27.5" Electric Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 500W
- Top speed: 28 mph
- Weight: 59 lbs.
- Weight capacity: N/A
- Key features: 3 riding modes, large wheels, anti-theft battery lock
Our pick for the best electric bike for dirt biking is the PASELEC 27.5" Electric Bike because it can handle very difficult road conditions. This bike's powerful 500W motor uses a progressive Smart assist which automatically adjusts support to match the terrain. This means you won't have to switch gears as you transition from flat to uphill surfaces. The motor and battery are integrated into the bike's frame to keep out water, dust, and debris, as well as act as an anti-theft measure. When using the motor of this bike, you can reach a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour.
This PASELEC electric bike is also great for mountain biking because it has large 27.5-inch wheels. With wheels of this size, it is easier to ride over bumps, climb up slopes, and travel at faster speeds. A dual hydraulic disc brake system helps you to stop quickly, which can increase safety when dirt biking.
What We Like
- Gel saddle for comfort
- Lightweight
- Powerful motor
- Hidden removable battery
What We Don't Like
- Display can be hard to see in the sunlight
- Headlight can be dim
BUY: PASELEC 27.5" Electric Bike
Best Budget Electric Bike - ENGWE 250W Electric Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 250W
- Top speed: 17 mph
- Weight: N/A
- Weight capacity: 220 lbs.
- Key features: Mechanical spring shocks, front and rear brake systems, 21 speeds
If you want an electric bike but are on a budget, consider the ENGWE 250W Electric Bike. While this option is in a more affordable price range, it still offers many of the features needed to elevate your biking experience. Built with high-strength carbon steel, this frame is durable enough to handle tough terrains and long-term use. In addition to being sturdy, this electric bike provides a comfortable ride with long mechanical springs that absorb shocks. Rear dual disc brakes respond to quick stops and improve safety when going down hills. Be sure to wear a bike helmet to ensure safety as well.
Despite being budget-friendly, this ENGWE electric bike features more speed gears than other, more expensive options. You can adjust the 21 different speed gears to match the type of surface you are biking on and use and this bike's three riding modes—pure electric, pedal assist, and normal bike—to customize your experience. The 250W motor can give you a boost in speed up to 17 miles per hour which also helps to lessen the effort you need to use.
What We Like
- 3 riding modes (pure electric, pedal assist, and normal bike)
- Integrated horn and headlight
- Long mechanical spring shock absorbers
- 21 speed gears
- Affordable price point
What We Don't Like
- Little assembly instruction
- Not foldable
Best Folding Electric Bike - Sailnovo 14'' Electric Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 450W
- Top speed: 18.6 mph
- Weight: 55.11 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 264.5 lbs.
- Key features: Foldable, high-density sponge saddle
The Sailnovo 14'' Electric Bike is a compact option with a foldable design. If you want to travel with this electric bike or take it on a day trip to a nearby trail, you can easily fold it and pack it in the trunk of your car. It can also be stored in small indoor spaces. Although small in size, this electric bike has a powerful 450W motor that can increase your speed up to 18.6 miles per hour. When using this motor, less effort is needed to pedal, especially when biking uphill.
The seat of this Sailnovo electric bike is made with a high-density sponge which makes for a comfortable ride. This seat can also be adjusted to match your height, although it's only intended for riders up to 5 feet, 10 inches tall. A central shock absorber also contributes to the overall comfort level by reducing the feeling of bumps you may bike over. For safe nighttime biking, bright LED headlights and taillights are included.
What We Like
- Compact design
- Bright headlight
- Central shock absorber handles bumps well
- Affordable price point
What We Don't Like
- Speed and distance only displays in metric system units
- Battery can be difficult to remove
- Not suitable for taller riders
BUY: Sailnovo 14'' Electric Bike
Best Fat Tire Electric Bike - RadRover 6 Plus
SPECS
- Motor: 750W
- Top speed: N/A
- Weight: 74 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 275 lbs.
- Key features: Fat tires, backlit LCD display, 5 levels of pedal assist
Electric fat-tire bikes have recently become very popular. The RadRover 6 Plus is a fat-tire option that we recommend if you are looking for increased traction and grip. These wider tires can improve your biking experience by making going up hills much easier and allowing you to ride your electric bike in most weather conditions and on surfaces that would otherwise be too rough. If you are a beginner, fat tires can also help you maintain balance.
Hydraulic disc brakes provide more control over your ability to stop this electric bike. You can utilize the brakes with the handlebar grips which can be adjusted to your specific hand size. The handlebar also features a display. This interface includes a number of tools, such as an odometer, a battery level indicator, and a clock. This bike's 750W motor gives you a quick speed boost when you need it with five levels of pedal assist.
What We Like
- Powerful 750W motor
- Fat tires absorb bumps on rough terrains
- Dual display
What We Don't Like
- Heavy
- Longer charge time
Best Electric Bike for Commuting - Diamondback Union 1 e-Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 350W
- Top speed: 28 mph
- Weight: 51 lbs.
- Weight capacity: N/A
- Key features: 10 speed, durable frame, large tires
The Diamondback Union 1 e-Bike is the best electric bike for commuters because it is a class 3 e-bike. This means it can reach a max speed of 28 miles per hour which is faster than bikes in other classes. When traveling at this speed using pedal assist, you can reduce your commute time significantly. This bike also has a high riding range. Its 400Wh battery allows you to go up to 55 miles without needing to charge again. This feature can help ensure that you make it to and from work on one charge.
A cargo rack is integrated into the frame of this Diamondback electric bike. When commuting, you can carry items with you to work on this rack. Large Schwalbe tires and an ergonomic saddle affect how comfortable your ride to work can be. This electric bike is also durable because it is made with aluminum alloy. With this level of durability, you can likely ride this bike on your commute for years to come.
What We Like
- Integrated rear rack
- Smooth ride at high speeds
- 4 modes
What We Don't Like
- Not suited for those under 5'6"
- Heavy
BUY: Diamondback Union 1 e-Bike
Best Micro Electric Bike - ANCHEER Folding Electric Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 350W
- Top speed: 17 mph
- Weight: 36.2 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 265 lbs.
- Key features: Smart folding, waterproof
With a smaller design than most electric bikes, the ANCHEER Folding Electric Bike is our pick for the best micro option. This electric bike has 12-inch wheels and only weighs about 36 pounds. Because it is lightweight and foldable, this bike can be easily transported, carried, or stored in small spaces. The aluminum frame of this electric bike was inspired by the shape of dolphins. Despite being small, this micro bike is intended to be ridden by adults.
Through Bluetooth and a smart app you can view and adjust certain aspects of this electric bike; you can control speed, record mileage, and run diagnostics through these smart features. The 350W motor allows you to increase your speed up to 17 miles per hour. Cruise control is also available so you can avoid needing to adjust the throttle frequently. You can ride this electric bike for up to 15 miles on a full charge.
What We Like
- Ships fully assembled
- Lightweight
- Foldable design
What We Don't Like
- Limited ability to adjust
- Low shock absorption
BUY: ANCHEER Folding Electric Bike
Best Cargo Electric Bike - RadRunner 2
SPECS
- Motor: 750W
- Top speed: 20 mph
- Weight: 65 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Key features: Dual leg kickstand, integrated rear rack, optional accessories
Because the RadRunner 2 has a maximum weight of 300 pounds, it's our pick for the best electric bike option for hauling cargo. Items can be stored directly on the rack that is integrated into the rear tire, or you can customize your storage and carrying needs with optional accessories like baskets, panniers, or child seats. A dual-leg kickstand keeps this bike stable as you place cargo on the rack, and a rigid front fork can allow you to stay balanced and in control as you ride.
An aluminum frame and puncture-resistant tires work to protect damage from occurring to this bike. If you have to carry your cargo long distances, the RadRunner 2's seat can keep you comfortable with its extra padding. This seat also has a quick-release clamp which makes it easy to adjust to your height.
What We Like
- Can carry up to 300 lbs.
- 60mm suspension fork increases comfort
- Durable aluminum frame
- Optional accessory options
What We Don't Like
- Plastic pedals
- Heavy
- Higher price point
Best Electric Commuter Bike - Charge Comfort 2 Step-Thru Electric Bike
SPECS
- Motor: 250W
- Top speed: 20 mph
- Weight: 55 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Key features: Foldable handlebars and pedals, child seat compatible rear rack
If you’re using an electric bike for your daily commute you’re going to need something that’s comfortable and gets you where you need to go efficiently, which is why we recommend the Comfort 2 Step-Thru Electric Bike. It has puncture-proof all-season tires so you can ride year-round and they have air pressure sensors that turn red to indicate when you need to add air. On the front and back, you’ll find LED lights which are helpful for those who have early or late commutes.
The tires have fenders to protect you from any unfavorable road spray and it comes with a rack that can be used to tote groceries or a small passenger. Once you’re ready to go, you’ll find that stepping over the low frame is easy and the saddle comfortable. The wide tires help you feel stable as you pedal or use the thumb throttle. If you have to store it once you get to work or at home, the pedals and handlebars can be folded to make it more compact, and the light frame makes it easier to carry if you need to.
What We Like
- Fenders protect you from road spray
- All season tires can be used in multiple conditions
- Comfortable seat and handles
- Room for storage or a small passenger
- LED lights on the front and back
What We Don't Like
- Display is small
- Heavier than some other Charge models
BUY: Charge Comfort 2 Step-Thru Electric Bike
Types of Electric Bikes
Cruiser Electric Bikes
Much like a beach cruiser, a cruiser electric bike is made for comfort and easy, short rides like running an errand or a stroll around the neighborhood. The handlebars are curved to ensure your hands rest comfortably. Since speed isn’t the goal here, your posture should remain upright. Typically, the larger saddle has extra padding and springs that help absorb any bumps on your route.
These bikes tend to be on the heavier side and are not ideal for uphill routes since they have a limited number of gears. You can use the pedal assist for help on a hill, but you may use up the battery life more quickly. The wide handles can make storage and tight spaces tricky, so that’s something to consider.
City/Commuter Electric Bikes
Electric city bikes, also referred to as commuter bikes, are lighter than electric cruiser bikes because they’re meant to get you where you need to go around town. With the extra power and range from the electric components, you can go further and feel confident enough to take a break and use the pedal assist whenever needed. Riding in the upright position allows you to stay aware of your surroundings, which is especially important when riding through the hustle and bustle of a city.
Even though your posture is upright, you can gain some decent speed using the throttle or pedaling. If you climb or descend hills on your route, more gear options are available to make pedaling as easy as possible. Typically, the back will have a rack for storage or the option to purchase one separately. You’ll also find that the tires for these bikes are usually all-season tires and right in between thick and thin to give you the right amount of stability and speed. The suspension and tires weren't made for off-roading, so that may be something to keep in mind.
Folding Electric Bikes
Folding electric bikes, you guessed it, can be folded into a more compact shape. These are a great option if you need to store your bike in a trunk or a closet. They can also come in handy if you bike to a train or bus station and ride to the next stop with your bike. If you live or work in a high-rise building, the other people on the elevator will thank you for folding before you get on. Most folding electric bikes have handles that make it easy to transport wherever you're heading.
Despite their small size, these models still have comparable speed and power as far as electric bikes go. There are even options to add accessories, such as storage racks and smartphone holders, but this may affect the size and portability.
Fat Tire Electric Bikes
If you plan on riding over rough terrain, a fat tire electric bike is an excellent option because the large tires are designed to grip the ground and give you more traction. These bikes can be more comfortable to ride than mountain bikes, making them great for beginners. The design positions you so that there is a lower center of gravity, meaning you can go down a steep hill without feeling like you’re falling forward. You’ll always be in control of your bike because the deep tread provides plenty of traction. Since these ride more smoothly, you can go longer distances and even ride safely through poor weather conditions.
The wide tires help you keep your balance as you navigate over obstacles and absorb impact. It is important to note that larger wheels come with larger responsibilities, such as cleaning mud or grime from the frame or charging the battery more frequently since heavier wheels use more power to move.
Electric Mountain Bikes
Like the fat tire electric bikes, electric mountain bikes are also made for rough terrain. They tend to be lighter and less costly than fat tire bikes, partially due to the smaller tires. Most of these bikes will help assist you as you pedal versus other types that will propel you without pedaling. They also tend to have more powerful motors that help you navigate tougher terrain and bike uphill without losing too much battery life.
Not every trail is fair game for electric mountain bikes, meaning they’re not allowed on certain trails, so it’s important to check with the land manager before deciding to ride somewhere. Look into this before you decide on an electric mountain bike since it would be a real bummer to find out they’re not allowed on your local trails after your purchase.
Electric Road Bikes
Electric road bikes are designed for pavement performance because they’re lighter and built for speed. The electric assist helps boost your power so you can ride faster, longer, and for more lengthy distances. It also comes in handy on a windy day because it keeps the pedals moving at a steady pace while you combat the wind resistance.
Electric road bikes have drop handlebars so you can comfortably rest your hands as you lean forward. The gear range is broad enough to handle steep uphill and downhill routes, and the thin tires keep you moving quickly. A great electric road bike will have a light carbon-fiber frame which helps offset the additional weight a battery adds.
What to Look for When Shopping for an Electric Bike
Battery
The length of an electric bike's battery life is measured by riding range. This is the number of miles you can travel on your electric bike before needing to charge it again. You will see this listed as a range because the mileage will depend on the speed you are traveling and your weight. You may also want to evaluate how long it takes for a bike's battery to reach full charge. Typically, electric bikes take 4-6 hours to charge.
Foldable Design
If you need to store your electric bike in a small space or want to pack it in the trunk of your car, you will want to look for one that can be folded. Some bikes may have a fully foldable design while others may feature handlebars and pedals that can be folded. These electric bikes are often lightweight so they can be easily carried. You may also want to consider a micro-electric bike with smaller tires.
Cargo Space
Some electric bikes come with built-in rear racks. These bikes allow you to carry items with you on your ride. If you need cargo space on your electric bike, you should also determine the maximum weight a bike can carry. A rear rack, and other accessories (like bike lights), can usually be added to electric bikes that do not come with one.
FAQs About Electric Bikes
Which type of electric bike is best?
There are different types of electric bikes that serve different purposes. Because there is a variety of electric bikes, there isn't one type that is suited for everyone. For this reason, it is important to determine how and where you will use your electric bike before choosing the one that will be best for you.
What are the disadvantages of electric bikes?
Some people may find that electric bikes can be inconvenient because they require a long charge. Depending on the bike, the length of the charge may not seem worth the number of miles you can travel. Electric bikes are also heavier and can be harder to travel with compared to a standard bike.
How fast do electric bikes go?
The average electric bike can go up to 20 miles per hour. Smaller electric bikes may only travel at 15 miles per hour. Some bikes are labeled as Class 3 eBikes. Bikes in this class can go up to 28 miles per hour, which is the fastest that electric bikes can legally go. Class 3 eBikes are recommended for those who want to use them for their commute.
About the Author
Emily is a mental health, fitness, hospitality, and entertainment content writer. Emily’s work can be found on Recoveryworldwide.com, where she wrote about the importance of treating addiction and mental health with holistic health approaches. She can also be found on DVCShop.com where she currently works as the editor.
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