- Electric bikes are generally more sustainable than cars and may also be safer.
- The best electric bikes include models for commuting, shopping, off-roading, and outdoor adventures.
- Cost, battery life, size, weight, and comfort features are important points of comparison.
More and more people are turning to electric bikes for daily commutes, errand running and exploring the great outdoors because they make it possible to travel without relying on gas-guzzling automobiles. A recent report by Deloitte revealed that electric bikes are less likely to lead to fatal accidents than cars, and they reduce the risk of heart disease and many other chronic conditions.1 If you need more incentive to get an e-bike, Tern estimates that replacing your car with an e-bike can save you around $5,094 per year.2 That’s an incredible savings.
If you’re hoping to reap the benefits of an e-bike, you have many options available to choose from. This guide will introduce you to 10 of the best e-bikes on the market today to simplify your search for the perfect electric bicycle.
Spic / ShutterstockThe Best Electric Bike Depends on Your Needs
Before you begin exploring the features of electric bikes, carefully consider how you’ll use one. Some bicycles are best for daily commutes, while others are designed to accommodate cargo or even passengers. Manufacturers also engineer e-bikes to take on different types of surfaces, from paved roads and dirt and grassy surfaces to rugged mountain trails. Having a clear picture of where, when and how you’ll ride your new electric bike will make it simpler for you to focus on the models that are in line with your lifestyle.
1. Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 2
Inspired by mopeds, the Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 2 boasts a 750-watt motor that gives you more power for climbing hills and obtaining fast cruising speeds.3 An innovative design allows you to convert it from a classic bicycle for short trips to a cargo bike for hauling, shopping and other gear. The plush seat makes long rides more comfortable, and Rad Power offers a huge selection of accessories that enable you to customize your new e-bike.
2. Cannondale Adventure Neo 3 EQ
Designed for daily commutes, leisurely rides and everyday travels, the Cannondale Adventure Neo 3 EQ offers a smooth, comfortable ride in urban settings.4 Because it arrives fully assembled and ready to ride, the model is a great pick for beginners, and it handles much like a conventional bicycle, allowing novices to maneuver it easily from the very first ride. With a 400Wh battery, the e-bike has a 65-mile range to cut down on the need for frequent charging.
3. Urban Arrow Family
If you want to hit the road with your kids, the Urban Arrow Family is an excellent option.5 Its roomy cargo area is positioned at the front rather than the back, so you can load up as many as three little ones and keep an eye on them while you pedal. For safety’s sake, the bike has a low center of gravity to prevent tipping and has three-point safety belts built in. Optional rain and sun shields are available to protect the kiddos from the elements.
4. Giant Trance E + 1 Pro
The Giant Trance E + 1 Pro is proof that e-bikes aren’t just for the road.6 With its aggressive tires, cutting-edge suspension system and high-torque motor, the electric bicycle is ready to take on uneven, rugged trails as capable as a standard mountain bike. On the most extreme terrains, the e-bike can travel for up to 31 miles before needing a charge. Shift to the pavement, and you can go as far as 99 miles without having to plug in.
5. Gocycle G4i+
The Gocycle G4i+ solves one of the biggest challenges of using an e-bike for your daily commute: where to park it.7 Once you arrive at your destination, you can fold the electric bike, and the 36-pound frame is simple to lift and carry. This means you can take it inside and store it in the office, rather than worrying about locking it up outdoors, and its 40-mile range is more than adequate for many urban commuters.
6. Propella 7-Speed V3.4
If you’re shopping for an everyday use e-bike on a budget, the Propella 7-Speed V3.4 gives you plenty of features at a price point under $1,500. Depending on the terrain, the electric bike’s 250-watt battery will let you travel 20 to 40 miles, and because it weighs only 37 pounds, it’s easy to pedal on your own when you reach the end of the range. To handle hilly terrain and maximize speed, the bicycle boasts seven gears.8
7. Batch E-Bike
The Batch E-bike was created for avid cyclists who want a little help biking to the office, so they don’t have to tire themselves out before and after work.9 Shimano parts provide effortless handling that’s sure to impress those used to high-end manual bicycles, and the Bosch drivetrain makes it possible to tackle steep hills and maintain zippy speeds. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes pack all the stopping power you need for those unexpected obstacles you encounter in the city.
8. Yuba Supercargo CL
Whether your grocery list is lengthy, or you’re headed to the mall for a full day of shopping, the Yuba Supercargo CL has you covered.10 The spacious cargo area has enough room for everything, and the frame is sturdy enough to support up to 500 pounds of weight. Accessories allow you to convert the cargo area to a passenger cabin if you wish, and you can also buy a second seat to allow an older child to ride behind you.
9. Biktrix Stunner X
With the Biktrix Stunner X, you won’t be stuck driving your automobile when the weather turns nasty.11 This e-bike features fat tires that can go in the snow or mud and are even capable of rolling smoothly over sand during your seaside vacations. A built-in headlight means you’re ready to ride at night without having to buy extra accessories. Plus, the model features a 750w motor and a powerful drivetrain for effortless pedaling in hilly areas.
10. Roadster V2
Typically priced around $1,095, the Roadster V2 is an affordable e-bike for beginners, as well as experienced cyclists, who want something reliable for an occasional ride. The aluminum alloy frame holds up well to the wear and tear of the road, and the battery lets you travel for up to 30 miles.12 Moreover, the tires are especially designed for biking in the city. As a Class 3 e-bike, the Roadster V2 can reach a maximum assisted speed of 28 miles per hour13, which you can track with the handlebar-mounted LCD display.
Comparing Electric Bike Features
Many factors go into determining which electric bike is best for you. Prices vary widely, so it’s wise to establish a budget before you shop. Some manufacturers and retailers do offer financing programs that may allow you to pay for your new e-bike over time through affordable monthly payments. You’ll also want to compare the size, weight and battery range of the available models. If you’ll be riding for long periods of time, don’t forget to examine comfort features, such as ergonomic seats and handlebars.