The Best Electric Bikes
Electric bikes are taking the world by storm, offering a clean and green solution to commuter travel and nimble personal transport. If you're thinking of taking your first steps into the world of power-assisted cycling, you might be surprised to learn that you don't have to pay a fortune to get started. Whether you're looking for a climbing stallion ready to carry you up a mountain or a compact and practical city sprinter, we've gathered a range of models that are sure to offer something for everyone.
What to Look For
There are a few things you should keep in mind when comparing options. Motor wattage dictates overall power, which you’ll feel when climbing hills. It’s also worth paying attention to overall weight as many prefer to carry their bikes indoors rather than leaving them exposed on the street. With considerations like these in mind, we found several amazing options. The Vivi electric mountain bike is surprisingly lightweight for its power and size, and the folding joints allow it to be packed down compactly for indoor storage. But if you’re looking for a resilient champion of the wilderness check out the Velowave e-bike, which brings more than double the firepower. Read on below and we’re sure you’ll find the right steed for your needs.
Vivi 350W Folding Electric Mountain Bike
Adventures await
This electric hybrid from Vivi is a great choice for anyone new to the world of electric biking. No matter where you roam, this bike will carry you far and wide. The aluminum-alloy frame is built with a classic mountain bike form in mind. Better yet, the front fork and rear suspension provide double shock absorption, cushioning you from blows if you face any bumps in the road along the way. With a slim total weight of just over 60 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to peddle home should the battery run dry.
Pros:
- This folding design packs this bike down to compact dimensions for easy carrying and storage. It can even fit in the trunk of most cars.
- These grippy tires live up to the mountaineering namesake, with a high-traction coating that holds firm on dirt, gravel, and sand.
- The 350-watt motor packs a punch on ascents, delivering a max speed of 20 miles per hour on gradients up to 30 degrees.
Cons:
- The disks on these breaks are a little on the thin side. If you make a lot of hard stops, they might need replacing down the line.
Velowave 750W Fat Tire E-Bike
The off-road racer
Put the pedal to the metal with this brawny beast that’s built for off-road adventures. With the muscle of the 750-watt motor, traction of the fat tires, and seven Shimano gears, you can enjoy speeds as high as 28 miles per hour as you tear through wilderness terrain. And when the going gets tough, you’ll be cushioned from harm by the large hydraulic shock absorber over the front tire.
Pros:
- The 720-watt-hour battery has a max range of 40+ miles, so you’re less likely to get stuck in the middle of nowhere with a dead battery. Its also easily removable from the frame for theft protection and on-the-go charging.
- The multifunctional handlebar LCD informs you of the bike’s status. It’s another great way to monitor your remaining charge and speed.
- Thanks to the integrated front light powered by the onboard battery, you won’t have to fork out for an additional set of lights when riding at night.
Cons:
- This frame doesn’t support standard rack mounts, and the options supplied by Velowave can be pricy when compared with standard alternatives.
Sailnovo Electric Bike
Small in size, big in power
With a compact electric bike, you can save space and weight without compromising on the scope of your wandering. The small-scale Sailnovo electric bike is an ideal personal transport solution for city dwellers. And though it has mini proportions, it boasts pure power. With a 450-watt battery and top speeds of up to 28 miles per hour, this little bike is nothing to be scoffed at.
Pros:
- The reduced frame size means this bike fits easily into closets and interior compartments, and the folding handlebar design can reduce its size further for transport in a car trunk.
- Bright front and tail lamps mean you’re all set for city riding without the need for additional accessories.
- It has a freely adjustable saddle, so folks of almost all sizes can fit comfortably.
Cons:
- These smaller wheels can struggle on the incline, so you’ll have to find an alternative route when faced with slopes exceeding 15 degrees.
Nakto Sunshine Electric Bike
Pedal porter
Carrying your valuables in a backpack during a long cycle can leave you in sweaty discomfort. With a spring-suspended front basket and sturdy frame rack on the rear, this Dutch-style electric bike is the ideal steed for transporting more than just your humble self. The 250-watt motor will top out at a stately cruise speed of 20 miles an hour, so it’s just enough to keep mobile goods balanced as you weave through traffic on your return journey.
Pros:
- The rear rack is compatible with dual panniers and standard rack attachments like child seats, so you won’t have to reinvest in branded equipment.
- The six-speed gear on the rear accelerates smoothly and provides power on hills and uneven terrain.
- If you’re caught short when looking for a bike rack, the retractable stand on the rear lets you store your bike upright wherever you end up.
Cons:
- Self-assembly can be tricky for non-mechanics, and the pre-installed bolts can be hard to remove with manual tools.
Jetson Bolt Folding Electric Bike
No peddling required
If you’re tired of scuffing your favorite dress shoes en route to the office, the nifty Jetson Bolt could be your new favorite city sprinter. This urban navigator presents a fully motorized and pedal-free design, so it’s ideal for short trips. The 15-mile max range won’t win you gold at the Tour de France, but it leaves plenty of wiggle room to navigate the average daily commute. Charge the onboard battery back to full capacity in a nippy five hours, and you’ll be ready to zip home after a day at the office.
Pros:
- Weighing in at a mere 34 pounds, this bike can be easily lifted and transported using the ergonomic built-in carry handle.
- Fenders above the front and rear wheel help guard against splashes from puddles after light rainfall.
- This bike arrives almost fully assembled, so you can get it up and running without any hassle.
Cons:
- The top speed of 15 miles per hour might not impress the racers among us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a weight limit for electric bikes?
Most electric bikes have a general weight limit. You can usually find this information on the product listing. As you’d expect, larger bikes with sturdier frames tend to provide greater support for heavier riders. Of course, an increased load will also demand more of the engine, reducing overall mileage per charge and top speed.
What are the different riding modes available on an electric bicycle?
Most offer three modes of operation. In cycling mode, the motor is disengaged, allowing you to move using just the pedals. Pure power mode disengages the pedals, putting the electric motor in full control of acceleration. Power assist mode is a hybrid option allowing you to deploy both pedals and motor to the drivetrain simultaneously, facilitating the highest speeds and maximum power.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.