Scott has finally entered the lightweight e-MTB game with the new Lumen, which sets a new benchmark for both weight and price
The Scott Lumen has just arrived on the scene as a brand new lightweight electric mountain bike. How light exactly? According to Scott, the Lumen weighs as little as 15.5kg, which is an astonishing figure for a bike equipped with a motor and battery!
Of course if there was any brand that was going to make a splash in the lightweight e-MTB game, it would surely be Scott. And it’s been a long time coming too. Nearly three years have passed since Specialized introduced the original Levo SL, and the competition has only gotten hotter with the arrival of the Orbea Rise, Trek Fuel EXe and Pivot Shuttle SL.
Although Scott is somewhat late to the lightweight e-Party, it’s drawn on every conceivable tool in its arsenal to develop the new Lumen, which stands as the most high-tech (and most expensive) bike we’ve ever seen from the Swiss brand. Curious? Us too! Let’s dive in to see what this new e-MTB is all about.
An overview of the Scott Lumen
The Scott Lumen is based on the Spark 900, and in reality, the two bikes appear almost identical.
The Lumen is equipped with 29in wheels and 130mm of suspension travel front and rear. It’s built around a full carbon frame, and it features an integrated suspension design that relies on engineered flex through the seatstay.
A compact rocker linkage drives the custom Fox-manufactured Nude 5T shock, which is hidden within the seat tube. The shock uses the same 45mm stroke as the regular Spark, but a change in its placement creates a more progressive leverage rate. Combined with longer chainstays, the Lumen generates an extra 10mm of rear wheel travel compared to its non-motorised sibling.
A removable downtube hatch gives you access to the shock and its adjusters, though because it sits higher up inside the frame, the Lumen comes supplied with a valve extender for attaching a shock pump. As with the Spark, a sag guide is integrated into the non-drive side rocker link.
TwinLoc suspension
Of course this wouldn’t be a Scott without some kind of handlebar remote. Both the Lumen’s shock and fork are cabled up to the TwinLoc lever, which allows you to adjust between three suspension modes: Descend (130mm travel), Traction Control (90mm travel) and Lockout.
Remote-adjustable suspension may seem like an odd choice on an e-MTB. However, as we found with the big travel Patron, the middle Traction Control mode does pay some serious dividends on technical climbs. And with the Lumen being pitched as a lightweight and sprightly electrified trail bike, we expect it’ll attract more active riders that are going to appreciate the added platform the TwinLoc system provides.
TQ’s tiny motor
Also tucked away in the Scott Lumen’s frame is the new TQ HPR50 motor. This is the same drive unit that debuted on the Trek Fuel EXe, which has been earning rave reviews for its quiet performance and discreet assistance.
The HPR50 motor delivers up to 50Nm of peak torque in an extremely compact package. It’s claimed to weigh just 1.8kg and is largely hidden by the chainring. It may not have the same gut-churning power as a Shimano EP8 or Bosch Performance Line CX motor, but it is significantly smaller and lighter.
TQ also supplies the slim 360Wh battery, which is bolted in place within the downtube. It is possible to remove the battery, but you’ll need to drop the motor out to do so. Otherwise you can charge the battery in situ thanks to a neat port that sits further up the downtube.
It fits two bottles!
The fact that Scott’s engineers were able to incorporate a shock, motor and battery inside the Lumen’s frame is remarkable, though it’s made all the more impressive by the fact that you can fit two bottles inside the front triangle. Yep, just like the Spark, you can carry two bottles on the Lumen. There are very few full suspension e-MTBs on the market that are capable of that.
It’s also possible to fit a 160Wh range extender battery, which Scott will be selling separately. The range extender is designed to bolt onto a purpose-built mount on the downtube, leaving space for you to fit a water bottle on the seat tube.
Clean display wireless connectivity
Just like the Fuel EXe, the Scott Lumen integrates TQ’s low-profile display into its top tube. The screen displays key information including battery status, riding speed, range estimation and rider power.
A slim controller sits next to the TwinLoc remote, allowing you to cycle between the Eco, Mid and High assist modes. The motor’s support characteristics have been customised by Scott, though it is possible to tune the motor via the TQ E-Bike app.
We made use of this adjustability in our Fuel EXe long-term review, where we experimented with tweaking the Maximum Power, Assist Factor and Pedal Response for each of the three assist modes. It’s cool to have this option, though beware; setting the motor to the maximum settings will see you burning through the battery quickly.
The TQ E-Bike app can also be used to record rides and provide you with a suite of information beyond what is displayed on the top tube. Furthermore, the TQ system features in-built ANT wireless connectivity, meaning it can be paired with your Garmin, Wahoo or Hammerhead GPS unit.
Scott Lumen sizing geometry
Geometry on the Scott Lumen draws on the Spark, though there are some notable differences.
The head angle is slightly slacker at 65.5°, the reach is a tad longer at 446mm (Medium), and the seat angle is a fair bit steeper at 77°.
The biggest difference between the two bikes is in the chainstay length, with the Lumen getting a 450mm rear centre on all frame sizes. This is significantly longer than the Spark (437.5mm), and it’s also longer than the Fuel EXe (438mm).
Scott says this is due to having clearance for a 29×2.6in rear tyre, while building a sufficiently sturdy and stiff chainstay yoke for the main pivot and minimising material around the motor housing to help with cooling. There’s certainly a lot going on down there!
As with the Spark, the hidden shock also limits how far you can insert the seatpost into the frame. We haven’t found this to be an issue on the bikes we’ve ridden so far, though it could be a problem for riders who are looking to up-size, or those who wish to fit a longer dropper post than standard.
For those who like to tweak, the Lumen incorporates modular headset cups that allow you to steepen or slacken the head angle by 0.6°. The frame is also rated for use with up to a 140mm travel fork. There are no flip chips however, so it’s not really intended to be set up as a mullet.
Scott Lumen weight
The Scott Lumen is claimed to weigh just 15.5kg in its lightest configuration. We’re a bit blown away by that number, particularly when you compare it to the claimed weights of some of its competitors;
- Scott Lumen eRIDE 900 SL – 15.5kg
- Orbea Rise M-LTD – 15.9kg
- Pivot Shuttle SL Team WC – 16.47kg
- Specialized Levo SL S-Works – 16.9kg
- Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR – 17.47kg
As you can see, the Lumen is the lightest out of the lot. It is a bit shorter on travel though, particularly compared to the 150mm travel Levo SL. The HMX carbon frame is claimed to weigh a paltry 1.95kg on its own, with the single pivot flex-stay suspension design helping to reduce grams. Furthermore, the tiny TQ motor and 360Wh battery are as light as it gets in the e-MTB world.
To hit its impressive number on the scales, the Lumen eRIDE 900 SL features a suitably lightweight build kit. You’ll find a Fox 34 fork with a FIT4 damper instead of the heavier GRIP2 damper. Syncros provides a lightweight one-piece carbon cockpit, as well as the ultra-exotic Silverton SL wheelset. These are shod with Schwalbe Wicked Will tyres, which feature the same Super Race casings that come on the Spark.
It’s not exactly the burly build you’d expect to find on the average e-MTB, but of course it all helps to make the Lumen as light as possible.
Will there be a Lumen ST?
With the introduction of the latest Scott Genius, we also saw the arrival of the Genius ST. Standing for ‘Super Trail’, this model uses the same frame but switches things up with a piggyback shock, a GRIP2 fork and a burlier front tyre. The result is a plusher bike that places more of an emphasis on fun over outright weight.
While we expect Scott will be introducing more ST variants in the future outside of the Genius family, unfortunately we won’t be seeing a Lumen ST. Or at least, not for the time being anyway. Given this frame will handle a 140mm fork however, we’d be curious to see a Lumen spec’d with a GRIP2 fork and more aggressive rubber.
Scott Lumen price specs
There will be three Scott Lumen models coming into Australia for 2023. All models are equipped with the same HMX full carbon frame, the TQ HPR50 motor and 360Wh battery.
will start at a robust 12,799 AUD for the Lumen eRIDE 910, and will go up to a heart-palpitating 25,599 AUD for the top-of-the-line Lumen eRIDE 900 SL. That is an extraordinary sum of money, which somehow manages to put the Lumen beyond the price of any Specialized S-Works Levo, Levo SL or Kenevo SL. As far as mainstream brands go, this is the most expensive e-MTB we’re aware of.
As you’ll see from the specs below, the 900 SL does come equipped with some seriously high-end exotica, and it’s clear that Scott is aiming the Lumen at the most premium end of the market. Is it worth it? We’ll have a test bike arriving in the near future, and we’re eager to see how it handles our local trails compared to the Levo SL, Rise and Fuel EXe that we’ve tested previously.
23 Scott Lumen eRIDE 900 SL
- Frame | HMX Carbon Fibre, IST Flex Pivot Suspension Design, 130mm Travel
- Fork | Fox 34, Factory Series, FIT4 Damper, 44mm Offset, 130mm Travel
- Shock | Fox Nude 5T, Factory Series, 165x45mm
- Remote | TwinLoc 3-Position: Descend, Traction Control Lockout
- Motor | TQ HPR50, 50Nm Peak Torque
- Battery | TQ 360Wh 160Wh Range Extender
- Wheels | Syncros Silverton SL2-30, Carbon Rims, 30mm Inner Width
- Tyres | Schwalbe Wicked Will, Super Race Casing, ADDIX Soft Front ADDIX Speed Rear, 2.4in Wide
- Drivetrain | SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS 1×12 w/34T FSA Carbon Crankset 10-52T Cassette
- Brakes | Shimano XTR 4-Piston w/180mm Rotors
- Bar | Syncros Fraser iC SL DC Carbon, Mini Rise, 760mm Width
- Stem | Syncros Fraser iC SL DC Carbon, Length: 50mm (S), 60mm (M), 70mm (L-XL)
- Seatpost | Fox Transfer, Factory Series, 31.6mm Diameter, Travel: 125mm (S), 150mm (M-L), 175mm (XL)
- Saddle | Syncros Tofino 1.0, Carbon Rails
- Claimed Weight | 15.5kg
- RRP | 25,599 AUD
23 Scott Lumen eRIDE 900
- Frame | HMX Carbon Fibre, IST Flex Pivot Suspension Design, 130mm Travel
- Fork | Fox 34, Performance Elite, FIT4 Damper, 44mm Offset, 130mm Travel
- Shock | Fox Nude 5T, 165x45mm
- Remote | TwinLoc 3-Position: Descend, Traction Control Lockout
- Motor | TQ HPR50, 50Nm Peak Torque
- Battery | TQ 360Wh
- Wheels | Syncros Silverton 1.5-30, Alloy Rims, 30mm Inner Width
- Tyres | Schwalbe Wicked Will, Super Race Casing, ADDIX Soft Front ADDIX Speed Rear, 2.4in Wide
- Drivetrain | SRAM GX Eagle AXS 1×12 w/34T FSA Carbon Crankset 10-52T Cassette
- Brakes | Shimano XT 4-Piston w/180mm Rotors
- Bar | Syncros Fraser iC SL DC Carbon, Mini Rise, 760mm Width
- Stem | Syncros Fraser iC SL DC Carbon, Length: 50mm (S), 60mm (M), 70mm (L-XL)
- Seatpost | Fox Transfer, 31.6mm Diameter, Travel: 125mm (S), 150mm (M-L), 175mm (XL)
- Saddle | Syncros Tofino 1.5, Titanium Rails
- Claimed Weight | 16.3kg
- RRP | 17,599 AUD
23 Scott Lumen eRIDE 910
- Frame | HMX Carbon Fibre, IST Flex Pivot Suspension Design, 130mm Travel
- Fork | Fox 34 Rhythm, GRIP Damper, 44mm Offset, 130mm Travel
- Shock | Fox Nude 5T, 165x45mm
- Remote | TwinLoc 3-Position: Descend, Traction Control Lockout
- Motor | TQ HPR50, 50Nm Peak Torque
- Battery | TQ 360Wh
- Wheels | Formula Hubs Syncros X-30SE Alloy Rims, 30mm Inner Width
- Tyres | Schwalbe Wicked Will, Super Race Casing, ADDIX Soft Front ADDIX Speed Rear, 2.4in Wide
- Drivetrain | Shimano Deore 1×12 w/34T FSA Alloy Crankset 10-52T Cassette
- Brakes | Shimano Deore 4-Piston w/180mm Rotors
- Bar | Syncros Fraser 2.0 DC Alloy, Mini Rise, 760mm Width
- Stem | Syncros DC Alloy, Length: 50mm (S), 60mm (M), 70mm (L-XL)
- Seatpost | Syncros Duncan 2.0, 31.6mm Diameter, Travel: 125mm (S-M), 150mm (L), 170mm (XL)
- Saddle | Syncros Tofino 1.5, Titanium Rails
- Claimed Weight | 17.6kg
- RRP | 12,799 AUD
Copyright © 2023 Flow Mountain Bike
light e-bikes you should know about
Electric mountain bikes have been gaining popularity in recent years, especially among adventure enthusiasts who enjoy hitting the rugged terrain of mountains and forests.
The addition of electric assistance has made it possible for riders to cover more ground and tackle tougher trails. However, one of the biggest concerns among e-mountain bike enthusiasts is the weight of the bike.
A lighter bike is easier to maneuver and provides more agility, making it ideal for the trails.
Canyon Spectral: ON
The Canyon Spectral: ON is a versatile electric mountain bike that is perfect for both trail and enduro riding. It weighs just 21.9 kg, thanks to its lightweight carbon frame and battery technology.
The bike features a powerful Shimano EP8 motor and a battery capacity of 900 Wh capable of providing an impressive range of up to 60 km on a single charge.
Pivot Shuttle SL
The Pivot Shuttle SL is another great option for those looking for a light electric mountain bike. It weighs just 16.44 kg thanks to its carbon frame and innovative design that delivers high performance and reliability. The bike is powered by a A 60Nm FAZUA motor, combined with a 430Wh battery, and three different assist modes. It also features a long-range and no removable battery that makes the bike silent and sleek looking.
Trek Powerfly LT 9.9
The Trek Powerfly LT 9.9 is a high-performance and full suspension electric mountain bike that is designed to tackle the toughest trails. It weighs about 22.5 kg, thanks to its lightweight carbon frame and wheels.
The bike features a powerful Bosch Performance CX. a 500wh battery, and the best quality components of the PowerFly series. This e-bike is a sure bet for a long enjoyable ride.
Haibike XDURO AllMtn 10.0
The Haibike XDURO AllMtn 10.0 is a premium electric mountain bike that is designed for the most demanding riders. It weighs just 24.7 kg, thanks to its lightweight aluminum frame and battery technology which makes it easy to dominate all mountain excursions and steep climbs.
The bike features a powerful Yamaha PW-X3 motor and battery capacity of 720 Wh that offers plenty of capacity for long rides on a single charge.
Specialized Turbo Levo SL Comp
The Specialized Turbo Levo SL is a top-of-the-line electric mountain bike that is designed to provide an incredibly smooth and responsive ride. It weighs just 19 kg thanks to its lightweight carbon frame and small battery with capacity of 320 Wh. It also features a powerful Specialized SL 1.1 lightweight motor.
Our conclusion
In conclusion, a light electric mountain bike is essential for riders who want to experience the thrill of the trails without the added weight of a traditional mountain bike. The bikes listed above are some of the best on the market and offer a range of features that make them ideal for off-road riding.
Whether you choose to ride conventional or e-bikes, it is also important to use proper frame protection. The AMS E-bike frame protection is essential to protect your investment from scratches, dings, and other damage that can occur while riding. Make sure to invest in a quality e-bike frame protection to keep your bike looking and performing its best for years to come.
Carles Carrera
Carles’ passion for Enduro MTB ignited the creation of AMS. Nowadays, you’re more likely to find him speeding along scenic gravel paths, enjoying the thrill of his gravel bike.
Best electric bikes 2023 for every kind of rider
If you’re looking for the best electric bikes, there are a lot to choose from, with electric motors and batteries added to a wide range of bikes to add extra power.
Electric road bikes will come with dropped handlebars and favour low weight, whilst electric hybrid bikes will come with flat bars, wider tyres and accessories to aid commuters – such as mudguards and lights. Electric folding bikes are useful if part of your journey involves train travel or you’re short on space.
Here at Cycling Weekly, we’ve reviewed bikes from these three categories and there are links to our more detailed reviews for each bike in this guide. Our testing involves a range of routes and ride lengths and our highly experienced team of testers understands what makes a good bike and what to look for in the best electric bikes.
Electric bikes can be expensive, but there are options too if you’re looking to keep costs low with starting from around 1,000: check out the best budget electric bikes. If you’re into tinkering with your bike, you might also want to look at the best electric bike conversion kits as an alternative to buying a completely new electric bike.
Women may benefit from female specific components on the best women’s electric bikes, and if you’re venturing off-road, check out the best electric gravel bikes.
If you’re looking for the best electric mountain bike though, follow this link to head over to our sister publication MBR which specialises in mountain biking.
Top picks
Here’s a quick look at our top choices from the best electric bikes, including a folding option.
The Specialized Turbo Vado is designed for fast urban riding but with its suspension fork and wider tires it can also handle rougher roads.
There’s a lot of clever tech in the aviation-inspired Gocycle G4i, with a neat folding mechanism, lightweight frame and decent mileage from its internal battery.
The Giant Fastride’s neatly integrated battery and quality spec make it a great option for the commute, with wide gear range and hydraulic disc brakes.
If your e-bike riding heads off-road, the Neo Carbon Lefty has front and rear suspension and a powerful Bosch motor to help you up the hills.
The Cento1 Hybrid takes Wilier’s race bike pedigree and inserts a rear hub motor in a stealth package that keeps the bike’s performance and doesn’t add too much weight.
The classic Brompton with the same folding mechanism, but with a front hub motor and battery housed in a neat removeable bag.
Our pick of the best electric bikes
You can trust Cycling Weekly.
Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.
Best Electric Hybrid bikes
Electric hybrid bikes are the fastest selling style. Their flat bars, usually wide tyre, and commute friendly fittings. such as mudguard mounts and rack mounts. make them extremely practical machines.
The motor can be housed in the rear hub, or at the cranks, and the torque will vary. low torque models offer a natural pedalling assistance, but high torque versions will move off the lights more quickly.
Reasons to avoid
The Ribble Hybrid AL e is a road-going hybrid bike that’s equally at home on gravel paths and trails, with a comfortable and confidence-inspiring upright riding position, so great for returning or newbie riders.
For us, we think the bike is one of the best looking hybrids we’ve ever come across, with the design hiding away the motor incredibly well, although we were a little sad that adjusting the seat post left behind scratch marks. The fully loaded package includes fenders (mudguards), lights and a rear rack making it perfect as a daily commuter or for ditching the car when going to the store, although we did find these a little rattily on test.
The Ebikemotion motor delivers its power smoothly and efficiently and offers long-range in between charges, making the Ribble far more than just an A to B bike.
Understandably it doesn’t perform in the same way as the Canyon Grail:ON in terms of fast and tight torque, but tap along and it will tick over nicely, taking the top off any strenuous rides.
With all the added extras as standard and classy looks, the Ribble Hybrid AL e is a great electric bike for the money.
Reasons to avoid
A fun ride that’s great in urban environments but also provides a confidence-inspiring ride on rougher terrain is what the Specialized Turbo Vado is all about.
If you’re after a bike that is fully integrated with lights, fenders and rack (27kg capacity) as well as security (on the App removable battery using a key), then this represents a straight forward choice. Only the weight, and to a lesser degree cost, need consideration.
We found the 70Nm/250W custom-tuned motor applies power seamlessly and powerfully as soon as you push down on the pedals. Range is excellent too. 95-130km / 60-80 miles should be easily attainable using the default settings of “Sport’ and ‘50% power’. There is an Eco mode as well as Turbo, so if you’re careful you can expect much greater range.
It is a heavy machine at 60lbs/ 27kg, so not easy to lift, so anyone needing to navigate steps in or out of the bike’s storage place will need to take this into consideration, but aside from that we found the Specialized Vado Turbo to be a joy to ride.
Reasons to avoid
We absolutely loved zooming around on the speedy Ride1Up Roadster V2 with its five levels of power assist. If you’re anything like us and are more used to training and racing on standard road bikes it can easily become your guilty pleasure. it’s fantastic fun to ride.
The bike was so quiet, even on level 5, convincing onlookers that our tester had to be some kind of super Hero to ride so fast up 15 per cent climbs. The only downside. in common with other e-bikes that only assist when you’re pedalling. was where there was a requirement for a hill start, the cranks had to be turned over in order to get the motor to engage, creating a pregnant pause at the lights, before vavavooming off.
The claimed 24mph maximum assisted speed (in the US) needs input from the pedals to reach on the flats, but without a doubt it’s noticeable downhill, where other bikes, such as the Wilier Cento1Hy Ultegra Di2 e-bike auto assist would cut out and slow you down.
This extra speed also puts the bike into a class 3 e-bike, meaning that it doesn’t meet EAPC rules in the UK, but that’s by the by as US brand Ride1Up doesn’t currently ship there.
If you are in a country lucky enough to be shipped to: the US, Canada and Mexico, then it’s a great option and one that has a very high fun-to-dollar ratio.
Ride1Up is a direct-to-consumer brand. check out the Roadster V2 on its website here.
Reasons to avoid
The Canyon Precede:ON is an efficient automatic transmission city bike that performs well in multi-terrain settings whether for utility or for leisure purposes thanks to a powerful motor and control panel.
With built-in accessories such as lights, mudguards, rack and kickstand all the trappings are there to make for a comfortable ride with style straight out the box. All these add ons however do make it one of the heaviest e-bikes on the market, even heavier than the Specialized Turbo Vado.
We really loved the Canyon Grail: On and it’s great to see the Precede:ON also be kitted with the Bosch Performance Line CX motor, although ideally we would love to see a little more juice in the battery to support the other impressive spec.
With everything you need straight out the box, including navigation system and lights, it’s the easiest way to swap driving/ public transport for a bike, but it is at the higher end price tag wise. There are a couple of models to choose from, which also takes the cost down a touch, but with a six year guarantee, it could be a savvy investment.
The only other point to note is that Canyon has a direct sales model, so you’ll have to buy directly from the brand here.
Reasons to avoid
The Giant Fastroad E Pro is another road-going hybrid bike with flat handlebars to promote a comfortable ride position for even the rustiest of riders, in fact we enjoyed riding this great electric hybrid road bike so much we gave it a Cycling Weekly Editor’s Choice Award.
The tyres provide plenty of squish and the ability to go lightly off-road. However on test we found the aluminium frame and fork quite stiff, which will suit those used to a traditional road bike’s feel and riders looking for a speedy commute, but worth bearing in mind if you’re used to a softer hybrid feel.
We really liked the bike’s integration of the battery, which can often be a design factor forgotten about on hybrid bikes. We were also really impressed to see the spec on the FastRoad, with hydraulic disc brakes and quality Shimano shifting, with a compact chainset and wide range cassette at the rear to provide plenty of gears for the hills all making an appearance.
A great electric hybrid bike for a fair price that will have a lot of appeal to lots of different riders.
Reasons to avoid
With its 36V battery, which should give around 70 miles of juice, hooked up to a mid-drive motor, we found that the Volt Infinity electric bike gave a nice balanced feel to the bike.
Shimano provides the power in the form of 8-speed Alfine Di2 hub Shimano Steps, the highly regarded motor and e-bike specific groupset.
Three different assistance modes will let you get the most out of that battery and the display mounted on the front will make it easy to keep track and we loved that the torque sensor picked up when we were flagging and gave us a little boost to help us along our way.
Previously similar to the Carrera Subway E, it’s had a bit of a make over and it’s now much more visually integrated than the previous model that we tested, although it’s still without a quick release rear wheel, making investing in the best puncture-proof tyres or inner tubes a shrewd investment.
The only real downside is the one size fits all. Great if it does fit you, not so much if it doesn’t.
Best Electric Folding Bikes
Folding electric bikes are practical if you have a train journey forming part of your trip or are low on space. Being small, the battery and motor can represent a large percentage of the weight, so the FOCUS is often on reducing this as much as possible.
Mileage on folding bikes is often low, since they’re typically used to ride to and from train stations, so battery range isn’t always a major consideration.
If you are considering going for a folder, you might find our buying guide page dedicated to helping you find the best folding bikes a useful read.
Reasons to avoid
We absolutely loved the Brompton Electric bike when we took it out for a spin, finding it to be the perfect bike for commuting in traffic and then stowing well out of the way post-ride.
The brand is considered by many as the gold standard of folding bikes, and the Brompton Electric is clearly cast from the same mould.
As typical with any Brompton bike, the brand has taken full control of the engineering, so everything from frame to motor has been designed in house. Brompton however has called upon the experiences of Williams Advanced Engineering when it comes to the motor, developing a bespoke lightweight removable battery and motor.
As you would expect when a team of Formula One engineers get under the bonnet of the Brompton Electric, the small, but perfectly formed motor has excelled, delivering power smoothly, safely and exactly when you need it.
The frame is the usual Brompton high standard, and while one size, keeps the ability to choose handlebars, seatpost heights and even saddle widths. There are six speeds, giving you plenty to play with when you hit a hill.
Whatever your final set up, you can rest assured as to the bike’s foldability, which is one of the reasons why Brompton stands out from the folding bike crowd. Its folded footprint is one of the smallest out there: 565mm high x 585mm wide x 270mm long (22.2″ x 23″ x 10.6″). This means it’s highly portable and capable of stowing in the smallest of spaces, although be warned, due to the independent motor and battery pack, you’ll find yourself with two hands full, so best to invest in a rucksack for your other belongings.
On test we felt this was an absolute dream of a bike, in fact, we went as far as calling it a transport gamechanger. If you’re worried by the 17kg-plus weight, there’s now the Brompton Electric P Line bike, which uses lighter frame materials to drop the claimed weight down to 15.6kg.
Reasons to avoid
The G4i is a solid choice for a commuter, with the option to add many accessories such as mudguards (fenders), a front and rear pannier rack, integrated lights, lock holster and a travel case.
The design folds in half, so that you can push it on its wheels rather than needing to carry it, or you can fully fold it into a compact package. There’s built-in rear suspension, concealed cabling and a fully enclosed drivetrain.
It features a discreetly integrated USB port on the handlebar, enabling owners to charge their phone or other small devices from the bike’s battery when not in use. although we found the quality of the integrated phone mount didn’t quite match that of the bike itself. The same goes for the LED display, which we found to be rather basic. although the information it provides is useful.
It’s also likely to be pretty low-maintenance given that the drivetrain is completely enclosed. This makes sense, given that commuting year round usually means cycling in the wet at some point. The G4i utilizes a Shimano Nexus 3 speed internally geared hub. With 1” of elastomer suspension and 2.35” wide tyres, it is one of the more comfortable small wheelers. Single-sided wheel attachment means you don’t even have to remove the wheel, should you puncture one of the 20” wheels.
The 500W (250W in the UK/EU) G4 electric motor and 375Wh Lithium-ion battery is claimed to provide a range of up to 80km (50mi), but the most we managed to get out of it was just 44km (27mi). To be fair, that was in one of the more ‘assisted’ modes and I always had the daytime running lights on. and the city of Bath is well known for its brutally steep hills.
The bike is available from 17.6kg / 38.8lbs. However, as the weight is centred low on the frame, this at least makes the ride more stable. The folding mechanism has been improved since previous versions and can be quickly collapsed into a small package. Gocycle says this can be done in as little as ten seconds; we found it was closer to 20.
Best Hardtail Electric Mountain Bikes in 2023
Hardtail e-MTBs are great for many riders due to their versatility. They allow riders to tackle mountain trails and urban roads equally – making for great all-around bikes. Additionally, with the aid of a motor, riders can go for longer distances, ride on softer surfaces, and fly up steep gradients.
Like with the purchase of any new bike, choosing an electric mountain bike requires thought and consideration of your needs and abilities as a rider, as well as your budget.
Why Choose a Hardtail Over a Full-Suspension Bike?
A hardtail e-bike has a few distinct advantages over full suspension alternatives:
- They use fewer parts and have less design complexity, as a result, hardtail bikes are almost always cheaper.
- Hardtail bikes are lighter. The rear suspension can be quite heavy especially in lower-priced bikes.
- They are faster on roads, going uphill, and on smooth trails. This is because suspension absorbs a good chunk of momentum on some of the force you put into the pedals.
- Easier, cheaper maintenance. Adding extra components means more complicated and expensive maintenance and repair.
- Beginner-friendly. Hardtail bikes are better and easily adaptable by new mountain bikers.
The 13 Best Hardtail Electric Mountain Bikes of 2023
Trek Powerfly 4 Gen 4
Best value hardtail electric mountain bike
Class 1 eBike – 20 mph | Mid-Drive Motor | Torque: 85 Nm | 500Wh Bosch Battery | Range: 3-5 hours
- Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame
- SR Suntour XCM 34 coil fork (80-120 mm)
- 27.5″ or 29″ tires
- 10-Speed Shimano Deore
- Tektro HD-M275 Hydraulic Brakes
- Weight: 52.78 lb
Trek Powerfly 4 Gen 4 is Trek’s only hardtail electric mountain bike at the moment. It’s a versatile entry-level e-MTB suitable for XC riding, gravel exploring, and light singletrack.
The Powerfly 4 boasts a Bosch Performance CX 250W mid-drive motor with 85 Nm of torque, combined with a 500 Wh battery pack integrated into the down tube. That leaves room for two water bottle cages in the main triangle.
The SR Suntour XCM 34 coil fork is not impressive by any means, but it will get the job done for most rides out there. It adds a bit of weight but smooths the ride out nicely.
The Powerfly 4 also comes with a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain and Tektro’s hydraulic disc brakes, so you’re all set for climbing and descending.
All in all, Trek Powerfly 4 is a very competitive choice by USA’s biggest bike manufacturer, equipped with great electronics and capable drivetrain and brakes.
Ride1UP – Prodigy XC
Best high-quality budget-friendly class 3 e-bike
Class 3 eBike – 28mph | Mid-Drive Motor | Torque: 90nm | 504Wh Samsung Battery | Range: 30-50mi
- Lightweight Alloy Frame
- 120mm Travel, Air Suspension
- 27.5×2.4″ Maxxis Forekaster Tires
- 9-Speed Shimano Alivio
- Tektro HD-M290 Hydraulic Brakes, 180mm Rotors
- Weight: 48 lbs
Ride1UP’s Prodigy hardtail (also called XC model) is their highest spec e-bike which is optimized for off-road performance.
The Prodigy has tons of power in its electronics beginning with a Brose 250W/90Nm mid-drive motor which delivers super-smooth power using torque sensing technology.
The juice comes from a large 504Wh Samsung battery which provides ranges between 30 and 50 miles. Additionally, you can rely on a 9-speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain to get you the rest of the way.
Grippy 2.4″ Maxxis Forekaster tires, a 120mm air suspension fork, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and balanced geometry combine for excellent handling and ride quality on varied terrain.
Juiced Bikes – RipCurrent S
Supercharged electric touring and an urban hardtail
Class 3 eBike – 28mph | 1,000W Rear Gear Hub motor | Torque: N/A | 998Wh Battery
- Custom Aluminum Heat-Treated Frame
- Air Suspension
- 26×4″ Tires
- 9-Speed drivetrain
- Hydraulic Brakes
Juiced Bikes’ RipCurrent S hardtail is an e-bike with the purpose of opening up opportunities for adventure that were previously out of reach.
This thoughtfully designed bike is perfect for touring with its 70 miles of range. Starting with an aluminum frame that supports heavy loads including fully packed frame bags without sacrificing stability or compromising the frame.
A huge 1000W geared hub motor provides plenty of power to get you up steep hills or across soft trails. Powered by a 998Wh battery and a 9-Speed drivetrain you can expect long ranges.
Finally, air suspension, 4″ fat tires, and powerful hydraulic disc brakes provide smooth and confident riding on or off-road.
Aventon – Aventure.2
Motor – 750W Hub | Battery – 720Wh
- Aluminum frame
- Suspension fork, 80mm travel
- 26 x 4″ tires
- 8-speed Shimano Acera
- Hydraulic disc, 180mm rotors
The Aventon Aventure.2 electric bike is a versatile hardtail with an entry-level price and a premium ride feel.
Whether going up or downhill, this Class 3 electric bike can do it all in style. Starting out with a set of powerful electronics, including a 750W motor and 720Wh battery. Combine this with the 8-speed Shimano drivetrain, and you can achieve ranges up to 60 miles.
Finally, 180mm-rotor hydraulic disc brakes, 4″ tires, and an 80mm fork all ensure this bike handles well and feels comfortable on technical trails and in all weather conditions.
Giant – Talon E 3
- Aluminum 6061
- SR Suntour XCM ATB 100mm travel
- Class 1 eBike – 20mph
- 250W mid-drive motor – Giant SyncDrive Core, 50Nm
- 400Wh battery – Giant EnergyPak
- Tektro HD-M275, hydraulic disc brakes
- Shimano Altus 9-speed drivetrain
The Giant Talon E 3 is a great mid-range choice with all the components needed to deliver a smooth and fast ride on or off the trail.
This plus-sized hardtail eMTB has solid power and range from the own-brand battery and motor combo. This includes a 50Nm/250W mid-drive motor and a 400Wh battery giving you all you need for long hard days in the saddle.
Basic components reflect the cheap price of this bike. These include a heavy Suntour coil fork with 100mm travel, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and Maxxis Rekon 2.4″ tires. Overall, this bike handles well on light off-road terrain.
Rocky Mountain – Growler Powerplay 30
Sleek e-MTB with trail optimized geometry
MSRP: 4,199 Jenson USA
Class 1 eBike – 20mph | Dyname 3.0, 108Nm Mid-Drive Motor | 643Wh battery | Range: N/A
- FORM Alloy Aluminum frame
- Suntour XCR34 air suspension, 130mm travel
- 27.5×2.8″ Maxxis Rekon tires
- Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain
- Shimano MT4100 hydraulic brakes
Rocky Mountain’s Growler Powerplay 30 is a popular mid-drive e-bike that easily outperforms its price.
Hit the trails in style and with confidence using this well-balanced, smooth, and powerful e-MTB. Using Dyname 3.0 electronics you can be sure of consistent and accurate pedal assistance with a huge 108Nm of torque. The fast-charging 643Wh motor is fully-integrated and almost undetectable in the downtube, providing you with tons of range for a day or two on the trail.
Classic hardtail design and trustworthy components ensure the Rocky Mountain Growler Powerplay 30 delivers a balanced and lively ride quality. 27.5″ wheels, 2.8″ Maxxis Rekon tires, 130mm travel XCR34 air suspension, and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes all contribute to this premium experience.
QuietKat – Apex
Best fat tire exploration hardtail e-bike by QuietKat
Class 2 eBike – 20-28mph | 750W / 1000W / 1,500W Mid-Drive Motor | 696Wh / 840Wh Battery | Range: Up to 58mi
- 150mm Travel, Inverted Air Suspension
- 26×4.5″ Kenda Juggernaut Tires
- 9-Speed SRAM
- Tektro 4-Piston Hydraulic Brakes
- Weight: 71 lbs
Quietkat’s Apex is the hunting e-bike brand’s highest quality hardtail choice. With this model, you can tackle extreme conditions with confidence and rely on a lifetime frame warranty.
This unusual hardtail e-bike comes with the added benefit of an integrated pannier rack which allows you to increase load capacity without compromising stability.
When purchasing, you can choose between 750W, 1000W, or 1500W mid-drive motors for your bike. Depending on the motor size you choose your bike will provide you up to 58 miles of range thanks to a 696Wh / 840Wh battery.
Best Electric Hunting Bikes of 2023
For any outdoors person, an electric off-road bike or hunting bike is the perfect tool to support your trips and.
To ensure great control and handling on varied terrain this powerful bike includes 4-Piston hydraulic disc brakes, a QuietKat 150mm travel fork, and 4.5″ Kenda Juggernaut puncture-resistant tires.
Size Recommendations
15″: Under 5’6″ 17″: 5’6″ – 6′ 19″: 6’
Orbea – Keram 30
A fast hardtail with quality electronics
Class 1 eBike – 20mph | 250W mid-drive motor | Torque: 40Nm | 400Wh Battery
- SR Suntour X1 Coil LO, 100mm travel
- Kenda K1153 2.35″
- 1×10-Speed Shimano Deore M4100/M5120
- Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc
The Orbea Keram 30 is a low-travel hardtail with an affordable price and components from leading manufacturers.
This bike shows off excellent Bosch electronics. This includes a 400Wh integrated battery and an Active Line mid-drive 250W motor that assists up to 20mph.
The frame on this bike is a hydroformed 6061 aluminum with integrated cabling. Finally, a lockable Suntour X1 Coil 100mm fork, 2.35″ Kenda K1153 cross-country tires, Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, and a smooth-shifting Deore drivetrain round out a great value e-bike.
Vvolt – Sirius
Class 1 or 3 eBike – 20/28mph | 250W 80Nm MPF Mid-Drive Motor | 375Wh CelXpert Downtube
- Aluminum frame
- Air suspension fork, 100mm
- 2.4″ mixed-terrain tires
- Enviolo 380% TR hub
- Hydraulic disc brakes, 160mm rotors
Vvolt’s Sirius hardtail e-bike is a fast and capable choice designed to tackle urban rides or hit the trails without breaking a sweat.
The aluminum frame is light and strong and features internal cabling, rack and fender mounts, and a rear kickstand.
The Sirius has a mid-drive motor with 80Nm of torque and a 375Wh battery that returns a modest 20 to 40 miles of range. The Enviolo hub and Gates Carbon belt drive make for smooth and reliable shifting that doesn’t lose efficiency.
Finally, a 100mm air suspension fork, 2.4″ knobbly tires, and hydraulic disc brakes give you plenty of confidence when the conditions become difficult.
Charge – XC
Cheap hardtail equipped with an urban setup
Class 1 eBike – 20mph | 250W Shimano E7000 | Torque: 60Nm | 504Wh Battery | Range: Up to 50mi
- Aluminum alloy frame
- SR Suntour XCM 34 Coil suspension fork
- Goodyear Peak 29 x 2.25″ tires
- Shimano Altus 8-speed
- Shimano MT200 Hydraulic discs
Charge’s XC hardtail e-bike is an option with trail geometry, powerful electronics, and a fully-equipped commuter setup that allows riders to take on any adventure on or off-road.
This e-MTB uses Shimano’s E7000 60Nm mid-drive, a large 504Wh battery, and a Shimano Altus 8-speed drivetrain to get max ranges of 50 miles.
The geometry of the Charge XC makes for confidence-inspiring handling on fast, flowy mountain trails. Finally, components like hydraulic disc brakes, 100mm fork suspension, and 2.25″ XC-style tires further boost the capability of this bike.
Ancheer – Sunshine AT1
Class 1 eBike – 20mph | 350W high-speed brushless gear motor | 374Wh Battery | Range: Up to 40mi
- Aluminum Frame
- Fork suspension
- 26×1.95″ Tires
- 21-Speed Shimano drivetrain
- Dual mechanical disc brakes
The Sunshine by Ancheer is a super-cheap hardtail e-MTB with a decent range and durable build.
For power, this bike has a 350W motor supported by a 374Wh integrated battery which delivers ranges up to 40 miles. Additionally, you have a reliable 3×7-speed Shimano drivetrain you can always find the right gear.
Finally, snappy 26″ wheels, fork suspension, 1.95″ tires, and mechanical disc brakes all combine to give you confidence and control on and off the trail.
Liv Tempt E 3
Class 1 eBike – 20mph | SyncDrive Core Mid-Drive Motor | Torque: 50nm | 400Wh Battery
- Aluminum frame
- SR Suntour XCM ATB Coil 100mm travel
- Maxxis Rekon 2.40″
- microSHIFT Advent, 9-speed
- Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic brakes
The Tempt E 3 by Liv is a cheap hardtail e-bike from the female-specific brand. The aluminum frame is sleek, with integrated wiring and electronics.
Power comes from a smooth torque-sensing Giant SyncDrive mid-drive motor with 50Nm of torque. This motor is complemented by a 400Wh battery and a reliable 9-Speed microSHIFT drivetrain.
Finally, solid Maxxis Rekon tires, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, 100mm travel suspension, and trail-specific geometry make the Tempt E 3 a joy to ride.
Rambo – Roamer
Class 3 eBike – 28mph | 750W Bafang mid-drive motor | Torque: 120Nm | 672Wh battery
- 6061 Aluminum Frame
- GT MRK suspension fork
- Kenda Krusade anti-puncture 26″ x 4.0″ tires
- 1×8-Speed Shimano
- Logan HD-E500 hydraulic brakes, 180mm rotors
The Rambo Roamer is an electric hardtail bike built to handle the demands of hunting, angling, and camping trips.
This bike has huge power from its 750W Bafang mid-drive motor, which allows you to tow a full trailer and maximize the 300lb payload capacity. The battery has 672Wh of juice which returns a modest max range of 35 miles.
Rambo uses durable off-road components like puncture-resistant Kenda Krusade 4″ fat tires, fork suspension, and hydraulic disc brakes to ensure you can tackle extreme backcountry terrain.
Finally, this bike has valuable extras like a kickstand, a large LCD display, USB charging, and compatibility with a range of accessories to make your trips more convenient.
Rad Power Bikes – RadRover 6 Plus
Entry-level e-bike perfect for light trails and urban riding alike
750W hub motor | Torque: 80Nm | 672Wh battery | Range: 25-45mi
- Aluminum frame
- 60mm travel fork suspension
- Kenda Juggernaut 26″ x 4″ tires
- Shimano Altus 7-Speed
- NUTT Hydraulic discs
Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus is a fat tire e-bike with an affordable price tag and decent components, perfect for mountain bikers who want urban functionality.
The RadRover 6 Plus comes with a powerful 750W, 80Nm hub motor, which, when combined with a large 672Wh battery and a 7-speed Altus drivetrain, provides 45 miles of range.
In order to perform well on trails, this bike comes with 60mm travel suspension, 4″ Kenda fat tires, hydraulic disc brakes, and a durable 6061 aluminum alloy frame.
Electric Hardtail Bikes Guide
What is a hardtail e-MTB?
Hardtail electric mountain bikes are those MTB models with fork suspension only. This is compared to full-suspension MTBs which have an additional rear shock suspension.
What is the Intended Use of Trail eMTBs?
This type of bike is perfect for light to moderate mountain trails with equal ability to climb and descend. With the help of a motor and battery, these bikes open up tough and demanding rides that may have previously been out of reach.
Additionally, you can use your electric trail mountain bike for regular riding on roads and around your town or city. They provide a comfortable and efficient way of getting around and often times have compatibility with fenders, pannier racks, and other convenient commuter accessories.
Mid-Drive vs Hub-Drive Motor Differences
In terms of mountain biking, mid-drive motors are far superior to the cheaper, less efficient, and heavier hub-drive alternatives.
For climbing hills, mid-drive motors provide smooth and consistent power from an efficient RPM. This also makes it easier to find traction on softer surfaces. However, if you have an issue with your chain you will have to push your bike because mid-drive motors rely on the drivetrain to be intact whereas hub-drive motors do not.
Most Important Components
- Frame – a durable, lightweight frame with specific hardtail geometry will help ensure a comfortable, controlled ride. High-quality aluminum alloy or carbon fiber are generally the best for this style of bike
- Suspension – hardtails rely on fork suspension to do the heavy lifting when it comes to shock absorption. High travel suspension helps with stability and control on the rough trails
- Brakes – powerful disc brakes are essential to keep you safe as possible while trail riding. These breaks give you the best stopping power in poor conditions and on soft surfaces while also giving you the ability to stop in an instant. Hydraulic disc brakes with large rotors do this best
- Tires – wide knobby MTB tires are key for providing traction and stability on loose surfaces giving you the ability to corner safely. The perfect tire will give you a good balance of stability and maneuverability for technical trails
FAQs
Are Trail Hardtail E-Bikes Good?
Yes. They are great all-around bikes and the perfect choice for many types of riders especially those who like trails don’t require high-performance standards from their bike.
Hardtail Electric Bikes Climbing
This type of bike is the best mountain bike for climbing as less of your power is lost while pedaling compared to full suspension alternatives. The more suspension that you have and the higher the travel the more power is lost on each revolution.
Best Lightweight Affordable Ebikes: All Under 1,600 and 50 lbs!
It’s not surprising that ebikes are going to be heavier than traditional bikes. The added components such as the motor and battery are the two biggest factors when it comes to weight. Many bikes we see here at Ebike Escape are in the 65-75 lb range! That can be a lot of weight when trying to load it onto a bike rack! Heavier ebikes can also feel bulkier and unruly when riding, especially when you are not super comfortable on a bike.
If you want a lighter electric bike that is easier to manage, there are still ebikes that can fit the bill. Here is our list of the best lightweight and affordable ebikes!
Benefits of a lighter weight ebike
The two lightest ebikes on our list are only 33 lbs! With a lighter ebike, you will be giving up some power. Lighter-weight ebikes tend to have small batteries and/or smaller motors. They tend to be bikes designed for city riding with thinner tires and sleek appearances. Many of these bikes don’t include extras such as fenders or kickstands as a way to minimize weight.
As technology improves we will see lighter and lighter ebikes. Currently, some of the lightest ebikes are sub 30 lbs! That is even lighter than many traditional bikes but they will come with a price to match! Our review today will cover affordable and lightweight ebikes. If weight is more critical than price consider this list.
Without further ado, let’s get started with the best lightweight, but affordable electric bikes!
Ride1Up Roadster V2 at 33lbs: Tied for lightest ebike on our list
Let’s start with one of the lightest weight bikes of our lineup, Ride1Up’s Roadster V2 at only 33 lbs! It has a clean and simple design with a concealed battery. It is a quiet bike and it would be easy to mistake this ebike for a traditional bike. The Roadster V2 is priced at 1,095.
The frame comes in two sizes, 52 cm (for riders 5’3″-5’8″) and 58 cm (for riders 5’8″-6’3″). The weight capacity for the Ride1Up Roadster V2 is 300 lbs. Color options are pretty conservative and include burgundy, black, gray and silver.
There is a 350-watt nominal motor that peaks at 500 watts. This is a pretty average motor for a lightweight affordable ebike. The battery is a 36V, 7Ah battery with an advertised range of 20-30 miles. It has a compact LCD screen and 5 levels of pedal assist but no throttle. This is a class 3 ebike with a top speed of 24 mph with pedal assist.
The Roadster V2 is a single-speed with a Toptrans belt drive, it features Tektro R315 Dual Pivot rim brakes. Generally, it comes with Kenda Kwest 700cx28 road tires however there is an option for a gravel bike version. The gravel version of the V2 comes with larger tires and disc brakes for 1,245. The bigger tires will provide a bit more stability on looser surfaces and more confidence while stopping in any weather conditions. The Roadster V2 gravel is unquestionably the most affordable gravel ebike on the market. This bike is clean, simple, and LIGHT.
Ride1Up Core-5 at 49lbs: Powerful motor and large battery
In addition to the Roadster V2, Ride1Up has the Core-5 as another lightweight bike. This ebike is only 100 more than the Roadster V2, coming in at 1,195. It is offered in both a high step and step-through frame, both of which weigh in at 49 lbs.
For the extra 16 lbs, you get a significantly bigger motor at 750 watts and a bigger 48V, 10.4 Ah battery. This is both the biggest battery and the biggest motor on our list. The range is claimed to be 25-45 miles per charge, a big upgrade compared to the Roadster. Compared to the Roadster V2, which is a single-speed and no throttle, the Core-5 has a 7-speed Shimano shifter and derailleur and a thumb throttle. With a max speed of 28 mph with pedal assist and 20 mph with the throttle, the Core-5 comes shipped as a class 3 ebike. It has 5 pedal assist levels with a cadence sensor.
The step-through frame should fit riders from 5′ up to 6’1″ while the high-step fits riders from 5’6″ to 6’4″. The color options for the Core-5 include azure blue (shown above), mint, and midnight grey. Both lightweight Ride1Up bikes sport a 300 lbs payload capacity.
The Core-5 has Tektro mechanical brakes paired with 160 mm rotors. The tires are Kenda Kwick Seven 5 27.5″ x 2.2″ which are perfect for riding on pavement and perhaps even some hard packed gravel. Another perk you get for the extra 16 lbs compared to the Roadster V2, is a bright headlight that runs off the main battery. This bike does a great job of maximizing affordability while maintaining quality on the parts that matter. This bike does have a kickstand, but does not come with fenders. Fenders and a rear rack are available for purchase directly from Ride1Up.
Propella Mini at 33 lbs: Small wheels and only 799!
Propella has a host of ebikes that fall into the lightweight and affordable categories. These ebikes include their Mini, the SS, the 7S, and the 9S PRO! This is a great company for this type of bike!
The lightest ebike Propella offers is the Mini. It is currently only 799! That makes it one of the most affordable ebikes on this list as well as tied for the lightest! It has a high-step traditional appearing frame. It is ideal for riders between 5’2″ and 5’10” and the stand-over height is 22″. The bike has smaller tires than a typical bike, they are only 20″ x 1.75″. This makes the bike, small and nimble. It is perfect to fit into small living spaces or vehicles. The small wheels also mean this bike has increased climbing power and can handle hills with up to a 10% incline.
This super light, single-speed ebike comes with a 250-watt Bafang hub motor with a peak output of 400 watts. It includes a 36V 7Ah battery, made with Samsung cells. The company advertises a 20-35 mile range with pedal assist. There is an option to buy an extra battery if you need more range on any of the Propella bikes. This is a class 1 ebike with a top speed of 18 mph and no throttle. There are 5 levels of pedal assist available and it uses a cadence sensor. The Propella Mini has Shimano mechanical disc brakes. It has a matte black frame and blue rims. For a light ebike currently selling for less than 800, this is tough to beat!
Propella SS
The Propella SS comes in just a couple of pounds heavier than the mini at 35 lbs and comes in at just 999. Just like the Mini, it is a high-step, single-speed, class 1 ebike. It has the same battery and motor, but a slightly longer range of 20-40 miles. It also has the same LCD and Shimano mechanical disc brakes.
The main thing that differentiates the SS from the Mini is the tires and wheels. While the Mini has 20″ x 1.75″ tires which are small and nimble, the SS has 700 c X 35 wheels giving it a more traditional look. The standover height is about an inch higher at 23″ and the rider height range is a little taller going from 5’4″-6’2″.
Gearing between the SS and Mini is also a little different. The SS has 46T front chainring with a 16T rear freewheel, while the Mini has a 52T front chainring but the same 16T rear freewheel.
Propella 7S
Next up on the Propella lightweight ebike lineup is the Propella 7S. The price bumps up to 1,199 and the bike comes in at 37 lbs. This increased weight on this bike comes from the upgrade from single-speed to a Shimano Altus 7-speed shifter and derailleur. This offers a lot more options to allow the rider to power up hills with a combination of pedaling and pedal assist.
Many of the other features of the 7S are similar to the Mini and SS models. It has the same battery, motor, LCD display, and brakes. Like the other Propella ebikes, the 7S is a class 1 ebike. The 7S has same 46T front chainring as the SS as well as the same standover height and ideal rider height.
Check out our full review here.
Propella 9S PRO
The final Propella bike is the Propella 9S PRO coming in at 41 lbs and selling for 1,599. There are a ton of upgrades on the 9S compared to the other Propella ebikes. It has a larger Bafang rear hub motor at 350-watts with a peak of 500w. The battery is still 36V but bumps up to 10Ah. Even with a more powerful motor and bigger battery, this bike remains a class 1 ebike. As the name insinuates, the 9S is a 9-speed ebike and features a Shimano drivetrain.
The frame is also a high step with a slightly higher standover height of 23.6″. It is meant for slightly taller riders with an ideal height range of 5’5″-6’2″. The brakes get upgraded from the mechanical brakes on lighter models to hydraulic disc brakes with 160 mm rotors. With this ebike you get bigger 27.5″ x 2″ tires which should be able to handle some gravel and light off-road riding. This bike is bigger and more robust than the other Propella ebikes but still weighs in well under 50 lbs.
Lectric XP Lite at 49 lbs-A folding ebike for only 799!
Moving on from Propella, next we have a Lectric ebike. Lectric is a well-loved company and is known to have a great mix of quality and affordability. Their XP Lite is no exception. Along with the Propella Mini, the XP Lite shares the title for the most affordable lightweight bike on the Ebike Escape list coming in at only 799! Like all Lectric bikes, the XP Lite is a folding bike that ships fully assembled. The frame only comes in one size but fits a huge range of rider heights from 4’8″ to 6’2″. While the height range is generous, the weight capacity is only 250 lbs which could be limiting for some riders. Color options include classic black, arctic white, sandstorm, and electric blue. There is no front suspension on the XP lite, but you could easily add a suspension seat post for more comfort.
The motor is a 300-watt nominal and peaks at 720 watts. The battery is 48V, 7.8Ah (374.4-watt hours) and you can buy a second battery to have on hand if needed. The range on a single battery is 40 miles in pedal assist 1 and 15 miles in throttle only. The XP Lite is a single-speed ebike with 0-5 levels of pedal assist and has a cadence sensor. It has the same LCD display as the rest of the bikes on Lectric’s lineup. The XP Lite is a class 2 ebike with a top speed of 20 mph with pedal assist or throttle.
This bike has mechanical disc brakes with 160 mm rotors. The tires are 20′ x 2.4″ and have a tread pattern capable of handling some light off-road riding. It includes integrated front and tail lights, which aren’t always a given in such an affordable and light ebike.
This is a great bike for its price, weight, and size. It comes fully assembled and is easy to fold up and pack away for travel. It can handle some light hills, but due to the smaller battery and motor, it is not recommended to be trying to climb mountains with this bike.
Aventon Soltera at 41-43lbs with a mid-step option and bright frame colors
The Aventon Soltera gives you the option of a single-speed at 41 lbs and 1,199 or the 7-speed at 43 lbs and 1,299. It is a lightweight and agile bike. You have plenty of choice for size and color allowing for a wide range of rider heights and color preferences. They offer a high-step and what they call a step-through though I would consider it more of a mid-step. The smallest frame Aventon offers is the mid-step small/medium, ideal for riders as short as 4’11. And the largest frame offered is the high-step Large, which is ideal for riders up to 6’4″. The weight capacity of the Soltera is 300 lbs. Color options vary depending on which frame and drivetrain you choose but include fun options such as seafoam green, salmon pink, moonrock grey, onyx black, azure blue, and citrine.
Regardless of the drivetrain or frame design you choose, all the Aventon Soltera bikes come with a 350-watt rear hub motor. The battery is 36 V, 9.6 Ah (338.4-watt hours), and is integrated nicely into the bottom of the frame. The estimated range in ideal conditions is 41 miles. The display is a color LCD screen with app sync functionality. This is the same display Aventon offers on their more expensive bikes. This is a class 2 ebike with a max speed of 20 mph It has both pedal assist and a throttle. You also have the option of disconnecting the throttle to make this a class 1 ebike.
The brakes on the 7-speed drivetrain model are mechanical disc brakes with 160 mm rotors. While the single-speed Soltera has Tektro Caliper rim brakes. Both versions of this bike have thin Kendra 700 c x 35 x road tires but no quick release. This bike is one of the few to include integrated front and rear lights. The rear lights are nicely integrated into the frame and illuminate when the brakes are applied. In such an affordable and light ebike this is a stand-out feature both on paper and on the road.
Aventon Pace 350 at 49 lbs with a cruiser type frame and step-through option
The Aventon Pace 350 just skirts under our weight limit coming in at 49 lbs and is priced at 1,399. This bike is similar to Aventon’s Soltera with a few notable differences. The Soltera is a more traditional road bike whereas the Pace 350 is more of an up-right cruiser-style bike. The Pace 350 is offered in both a high-step and a true step-through. Between the two different frame styles, there are various frame sizes that fit a wide range of riders from 4’11” to 6’4″. Colors are mostly neutral, however they do also have plum purple.
The Aventon Pace 350 has a larger battery than the Soltera coming in at 36V and 11.6Ah battery (410.4-watt hours). The tires on the Pace are larger at 27.5″ x 2.2″. Other features including the display, pedal assist, throttle, max speed, brakes, and lights are similar to the Soltera.
Vvolt Alpha at 44-46 lbs and fits a huge range of rider heights
Our final ebike to make the list is the Vvolt Alpha and Alpha S (the step-through version) currently selling at 1,399.
The variance in weight is due to differences in frame size. Both the Alpha and the Alpha S come in a S/M and L/XL frames, covering an ideal rider height range from 4’9″ to 6’4″. This is the shortest rider height on this list! Standover height on the S/M frame on the Alpha S is only 27″ and is up to 32″ on the larger L/XL for the Alpha. The colors are pretty basic and come in chalk white and slate.
The Vvolt Alpha and Alpha S feature a 350-watt rear hub motor with a 375-watt hour battery. The estimated range on this class 1 ebike is 20-40 miles per charge in ideal conditions. It has the normal 5 levels of pedal assist plus a walk mode. The LCD display offers Bluetooth pairing and app functionality.
The Vvolt is a single-speed bike with hydraulic disc brakes and 160 mm rotors. One unique feature of the Vvolt ebikes is a drive belt rather than a chain. The belt is a Gates CDN belt, which should last for thousands of miles and is a lower maintenance alternative to a bike chain. It can be especially helpful if you are riding in areas with lots of sand or debris.
In Conclusion…
There are some great options out there for affordable lightweight ebikes! The two lightest bikes on our lineup are the Ride1Up Roadster V2 and the Propella Mini both coming in at 33 lbs. The Roadster is a class 3 with a throttle while the Mini is a class 1. Aside from sharing the title for the lightest ebike on our list, the Mini also ties in for the most affordable ebike currently listed for only 799. The Lectric XP Lite is the other ebike coming in at only 799, what a deal! The Lectric XP Lite is the only folding bike on today’s lineup.
As far as the company with the most options in this category, Propella really leads the pack with 4 options, the Mini, the SS, the 7S, and the 9S PRO. The SS has larger tires than the Mini though both are single speeds. The 7S is a 7-speed, and the 9S is 9 speeds. The 9S PRO also has a bigger motor, battery, and tires than the rest of the Propella ebikes. Propella batteries also charge fast-under 3 hours!
If you are looking for power, the Ride1Up Core-5 has not only the biggest motor on the list by far, 750 watts, but it also has the biggest battery with total watt-hours at just under 500.
For rider height range, the Vvolt Alpha and Alpha S really shine with a huge rider height range going from 4’9″ all the way up to 6’4″. It is also the only bike on the lineup offering a drive belt instead of a chain. The frames are offered in high-step or step-through options.
Aventon also offers a great height range on both the Soltera and the Pace 350 fitting riders from 4’11” to 6’4″. The main difference between the Soltera and the Pace 350 is that the Soltera is a more traditional road bike style with a more forward riding position and thin tires. The Pace 350 is a cruiser style with a more upright position and wider tires. Both the Soltera and Pace350 come in high-step options with the Soltera offering a mid-step and the Pace 350 offering a step-through.
What affordable lightweight ebike is your favorite? Why do you like it? Comment below