Bafang 48V 52V 1000W Bbshd MID Motor Electric Bike Conversion Kit DIY…

Bafang 48V 52V 1000W Bbshd MID Drive Motor Electric Bike Conversion Kit DIY E Bike 8fun mm G320.1000

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Product Description

[Powerful] 1000W is the most powerful bafang BBSHD series mid drive motor, max speed up to 65km/h.

[ Four riding modes] Pure electric mode human riding model power assistance push models. 4 working modes can be switched at will.

[Easy Installation] Can be successfully installed into an electric bicycle in just a few time by only a few tools which can remove the crankset and the center shaft, as well as tools for installing this mid-drive motor.

[ Universal Compatible] It’s compatiable with mountain bike,road bike, racing bike ect bikes with 68-73mm bottom bracke.

Warm Tips: Our 1000W BBSHD mid drive motor have two versions with built-in 48V and 52V controllers. The 52V version needs to match rated 52V battery to work. If the battery you use is rated 48V, you need choose 48V version motor. Please kindly choose the right version based on the battery you use.

Q: How do I know if this mid drive motor fits for my bike?

A: This mid drive motor fits for the bike with 68mm (2.68inch). 73mm (2.87inch) wide bottom bracket. The inner diamater of the bracket should be not less than 33.5mm. We’ll send extra install accessoreis for 73mm bottom bracket.

Q: How do I confirm whether I need the brake levers or the brake sensors?

A: If your brakes are hydraulic or you want to use your own brake sensors, you can choose brake sensors. They can connect with your brakes to work directly.

Q: Can I install the motor as soon as I receive it?

A: Before installing the motor, please follow the steps in the manual to connect the motor to see if the motor can work normally. If there is a problem, please contact us first, we will provide technical support, don’t worry.

1 Pair Chainwheel (44T/46T/48T/52T option, please kindly leave us message if you want to change chainwheel)

1, Due to the particularity of the battery, some motors and batteries are not in the same warehouse, so you may receive more than one package. If there are not all products in the package you received, please do not open dispute or bad reviews first, please contact us for confirmation.

When using the motor kit, please make sure that the battery key is locked, otherwise the discharge port is easily burned out.

Management System Certification: ISO 9001, ISO 9000, ISO 14001, ISO 14000, ISO 20000, OHSAS/ OHSMS 18001, HSE, QC 080000

Company Introduction: Our company supplies different kinds of products. High quality and favorable price. We′re pleased to get your Inquiry and we will come back to as soon as possible. We stick to the principle of quality first, service first, continuous improvement and innovation to meet the customers for the management and zero defect, zero complaints as the quality objective. To perfect our service, we provide the products with good quality at the reasonable price.

Best Electric Bikes 2023

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Electric Bike Report aims to help consumers find the right electric bike for their needs. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

There’s never been more options to choose from in the world of e-bikes, but which are the best electric bikes of 2023?

The team at Electric Bike Report put our heads together and chose 16 e-bikes we’ve deemed the Best Electric Bikes of 2023. Some of these e-bikes are new for this year, but some are ol’ reliables that are tried, tested and still hold true as the best in their class.

As with every list of best e-bikes, ours has some nuance as to why a specific bike was picked — ranging from value and componentry to overall ride feel. We’ve also leaned heavily on e-bikes we’ve tested in-house, though there are a few e-bikes here that were picked based on merit and reputation alone.

Whether you’re looking for the best e-bike for older riders, the best electric commuter bike or the best electric beach cruiser, this list will point you towards what we think are the best in each category.

How we picked the best electric bikes

In a fast-growing sea of products, how did we make our picks for the best e-bikes? The answer to this question varies depending on the bike and category. But in every case, these e-bikes were picked through consensus among our team of expert e-bike testers.

Some bikes, such as the Aventon Aventure 2 electric fat bike, leapt out as obvious frontrunners during testing. While others, like the Blix Aveny Skyline and Ride1UP 700 Series, were sleeper contenders chosen for very specific reasons. But in all cases, we evaluated the bikes based on a few key criteria, mainly:

• Value: How much e-bike are you getting for your dollar? The e-bike market has grown flush with overpriced and under-spec’d electric bikes that don’t offer much value. Every bike on this list we’d call fairly priced.
• Components and extras: What else comes with the e-bike? Does it come with racks, bags, lights and fenders, and do those accessories make sense? Is there anything else that should be included but isn’t?
• Does it offer something unique?: In a market chock-full of options, what’s unique about this bike that sets it apart from the competition? There are many categories of e-bike — particularly at the more affordable end of the spectrum — that are flush with copycat brands and e-bikes that just aren’t that special. We’re looking for the ones that are.
• What does the manufacturer say it was built for?: What was this bike designed to do, and how well does it execute that purpose? Of course you can choose to use your bike however you’d like, but we want to make sure the e-bikes on this list function as advertised.
• How does it actually ride?: Last but not least, the most important question: Does the e-bike ride well? Most of these e-bikes we know intimately through rigorous testing.

Aventon Aventure 2

The Best Fat Tire Electric Bike, 2023

One of our favorite e-bikes since 2021, the newly-updated Aventon Aventure 2 electric fat bike truly is something to write home about.

It has all the typical accouterments you’d expect from a sub-2,000 electric fat bike: A 750W motor, a suspension fork and a solid component package — but where the Aventure sets itself apart are in its little details. Details like its full-color LCD display, metal fenders, hydraulic disk brakes and integrated tail lights that function as turn signals. Or the fact that this is one of the few e-bikes in this category and at this price point with a fully integrated battery that blends seamlessly into the frame, and sports a torque sensor for more responsive motor engagement.

All these small things add up into an e-bike that feels much more expensive than it is. It rides stable and inspires confidence in rougher terrain, and did we mention it’s really quick? Electric Bike Report has reviewed both the standard Aventure and the Aventure Step-Through and both put up some of the quickest times we’ve recorded on our test hill and our test circuit.

The Aventure series has retained the top billing on our list of the best electric bikes for over two years, and it’s continued to be one of our go-to e-bikes on filming days for hauling all gear and camera equipment. Its overall performance and utility has so far stood the test of time.

Aventon may not have reinvented the affordable electric fat bike, but they sure did raise the bar for what we expect from any sub-2,000 e-bike.

This bike can be anything you need it to be whether that’s your daily commuter, weekend plaything, or leisure ride. It’s mix of versatility and downright fun have kept it among the highest ranks of our choices for the best electric bikes of 2023.

Pro’s

• This is a surprisingly quick e-bike. The motor is powerful and smooth and likely to be a hit with new and experiend riders alike.
• The full-color LCD display features big numbers and a very helpful battery life indicator that gives the percentage of charge the battery has.
• Improved battery range on the newest model thanks to the efficiency / more responsive torque sensor that engages motor power as needed
• Metal fenders don’t wiggle as much as plastic ones and they have a quality look to them
• This is a distinctive e-bike with a stylish look and does a great job of integrating the battery

Con’s

• The Aventure 2 improved over the Aventure 1 in small and large ways, but the Shimano Altus it now uses is technically a downgrade from the previously equipped Shimano Acera (although we saw no performance issues in our 160 miles of testing).

The Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus

One of the most confidence inspiring affordable e-bikes on the market, with good power, good componentry and the backing of one of the most reputable e-bike brands.

Lectric XP 3.0

The Best Folding Electric Commuter Bike, 2023

It may not be the fanciest or highest-spec’d folding electric bike on the market, but by golly it’s hard to deny the popularity and value of the Lectric XP 3.0.

The Electric Bike Report staff is always watching for e-bike sightings out in the wild. We like to know what people are riding and why, and Lectric XP series is arguably our most frequent sighting. It’s popular for very good reasons: Not only is it remarkably cheap (in terms of price, not feel) at just about 1,000, it’s actually a terrifically fun e-bike.

This is Lectric’s third iteration of their XP folding fat tire e-bike. This new version, released in 2022, comes with a 500W motor, a suspension fork, mechanical disk brakes on 180mm rotors and a 48V, 10.4Ah battery that has a pretty decent range (for its size). Toss in recent editions like a rack that can support 150lbs (and a buddy with the right accessory package), revamped contact point’s that are softer and more.

That spec sheet on its own is quite value packed at this price, but we’re not recognizing this bike for its components — we like it for its ride. The XP 3.0 is a meaty little folding bike that reminds me of those old Honda three-wheelers popular back in the late 80’s. It’s not super fast or overly nimble, but it romps around like no other and feels like it won’t let you down.

The Lectric XP 3.0 stole our hearts for its sheer affordability and fun factor. To be clear: There are more premium folding bikes that cater to different needs, but this one seems like the people’s Champion for affordable folding e-bikes. Of all the e-bikes listed on this best electric bikes list, there may not be a more affordable and versatile one of the bunch.

Pro’s

• It’s hard to find as full-featured an e-bike at such an affordable price
• The XP 3.0 has a terrific motor that provides spirited acceleration and a very fun ride
• As folding bikes go, this shrinks to a very manageable package, making it easy to stow away once folded
• Having such a large LCD screen makes it easy to read and serves up all the helpful ride data
• Not only is this an affordable e-bike, it includes a number of features we think of as premium, like front suspension, rack, fenders and lights
• The 3-in. tires are knobby and give the XP 3.0 the ability to take in some off-road riding

Con’s

• Moving a 60-lb. e-bike isn’t easy, even when folded; we suggest removing the battery before picking it up
• We wish the key didn’t have to remain in the bike to operate it since it’s under the frame and easy to forget

The Aventon Sinch

With its low step-thru frame, big tires and suspension fork, this is a comfortable and easy to ride e-bike perfect for commuters or anyone short on storage space

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Plus

Best Utility Electric Bike, 2023

The Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Plus exists somewhere between a small cargo e-bike and a peppy commuter, and frankly, we’re in love with it.

Its moped-style seat, small wheels, built-in rear rack and semi-ridiculous BMX handlebars give the Runner Plus a quirky style that takes a little getting used to. But when you’re on the bike, it all just makes sense. It handles quick despite its 74.3 lb heft, and its funky frame design is actually functional: Rad’s built booko accessory options that either attach to the rear pannier-style rack and they make a big tank-style box that fits between your legs.

It’s powered by a 750W rear hub motor and a 672Wh battery that’s situated below the seat, which offer plenty of oomph for carrying people, cargo or just quickly getting around town. There’s also a twist throttle and the Runner Plus comes with a bench seat mounted to the rear rack and foldable foot pegs that make it pretty comfortable to take a friend.

It’s not just one of our favorite e-bikes, but it feels hands down like one of the year’s best electric bikes. We think the RadRunner Plus is a spectacular option for anyone looking for one bike that can do a little of everything.

Pro’s

• This is an unusually adaptable e-bike that can serve well for commuting, errand running or just cruising for fun
• The number of accessories that can be used to customize the RadRunner is larger than we typically see
• The 750W hub motor provides the power necessary to carry loads (including kids) and get around quickly as well as conquer hills
• 20-in. wheels and a low-slung frame make this a very well-balanced bike that handles with easy
• Because this isn’t an especially heavy e-bike, the 672Wh battery provides plenty of range

Con’s

• We would prefer to see a more traditional saddle; the one included can rub the inside of the rider’s thighs
• Because this e-bike has 20-in. wheels, the mechanical disc brakes provide adequate stopping power, but hydraulic discs modulate better and would be more befitting of a “plus” model.

The Blix Dubbel

With the ability to carry up to 200 lbs. And a longer-than-usual rack, the Blix Dubbel is a utility bike that can double as a child carrier. Riders with long commutes will love that it can be ordered with two batteries.

Ride1UP 700 Series

The Best Class 3 Electric Commuter Bike, 2023

So Class 2 speeds aren’t your thing? Well, say hello to a top-notch Class 3 commuter that will keep pace with traffic without breaking the bank.

Ride1UP’s 700 series found its way to our best electric bikes list because we’re still scratching our heads how they packed this much value into an electric commuter bike.

Notice some of the names and numbers that jumped off the spec sheet to us: a 720Wh Samsung battery, 750W motor with 60 nm of torque, Tektro dual-piston hydraulic brakes, 100mm travel suspension fork, Schwalbe SUPER MOTO X 27.5×2.4” tires, and an 8-speed Shimano Acera drivetrain.

Not to mention they toss in all the typical trappings one hopes to find on a commuter with integrated lights, fenders, and a sturdy rear rack for your panniers.

The real kicker though? It feels like a bit of a steal considering that most affordable full-package commuters cost 200-300 more. The value here is off the charts as is the fun factor.

Pro’s

• It may not look like a commuter, but with its parts package, it offers all the features of a proper commuter at a great price
• This is a pretty speedy e-bike but never feels overly powerful
• The balloon tires have a great feel and roll easily
• The 720Wh battery offers enough range for multiple days of commuting without a rush to charge
• The 100mm suspension fork is more than many commuters offer making it a chushier ride

Con’s

• It has a little more assembly than some other DTC e-bikes, but the instructions are pretty detailed and easy to follow
• It’s a mighty fine hill climber on PAS, but throttle only power may struggle on steeper hills.

The Vvolt Proxima

A long-reigning favorite among our staff, the Level looks nice, is appropriately outfitted and is just plain fast. Featuring an Enviolo continuously variable gearing drivetrain, a Gates belt drive and a powerful MPF mid-drive motor, this is a very versatile e-bike.

Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus

The Best Class 2 Electric Commuter Bike, 2023

Rad Power Bikes really overhauled the latest iteration of their uber-popular commuter. The RadCity 5 Plus came equipped with a host of new parts on top of a freshly redesigned look. We were such fans of how the new RadCity came together that it easily sprang to our minds to be included on our list of best electric bikes.

The aesthetics upgrade is apparent: Rad swapped an exterior battery pack for a semi-integrated, frame-mounted battery. The modern paint job on a classic dutch-styled bike is a marriage that works quite well too. Rad also employed the use of a dual display set-up we rarely see which breaks up the information in a good way.

Powering the bike is a 672Wh battery and a 750W geared rear hub motor. Rad has dialed in the electronics to smoothly engage while riding and keep the rider comfortable and in control.

Not only does it roll well, but it stops well too. We tested both the step-through and high-step versions of the RadCity Plus’ frame and in both brake tests the RadCity was among the top performers in bikes we’ve ever tested. The NUTT hydraulic disk brakes with 180mm rotors perform very well and seem like the right spec choice.

Add in the 59.5 lbs capacity rear rack, 50 mm suspension fork, fenders and front and rear integrated lights and this e-bike will check nearly all the boxes on your commuter wishlist.

Pro’s

• 672Wh is plenty of battery for commutes, and it looks great on the bike.
• The handling is stable and predictable.
• It’s currently in the top-tier of our brake tests.
• The 750W motor will get the job done for you day in and day out.
• The Rad Power Bikes branded tires also performed well.

Con’s

• For as much as the looks were upgraded, we feel some tidier cable management would have been nice.
• We like the functionality of two displays, but the LEDs on the left-hand display are hard to read in sunlight.

The Aventon Level 2

This is a very full-featured commuter with great lines, a powerful motor, front suspension and includes a commute-ready package with fenders, lights and rear rack.

Himiway Cruiser

The Best Electric Bike for Big and Tall Riders, 2023

Most e-bike companies produce a wide array of models. They may have a cruiser, a commuter, an all-terrain model and may even have a cargo e-bike. Himiway has gone a little different direction. Every one of their e-bikes sports fat tires at least 4 in. wide, making the cushy ride of a fat bike a signature part of their appeal.

Himiway delivers in four key areas on nearly all of the bike in their lineup: the bikes are big, fast, provide all-day battery life, and they don’t break the bank. So what makes them so good for big and tall riders? Well, the heavier a bike’s payload (rider load) the more power is required to move the rider. Having an exceptionally sizable battery offers a rider some reassurance that they can do a full commute and not worry about running out of battery. And an 840Wh battery is uncommon on bikes going for less than 2000.

The hallmark of a Himiway bike is the motor hits the pavement fast and hard. The larger batteries enable the programming to hold little back as there is plenty of battery to draw from, so when the bike promises class three speeds it will get there regardless of how heavy a rider or payload on the bike is. It’s quicker than most on hills too.

With wider tires you find more stability and comfort, and the 26 X 4.0″ tires are plenty wide. As Griffin the 6′ 1″, 230 lbs. rider from our team puts it, “I’m a bigger dude and there’s just something I like about what a bigger tire does for me.”

We like that they include lights and a rear rack to make the Himiway Cruiser as versatile as possible. It makes for a pretty killer value on the bike all around.

You don’t have to be a bigger or taller rider to appreciate what the Himway Cruiser can do, but it definitely checks that particular box on our list of the best electric bikes.

Pro’s

• Very powerful e-bike – many e-bikes can get you to the same speeds, but this one has a lot of acceleration off the line.
• The bike feels pretty stable all around – it handles well especially for the higher speeds it produces.
• 840Wh battery makes for very long rides, even in higher PAS riding.
• 350lb rider weigh limit is much higher than we typically see bikes rated for – and the motor still seems to work well for larger riders too.

Con’s

• While speedy bikes can be fun, we wish we saw a little more dialed back speeds in lower PAS settings.
• It’s not the least responsive cadence sensor we’ve had, but it’s not the best either. It may take a couple of cranks on the pedals for PAS to kick in – especially after engaging the motor cutoff on the brakes.

The Mokwheel Basalt

400 lbs of payload capacity alone make it a compelling option, but the bike offers much, much more. The motor and battery life are inviting for all day fun on the Mokwheel Basalt.

Lectric XP Lite

The Best Affordable Electric Bike, 2023

Shopping for an e-bike that retails for less than 1000 can be a mixed bag. We understand people wanting to stretch a dollar as far as possible, especially with inflation being what it is. However, there’s a point of diminishing returns where the sacrifices made to reach the low price have eroded the e-bike’s quality to a point we don’t feel good recommending. The Lectric XP Lite bucks that trend by offering one of the most affordable e-bikes we’ve ever given a thumbs up.

Rather than design an e-bike from the ground up to be affordable, Lectric took the approach of putting their very successful XP 2.0 on a diet. Lectric eliminated the suspension fork, rack, fenders and multi-gear drivetrain to achieve a price anyone in the market for an e-bike can afford.

In removing those elements, the XP Lite lost weight and Lectric was able to capitalize on that by spec’ing a 300W motor and 374Wh battery, which gives it nearly the same range as the XP 2.0. Its 46-lb. weight makes it one of the easiest-to-fold e-bikes we’ve encountered.

When looking for the best blend of light weight and affordability, the XP Lite is tough to beat. A 70-lb. e-bike can be difficult for smaller riders to manage as well as elderly riders who may have lost strength; we appreciate an e-bike with such a broad appeal.

Pro’s

• We don’t often recommend e-bikes that retail for less than 1000, but this one gets a solid thumbs up
• With a weight of just 46 lbs., this e-bike has terrific handling
• By removing the battery before folding it, riders can cut the e-bike’s weight by 7 lbs., making it easier to manage
• To cut the chance for flats, the tubes come with Slime sealant installed
• The 20 x 3-in. tires feature knobs for unpaved surfaces
• Most sub-50-lb. e-bikes can’t carry as much weight as the XP Lite’s 275-lb. payload capacity
• There really isn’t much you could do differently with this bike without increasing cost. It fits the bill for being a fun, practical folder for riders on a budget
• The XP Lite strikes an amazing balance of features vs. affordability; any upgrades would increase its cost

Con’s

• We would prefer to be able to remove the key after turning the e-bike on
• The single-speed drivetrain was a key part of hitting this price, but it will make hills a bigger challenge and practically necessitates PAS 5 usage on steeper grades

The Ride1UP Core-5

We don’t often see Class 3 e-bikes that are unquestionably affordable, and even with the powerful Shengyi motor, the bike is spec’d with quality parts.

Blix Aveny Skyline

The Best Step-Through Electric Bike, 2023

The Blix Aveny Skyline isn’t the lowest step-over height of any bike we’ve tested. So why is it taking the crown on the step-through category of our best e-bikes list? Because it balances frame rigidity with ease of access. The top tube is low enough for most but the fact that it’s still there is important for the bike’s ride quality. You won’t notice the wallowy or flexy ride that so often plagues step-through e-bikes, which is confidence-inspiring in corners and when you’re looking to ride it for years to come.

Aside from being easily accessible, this e-bike it’s beautifully simplistic to ride too. It resides within the small category of e-bikes that feel remarkable to ride without any motor assistance.

But make no mistake, we’re fans of the electrical components too. The 500W motor and 614Wh battery pair nicely with the 7-speed drivetrain.

Thanks to it’s comfortable orientation, the Blix Aveny Skyline is inviting and approachable for those who may be concerned with throwing a leg over a traditional diamond frame.You’ll also turn a few heads with its classic car-esque paint job.

Pro’s

• Keeping the top tube while making it a step-through frame gives you the best of both worlds: easy access and good frame integrity.
• Regardless of the color you pick, they all seem to look great with classic car color choices.
• The 500W motor and seven gear range is a good combo for you to find your ideal cruising speed.
• Overall it’s a very poised-feeling ride. It handles predictably and comfortably.
• For a bike with no suspension (which always adds price), it felt notably smooth.

Con’s

• It’s a one-size-fits-all bike that should accommodate between 5’1” – 6’2”. Our main reviewer is 6’2” and felt a tiny bit cramped.
• There is some rattle noise in the metal fenders. It’s not a deal-breaker for us, but notable if you’re searching for a silent ride.

The Aventon Pace 500 ST

With its combination of affordability and super-low standover height, this is one e-bike that is always easy to recommend. It ships as a Class 2 e-bike, but can be unlocked to achieve a Class 3 max speed of 28 mph.

Aventon Pace 500.3 ST

The Best Electric Bike For Seniors, 2023

Seniors often have someone different priorities than younger folks when shopping for an e-bike. The concerns we hear repeatedly are: something that has a step-thru frame with low standover to make getting on and off the e-bike easy; an upright seated position that is easy on an old neck; and calm handling for reflexes that aren’t quite so quick as they used to be. Of course, it never hurts to find all this in an affordable package, which is why we named the Aventon Pace 500 in its step-thru design as our favorite e-bike for seniors.

Among the many things we appreciate about the Aventon Pace 500.3 ST is the fact that this e-bike weighs less than many comparable models. Suspension forks, big tires, racks, baskets and fenders all add weight to a bike and at 52 lbs., the Aventon Pace 500.3 ST is an e-bike that’s easy to manage.

Its 500W brushless hub motor is surprisingly powerful and does a great job of delivering a rider up to 20 mph either with pedal assist or throttle. It can also be “unlocked” in the smartphone app to achieve Class 3 performance, something its 8-speed Shimano drivetrain can handle.

The Aventon Pace 500.3 comes in two different frame designs, both a traditional frame and a step-thru and both versions are available in two sizes. For seniors who have lost flexibility, finding a bike that is comfortable is important and with four choices, they are more likely to find a size that is comfortable. The adjustable stem is a great touch for dialing in the reach.

Few bikes we have reviewed has exceeded their range estimates as impressively as the Aventon Pace 500.3 ST. They claim a range of roughly 30-60 Mi., but in our test we achieved 68 Mi. in PAS 1 and 35 Mi. in PAS 5.

Pro’s

• The updates to the Pace 500.3 ST, like the reduced weight, torque sensor and integrated taillights (which function as turn signals), make a great e-bike even better.
• The battery is crazy efficient delivering up to 68 miles in our testing.
• The color display and accompanying app make for a rich experience
• Name-brand components from Shimano and Tektro reinforce the quality presentation
• The rider position is very comfortable, combining the upright position of a cruiser and the easy pedaling of a commuter
• At 52 lbs. it is relatively light for an e-bike, and works on most any hitch rack

Con’s

• Bigger riders may find the short reach to the handlebar to feel a bit cramped; although it can be adjusted

The Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus ST

This very practical bike comes in two frame designs and is outfitted to allow a rider to leave their car in the garage. Its upright position is very comfortable and it includes a throttle to save tired legs.

Ride1UP Revv 1

The Best Moped/Moto-Styled Electric Bike, 2023

Moped-style e-bikes are all the rage these days, and the market is packed full of models spanning every imaginable price point and power level. We’ve tested our fair share of them, and found the Ride1UP Revv 1 to be a cut above the rest!

This smash hit of an e-bike is freaky fast, ferociously fun, and fully functional as an electric vehicle. It’s a Class 2 e-bike with a 750W rear-hub motor and a throttle to carry you up to 20 miles per hour, but with some help from Ride1UP, it can be loosened up to Class 3 mode for faster pedal-assisted travel on the streets, and fully unlocked for even greater speeds on private property. On top of that, it comes equipped with lights, turn signals, fenders, and even an electronic horn.

We acknowledge that many riders will opt to near-exclusively use the bike’s throttle, but the Revv 1 surprised us by the (relative) ease with which it can be pedaled. Regardless of how much speed and motor input you desire, the bike uses a cadence sensor for a smooth and casual ride that just needs the pedals to be in motion for the motor to pump out its power. We loved how stable the bike felt when braking or traveling at high speeds!

To top it off, this bike comes in two trim packages with different price points to meet your needs and budget – both under 2,500. With so much packed into such an affordable e-bike, it’s no wonder the Ride1UP Revv 1 was our top choice for the best moped-style e-bike of the year!

Pro’s

• The Revv 1 nails the moto-inspired ethos: it looks cool, and is an absolute blast to ride
• Hallmark Ride1UP value. Great value in terms of the dollar you pay and the spec you receive
• The handling is superb. Few, if any, e-bikes we’ve tested feel so stable at speeds up to 28 mph
• Solid range going between 30-60 miles in our testing, and we hear a dual battery option is on the way too

Con’s

• The tires offer good puncture-resistance, but if the rear gets a flat it’s more labor-intensive than most to fix it

Electric Bike Company Model S

The Best Electric Bike for Customization, 2023

What feels permanently fixed on our wishlist for changes in the wider electric bike marketplace would be giving customers more options on the look and ride of their desired e-bike. Far too often you pick a step-thru or step-over frame, the frame size, the color, and…. that’s it. But one e-bike company stands alone in giving riders near-infinite possibilities to craft an e-bike of their liking.

The Electric Bike Company assembles classic beach cruiser-styled e-bikes out of Califonia where they are able to put together the custom cruiser of an e-bikers dreams. Let’s start with the looks: you can pick out the color of the frame, fork, chainguard, fenders, battery case, rims, basket and more. Choose one color. Choose two colors. Heck make everything different colors, it’s totally up to you. You can even get a bike helmet painted to match while you’re at it (yup, they do those too).

It’s not just about the pain job though, you get a lot of options in hardware too. You get to pick your option of grips, wheel size, tires, fork, drivetrain, throttle, size of battery you want and more. You can even throw on a security system as well.

Now all that customization is true for nearly all of Electric Bike Company’s models, so why did we pick the Model S? It had a rock-solid ride quality that perfectly captured the beach cruiser ethos: we felt like we were at the boardwalk even when we’re riding around our desert streets. It glides well about town, keeps the rider comfortable at all times, and helped convert even our most eMTB-inclined riders to find reasons to bust out the beach cruiser. It’s a fun ride that you can make exactly yours which is why it gets our nod for the best e-bike for customization.

Pro’s

• Staggering amount of customization options
• The quintessential beach cruiser experience. The Model S glides about town while keeping the rider very comfortable
• Weight capacity 420 lbs, welcomes most riders, regardless of weight.
• Since all the bikes are assembled in California, EBC has industry-leading warranties on the frame, motor, and battery.

Con’s

Blix Sol Eclipse

The Best Cruiser Electric Bike, 2023

The cruiser vibe has always been about a bike that is easy to ride, comfortable to sit on and relaxed enough in its handling that the rider can look around and see the sights. The Blix Sol Eclipse is a cruiser that respects all that and then adds some oomph. We hadn’t really ever asked the question, “How do you make a cruiser even easier to ride?” but that’s exactly what the Blix Sol Eclipse does for riders.

With a 750W hub motor, a 614Wh battery and a 7-speed drivetrain, the Blix Sol Eclipse makes the riding just as easy on hills as it does on a flat bike path. And while most people don’t go for long rides on a cruiser, with the speed it propels riders to, making use of its 45-Mi. range doesn’t seem like too much fun in the sun.

The LCD display is large and easy to read at a glance. And the scale for the battery charge looked like a ruler and offers a finer sense than something with four or five bars. Having the display mounted at the stem also helps its readability. The backswept cruiser bar is very comfortable and we love the twist shifter; we prefer it to many other shifters we encounter.

We often criticize e-bikes that fit tall riders, but not smaller riders. The Blix Sol Eclipse has a low (17-in.) standover height and an even shorter reach to the bar (15.5 in.), making this e-bike ideal for riders who might not fit on most other bikes.

This is a Class 2 e-bike with a throttle and a maximum assist speed of 20 mph. While we like hydraulic disc brakes for their feel and power, the Tektro mechanical discs with 160mm rotors do a great job of keeping the Blix Sol Eclipse under control. It’s easy to see why this is our favorite electric cruiser bike of 2023.

Pro’s

• With 7 speeds and a 750W motor, even a hill doesn’t disrupt this cruiser’s easy vibe
• The relaxed position of this cruiser made for more than 100 miles of comfortable riding for our testers
• Few things get our attention as quickly as an e-bike loaded with features that doesn’t break the bank and the Sol Eclipse has everything needed for a fun day out
• The appeal of a cruiser is rarely about speed, but we found the Blix Sol Eclipse to be a very capable climber that also has terrific acceleration
• Most e-bikes we review come a two, maybe three colors; we were pleased to see that Blix offers the Sol Eclipse in four different colors

Con’s

• PAS 1 and PAS 2 don’t assist the rider very much; we’d like to see the wattage increased on those to give riders an appreciable level of assist

The Electric Bike Co. Model S

This is a remarkable cruiser for its sheer customizability. Buyers have extraordinary ability to choose from a broad color palette, different batteries, suspension a GPS tracker and plenty more.

QuietKat Apex

The Best All-Terrain/Hunting Electric Bike, 2023

This fat bike takes the idea of a an all-terrain e-bike and bolts on a turbo unit. The QuietKat Apex is the company’s top-shelf all-terrain e-bike, featuring a Bafang mid-drive motor for a more responsive ride and better performance on hills. This e-bike has the power necessary to take riders into the backcountry and the range to bring them back out.

The QuietKat Apex sports an excellent parts pick including Tektro 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, a SRAM 9-speed drivetrain and a 150mm-travel suspension fork. Add in fat 26 x 4.5-in. tires, and it’s ready to head into the forest.

Getting the most out of an e-bike offroad will be most likely if the e-bike fits the rider. To their credit, QuietKat offers the Apex in three sizes to fit a broad range of rider heights. QuietKat offers buyers a number of choices, including a motor upgrade and extended warranties, not to mention a vast selection of different accessories.

With a 325-lb. payload capacity, it is a terrific option for the hunter or angler who wants to bring home dinner, and with a 768Wh battery, it has the range to go where the game is.

Pro’s

• Choose between a 750W mid-drive Bafang motor (standard) or upgrade to a 1000W motor
• The 150mm suspension fork can handle the rigors of challenging terrain
• Tektro’s 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes are a Smart choice for riding in steep terrain, especially if pulling a load or if the rack is loaded
• Hunters and anglers will appreciate the forethought QuietKat put into its array of accessories

Con’s

• At 70 lbs., this e-bike may be dificult for smaller riders to manage
• Riders looking for an e-bike for super-technical terrain may not find the Apex suitable for their needs; we consider it more all-terrain than eMTB

The Himiway Cobra

This full-suspension all-terrain e-bike offers riders terrific control, a smooth ride and the ability to go a very long way, thanks to its 960Wh battery, which powers a very torquey 750W brushless hub motor.

Aventon Abound

The Best Electric Cargo Bike, 2023

Electric cargo bikes are undergoing a revolution in 2023, and the Aventon Abound is amongst the most impressive of the bunch.

Cargo e-bikes are all about utility. They offer a practical solution for those trying to ditch car dependence, or who want to get out and about more with the kids. So reliability is key for riders looking to tote gear or people along.

The Aventon Abound is one heck of a well spec’d machine, with uncommon good looks in the cargo e-bike style. It starts with an impressive 750W rear hub motor that functions with a torque sensor instead of a cadence one. The result is better motor control depending on how much of your own effort goes through the pedals.

The torque sensor also makes for great battery efficiency. The 720 Wh battery isn’t class leading, but it squeezes more mileage out of that battery than a cadence sensor could.

What we really appreciated with the Abound is it gives you more out of the box than most cargo e-bikes. When shopping in this frame style, one almost automatically expects a few ‘add item to cart’ accessories to fully take advantage of a cargo bike. It could be pannier bags, passenger cushions or more. But Aventon does equip the Abound with more than most with the standard runner boards, storage compartment, and quick-adjust seatpost that offers a little suspension for the rider.

With terrific ride quality, gorgeous and thoughtful design, and a few more usable accessories than most, the Abound found its way on our mentions of the best electric bikes of 2023

Pro’s

• Hills are no problem. While the Aventure 2 has the reputation for a powerful motor, but the Abound actually put up better hill test results!
• 440 lbs payload capacity means you can really stack a lot on the Abound from people to pets and a week’s worth of groceries
• It’s subjective, but most cargo bikes don’t have the style the Abound does.
• The torque sensor/hub motor combo gives a good pedal experience, but a good kick of acceleration in higher PAS.

Con’s

• The folding stem is designed to make storage and transport easier, but it adds a slight rattle to the ride at higher speed.

Lectric XPedition

The Best Affordable Electric Cargo Bike, 2023

Given that this is our list of the top overall e-bikes of 2023, it’s no surprise to say every e-bike listed here gave us lasting memories. However, possibly no other bike gave us a bigger “WOW” moment this year than Lectric did with the sheer value of their first-ever cargo bike.

The XPedition has one of the highest weight ratings of any cargo rack at 300 lbs (total payload of 450 lbs), and Lectric made sure you could tow all that weight around by making their 750W motor the torquiest one to date to match any hill you’d come across. Oh, and it has hydraulic brakes, a custom stem for quick adjusting and folding for storing in compact paces, pre-slimed 20″ x 3″ tires, lights, fenders, and wheel guards all included.

Sounds great, right? But here’s the brain-busting part of the XPedition: we typically see quality cargo e-bikes selling around the 2000 mark. Lectric debuted the XPedition more than 500 below that level while boasting all those features listed above. For another 300 you can run a dual battery setup that will get you up to 120 miles range (in our testing) and you’re still not bumping against that 2000 line where most cargo e-bikes start.

The “WOW” factor isn’t done yet though. Almost every cargo e-bike rider we’ve known has accessories for either kids or gear. Looking to replace your car on grocery trips? Need a space for your little one? You can add two XL cargo pannier bags, or seat cushions and grab bars to the dual-battery XPedition and STILL not cross the typical 2000 mark.

It’s not a bike without its warts. The cable management isn’t the best we’ve seen, and the LCD display is pretty dated, but you throw all those features on top of rock-solid ride quality and remember you’re a fully loaded model can be had for under the starting price of nearly all other cargo options, and the decision to name it te best affordable e-bike of 2023 seems pretty clear.

Pro’s

• Simply among the best values of any e-bike regardless of frame style. You get a ton for what you pay for, and you don’t pay much
• Among the highest weight capacity ratings we’ve seen. 300 lbs on the rear rack, and 450 total payload
• Thanks to a low setp-over height and a custom stem it can fit riders 4’11” – 6’5″
• Makes light work of most any hill even when hauling a lot of cargo

Con’s

• The folding stem can start to feel a bit wobbly when traveling at top speed
• We strongly recommend the dual battery model, but know you’ll have to buy a separate second charger to charge both at one time

The Blix Packa Genie

Hundreds of accessory combos, dual battery optional, quality design, and even a nice paint job help the Blix Packa Genie standout as an affordable cargo e-bike option.

Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5

The Best E-Bike For Smaller Riders

When we consider the needs of smaller riders, we look at three factors, all of which the Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5 addresses nicely. We want to see a step-thru frame for a low standover height, a short seat tube so that the saddle can be adjusted to the rider’s height and a reasonable reach to the handlebar with some amount of adjustability for the handlebar or stem in order to shorten that reach some.

Smaller riders, particularly those riders less than 5 feet 5 inches tall face a real challenge when shopping for an e-bike. Most e-bikes are built in a size well-suited to someone 5 feet 10 inches, but the quality of that fit drops the more someone deviates from that height. The high-rise handlebar of the RadExpand can be turned back toward the rider more than most, making the reach easier and its step-thru design not only makes it easy to fold, it’s easy to mount and get rolling.

The RadExpand 5’s versatility is part of what makes it so great. It’s a capable commuter, thanks to lights, fenders and a rear rack, and with its wide tires, it gives a smooth ride even on rough roads.

The 750W brushless hub motor is more powerful than we see on some folding e-bikes. For riders who have to deal with hills or consistently rough roads, having this much power will be welcome, especially for smaller riders who might not be as strong, which is why this is our favorite choice for small riders.

Pro’s

• The new handlebar setup is a game changer. The bars are wider, it feels less flexy and it still folds to boot.
• At over 62 lbs it’s still hefty, but the bike folds down to a convenient size for storing in an RV, a corner of the garage or in the trunk of most sedans.
• Rad’s rear hub motors have proven time and again to be some of the most reliable on the market.
• The spec sheet is solid for the price. A 7-speed drivetrain, nice working mechanical disk brakes and a sizeable battery for about 1,599 MSRP is a good deal.
• The handling is spot-on. Neutral, balanced, predictable — riding this will be intuitive even for e-bike newbies.
• Rad’s bikes have a distinct power profile that starts gentle and grows stronger as you pick up speed. Never once does it feel like it’ll jump out from under you.

Con’s

• I don’t mind the lack of front suspension fork, but some people will not like it. You can really feel some bumps in the road.
• It’s surprising to see Rad move away from the LCD display. Unlike its predecessor the RadMini 4, this bike has no screen.

The Aventon Pace 500 ST

A low standover height, adjustable stem and powerful 500W brushless motor make this a terrific option for smaller riders. It can be unlocked to reach a Class 3 top speed of 28 mph, which makes it a fun way to commute or just get around.

Specialized Turbo Vado

The Best High-Performance Electric Bike. 2023

For over three decades, Specialized has had the same mantra: “Innovate or Die.”

They opted for the former.

The Specialized Turbo Vado is the result of world-class engineering with a high level of detail. The specially tuned 250W mid-drive motor is as responsive as any we’ve ever pedaled, delivering the right amount of assistance needed from the moment your shoes turn the cranks.

Doubters of smaller wattage bikes should make no mistake here, this bike can absolutely move if it wants to. The Turbo Vado has three different assist levels in ECO, SPORT, and TURBO mode. Each one provides a distinctly different feel from the others and the bike handles well in all three.

The motor alone is something we could wax poetic on for pages, but the bike doesn’t stop there. High-level componentry is found throughout the bike from the SRAM hydraulic brakes, SRAM NX 11-speed drivetrain, and the generous 710Wh battery powering the bike (on the 4.0 model we tested).

Typically when a bike is in the “high-performance” category that might mean it runs a little pricier than it needs to. We don’t actually feel that’s the case here. Considering the componentry package, engineering investment, performance, and top tier customer support you’re getting in this bike it feels like you get every penny of what you pay for.

Pro’s

• Simply put: it’s one of the best feeling motors we’ve ever experienced.
• The new looks of the Turbo Vado are great – it delivers a traditional bike feel.
• Specialized’s global network of dealers and nearly unparallelled customer service.
• This is a cruiser that could easily double as a commuter or city bike. It’s built to be very versatile

Con’s

• One of our only complaints is that the magnetic charger can be difficult to seat correctly when the battery is installed in the frame.

The Ride1UP Prodigy

E-bikes with mid-drive motors like the Brose in the Prodigy are rare in this price range. Its combination of Class 3 speed, step-thru and traditional frame designs as well as an off-road configuration makes it ideal for high performance on a budget.

Mokwheel Basalt

The Best Camping Electric Bike, 2023

Half the fun of camping is exploring the area visited. E-bikes offer campers the opportunity to go farther, see more and not be wiped out at the end of the day. The Mokwheel Basalt is unusual among e-bikes in that it is well-suited to not just to off-road exploring, but it can serve as a valuable resource thanks to some of its unusual accessories. As a Class 3 e-bike with a maximum speed of 28 mph, it is terrific for getting around most anywhere.

The Mokwheel Basalt may not look all that unusual at first glance. It features a 750W brushless hub motor that can turn 90Nm of torque, making it suitable to riding steep hills, whether paved or not. The 110mm-travel suspension fork improves control on bumpy terrain and the 7-speed Shimano drivetrain helps both uphill and down. Hydraulic disc brakes offer terrific power even on steep downhills and Chaoyang 26 x 4-in. tires provide the necessary cushion and traction for exploring the backcountry.

What really sets the Mokwheel Basalt apart is its massive 940Wh battery that can power a 100W power inverter that has the ability to run such essentials as phone chargers, coffee makers, electric grills and laptops. Planning to be gone more than a day or two? Mokwheel also offers a solar charger to keep the juice running to those essentials.

Riders can also choose between a traditional frame and a step-thru design. Because it has a 450-lb. payload capacity, campers who want to go bag dinner can carry it back to camp as well. This is ideal for anyone planning to go camping but still wants electricity.

Pro’s

• 750W brushless hub motor has the power and torque necessary to climb hills and deliver riders to a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph for spirited riding
• Comes in both a traditional frame and a step-thru to fit a broad range of riders
• Can power a number of electric appliances while camping with the help of the optional 1000W power inverter
• 4-in.-wide tires and a front suspension fork make for a very comfortable ride
• 450-lb. payload capacity makes it terrific for hunters wanting to bring home their game

Con’s

The Lectric XP 3.0

We love the Lectric XP 3.0 because it is versatile, easy to store and thanks to its 3-in.-wide, knobby tires, it can go places commuters and cruisers can’t reach.

Aventon Soltera

The Best City/Urban Electric Bike, 2023

One of the biggest challenges of e-bike design is that the bigger the motor, the more it weighs. The same goes for batteries. That creates a challenge for a bike designer; a more powerful motor gives up some of the value of its wattage by virtue of the fact that the increased weight negates it. Similarly, a more powerful battery weighs more and therefore cuts an e-bike’s range. Rather than beefing up both motor and battery, for the Aventon Soltera, the e-bike’s designer went in the other direction: Spec’d with a 350W brushless motor and a 360Wh battery, the Soltera tips the scales at just 41 lbs.

The Aventon Soltera is modeled on single-speed, flat-bar road bikes known as fixies. It features skinnier tires than we often see, which give the bike a more agile feeling, increases its efficiency, which makes it easier to accelerate and uses less energy at speed, and the 700C wheels roll over bumps more easily, not to mention offering a stable ride at speed.

Because seven speeds is often preferable to one, Aventon sells the Soltera in a 7-speed version for anyone who wants to make hills a bit easier. Single-speed e-bikes face a challenge in that if the gear is good at low speeds, like when starting, it won’t be great at 20 mph. And if it’s great at 20 mph, getting started won’t be easy. We suggest spending the extra dough to get six more speeds.

This is one of a vanishingly small number of e-bikes we’ve reviewed that feature traditional rim brakes. These brakes are plenty powerful for the kind of riding buyers will do on this bike; these rim brakes are nothing like the ones on the bikes we rode as kids. And while the tires on the Aventon Soltera are narrower than we often see on e-bikes, these aren’t as skinny as the tires we see on racing bikes; they will still offer a comfortable ride, even on rough roads.

Pro’s

• The riser bar, skinny tires and hidden battery gives the Soltera the look of a fixie
• At 41 lbs., the Soltera is a surprisingly light e-bike and as a result it has a zippy feel on the road that is refreshing
• Most similar e-bikes are spec’d with a battery smaller than the 360Wh battery found on the Soltera, which gives it a surprisingly long range
• The market for a single-speed e-bike is limited, but Aventon offers an optional 7-speed drivetrain that will increase its appeal to a much broader range of buyers
• Even though this is a budget-oriented model, Aventon doesn’t go cheap; the Soltera is equipped with the full-color LCD display, companion app and inset taillight

Con’s

• Riders looking for an e-bike with a powerful motor might not appreciate this bike’s balance of power vs. weight; this bike is meant to make use of a smaller motor in a lighter bike
• Given the fixie-like styling of the Soltera, it’s not surprising that it comes without fenders or a rear rack

The Ride1UP Roadster V2

This budget-minded flat-bar road e-bike also uses a smaller motor and battery for Class 3 performance, making it one of the most affordable e-bikes we’ve encountered with a 28 mph top speed.

GoCycle G4

The Best Lightweight Electric Folding Bike, 2023

It’s obvious the GoCycle G4 is the brainchild of a former supercar designer.

Nearly all of the bike is made of carbon fiber, including the super sexy one-piece spoked carbon wheels and the entirety of the sleek-looking folding frame. The bike almost has a minimalist design with smooth curves and few obvious frills, but beneath that carbon facade is one of the most feature-rich and smartly-integrated e-bikes we’ve ever tested.

The G4 family of GoCycles is the fourth iteration of the British fast folder. Not only does this bike have more carbon and a more integrated cockpit than its predecessor, GoCycle managed to double the torque produced by the front hub motor. Don’t let this bike’s small stature fool you; it’s remarkably quick and climbs hills with the best of them. The new G4i also has predictive electric shifting and a set of very nice hydraulic disk brakes that are unbranded but bear a striking resemblance to a high-end Magura design.

All in, the GoCycle G4 weighs in the ballpark of 36 lbs, making this one of the most lightweight folding e-bikes on the market today. Add in its quirky cool looks, beautiful folding mechanism and feature-rich build, and it’s undeniably one of the best lightweight folding e-bikes of 2023.

Pro’s

• The design is bar-none. It’s amazing how many features have been crammed into such a little frame.
• Folding the G4 is very easy and, with a little practice, can be done in just a few seconds.
• The carbon rims on the G4i may seem like overkill on a folding commuter, but man do they make a noticeable difference. Plus they’re just ultra cool.
• Electric shifting is ultra cool and works great. Did we mention it’s a system made special for GoCycle?
• The lightweight plus convenient folding make the G4 lineup very realistic for dedicated bike commuters who are low on space.

Con’s

• The predictive shifting is a nice touch, but it may take a little getting used to for experienced riders.

The Blix Vika Flex

Part of the challenge of making a great folding e-bike is keeping it light enough to be stowed. At 55 lbs., this folder is easy to manage, while still offering enough power to get up hills and enough range to get across town and back.

BULLS Alpine Hawk EVO

The Best Road Electric Bike, 2023

Road bikes are known for racing, and for lycra-clad cycling enthusiasts who aren’t afraid to use plenty of leg power when attempting a casual 30-60 miles on a weekend ride. Surely it doesn’t sound like the crowd that would see the appeal of having a motor-equipped bike doing some of the work for you.

So how do you get this crowd interested in e-bikes? By constructing a wonderfully subtle enhancement to the road biking experience.

The BULLS Alpine Hawk really captured the feel of a true road bike – so much so that we often forgot it was an e-bike. The 33.5 lb weight is a tad high for a performance road bike, but it’s a featherweight compared to most e-bikes. So with a small amount of assist, delivered beautifully from the Fazua motor I might add, you actually see modest speed increases that offset the weight of the bike and then some.

At no point does the bike take over for you, instead, it makes it so you get home a little quicker, manage headwinds better, and feel a little less of a sting when taking on a hill. If all of that subtlety isn’t enough, BULLS even made it so you can entirely remove the motor and battery out of the Alpine Hawk.

It’s a well-thought-out bike that is perfect for the e-bike curious road crowd.

Pro’s

• We’ve been very impressed with the Fazua drivepack. It’s relatively light, quiet and is incredibly responsive.
• This bike is incredibly compliant over rough roads; BULLS clearly had comfort in mind and built a bike that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for performance.
• The full Ultegra 11-speed groupset (plus the matching hydraulic disc brakes) works spectacularly well and compliments the do-it-all, ride-it-anywhere spirit of this bike.
• The Fazua drivepack (which includes the motor and battery) is removable and can be replaced with a blank cover, so you can ride this e-bike as a traditional road bike and shave over 10 lbs off the weight.

Con’s

• The Alpine Hawk is only available in two sizes — a 54 cm frame and 58 cm, which is pretty limited in the road bike world. It would be great to see more sizes so riders can more finely tune their fits.

Bottom line: The best electric bikes

They say the best e-bike is the one you’re most excited to ride, and we couldn’t agree more.

While we’re sure there’s going to be lots of opinions and questions about why this or that bike didn’t land on our list, these are the 14 e-bikes we’re most excited about right now. This is not a comprehensive list, nor were we able to consider each and every e-bike use case, but we do think all the bikes on this list are a good representation of what’s out there right now.

Have a bike that you think would be a good contender for our best electric bikes of 2023 page? Let us know in the comment section below. At the very least, we always want to know what our readers are riding.

Reader Interactions

Комментарии и мнения владельцев

I have to comment that so many of the bikes you picked have the WORST customer service when something goes wrong! Aventon has nothing but complaints in their Комментарии и мнения владельцев online. Rad isnt much better. AT least you picked a few bikes that are brands supported by actual bike shops.

This article and almost all product articles of late are missing the huge elephants in the room, 1) product availability. 2)parts interchangeability, supply chains that are a disaster and in no ones best interest. You keep writing articles on thebbn products and innovation. But meanwhile Ive had an ebike on order for a year, there is no word on when it will be available, and when it is finally ready no one can tell me if it will be a 2020, a 2021 or a 2022 model. That, is absurd and a disaster no one is talking about in these articles and reviews. Lastly, the dirty little secret… bike companies stop talking about new stuff, and start by fixing lack of parts and interchangeability in the bike designs. Ok when you had a 300 schwinn and you needed stuff for it, you maybe fixed it, or often. simply bought a new bikeNow? The bike is worth several grand. And the bike companies are laying back and running the same old sloppy business, taking our money but not giving us flexibility to extend life, reduce long term cost, ensured Parts avail, and fix the asset. Lastly related to the above, it took me 12 months to get a shimano part… really. Turns out they were playing favorites. This shits gotta change or the lower end of scooters, motorcycle mfgs, etc are going to eat your lunch, just watch… they can do it because they already do, only needs new products and we know bv now that product is the simple piece.

I think it all depends on what you are ordering and from who. I placed my order online with free delivery and had it at my doorstep 29 hours later.

I agree, Rich. These bikes sound great. I would buy a Specialized Turbo Vado this afternoon if I could. BUT I CAN’T. What about the part where few if any of these bikes can actually be purchased? And won’t be available this year, and maybe not even in 2023. It might be helpful if these lust-inducing reviews included helpful information like wait times.

• Griffin Hales says October 11, 2021 at 5:01 pm

Thank you so much, this is what I’m looking for! Now I need a ramp that I can use to get the trike onto a truck bed, any suggestions?

I do find it peculiar that you haven’t included the Priority Current in your reviews, or at least a “best belt drive” ebike category. Priority does not seem to need ongoing advertising to consistently sell all the Currents they can produce. It would appear that Ebikes with the capability of enabling a 28 mph top speed for the U.S. Market are hot sellers! Their lack of a front suspension in their design is somewhat offset by the combination of the low-maintenance Gates Carbon Belt drive and the Enviolo rear hub. The only thing lacking is a theft-proof system to lock the entire bike via phone, or perhaps, a key fob. I’m talking about a total locking of the bike so that it couldn’t even be walked away. With the high cost of replacement, ebikes may never be truly practical until such safeguards are part of the total package.

Some very nice ebikes for sure and the Aventon’s look very attractive compared to many of these pricey models. (my sister has the Aventon Level and I’m impressed with its quality and components). BUT, I just can’t see paying 4000 for ebikes with chain derailleur drivetrains unless it’s a mountain bike. Many casual riders (and those without any “10 speed” history) rarely shift gears on an ebike. So, if I’m going to pay the big bucks, I don’t want to explain to my wife that she has to gear down at every stop sign (and she’ll have to continue peddling to accomplish this). That is why we’ve sold all our previous ebikes and now own Evelo ebikes with Gates belt drive and the Enviolo automatic hub.

I also have to say that I wouldn’t consider any ebike without a throttle! You shouldn’t have to stand up on the peddles to get the motor to kick in. And if you’re stuck in a high gear (and have cadence sensors) this can be awkward if you want to make a quick get-away. This is certainly a common occurrence, but I don’t want to deal with it after spending thousands of dollars.

Your comment appears to be from someone who has never ridden a mid drive bike. Mid drives are superior in smoothness and get to actually use the mechanical advantage of gears on a hill. I’m guessing you dont know about downshifting when you come to a stop either.

To answer about other bike manufactures no being reviewed, the folks at EBR do not review any bikes that are not sent to them for review. EBR is cutting edge company but lacks true diversity. ITS apparent that sometimes you have to purchase a bike for review, one of the companies that I like is juiced bikes, they make their city bike in three colors (red my favorite) awesome battery duration more powerful 52 volt on top of that. I am a proud owner of a 2019 rad city with more than 10,000 miles, never a problem with getting parts in timely manner, but they are pushing me to buy a bit more expensive juiced bike over the model 5 rad city! WHY! 1ST. and biggest pev…the same old color in traditional bike style dull black, WANT ANOTHER RAD BUT NOT SAME COLOR. 2ND love the new 5 but now I have to buy a different battery, to use on my old rad city instead of swapping. so now I will have to buy 2 batteries at 550 each shipping not included, instead of 1. Do not get me wrong, the upgrade to motor and brakes is awesome and truly reliable bike company.

A couple of days ago, I found the Gazelle Easyflow. It enables the rider to place both feet on the ground when at rest, yet still ride with legs stretched out to save the knees. A very clever design, and not extortionate when you think of Riese and Mueller!

Wow a race to even less exercise and more accidents by a lot of persons who have no bike handling skills or desire to get their heart pumping over 85 bpm

Replying to counselors rude comment, not to Groucho. Groucho is cool and having a good time on his e-bike.

Unless you’ve spent your entire life riding bikes, and loving it, almost more than anything and then got lung damage from Covid and the only way to keep riding is an electric bike

I’m curious why the “E-Cells”Monarch 1500 LE AWD all train Fat tire bike isn’t mentioned? It has dual 750 Watt motors in front and rear wheels,dual batteries,dual suspension. Torque sensor, it has front,rear and all wheel options. It even has a USB charging port- both batteries are connected and work together and both charge the same time. Rock Shock moto style front and rear suspension – This really should have the Jeep logo on it. Lol- the Jeep Fat tire ebike is only rear wheel drive. That really makes no sense. I have this bike and it’s an amazing piece of machinery – it’s at 92lbs- but is a non issue with the power of the AWD- and it can handle up to 420lbs of load. Check it out!!

Hi, Hoping to get some feedback about two different bikes. First, we are only just trying them out for the first time, not investing for longevity yet. If our height matters in terms of your advice, my husband is 6’5″and I am a giant at 5′ 2″! Other things you may want to know is that we aren’t looking for high speed. Battery life would be of more interest to us if we are weighing specs. We also will not be using these bikes in the city – at all! We currently live in a small town and although we have vehicles most anywhere we go, traffic is not part of our life. We also have lots of trails intended for this type of activity and they would likely become our choice of destinations. Although we own a truck and car (and rails intended for my husband’s 4×4 and snowmobile), we’d like this hobby to be ‘easy’. The two bikes I’m looking at are as follows (Please don’t curse me out if you’re an avid rider who has invested thousands of dollars! We’re talking “baby steps” here): ~ Veltoric Discover 1 Class 2 Step-through ~ Heybike Ranger Step-through Any help/advice you would be willing to offer would be greatly appreciated! Linda

Really provide very deep information about best ebike with pro cons ,price ,features in 2022.very appreciate for your research and blog.Thanks for sharing great report.My favorite one is urban e bike.

To answer about other bike brands not being reviewed, my experience with Addmotor E-43 long-range ebike is excellent! It features thin tires and a 48V20Ah battery and 500W gear motor, which can reach 125miles on a single charge (PAS1), a perfect choice for city commuting.

Can’t get most of these bikes if you are in Canada. Aventon I can get locally but only a few models and none I like. I would have to travel 1,500 km to get to a bike shop to test anything out since locals don’t allow that. Buying a “pig in a poke” based on a review is something I won’t do. Or did you just go down to the car lot, pick out a car, pay your money and drive it right off the lot without a test drive? Nice reviews and gives me more info but as of today, that’s about all I have…

Have you ever evaluated the BeeCool bikes? I have an Adventurer and an Explorer. There are so many features I love about the bikes themselves. Like so many of the other brands above it sounds like most have customer service that’s less than desirable, but based on bike features and price they are worth looking at.

My hubster and I ride Espin Sports that we have had for about 18 months now and have over 2500 miles on them as of today. We love them and Espin’s service was great. Mine came with a slightly bent controller and it was replaced very quickly when it probably could have been easily fixed. The pedals also had a weird knock and they replaced those quickly as well. Both were very minor issues. We ride on paved and gravel roads that have some good hills. The tires could have been better than what they shipped with but bought Maxxis replacements and no flats since. The value for the money was why I bought them. Came with lights, brake and head, fenders and a rack when you had to pay extra for that stuff on an equal Aveton or Rad at the time. We have been very satisfied with the Espin bikes and I would buy another.

Is this a list of the best bikes you could get your hands on at the time? A lot of these are pretty low end and not powerful in the real world. And only 2 non-chinese motor systems? Seriously?

Ok enough about all the bikes mentioned is asomtom mountain e bikes worth 1700.00. Just bought one hoping on the first ride it’ll make me smile ear to ear. Any Комментарии и мнения владельцев from previous owners have a take about it.

Thank you for this content! I am currently waiting for the arrival of a “MagiCycle”. Having some issues getting it here it seems but would be interested in reading a review by you at some time in the future. All the videos I’ve seen of it are very positive. Thanks!

• Griffin Hales says August 5, 2022 at 12:27 pm

We haven’t tested very many and wanted to make a list comprised of things we’ve gotten to know well. We’re working on getting more eMTB coverage though!

Hi I would like to see your reviews of the asomtom mountain bike 26” 4” tires bangfang 1000w w hydronic brakes and tork front suspension It’s a head turner and a beast Fast and rock solid.

• Griffin Hales says August 8, 2022 at 12:24 pm

This appears to be a troll question about a bike that is not legal on public roads and paths. The description sounds like just another cheap fat tire bike with no redeeming value.

to reply to your comment that you’ve obviously have not looked into the reviews of this bike or anything about it says a lot. For a 1999.00 “troll” bike it in my opinion looks badass compare to others. And decided to get one anyway because it’s a new version 2022 asomtom Q7 mountain bike with A 6061 aluminum frame 1000 W brushless gear hub bafang motor up to 28mph 85nm of torque 48 v 15a lithium battery that’ll take you 45-60 miles per charge 7 speed shimano gear shift which is leagal to go on or off roads. snow. beach Tug a fat ass up to 400 lbs So I’m very happy I got it. The ride is awesome and pedal assist is great for hills which in its type 3 road rating it performs really great. So don’t be to judge mental on things you know little about.

This article represents all that is wrong with our industry. It very well could have been written in The 90’s! Nearly all the top recommended bikes sport dramatically outdated designs and components. Why are we still promoting heavy front suspensions as a comfort feature? All listed were poorly designed for off road control. They failed even at that in The 90’s. If tuned to absorb road irregularities they would dive dangerously and encourage squirm in handling. That’s dangerous! Look at any traditional touring bike, from the cheapest to the most expensive. They are designed for long hours in the saddle and for days on end. Not one has a suspension fork. Good geometry, materials and components make a bike comfy, reliable and efficient, not gimmicks. Today, not one of the hub drive models listed cannot be gotten with a mid-drive for the same or less money. Hub drives and cadence sensors are The 90’s. A best of list needs to at least be from the current century. I get it. Some can get by just fine with a hub drive. They have few and small hills or don’t care if they have to slow. They may not even need the additional range of a torque sensing mid-drive. They are still a huge pain on which to change a flat and heavy as heck to lift or handle in tight situations. It is time to change. What a shame that a quality product like The Aventon is still saddled with this antiquated technology. Every bike listed uses heavy, dull and buzzy straight gauge aluminum. That is even in the few that have better hydroformed tubes! Why, we have had more responsive, less buzzy, butted and hydroformed tubing on almost all traditional bikes since the turn of the century. Weight kills range. It makes a good bike hard for a smaller person to handle. Some even have square tubing. This takes a rough ride to a whole new level. What sense is there, for on-road riding, to having a comfort fork, bars and seat, with an extra stiff rear triangle? The same xan be said for the square tube necessary to accommodate the proprietary battery in the down tube. I don’t want to be negative. I want to promote great alternatives. Good enough just isn’t good enough anymore. These good enough bikes should be at least half their price and available only through places like department stores. We can do better and without breaking the bank. I do it daily in my tiny shop. I am no one special and am not particularly talented. I just have 50 years cycling experience. If I can do it, mfg’s can do it too. Let’s start demanding more for our money.

MARK!! You get it. This silly list popped up again in April 23, with what looks like the same old crap from the same old “heavy advertisers.” There is nothing in that list of bikes I would ever buy. None of them are the “best” in any way. I’m disappointed about what this publisher has become. It looks just like car ads and sories in the newspaper that has the unwritten…Dont talk bad about our product or we will cancel the advertising budget that keeps you afloat! I was hoping for better.

Absolutely out standing service from the company and from the bike itself It’s built extremely well and looks amazing.

The Best E-Bikes for Hunting in 2023

E-bikes are the next generation of rugged transport for hunters looking to beat the crowds and make up some motorized trail ground.

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The best e-bikes for hunting in 2023; (photo/Rachelle Schrute)

E-bikes have no doubt carved out a spot in the hunting industry. They are quieter and more affordable than something like an SxS or ATV. And let’s not forget that e-bikes use zero fuel.

Whether it’s shortening travel time to a glassing spot or aiding with hauling meat out of the backcountry the crew here at GearJunkie knows the makings of what goes into solid hunting transportation. A good e-bike needs to be reliable, rugged, and practical.

If you still want to learn more about picking the right e-bike for your hunting adventures, along with some hot tips on using e-bikes in the field, be sure to check out our Buyer’s Guide, FAQ, and Comparison Chart. Otherwise, scroll through to see our recommendations, or feel free to jump to whatever category fits you best.

Bakcou Storm

Specs

• Weight 70 lbs.
• Motor Bafang’s ULTRA mid-drive motor
• Distance 60 Mi. on full charge (subject to change depending on settings)
• Gearing SRAM 9sp, 40t front SRAM 11-34t rear cassette
• Load capacity 300 lbs.

Cons

There is a very good reason why the Bakcou Storm (6,199) is the bestselling full-suspension e-bike for hunting. Actually, there are several.

The nine-speed Bakcou Storm has a load-hauling capacity of 300 pounds and a ride distance of 60 miles. It comes in frame sizes 19″ and 17″. The Storm is equipped with Bafang’s ULTRA mid-drive motor, which is referred to as the “diesel engine” of fat tire bikes. It’s a Smart motor that senses speed, cadence, shift, and brake, which results in a natural-feeling ride.

The Storm isn’t cheap, though. It’ll set you back at least 6,200, which is no easy pill to swallow for a bike. Thankfully, there are finance options available to help ease the load. And speaking of load, this bike tips the scales at 70 pounds, which might limit the person who can ride and carry it.

From the steep and rugged to the open plains, the Bakcou Storm was created to weather any hunting scenario thrown its way.

Rad Power Bikes Rad Rover 6 Plus

Specs

• Weight 73.4 lbs.
• Motor 750W brushless geared hub motor
• Distance 45 Mi. on full charge (subject to change depending on settings)
• Gearing 5:1 planetary gear reduction
• Load capacity 275 lbs.

Cons

If one thing is true about e-bikes, it’s that they are not easy on the wallet. Lucky for you, we narrowed it down to one that doesn’t sting as much but still delivers on performance. It’s the Rad Rover 6 Plus (1,399) from Rad Power Bikes.

The Rad Rover 6 Plus is the flagship model of the fat tire e-bike from Rad Power Bikes. It’s powered by a 750W brushless geared hub motor and has a weight capacity of 275 pounds. You’ll have the option of either a step-thru frame or high-step frame.

The front suspension offers a more comfortable ride for any terrain with a semi-integrated battery right behind it. That connects to an LCD screen to help monitor battery charge, speed, etc. Along with that, the Rad Rover has hydraulic disc brakes.

While the price is right, you do give up in a few areas with the Rad Rover 6 Plus. One is the amount of miles you get out of a battery when compared to others. It’s not the worst, but it isn’t the best. And next is the weight. This bike weighs 73.4 pounds, which is a whole lot to push if your battery dies.

The Rad Rover 6 Plus is a solid option for the casual hunter looking to snag all of the benefits of an e-bike without paying a truckload.

Bakcou Carbon Alpha

Specs

• Weight 49 lbs.
• Motor Bafang M600, 500W
• Distance Up to 60 Mi.
• Gearing SRAM SX derailleur 12sp, 50 tooth
• Load capacity Not specified

Cons

• Pricey
• 27.5 x 2.8″ tires might not be as adaptable to rough terrain as traditional fat tires

Let’s face it — e-bikes are just plain heavy. Bakcou sought to move the needle there with the Carbon Alpha (7,999). It’s the most lightweight in its class.

This 12sp e-bike was made to be the lightest without compromising performance. The Alpha sports a carbon fiber frame(16″, 18″, or 20″), which provides less weight, more shock absorption, and better corrosion resistance.

With that, the 500W Bafang M600 motor will aid in pushing you down the trail and do it in a lightweight package. All Carbon Alpha bikes are full suspension and come with an integrated 14Ah lithium-ion battery.

It may be lightweight, but it comes at a price. The Carbon Alpha will set you back 7,999. After looking at the price, some may be a little more willing to haul more weight around and deal with an aluminum frame instead. Then there are the tires. These are faster than fat tires, but when it comes to rugged terrain, they might not be as favorable.

For those looking to shave as much weight as possible and don’t mind the extra cost, the Bakcou Carbon Alpha is a no-brainer for your next hunt.

Rambo Megatron

Specs

• Weight 77 lbs.
• Motor Dual Bafang 1,000W Hub
• Distance Up to 80 Mi. on full charge
• Gearing Single speed
• Load capacity 300 lbs.

Pros

• Exceptional range
• Dual batteries dual motors
• Can switch between rear, front, or all-wheel drive while on the go

Cons

The range of battery life is a huge variable when it comes to e-bikes. With the Rambo Megatron (6,300), that’s a nonissue.

The Megatron comes with dual batteries (34 Ah of battery) and dual Bafang 1,000W hub motors, which allow you to cover up to 80 miles before needing a charge. Hunters can actually switch between front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive while moving.

This is all done via the control panel on the steering wheel. With that, you’ll have the luxury of a revamped horizontal LCD screen that monitors battery life, speed, etc. And being a single-speed, there is less to go wrong.

The Megatron is mega-awesome, but it’s also mega-heavy. At 77 pounds, you could kill two birds with one stone and get some productive curls in with the bike. This is expected, of course, with a beast of a bike like the Megatron. On top of the weight, Rambo only offers one frame size of 19.7″.

For a bulletproof e-bike that can handle the most demanding of conditions and then some, the Megatron from Rambo deserves a gander.

QuietKat Apex Pro

Cons

Coming out heavy is one of our ultimate goals when we go hunting. The QuietKat Apex Pro (5,499-5,599) will gladly take the weight off your shoulders and do it in stride. Our Hunt Fish Editor, Rachelle Schrute, is currently testing this bike with hopes of pushing its hauling capacity this upcoming big game season.

Equipped with a silent 1,000W motor, the Apex Pro was designed to tackle the “steep and deep” of backcountry adventures. It comes in small, medium, and large frame sizes.

The inverted front suspension fork will ensure that those trips are even more comfortable, too. For hauling all of your gear, the Apex Pro comes with an integrated pannier rack that sports a 100-pound carrying capacity. You can also customize this bike with a ton of different accessories like trailers, weapon holders, etc.

Like most e-bikes, it’s no surprise that this thing is heavy. The 70 pounds that the Apex Pro weighs will surely not go unnoticed. With that, even though this is a beast of a load hauler, being able to carry 325 pounds, the range isn’t amazing per battery. You’ll get 24-48 miles on a full charge, which is at the lower end of what we’ve covered here.

For a dedicated pack mule in your corner, the QuietKat Apex Pro is about as legit of an e-bike as they come.

Bakcou Mule

Specs

• Weight 67 lbs. (without battery)
• Motor Bafang M620 Ultra (1,000W)
• Distance Not specified
• Gearing Shimano Alivio Hill-Climbing 9 speed, 40t front 11x36t cassette
• Load capacity 300 lbs.

Pros

• Toggle between 750W, 1,000W, and max 1,500W
• Hauls weight nicely
• Very popular, so lots of reviews out there

Cons

We couldn’t write a piece on e-bikes without mentioning the Bakcou Mule (5,499). It talks the talk and walks the walk. I should say “rides the ride.”

This is a 1,000W mid-drive e-bike made with the hunter in mind. Between the Smart torque sensing Bafang M620 Ultra motor to the 300-pound carrying capacity, the name Mule describes it perfectly.

You can also toggle between 750W, 1,000W, and a max power of 1,500W to meet all e-bike law demands. And with the Maxxis Minion, 26” x 4.0 tires teamed up alongside the Shimano nine-speed gearing and shock-absorbing seat, you’ll get where you need to go smoothly and efficiently.

The Bakcou Mule doesn’t come without its downsides. First, as expected, it comes in at 67 pounds without the battery. Add the battery, and you’ll either up that number by 9 pounds or 12 pounds, depending on what battery you reach for. Along with that, not everyone will be a good fit for the Mule, as it only comes in one frame size of 18″.

Bakcou Mule e-bikes are no stranger to the hunting woods and rough terrain. There is a reason they are so popular and have been the top-selling e-bike for years

Rambo Venom 1000

Cons

All around from front to back, the Rambo Venom 1000 (8,300) is a sturdy choice of e-bike no matter where you’re planning to go.

The Venom 1000 was made as a top-tier do-it-all bike that does it in style. Rambo put on a Bafang 1000W Ultra Drive motor as well as a new Rohloff 14-gear speed rear hub, so there are no boundaries on terrain. And the lower integrated battery keeps the weight of the battery low, which results in a faster-responding bike.

You will get up to 40 miles of travel distance on a full charge as well. Let’s not disregard the sweet looks this bike has, either. The TruTimber VSX camo is a nice cherry on top.

In order for a bike to do it all and have no boundaries like the Rambo Venom 1000, you’re going to pay for it. Your bank account will be missing 8,300 once the dust settles. So, I wouldn’t call this an economically friendly option in the least. And unlike most of the bikes we’ve mentioned, the Venom only has one frame size available, which is 19.7″.

The Venom is definitely not for everyone, but if the glove fits, then it’ll tackle anything in its path for you.

QuietKat Ranger

Cons

QuietKat is well known in the e-bike world, and its Ranger (3,499-3,599) is no stranger to hard work. The 65-pound Ranger is basically the little brother to the Apex Pro, which we covered above. It’s a load hauler for less coin.

With up to 1,000W of power and an integrated 100-pound load capacity pannier (325 pounds total), there is no worry about performance in rough terrain. Like other QuietKat models, the Ranger is also highly customizable with add-ons like trailers, weapon holders, etc.

QuietKat added two-piston hydraulic disc brakes to the Ranger too, which will ensure safe stopping while carrying those heavy loads. This bike comes in both camo and solid colors with sizes small, medium, and large.

While the Ranger has “range” in the name, it doesn’t exactly give a ton of range on one battery. It’s rated at only 19-38 miles on a full charge. You do have the option of adding a bigger battery, though, which will increase your reach. Secondly, and this is really more personal, the Ranger’s LCD screen is not color and has somewhat of an outdated look to it when compared to others.

E-Bikes for Hunting Comparison Chart

E-BikePriceWeightMotorDistanceGearingLoad Capacity

Bakcou Storm	6,199	70 lbs.	Bafang’s ULTRA mid-drive motor	60 Mi. on full charge

Why You Should Trust Us

We’re not going to lie. Here at GearJunkie, we’re spoiled and get to spend a crazy amount of time in the field testing gear. Be it hiking deep into the backcountry or hauling out big game, we’ve got no shortage of miles beneath us. This translates into an intimate view of what capabilities/features an e-bike needs to have for hunters, which are you and us.

When choosing the best e-bikes for hunting, along with our own research and experience, we also took into account the experience of seasoned hunters around us. That, paired with market demand, helped paint a clear picture of our top picks that are sure to please.

The bottom line is that transportation in the field is no joke to us. It needs to be reliable and functional for the hunter. We believe our e-bike list hits that on all fronts.

Things to Consider When Choosing an E-Bike for Hunting

E-bikes are fantastic tools for hunting, but there are a few things to consider before investing in an e-bike for your hunting adventures.

Budget

So, obviously, the first thing we need to look at is the budget, as everyone has one. As you can see, you can buy an e-bike for under 2,000, clear on up to approaching 10,000. Aside from what you can afford, of course, how do you decide what’s worth it?

I think the best way to go about deciding how much to allot for an e-bike is to ask yourself the question, “How much am I actually going to use this?” If you’re planning on only using a bike once a year for a hunt, then a more affordable option makes sense.

However, if this is going to be your go-to option of transportation in the field, I think it’s wise to save up a little more money to get a higher-end option. This is just like any other piece of gear. You get what you pay for.

Regulations

Believe it or not, there are actually regulations on e-bikes. And more particularly, the wattage and speed of the e-bike. Some states consider e-bikes simply bikes, and they fall into the category of regular bicycles. Others don’t allow e-bikes to exceed 750W and 20 mph. And the majority seem to use the three-tiered classification of e-bikes. So, before spending your hard-earned dollars on an e-bike, look into the three classifications of e-bikes and what states allow what.

Load Capacity

Another thing to consider here is load capacity. We are all different sizes. Some of us are hunting elk, and some of us are hunting whitetails. Because of this, you need to have a realistic vision of what amount of weight you need an e-bike to carry. Take the load capacity of the e-bike and subtract your weight. That’s how much weight you’ll be able to haul with the e-bike itself.

Adding a trailer, though, will increase that. Say the trailer has a load capacity of 100 pounds. That’s 100 pounds in addition to the load capacity of your e-bike. So, for a bike with a 325-pound load capacity, you could essentially be sitting at 425 pounds total if the e-bike accepts a trailer, of course.

Range/Battery Life

Range in relation to battery life is a big factor here as well. These bikes have different ranges associated with them, and it absolutely needs to be considered. You don’t want to get caught with a dead battery far off the beaten path.

Basically, the longer the battery life, the more miles you’re gonna go. That battery life is affected by how you use the bike, though. How much assistance do you require of it? What’s the terrain like that you’ll be riding through? The more assistance, the more battery life will be drained. So, don’t take the listed range number as concrete. There are variables at play.

Some companies offer extra batteries as well as solar charging capabilities, too. A very practical feature that could come in handy. Let the battery charge while you hunt all day, and no worries.

Mid-Drive vs. Hub Drive

There are two different options when it comes to motors on e-bikes. They are hub-drive and mid-drive. Hub-drive motors are located at the back wheel of the e-bike and basically have one speed and no gear changing that happens. Mid-drive is located at the peddles and has the ability to shift gears.

For those on flat ground wanting a simple option, hub drives will be a great option. It’s a press-the-throttle-and-go situation. These will suffer a bit on steep inclines and have a limited speed, which is where mid-drives take the wheel.

Mid-drives are going to be king when it comes to steep terrain because of their ability to switch gears. They can also go much faster than hub drives. With that being said, there is more of a learning curve for them. It’s like comparing a stick shift to an automatic that only has one gear.

FAQ

The best e-bike for hunting is the one that lines up the best with your personal needs and wants. For us, though, we stand by our choice of the Bakcou Storm as our best overall pick.

From where we’re standing, they are absolutely worth it for hunting, and are great tools for the field. As long as you make sure to follow local rules and regulations, they can be a serious asset.

Yes, 100%. Folks even haul elk quarters out of the field with e-bikes.

Because some e-bikes can reach some pretty dangerous speeds, they can cause serious injury on the trail, not only to riders but also to bystanders. There are also some concerns about negative wildlife and habitat impacts. Just be sure to check your local regulations and follow them.

Class 1: When it has a top speed of 20 mph and an electric motor that works only with pedaling (pedal assist).

Class 2: If equipped with a throttle-actuated motor. That motor must cease to assist when the e-bike reaches 20 mph.

Class 3: A bicycle with a motor that provides assistance only if the rider is pedaling and should cease to assist when the e-bike reaches 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes are also known as pedelec bikes. Class 3 is the most restricted classification, and some states impose additional safety restrictions for riders on Class 3 cycles.

The best electric bike conversion kits 2023 and how to fit them

The best electric bike conversion kits can give you an extra boost of power without the expense of purchasing a new electric bike. We’ve fitted some of the best e-bike conversion kits ourselves, so will walk you through the process, how easy it is and how the different systems perform.

E-bikes are soaring in popularity – and for good reason. The best electric bikes replace a car for running errands around town and greatly increase the distances it’s possible to ride on one of the best commuter bikes. An e-bike can also be a great tool for boosting your fitness, whether that’s enabling you to ride with a greater range of people or offering the motivation of a greater range of roads to explore.

But is an e-bike worth it,? As the best ebike conversion kits promise to add power to an ‘analogue’ bike for a lot less than a full ebike, it’s an easy, cheaper way to get an electric boost.

In this guide we’ll take you through the surprisingly broad range of benefits an e-bike conversion kit has to offer and – most importantly – how to perform an e-bike conversion, based on our hands-on experience. For a walk-through on how to do it, you can check out the video above or read on for a step-by-step guide – it genuinely is so much simpler than you would think.

When buying an ebike conversion kit there are a number of factors you’ll need to consider. Most importantly you’ll need a kit that will fit your bike. To help with this it pays to take a few frame measurements, notably the width of your forks and the width of the rear stays, as well as noting the wheel size and the type of brakes. You can then match these details to the kit specifications.

Naturally you’ll also need to consider the cost and how much you chose to spend on an ebike conversion kit will be dictated by not only your budget but also your needs. If you’re unsure of just how much you’ll use the converted bike then it’s prudent to opt for a cheaper kit. you can always upgrade down the road.

You’ll also want to consider where the motor will be located, and match this to your bike and your mechanical prowess. Front hub motors are typically the easiest to fit, while mid-drive motors require more effort. A rear hub motor lies somewhere in between the two, and like a front hub option is applicable to a wide range of bikes.

Other considerations include the type of battery and the wattage rating. 36 or 48 volt battery is standard, with wattage usually running from 300 to 600 watts.

The Swytch kit is super-simple: just swap out your front wheel, wire up the controller and battery and you’re off. The battery is also very compact, allowing you to remove it from the bike easily to carry with you.

The TongSheng kit positions the motor at the centre of the bike, so it will fit to a wide range of designs. It’s lightweight for its high torque and power output, although you’ll need to buy the battery separately.

The Voilamart kit is an inexpensive rear wheel conversion option, although you’ll have to source a battery separately. It’s slightly fiddly to fit as well and requires additional waterproofing if you plan to ride in wet weather.

The best electric bike conversion kits

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.

Specifications

Wheel sizes: Each wheel is custom built – specify your required size at checkout (Bromptons also catered for)

Reasons to avoid

The newly updated Swytch system is one of the simplest conversion kits to fit out there. The latest version, launched in August 2022, has a smaller, neater battery pack that improves the bike’s dynamics and lowers its weight. There’s the choice of the Air battery (700g, range 15km) or the Max battery (1,100g, range 30km). Both use the same mount, which places the battery to the front of the handlebar.

The motor sits in the front hub and we found it to be pretty discreet. Incidentally, the new batteries will work with the original motor and pedal sensor, so if you already own the original kit you can upgrade it with just a new battery without having to buy the whole kit again.

The Swytch kit is incredibly easy to fit. It took us around 30 minutes working at a steady pace.

We tested it on both a reasonably light two-speed steel bike and a heavier Pinnacle utility bike. It transformed the ride of the two-speed bike, making it fast, nimble and responsive. We also found the stated range to be conservative: after 20 miles on setting number two (medium assist) it had only used two bars out of five on the battery.

With the heavier Pinnacle on maximum assist (and on draggy routes) we were getting slightly under the 30km for the Max battery. As with all e-bike batteries, range depends on the terrain, weight of bike and level of assist.

Great customer support makes this one of the best kits for people who are new to working on their bike and who aren’t familiar with electrics. And even if you do have a strong background in both those areas, a simple system is always appreciated.

Reasons to avoid

Like the Bafang mid-drive system below, the TongSheng offers the same benefits of compatibility with a wide range of bike designs and a high torque for steep hills and off-road terrain. However, the TongSheng mid-drive does manage to be a little lighter than the Bafang for approximately the same power.

This model doesn’t come with a battery included, so you’ll have to source your own 36v item. As a rule of thumb, around 10Ah will give a range of 29km / 18mi, whereas going up to 18Ah will typically give around 53km / 33mi, so be sure to factor that in when you’re making your choice.

There’s a huge range of batteries sold on Amazon, but Green Cell is a particular brand we’d recommend.

We found fitting to be reasonably easy. As with most mid-drive systems, you replace your crank and chainring with the one provided in the kit. There’s an LCD display for attaching to your handlebars and you’ll need a battery to be hooked up to the motor.

Read more: TongSheng TSDZ2 conversion kit review

Reasons to avoid

A mid-motor drive system offers a number of benefits over hub-driven conversion kits. With the power delivered at the cranks it can produce more torque, making it more effective on particularly steep and bumpy terrain.

Another perk is that the compatibility is much greater – no concern about wheel diameters, hub widths, axle standards and brake type. No matter whether you’re running rim brakes or disc, quick release or thru-axle, the crank driven system is compatible with all.

The only proviso is that the frame material must be alloy and the bottom bracket width is 68–73mm – but that covers most bikes you’re likely to be fitting this system to.

There are a few aspects to be aware of, the first being that this system doesn’t include a battery and that typically makes up about half the cost of a conversion kit. Finding an e-bike battery is quite straightforward with many being sold on Amazon, with Green Cell being among those we’d recommend.

Just make sure to get a 36V one for this motor as a higher voltage can damage it. Also you should be aware that capacity of 10Ah will give you a range of about 29km / 18mi, while a capacity of 18Ah typically gives about 53km / 33mi – so be sure to factor in the distances you’re planning on riding.

Reasons to avoid

This radically different approach from Rubbee makes for an e-bike conversion with much fewer parts. The battery and motor are housed in a single unit which powers the bike directly turning the rear wheel with its integrated roller.

Not only is the initial installation notably fast and easy, the quick release system means that you can take off the unit for rides that you don’t wish to be assisted on. At 2.8kg, it doesn’t add much weight to that of the bike, making the bike easier to handle.

The range of this model is quite low, limited to Eco mode it only offers a range of 16km / 10mi – although taking the device off to charge at the other end is easy to do and it only takes an hour to top up. There is the option to increase your range by buying additional battery modules that fit into the base unit.

Up to three can be accommodated, which in turn increases the maximum range to 48km / 30mi, or around 23km / 14mi with moderately heavy use. However, unlike many other e-bike systems, the Rubbee X supports regenerative braking, allowing you to scrub back some power on the descents.

Reasons to avoid

Bafang is a well established maker of electric bike motors and offers a front hub based motor, if you’re not a fan of the bulky profile a mid motor conversion system creates. You can buy this kit without a battery – although why would you? – but if you sensibly also opt for a power-pack there’s a choice of amp hours, and you can select either a downtube or a rear-rack mounted version.

The setup follows the same principles as most front-wheel e-bike conversions. First you need to set up the wheel with a disc rotor, tyre and inner tube and install that into the bike. Then attach the cadence sensor – so it can tell when you’re pedalling and need assistance – then attach the battery and the LCD display and you’re essentially good to go!

It’s worth bearing in mind that although this conversion kit comes in many different wheel sizes, it is only compatible with bikes that have a front disc brake and a Quick-Release axle. If your disc brake bike is a newer, more expensive model, it might not be compatible, so worth checking first.

Remember, that in the UK electric bike laws mean that e-bikes are not permitted to have a power output of more than 250w and shouldn’t propel the bike when it’s travelling more than 15.5mph – you’ll have to make sure you select the right model with the relevant limitations.

Reasons to avoid

We’ve also tested the Voilamart kit, which comes with six main parts: the replacement rear wheel, the replacement brake levers, the control screen, pedal sensor, throttle and the control box. It doesn’t come with a battery however.

On review we found the kit pretty straightforward to fit, although you’ll need to remove the bike’s crank to fit the pedal sensor and this element of the conversion was a bit fiddly. Another potential drawback is that the connectors, which link to control unit, aren’t waterproof, with only a bag supplied to house the delicate electronics. While it does a good job of keeping everything tidy, we decided to buy a plastic enclosure, cut the wires to length, solder the connections and then heat shrink for added protection.

As for the ride, the rear wheel kit delivers plenty of power. However, since the pedal sensor only detects when you’re pedalling rather than how hard you’re pedalling it delivers the power as soon as your start to turn the crank arms. Fortunately, you can quickly adjust the level assistance, with five power options available.

All in all the Voliamart rear wheel kit is an affordable way to ‘go electric’, although it requires you to be mechanical competent to fit it and you’ll need to factor in the additional cost of a battery.

How to convert your bike to an e-bike in four steps

Here’s our step-by-step guide to how to add an electric bike conversion kit to your pedal-powered bike.

Swap the tyre and tube

Firstly, remove the tyre and tube from your current front wheel and then install them on the new wheel from the kit. Make sure to check if the tyre is directional, if it is, ensure that the tyre is mounted so that the cable sticking out of the hub is on the left-hand side (non-driveside) when the wheel is installed in the bike – otherwise it’ll be powered in the opposite direction to your direction of travel!

To swap the tyre and tube over, you will need some tyre levers and a pump. If you want to go over how to do these, we have a guide that can be accessed here.

Final points are to do up the nuts on the wheel’s axle to keep it firmly in place in the forks and to check that the brakes are correctly adjusted for the new wheel. If you’re unsure how to do that, we have another guide here.

Attach the bracket to the handlebars

There is a strap that needs to be attached to the bars to keep the bracket in place and stop it rotating around. There are also some adaptors included in the kit which can be used if your handlebars are a little skinnier.

But essentially all that’s needed to be done here is a couple of screws to clamp the bracket tightly to the bars.

Attach magnet disc and sensor

The magnet disc has a split design so it can just clip around the inside of the left (non-driveside crank) and is then held in place by its retention ring. Next, stick the sensor on the frame directly in line with the magnets – this will ensure that the sensor can tell when the cranks are moving.

Plug in the cables

The thickest one is the main power cable and that just needs to be plugged into the cable extending from the hub. The other orange cable attaches to the cadence sensor and this just needs plugging in as well.

It’s then a good idea to use some cable ties to tidy up the lengths of the cables a little bit, so they aren’t flapping about and risk getting caught on the spokes or on the cranks.

The blue cables, you don’t need to worry about, these are for an optional brake sensor upgrade kit.

Why convert your bike to an e-bike?

What types of conversion kit are available?

You can get conversion kits that power your front or rear wheel or power the bikes via the cranks.

Wheel-based systems usually have a hub motor and require replacement of your existing wheel with a compatible motorised one.

The alternative is a system like the Rubbee that drives your wheel by pushing on the tyre. Tyre wear can be an issue here though.

Finally, there are systems that power the e-bike via the bottom bracket.

Usually the e-bike’s battery will bolt onto your frame or be attached to your handlebars, although sometimes you can fit a battery pack to a rear rack.

We’ve more on compatibility. which can be an issue. below.

How much does it cost to convert a bike to an e-bike?

vary depending on the type of conversion kit and the size of the battery. To give a rough Band, you can expect to pay a total of between £500 and £800 from a reputable brand, but there will be outliers at either end.

Is it worth converting a bike to an e-bike?

There are many reasons to upgrade your bike to offer a little e-assistance. On the one hand, it can greatly increase the usefulness of your bike, enabling you to replace short car journeys – such as around town, to the shops, or to work – with going by bike instead.

It’s a lot more environmentally friendly getting about on two wheels than in a two-ton metal box. It can also save you time – bikes are able to take more direct routes and are less affected by traffic, as well as eliminating the need to search for a parking space at the other end.

But beyond just their practical benefits, e-bikes can also be a potent tool for boosting your fitness. Consistency is key when it comes to exercise, so making commitments with friends is a great way to ensure you’re heading out the door. Previously, differing fitness levels could make it difficult to find a riding partner but with an e-bike levelling the playing field, getting in a productive workout (for both of you) with a friend is much easier to do.

Added to that, an e-bike can be much more motivating in that it opens up a far greater range of roads than you’d be able to access just under the power of your own two legs. Exploring new roads is part of the fun of riding a bike and an e-bike can help preserve that.

Can you convert any regular bike to an e-bike?

Most bikes can be converted to an e-bike – it just requires getting the matching the right conversion kit to match the specification.

For conversion kits where the motor is located at the wheel’s hub, you’ll need to consider the wheel’s diameter, the width and axle standard of the hub and whether it uses rim or disc brakes. For instance, a 700c (AKA, 28”) disc brake wheel with a 100mm wide quick-release hub is a relatively common spec. Once you’ve determined what type of wheel you need, the conversion is quite a straightforward process

Crank driven systems are generally easier in terms of determining compatibility; the requirements are typically just an alloy frame and a bottom bracket width of between 68 and 73mm – which is the standard for all road and mountain bikes, it’s only specialist bikes that have a different spacing there. In replacing the crankset, these systems are a bit more involved to fit than a hub system, but still well within the remit of a home mechanic.

Other kits, such as those that directly drive the rear tyre, have almost universal compatibility – provided your tyres aren’t too heavily treaded.

Are electric bike conversion kits any good?

You won’t be getting the very best motors and the largest, seamlessly integrated batteries with an e-bike conversion kit. But with that said, e-bike conversion kits are much cheaper than purchasing a whole new e-bike and they do deliver many of the same benefits.

Converted e-bikes are great for commuting and utility cycling, giving that extra boost to help flatten hills, motor along the flat and lug about heavy loads. E-bike conversions are also good for leisure cycling, helping to moderate your effort level as needed and greatly extending the range you can explore.

For more specialist utility needs, buying a new cargo e-bike would help boost your carrying capacity and range. Equally, for the aesthetically conscious, the latest breed of e-road bikes are almost indistinguishable from a non-powered bike at first glance. Then again, both those options are much more expensive than a conversion.

How we test

Where we’ve been able to link to a review, it means that we’ve put the ebike conversion kit through its paces. We’ve assessed how easy it is to fit and maintain as well other factors such as quality of the components and battery life and charge time. Riding the bike once fitted with the kit, we’ve taken into account the ride quality, the ease of use and the battery range.

Where we haven’t yet had the chance to review an item, we’re still confident in recommending it as one of the best, because we either know the brand really well, and have probably tested another product or the previous version and can still happily recommend it as one of the best.