Best Electric Mountain Bikes in 2023. Affordable ebike mountain bike

Best Lightweight Affordable Ebikes: All Under 1,600 and 50 lbs!

It’s not surprising that ebikes are going to be heavier than traditional bikes. The added components such as the motor and battery are the two biggest factors when it comes to weight. Many bikes we see here at Ebike Escape are in the 65-75 lb range! That can be a lot of weight when trying to load it onto a bike rack! Heavier ebikes can also feel bulkier and unruly when riding, especially when you are not super comfortable on a bike.

If you want a lighter electric bike that is easier to manage, there are still ebikes that can fit the bill. Here is our list of the best lightweight and affordable ebikes!

Benefits of a lighter weight ebike

The two lightest ebikes on our list are only 33 lbs! With a lighter ebike, you will be giving up some power. Lighter-weight ebikes tend to have small batteries and/or smaller motors. They tend to be bikes designed for city riding with thinner tires and sleek appearances. Many of these bikes don’t include extras such as fenders or kickstands as a way to minimize weight.

As technology improves we will see lighter and lighter ebikes. Currently, some of the lightest ebikes are sub 30 lbs! That is even lighter than many traditional bikes but they will come with a price to match! Our review today will cover affordable and lightweight ebikes. If weight is more critical than price consider this list.

Without further ado, let’s get started with the best lightweight, but affordable electric bikes!

Ride1Up Roadster V2 at 33lbs: Tied for lightest ebike on our list

Let’s start with one of the lightest weight bikes of our lineup, Ride1Up’s Roadster V2 at only 33 lbs! It has a clean and simple design with a concealed battery. It is a quiet bike and it would be easy to mistake this ebike for a traditional bike. The Roadster V2 is priced at 1,095.

The frame comes in two sizes, 52 cm (for riders 5’3″-5’8″) and 58 cm (for riders 5’8″-6’3″). The weight capacity for the Ride1Up Roadster V2 is 300 lbs. Color options are pretty conservative and include burgundy, black, gray and silver.

There is a 350-watt nominal motor that peaks at 500 watts. This is a pretty average motor for a lightweight affordable ebike. The battery is a 36V, 7Ah battery with an advertised range of 20-30 miles. It has a compact LCD screen and 5 levels of pedal assist but no throttle. This is a class 3 ebike with a top speed of 24 mph with pedal assist.

The Roadster V2 is a single-speed with a Toptrans belt drive, it features Tektro R315 Dual Pivot rim brakes. Generally, it comes with Kenda Kwest 700cx28 road tires however there is an option for a gravel bike version. The gravel version of the V2 comes with larger tires and disc brakes for 1,245. The bigger tires will provide a bit more stability on looser surfaces and more confidence while stopping in any weather conditions. The Roadster V2 gravel is unquestionably the most affordable gravel ebike on the market. This bike is clean, simple, and LIGHT.

Ride1Up Core-5 at 49lbs: Powerful motor and large battery

In addition to the Roadster V2, Ride1Up has the Core-5 as another lightweight bike. This ebike is only 100 more than the Roadster V2, coming in at 1,195. It is offered in both a high step and step-through frame, both of which weigh in at 49 lbs.

For the extra 16 lbs, you get a significantly bigger motor at 750 watts and a bigger 48V, 10.4 Ah battery. This is both the biggest battery and the biggest motor on our list. The range is claimed to be 25-45 miles per charge, a big upgrade compared to the Roadster. Compared to the Roadster V2, which is a single-speed and no throttle, the Core-5 has a 7-speed Shimano shifter and derailleur and a thumb throttle. With a max speed of 28 mph with pedal assist and 20 mph with the throttle, the Core-5 comes shipped as a class 3 ebike. It has 5 pedal assist levels with a cadence sensor.

The step-through frame should fit riders from 5′ up to 6’1″ while the high-step fits riders from 5’6″ to 6’4″. The color options for the Core-5 include azure blue (shown above), mint, and midnight grey. Both lightweight Ride1Up bikes sport a 300 lbs payload capacity.

The Core-5 has Tektro mechanical brakes paired with 160 mm rotors. The tires are Kenda Kwick Seven 5 27.5″ x 2.2″ which are perfect for riding on pavement and perhaps even some hard packed gravel. Another perk you get for the extra 16 lbs compared to the Roadster V2, is a bright headlight that runs off the main battery. This bike does a great job of maximizing affordability while maintaining quality on the parts that matter. This bike does have a kickstand, but does not come with fenders. Fenders and a rear rack are available for purchase directly from Ride1Up.

Propella Mini at 33 lbs: Small wheels and only 799!

Propella has a host of ebikes that fall into the lightweight and affordable categories. These ebikes include their Mini, the SS, the 7S, and the 9S PRO! This is a great company for this type of bike!

The lightest ebike Propella offers is the Mini. It is currently only 799! That makes it one of the most affordable ebikes on this list as well as tied for the lightest! It has a high-step traditional appearing frame. It is ideal for riders between 5’2″ and 5’10” and the stand-over height is 22″. The bike has smaller tires than a typical bike, they are only 20″ x 1.75″. This makes the bike, small and nimble. It is perfect to fit into small living spaces or vehicles. The small wheels also mean this bike has increased climbing power and can handle hills with up to a 10% incline.

This super light, single-speed ebike comes with a 250-watt Bafang hub motor with a peak output of 400 watts. It includes a 36V 7Ah battery, made with Samsung cells. The company advertises a 20-35 mile range with pedal assist. There is an option to buy an extra battery if you need more range on any of the Propella bikes. This is a class 1 ebike with a top speed of 18 mph and no throttle. There are 5 levels of pedal assist available and it uses a cadence sensor. The Propella Mini has Shimano mechanical disc brakes. It has a matte black frame and blue rims. For a light ebike currently selling for less than 800, this is tough to beat!

Propella SS

The Propella SS comes in just a couple of pounds heavier than the mini at 35 lbs and comes in at just 999. Just like the Mini, it is a high-step, single-speed, class 1 ebike. It has the same battery and motor, but a slightly longer range of 20-40 miles. It also has the same LCD and Shimano mechanical disc brakes.

The main thing that differentiates the SS from the Mini is the tires and wheels. While the Mini has 20″ x 1.75″ tires which are small and nimble, the SS has 700 c X 35 wheels giving it a more traditional look. The standover height is about an inch higher at 23″ and the rider height range is a little taller going from 5’4″-6’2″.

Gearing between the SS and Mini is also a little different. The SS has 46T front chainring with a 16T rear freewheel, while the Mini has a 52T front chainring but the same 16T rear freewheel.

Propella 7S

Next up on the Propella lightweight ebike lineup is the Propella 7S. The price bumps up to 1,199 and the bike comes in at 37 lbs. This increased weight on this bike comes from the upgrade from single-speed to a Shimano Altus 7-speed shifter and derailleur. This offers a lot more options to allow the rider to power up hills with a combination of pedaling and pedal assist.

Many of the other features of the 7S are similar to the Mini and SS models. It has the same battery, motor, LCD display, and brakes. Like the other Propella ebikes, the 7S is a class 1 ebike. The 7S has same 46T front chainring as the SS as well as the same standover height and ideal rider height.

Check out our full review here.

Propella 9S PRO

The final Propella bike is the Propella 9S PRO coming in at 41 lbs and selling for 1,599. There are a ton of upgrades on the 9S compared to the other Propella ebikes. It has a larger Bafang rear hub motor at 350-watts with a peak of 500w. The battery is still 36V but bumps up to 10Ah. Even with a more powerful motor and bigger battery, this bike remains a class 1 ebike. As the name insinuates, the 9S is a 9-speed ebike and features a Shimano drivetrain.

The frame is also a high step with a slightly higher standover height of 23.6″. It is meant for slightly taller riders with an ideal height range of 5’5″-6’2″. The brakes get upgraded from the mechanical brakes on lighter models to hydraulic disc brakes with 160 mm rotors. With this ebike you get bigger 27.5″ x 2″ tires which should be able to handle some gravel and light off-road riding. This bike is bigger and more robust than the other Propella ebikes but still weighs in well under 50 lbs.

Lectric XP Lite at 49 lbs-A folding ebike for only 799!

Moving on from Propella, next we have a Lectric ebike. Lectric is a well-loved company and is known to have a great mix of quality and affordability. Their XP Lite is no exception. Along with the Propella Mini, the XP Lite shares the title for the most affordable lightweight bike on the Ebike Escape list coming in at only 799! Like all Lectric bikes, the XP Lite is a folding bike that ships fully assembled. The frame only comes in one size but fits a huge range of rider heights from 4’8″ to 6’2″. While the height range is generous, the weight capacity is only 250 lbs which could be limiting for some riders. Color options include classic black, arctic white, sandstorm, and electric blue. There is no front suspension on the XP lite, but you could easily add a suspension seat post for more comfort.

The motor is a 300-watt nominal and peaks at 720 watts. The battery is 48V, 7.8Ah (374.4-watt hours) and you can buy a second battery to have on hand if needed. The range on a single battery is 40 miles in pedal assist 1 and 15 miles in throttle only. The XP Lite is a single-speed ebike with 0-5 levels of pedal assist and has a cadence sensor. It has the same LCD display as the rest of the bikes on Lectric’s lineup. The XP Lite is a class 2 ebike with a top speed of 20 mph with pedal assist or throttle.

best, electric, mountain, bikes, 2023, affordable

This bike has mechanical disc brakes with 160 mm rotors. The tires are 20′ x 2.4″ and have a tread pattern capable of handling some light off-road riding. It includes integrated front and tail lights, which aren’t always a given in such an affordable and light ebike.

This is a great bike for its price, weight, and size. It comes fully assembled and is easy to fold up and pack away for travel. It can handle some light hills, but due to the smaller battery and motor, it is not recommended to be trying to climb mountains with this bike.

Aventon Soltera at 41-43lbs with a mid-step option and bright frame colors

The Aventon Soltera gives you the option of a single-speed at 41 lbs and 1,199 or the 7-speed at 43 lbs and 1,299. It is a lightweight and agile bike. You have plenty of choice for size and color allowing for a wide range of rider heights and color preferences. They offer a high-step and what they call a step-through though I would consider it more of a mid-step. The smallest frame Aventon offers is the mid-step small/medium, ideal for riders as short as 4’11. And the largest frame offered is the high-step Large, which is ideal for riders up to 6’4″. The weight capacity of the Soltera is 300 lbs. Color options vary depending on which frame and drivetrain you choose but include fun options such as seafoam green, salmon pink, moonrock grey, onyx black, azure blue, and citrine.

Regardless of the drivetrain or frame design you choose, all the Aventon Soltera bikes come with a 350-watt rear hub motor. The battery is 36 V, 9.6 Ah (338.4-watt hours), and is integrated nicely into the bottom of the frame. The estimated range in ideal conditions is 41 miles. The display is a color LCD screen with app sync functionality. This is the same display Aventon offers on their more expensive bikes. This is a class 2 ebike with a max speed of 20 mph It has both pedal assist and a throttle. You also have the option of disconnecting the throttle to make this a class 1 ebike.

The brakes on the 7-speed drivetrain model are mechanical disc brakes with 160 mm rotors. While the single-speed Soltera has Tektro Caliper rim brakes. Both versions of this bike have thin Kendra 700 c x 35 x road tires but no quick release. This bike is one of the few to include integrated front and rear lights. The rear lights are nicely integrated into the frame and illuminate when the brakes are applied. In such an affordable and light ebike this is a stand-out feature both on paper and on the road.

Aventon Pace 350 at 49 lbs with a cruiser type frame and step-through option

The Aventon Pace 350 just skirts under our weight limit coming in at 49 lbs and is priced at 1,399. This bike is similar to Aventon’s Soltera with a few notable differences. The Soltera is a more traditional road bike whereas the Pace 350 is more of an up-right cruiser-style bike. The Pace 350 is offered in both a high-step and a true step-through. Between the two different frame styles, there are various frame sizes that fit a wide range of riders from 4’11” to 6’4″. Colors are mostly neutral, however they do also have plum purple.

The Aventon Pace 350 has a larger battery than the Soltera coming in at 36V and 11.6Ah battery (410.4-watt hours). The tires on the Pace are larger at 27.5″ x 2.2″. Other features including the display, pedal assist, throttle, max speed, brakes, and lights are similar to the Soltera.

Vvolt Alpha at 44-46 lbs and fits a huge range of rider heights

Our final ebike to make the list is the Vvolt Alpha and Alpha S (the step-through version) currently selling at 1,399.

The variance in weight is due to differences in frame size. Both the Alpha and the Alpha S come in a S/M and L/XL frames, covering an ideal rider height range from 4’9″ to 6’4″. This is the shortest rider height on this list! Standover height on the S/M frame on the Alpha S is only 27″ and is up to 32″ on the larger L/XL for the Alpha. The colors are pretty basic and come in chalk white and slate.

The Vvolt Alpha and Alpha S feature a 350-watt rear hub motor with a 375-watt hour battery. The estimated range on this class 1 ebike is 20-40 miles per charge in ideal conditions. It has the normal 5 levels of pedal assist plus a walk mode. The LCD display offers Bluetooth pairing and app functionality.

The Vvolt is a single-speed bike with hydraulic disc brakes and 160 mm rotors. One unique feature of the Vvolt ebikes is a drive belt rather than a chain. The belt is a Gates CDN belt, which should last for thousands of miles and is a lower maintenance alternative to a bike chain. It can be especially helpful if you are riding in areas with lots of sand or debris.

In Conclusion…

There are some great options out there for affordable lightweight ebikes! The two lightest bikes on our lineup are the Ride1Up Roadster V2 and the Propella Mini both coming in at 33 lbs. The Roadster is a class 3 with a throttle while the Mini is a class 1. Aside from sharing the title for the lightest ebike on our list, the Mini also ties in for the most affordable ebike currently listed for only 799. The Lectric XP Lite is the other ebike coming in at only 799, what a deal! The Lectric XP Lite is the only folding bike on today’s lineup.

As far as the company with the most options in this category, Propella really leads the pack with 4 options, the Mini, the SS, the 7S, and the 9S PRO. The SS has larger tires than the Mini though both are single speeds. The 7S is a 7-speed, and the 9S is 9 speeds. The 9S PRO also has a bigger motor, battery, and tires than the rest of the Propella ebikes. Propella batteries also charge fast-under 3 hours!

If you are looking for power, the Ride1Up Core-5 has not only the biggest motor on the list by far, 750 watts, but it also has the biggest battery with total watt-hours at just under 500.

For rider height range, the Vvolt Alpha and Alpha S really shine with a huge rider height range going from 4’9″ all the way up to 6’4″. It is also the only bike on the lineup offering a drive belt instead of a chain. The frames are offered in high-step or step-through options.

Aventon also offers a great height range on both the Soltera and the Pace 350 fitting riders from 4’11” to 6’4″. The main difference between the Soltera and the Pace 350 is that the Soltera is a more traditional road bike style with a more forward riding position and thin tires. The Pace 350 is a cruiser style with a more upright position and wider tires. Both the Soltera and Pace350 come in high-step options with the Soltera offering a mid-step and the Pace 350 offering a step-through.

What affordable lightweight ebike is your favorite? Why do you like it? Comment below

Best Electric Mountain Bikes in 2023

The history of electric bicycles goes back further than most would expect. Way back in the late 1800s, American inventor Ogden Bolton Jr patented a battery-powered bicycle with a hub motor on the rear wheel. This early invention and other similar ones were often slow, clunky, and didn’t include any gears.

An Electric Mountain Bike is also known as an E-MTB or E-Mountain Bike

Only toward the end of the 1900s did modern components like torque sensors and power controls begin appearing on electric bikes. Around the same time, ‘e-bikes’ began gaining popularity in the Far East when the first pedal-assist electric bike was manufactured in Japan.

By 2007, e-bikes had become a common sight on the streets of major Chinese cities and slowly began finding more favor in the West. Since 2013, sales of e-bikes in Europe have more than doubled to the point that many manufacturers struggle to meet demand.

#1. Trek Rail 5 Gen 2

Best enduro electric mountain bike

Trek Rail 5 Gen 2 is a high-end full-suspension electric mountain bike built for enduro and rough singletrack riding. It’s equipped with a RockShox 35 Gold RL 160 mm fork and a RockShox Deluxe Select rear shock, both of which are definitely up to the task.

When it comes to electronics, the Rail 5 boasts a Bosch Performance CX 250W, 85 Nm mid-drive motor and a 500 Wh battery. Together, they’ll assist you up to 20 mph for up to 6 hours of riding, depending on how much assistance you use.

Trek Rail 5 also comes with a Shimano Deore 12-speed rear derailleur and Shimano MT4100 four-piston hydraulic brakes, so it’s capable of serious climbing and descending. Though the Deore rear derailleur is slightly underwhelming at this price point.

Its 29″ x 2.6″ tires are massive and effortlessly roll over obstacles, and you even get a dropper post for enhanced control on descents.

To sum, if you’re looking for a truly capable electric mountain bike that will elevate your skills instead of hampering them, then Trek Rail 5 Gen 2 is the one.

#2. Giant Talon E 3

An affordable electric hardtail mountain bike

Giant doesn’t need much introduction as it has been one of the top brands worldwide for many years.

The brand has now released this affordable electric hardtail mountain bike – the Talon E 3 e-bike. This bike does not differ much from a regular mountain bike as it’s got a 100mm front fork and an aluminum frame, and the total weight is nothing over the top.

The Talon E 3 e-bike rocks a Giant SyncDrive Core 250W motor with 50Nm of torque and a 400Wh battery. This torque level is slightly low for a mountain e-bike.

Is it worth the almost 3,000 price tag? It sure is. There aren’t too many hardtail e-MTBs around, and this is a great bike for a large range of recreational mountain bikers who want a known brand.

  • Max speed: 20mp/h
  • 100mm SR Suntour XCM ATB Coil
  • Aluminum
  • Shimano Alivio 9-Speed

#3. Aventon Aventure.2

Best electric mountain bike under 2,000 for light trail riding

Aluminum / 26×4.0″ / 77 lb / 8-speed / Class 3 eBike

MSRP: 1,999 Aventon

The Aventon Aventure.2 electric bike is a hardtail fat-tire mountain bike designed to be equally capable on the mountain as it is in urban environments.

At 77lb, this is a hefty piece of equipment. However, it has a powerful 750W motor and 720Wh battery that can dish out max speeds of 28mph and a max range of 60 miles per charge thanks to the efficient and smooth torque sensor.

Aventon chose a simple 8-speed Shimano Acera drivetrain and 180mm-rotor Tektro hydraulic disc brakes to ensure you have reliable shifting performance and plenty of stopping power in varied conditions.

The Aventure.2 has 4″ fat tires on agile 26″ wheels to provide comfort and traction no matter what terrain you encounter, including snow, sand, and mud. In addition, this bike comes with a rack, kickstand, fenders, and integrated lights for urban riding.

Don’t miss out on the Aventon Aventure.2 electric bike if you’re in the market for an affordable and versatile electric mountain bike.

Max weight capacity: 400lb

#4. Ride1UP Prodigy XC

Best electric mountain bike under 3,000 for lighter trails and gravel roads

Aluminum / 27.5×2.0″ / 48 lbs / 9-speed / Class 3 eBike / 90Nm

MSRP: 2,295 Ride1UP

We have chosen this Ride1UP bike as it features quite a good set-up for its price range compared to most other bikes that cost nearly twice as much!

At just under 50lbs, the bike has a pedal-assisted max speed of 28mp/h and a throttle-powered speed of 20mp/h. The Prodigy XC runs on a 500W motor and that boosts up to 90 Nm of torque! That’s quite a lot from a mid-drive motor.

It’s got a 9-speed ‘transmission’ by Shimano Alivio, a sporty yet comfortable Selle Royal Viento saddle, and integrated front light. Although the tires are not the widest at just 2″, the bike feels comfortable on lighter trails that are ridden by recreational urban riders. The Prodigy XC is best suited for commuters who are eager to explore the horizons further they could’ve thought of before!

Ride1UP has electric step-through mountain bikes in their lineup as well for anyone who is looking for an easy-access frame.

Can this bike take the beating on rough trails? – No. Can this bike be used as an all-around commuter with off-road capabilities? – Yes!

Max weight capacity: 275lb

#5. Marin Alpine Trail E

Marin’s first full-suspension e-bike!

The Marin Alpine Trail E is the electric version of the company’s flagship full-suspension MTB. This is a solid e-bike by experts in mountain bike design.

Take your enduro rides to the next level with Shimano’s EP6 e-bike system. The 250W, 85Nm motor delivers buttery smooth power that ensures you can ride all day. This motor pairs with Shimano’s 504Wh battery, providing several hours of juice.

The most impressive part of this bike is the MultiTrac suspension platform. It’s designed to balance pedaling efficiency with support.

The build kit for this bike includes a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain with an 11-46t cassette and TRP Slate Evo four-piston hydraulic disc brakes to round out the groupset. A TranzX dropper post combines with X-Fusion suspension in the front and rear.

All things considered, this is a high-level electric enduro/trail bike designed for riders with big ambitions and a decent budget to match.

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Fork: 160mm X-Fusion Trace 36
  • Shock: 150mm X-Fusion 02 Pro RXC
  • Drivetrain: Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain
  • Brakes: TRP Slate Evo, 203mm rotors
  • Wheels: Marin double-wall aluminum

#6. Orbea Rise M20

MSRP: 6,999 Jenson USA

Full-suspension e-bikes don’t get much better than the Orbea Rise M20. This premium E-MTB has all the power and performance to ride farther and harder.

The Rise M20 has excellent foundations with a light and responsive OMR carbon fiber frame. This frame has 140mm travel on the Fox Float 34 Performance fork and 140mm on the Fox Float DPS Performance rear shock.

For power, you can rely on a high-performance, customizable Shimano EP8-RS mid-drive motor paired with an internal Orbea 360Wh battery.

To assist the motor, you have a Shimano SLX 12-speed drivetrain. This drivetrain combines with premium Shimano M6100 hydraulic disc brakes, RaceFace AR 30c rims, and tubeless-ready Maxxis Dissector and Rekon 2.4″ EXO tires.

  • Frame – Carbon OMR
  • Fork – Fox 34 Float Performance 140mm travel
  • Rear shock – Fox Float DPS Performance140mm travel
  • Motor – Shimano EP8-RS 250W Class 1 eBike
  • Battery – 360Wh
  • Drivetrain – Shimano SLX 12-speed

#7. Norco Sight VLT C1 29″

Carbon / 12-speed / 29×2.5″ 2.4″ / Choose between 450-900W battery / Weight: 50 lbs

MSRP: 8,999 Jenson USA

When it comes to high-quality, full carbon mountain bikes, Norco is one company that is known to deliver the goods. Their new Sight VLT e-MTB range continues this legacy – with an added boost of power. The Sight VLT range won The Loam Wolf’s 2019 e-MTB of the year for its excellent balance, versatility, and liveliness.

They are potent, lightweight all-mountain bikes that live up to their purpose – there are very few places in nature you won’t be able to visit with these bikes. The Sight VLT C1 is a full-carbon, full-suspension e-MTB with top-quality components in its range – and the price tag to match.

Yes, this full suspension ebike is a bit pricey but if you can afford it, you won’t regret it when you trust your investments in Norco’s hands.

  • Drivetrain: SRAM X01/GX Eagle
  • Fork: Fox Performance 36 GRIP 2 160mm travel
  • Rear shock: Fox Performance Float X2 150mm travel
  • Brakes: SRAM Code RSC 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes 220/200mm rotors
  • MOTOR – Shimano STEPS EP8
  • BATTERY – Norco BMZ

#8. Cannondale Moterra Neo 4

A high-end electric trail bike

Aluminum / 12-speed / 29×2.6″ / 630Wh battery – 20mp/h / Range: Up to 75mi / Weight: 57 lbs

The Moterra Neo 4 is a full-suspension electric bike from high-end bike manufacturer Cannondale. It’s an imposing piece of machinery that will turn heads in cities and on the mountain. The striking frame design is only amplified by the modern trail geometry and sharply inclined down tube with an integrated battery pack.

This is an e-MTB built for hard trail riding, with a powerful 85Nm motor dedicated to launching you up the steepest gradients. The incredibly soft and responsive suspension is complimented by instantaneous braking power and tactical precision on the handlebars.

With adjustable frame technology, raw power at the flip of a switch, and silky-smooth gear changes, the Cannondale Moterra Neo 4 full-suspension electric bike is an absolute pleasure to ride.

  • SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed
  • 29″ WTB STX i25 TCS rims
  • Fork: RockShox 35 Silver R 150mm
  • Rear shock: RockShox Deluxe Select R 150mm
  • TRP Slate G4 4 Piston hydraulic disc w/ 200mm rotors

#9. Haibike ALLMTN 3

Aluminum / 12-speed SRAM SX Eagle / 27.5 x 2.5″ and 2.8″ / 625Wh battery – 20mp/h

Haibike’s ALLMTN 3 electric bike is a mid-range full-suspension bicycle that performs equally well going up or downhill.

For power, riders can rely on a Bosch Gen4 Performance CX 250W/75Nm motor and a large 625Wh battery. This combo delivers excellent ranges while easily tackling steep gradients and soft terrain. Additionally, this bike has an SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain so you can always find the perfect gear.

For suspension, the ALLMTN 3 uses a RockShox Yari RC 160mm travel fork and a Deluxe RT rear shock with 150mm of travel.

Finally, you can be sure of excellent performance thanks to Shimano MT420 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, an XLC remote dropper post, and premium Maxxis Minion DHF/DHR II tires.

One slight disadvantage of this dual suspension eBike is that there isn’t any carbon in the frame construction despite its price.

  • 6061 aluminum frame
  • Maxxis Minion DHF 2.5″ DHR II 2.8″ tires
  • Bosch CX Gen4 250W mid-drive motor 75Nm torque
  • Bosch 625Wh battery
  • 20 to 40-mile range
  • Fork: 150mm RockShox Yari RC
  • Rear Shock: 150mm RockShox Deluxe RT
  • 12-speed SRAM SX Eagle, 11-50T cassette
  • Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, 203mm rotors

#10. Rocky Mountain Instinct Powerplay Alloy 30

Aluminum / 11-speed / 29″ x 2.52.4″ / 108Nm / Range – N/A / 20mp/h MSRP: 5,599 Jenson USA

Built to take on all mountainous terrain, this Rocky Mountain electric mountain bike is a trail-blazing beast ready for adventure.

Considering the wealth of high-quality components on the Instinct Powerplay Alloy 30, it clearly belongs on the top shelf of aluminum e-bikes. A durable aluminum alloy frame with a 150mm fork and 140mm rear shock and a quality Shimano Deore groupset make this an excellent MTB in its own right. Add a powerful motor and long-range battery pack, and you have a killer electric MTB that can easily compete with the best.

The head tube angle on this hardtail is quite slack, which gives you better stability going downhill. Fast-rolling 29″ wheels help you cover ground quickly, while premium Maxxis DHF 2.5″ and Minion DHR II 2.4″ EXO tires provide traction in all trail conditions.

The Rocky Mountain Instinct is the perfect electric mountain bike for trail riding. Add it to your shortlist if you’ve got a big budget and want solid performance.

  • Frame.Aluminum
  • Fork – RockShox 35 Gold R, 150mm
  • Rear shock – RockShox Deluxe Select R 140mm
  • Motor – Dyname 4.0 Mountain Bike Drive, 250W/108Nm
  • Battery – 720Wh
  • Drivetrain – Shimano Deore 11-speed

#11. QuietKat Jeep E-Bike

Electric mountain bike for hunting

Aluminum / 26×4.8″ / SRAM 9-Speed / Weight: 70 lbs / Range: Up to 58mi (Extra batteries available)

MSRP: from 5,499 QuietKat

QuietKat partnered with Jeep to develop one of the most advanced electric off-road bicycles available, designed with the full suspension to keep you stable on tough ground.

It does splendidly as an electric winter bike, full suspension hunting bike, or as a no-compromise electric trail rig. It’s possible to get the Jeep ebike in both 750W and 1000W motor builds, depending on how much power you need. With a custom QuietKat air fork and RockShox RL suspension, the Jeep is a rugged bike that rolls over all kinds of terrain with silent power.

For hunters and anglers, QuietKat offers add-ons like racks and bags to help carry gear out into the backcountry.

QuietKat is a brand who has specialized in torquey rear-hub motors, and the Jeep shines on off-road riding as more weight on the rear wheel means there’s more traction and torque when going up steep hills. If you have been looking for a rugged mountain e-bike, you should definitely look into what this bike is capable of.

  • 10 levels of pedal-assistance
  • Configurable as Class 1, 2 and 3
  • Thumb throttle (removable)
  • Torque / Speed sensors
  • 160Nm torque (1,500W max output)
  • Weight capacity: 300lbs

#12. Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus

Fat-tire e-bike with front suspension – great for snow, sand, and mud exploration.

Aluminum / 7-speed / 26×4″ / 25-45 miles range / Weight: 72.5 lbs

MSRP: 1,949 Rad Power Bikes

RadRover is more of an urban fat-tire bike compared to most other mountain bikes on this list.

Although this model is not built on a full-suspension electric bike frame, it still offers plenty of freedom in terms of choosing your trails. Matter of fact, the RadRover 6 is pretty much the only eBike in this list that could conquer sandy or snowy trails with ease. 4″ wide tires are more than enough to use it on beaches, snowy, or muddy trails.

Available in step-through and step-over frames.

The riding position is rather upright and comfortable. This is also the only bike on this list that features lights, kickstand, and fenders! An awesome choice for anyone who likes to commute daily through various terrains. Rad Power Bikes offers a great bunch of bikes at reasonable prices, so it’s worth checking out the rest of the range as well!

  • Drivetrain: Shimano 7-speed
  • Motor: 750W geared hub
  • Battery: 672Wh
  • Fork: Rad Power Bikes RST, 60mm travel
  • Hydraulic disc brakes, 180mm rotors

#13. NS Bikes – E-Fine 2

Aluminum / 11-speed / 29×2.4″ 27.5×2.4″ / 60Nm – 250W /

best, electric, mountain, bikes, 2023, affordable

MSRP: 6,500 Mike’s Bikes

NS Bikes is a lesser-known brand that specializes in precision and attention to detail, so it’s no surprise that the E-Fine 2 electric mountain bike is a well-designed and fined-tuned piece of machinery.

The high-quality full suspension frame glides effortlessly over rough terrain, leaving the fully integrated motor and the battery barely noticeable to both you and envious onlookers.

With a punchy Shimano STEPS E7000 drive system, it’s the perfect bike for those who need some extra uphill power without losing the raw feeling of a standard mountain bike.

Lightweight, responsive, and tough – the E-Fine 2 is a very enjoyable full-suspension eBike to ride.

  • Rear derailleur: Shimano Deore RD-M5100
  • Fork: Rock Shox 35 Gold RL 160mm travel
  • Rear Shock: X-FUSION H3C Trunnion 150mm
  • Brakes: Shimano Deore MT420 hydraulic disc with 203mm rotors

#14. Devinci EP

A great trail-ready full suspension e-MTB

Aluminum / 12-speed / 29×2.6″ / 60Nm – 20mp/h / Range: 60mi

MSRP: 5,999 Backcountry

This Devinci electric mountain bike is one of the best in this price range. The EP looks and feels like it should cost a lot more than it does. The fully-integrated battery fits seamlessly into the frame giving a clean and professional-looking finish, while the powerful 60Nm Shimano STEPS E7000 motor makes short work of steep uphill scrambles over loose, rocky surfaces.

Devinci has managed to deliver premium performance by using high-quality suspension components including a RockShox 35 Silver TK fork and Deluxe Select R shock linked by their Split Pivot platform. The brakes are off-brand Magura but the drivetrain is a reliable Shimano Deore 12-speed that injects some extra quality. Additionally, you have Maxxis Minion 2.6″ tires.

Consider the Devinci EP electric trail mountain bike if you want a fast and fun ride with tons of range for a long day on the trails.

Main Features of Electric Mountain Bikes

How much to spend on an electric mountain bike?

Santa Cruz Bullit is made from premium carbon fiber and costs more than 10,000. But not everyone needs to spend that much.

An average price for a decent electric mountain bike tends to stay in the 3,000 – 6,000 range. The most expensive e-bikes are usually pro-level carbon fiber mountain bikes that would cost a lot even without the extra motor and electric battery.

What speed and range can you expect?

Modern e-bikes use high-torque motors to reach speeds of up to 28 mph (45kph) and long-range batteries that will go up to 100 miles (160km) on a single charge. However, more common pedal-assist bikes usually only go about 20 mph (32kph) and cover about 62 miles (100km) on a single charge.

Pedal Assistance and Classes Explained

Electric-assist mountain bikes fall into two categories – pedal-assist and power-on-demand. As the name suggests, pedal-assist e-bikes require you to pedal for operation, whereas power-on-demand bikes can be controlled from a handlebar-mounted accelerator.

In some cases, an e-bike will have both pedal assistance and a handlebar-mounted throttle. Most high-end MTBs are equipped with a pedal-assistance only.

In terms of the speed and type of assistance you can expect, e-bikes are split into three official classes and one unofficial one:

  • Class 1 eBike: Pedal assistance limited to 20mph. (Most common among high-end eMTBs)
  • Class 2 eBike: Throttle (plus optional pedal-assist). Speed is still limited to 20mph.
  • Class 3 eBike: Pedal-assist (optional throttle) limited to 28mph.
  • Class 4 eBike: Any electric bike with a max speed of 28mph and over, or motor power over 750W.

The Orbea Rise e-MTB comes with a mid-drive motor, but you can go for a hub motor if you want to spend less.

You should also be aware that there are two types of e-bike motors out there. The majority of the best electric mountain bikes come with mid-drive motors, but some more affordable models feature hub motors.

  • Mid-drive motor – Most common among high-end mid-range eBikes. Best weight distribution, most optimized power output.
  • Hub motor – Found on most off-road eBikes. Cheaper, while there’s more torque on the rear wheel which is useful for heavier bikes.

Electric Mountain Bikes Buying Guide

What is the best electric mountain bike?

Choosing the best electric mountain bike is a subjective feat, but Quietkat Jeep is a solid choice.

The best mountain eBike is the one that fits your budget and has the right geometry and level of components for your riding needs. Mountain biking has many different disciplines, and all of the bikes here are fully ready to hit the trails, to say the least.

We are not big fans of the supermarket nor the Walmart electric mountain bikes. As in general, MTB is something where you really wouldn’t want to cut corners in terms of your own safety anyway, so it is better to trust MTB/E-Bike specific brands.

Is an electric mountain bike worth it?

These days, electric mountain bikes are gaining mainstream appeal, making them more affordable and more widely accepted. In particular, older riders or cyclists with injuries can enjoy cycling again with electric bikes. Furthermore, they can save a lot of time and energy going up a mountain. If you wish to dedicate more time to enjoy the fast-paced, downhill sections of a mountain you’ll find an e-MTB to be an invaluable resource.

Is it safe to ride an electric mountain bike?

With speeds seldom breaching the 28mp/h mark, electric mountain bikes don’t pose any more risk than a standard bike. In most cases, the small motors only provide minor assistance and aren’t powerful enough to cause any real danger on the roads.

So long as you familiarize yourself with the controls, use a helmet, and follow proper traffic laws, you should be as safe as you would be on a normal bike.

Where to purchase the best off-road bikes online?

  • JensonUSA – Norco, Marin Bikes, Niner, Intense Cycles, Devinci
  • BackCountry – Santa Cruz Bicycles, Pivot, Niner e-mountain bikes
  • Aventuron – A small selection of Cannondale Electric Mountain Bikes
  • TheProsCloset.com – Excellent selection of used electric mountain bikes in great condition

How fast does an electric bike go?

RadRover 6 also has a 7-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and front suspension. Therefore, it’s able to cover some serious ground both up steep hills and down breathtaking descents.

The most noticeable feature is the 4″ tires, which make RadRover an electric fat tire mountain bike. This electric MTB has fenders and bright lights, but you can add many other accessories, including racks, baskets, and more.

RadRover is one of the best electric mountain bikes for 2,000, so don’t hesitate to get it if you’re a MTB beginner or you need an affordable all-around performer and everyday workhorse.

Cannondale Moterra Neo 4

Second-best! Best Electric Mountain Bike

MSRP: 5,900 Battery Motor: Shimano EP8 with 630Wh battery Features: High torque motor, high-capacity battery, full suspension, aluminum frame, large tires

The Cannondale Moterra Neo 4 is a versatile MTB e-bike built for experienced riders to enjoy any type of terrain and surface.

It’s equipped with big 29″ wheels that roll on tubeless tires that can conquer rocks, dirt, and mud equally well. over, its front coil suspension fork with 100mm travel will improve your comfort and give you all the confidence you need when descending.

When it comes to the bike’s electronics, it has an industry-leading Shimano EP8 motor and a huge 630Wh of juice to provide a full day of trail riding.

The Moterra Neo 4 is one of the best electric mountain bikes considering it comes with all-mountain 150mm suspension and solid components.

  • Mid-drive motor provides powerful, natural assistance.
  • SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain gives you great range.
  • Four-piston hydraulic disc brakes stop on a dime when you need.
  • A capable 100mm travel fork improves comfort and stability.

This electric mountain bike is built around an aluminum frame that comes with trail geometry for all-mountain riding.

Not only is it a capable MTB and packs a great punch with that motor it is one of the best-looking bikes on this list.

best, electric, mountain, bikes, 2023, affordable

All in all, if you want an electric mountain bike that does not differ from a non-electric model and brings even more to the table, The Cannondale Moterra Neo 4 is the right choice.

Niner RIP e9 3-Star

Third Place! Best Trail/Enduro Electric Mountain Bike

MSRP: 6,699 Battery Motor: 625Wh, Bosch Gen4 Performance Line CX 75Nm Features: Aluminum frame, 20mph top speed, 12-speed SRAM SX drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, 160mm/150mm travel

Niner RIP e9 is a wildly popular electric mountain bike that eliminates much of the skepticism that usually surrounds e-MTBs. It’s a fun bike that removes barriers and lets you experience trail riding the same way you would on a standard mountain bike.

To begin with, this e-bike is a 29″ full-suspension shredder with a 160mm RockShox Zeb R fork and a 150mm Fox Float DPX2 Performance rear shock. It also features a wide-range SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed cassette, coupled with powerful hydraulic disc brakes.

  • Powerful Bosch Performance Line CX motor and a high-capacity battery.
  • Schwalbe Eddy Current EVO 29 x 2.4″ and Hans Dampf EVO 2.35″ tires.
  • Class 1 e-bike with pedal assistance up to 20mph.

The high-quality Bosch electronics are some of the best in the game. The setup provides you with a 20mph maximum assisted speed, and you can expect a 50-mile range thanks to the 625Wh integrated battery. You can smash climbs and make short work of difficult terrain.

This Niner electric mountain bike is a slack mean machine with a slack head tube angle and a steep seat tube angle. It comes in three sizes and has an attractive black paint job.

Buy it if you can afford to spend 6,699 on getting one of the best electric mountain bikes.

QuietKat Jeep

Best Full-Suspension E-Bike

MSRP: 7,500 Battery Motor: 696 Wh battery and 1000W or 750W motor Features: 26″ x 4.8″ wheels, full suspension, 9-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes

QuietKat Jeep provides the biggest amount of travel you will see on this list. It’s a powerful hunting-specific mountain bike with 150mm of suspension travel and Tektro 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes for rowdy descents.

The Jeep will expand your abilities when it comes to the trails and terrain you can ride on. This bike comes with 26″ x 4.8″ fat tires that can handle any challenge. Feel free to ride on snow, sand, mud, and rocks without fear of loosing grip.

  • A high-capacity 696 Wh battery and 1000W or 750W motor
  • 26″ x 4.8″ fat tires.
  • Downhill ready 150 mm of front and rear suspension.
  • Tektro 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes.
  • Developed in collaboration with Jeep.

What e-bike lovers will appreciate the most are the powerful electrical components. You can get this bike with a 1000W or 750W mid-drive motor, depending on how much climbing you intend to do. The 696 Wh battery provides up to 58 miles of range, though you can order an additional one to carry with you on long rides as a replacement.

This QuietKat electric mountain bike also has a SRAM 9-speed drivetrain, which is a slight drawback, considering the price. We feel that a larger gear range would be more appropriate.

In any case, by purchasing QuietKat Jeep, you get a bike that descends like mad and climbs even better thanks to the electronics. You should have loads of fun on it and easily reach your favorite hunting spots.

Ride1UP LMT’D

Best Step-Through Electric Mountain Bike

MSRP: 1,895 Battery Motor: 672 Wh battery and 750W geared rear hub motor Features: Aluminum frameset, integrated battery, front suspension, Shimano Alivio group

Ride1Up is well-known for building some of the best budget electric bikes in the industry. They’re making a name for themselves in the electric MTB category as well. LMT’d is a fast and powerful hardtail electric mountain bike with an unconventional step-through frame design.

This is a 27.5″ wheeled aluminum MTB with dependable components from Shimano, Tektro, Schwalbe, and other big brands. It’s propelled by a geared rear hub 750W motor and a 672Wh battery, which is more than enough juice for a day on the trails.

As a class 3 e-bike, this Ride1UP electric mountain bike provides pedal assistance up to 28 mph, so you’ll be able to turn long and backbreaking days into casual trail excursions.

  • Lightweight and stiff aluminum frame.
  • Geared motor assists you up to 28 mph.
  • Excellent Shimano Alivio 9-speed drivetrain for easy climbing.
  • 80mm air suspension fork
  • Massive 27.5″ x 2.4″ tires.

In addition to the excellent electronics, Ride1UP comes with an RST Asteria 80mm air fork. That is a serious suspension setup ready for moderate trails and gravel and dirt roads.

You also get a Shimano Alivio 9-spd drivetrain, Schwalbe Super-Moto X tires, hydraulic disc brakes, and a comfortable saddle.

Ride1UP LMT’D is the ideal hardtail mountain bike for casual riders who love moderate trails and want to enjoy a day in nature with the help of some electricity.

Orbea Rise M20

Quality Full-Suspension Electric Mountain Bike

MSRP: 7,399 Battery Motor: 280Wh battery and 250W motor Features: Carbon frame, 29″ x 2.4″ tires, 140mm in the front and rear, Shimano SLX components

Orbea Rise M20 is another bike on this list with a solid list of specs. This model comes with a Shimano EP8 motor and a 360Wh battery. The motor will assist you up to 20 MPH and the battery will give you enough juice for all your adventures.

Orbea Rise is a full-suspension e-mountain bike, ready for all kinds of adventure.

Now, this bike features Shimano SLX components, which offer premium quality – 510% gear range, smooth shifting, and excellent chain retention. This groupset is built to be abused.

  • Carbon fiber frame
  • Dual suspension
  • MicroShift 7-speed drivetrain.
  • Quality motor and battery

Orbea Rise M20 electric mountain bike offers quality suspension as well. Your adventures will be cushioned by Fox 34 Float Performance fork and Fox Float DPS Performance rear shock. Both offer 140mm of travel.

The wheelset is worth mentioning too – Maxxis Dissector front tire and Maxxis Rekon rear tire work in unison, offering the best possible riding experience.

While the Orbea Range M20 might seem to be out of reach for many, this electric mountain bike will pay for itself over time.

Santa Cruz Heckler C R

Best Performance Full-Suspension E-Bike

MSRP: 8,749 Battery Motor: 720 Wh battery and Shimano EP8 Motor Features: 12-speed drivetrain, plus-size tires, dual suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, Carbon frame

There’s no doubt that Santa Cruz has electric mountain bikes figured out. That’s also pretty obvious with the Heckler, it’s not a general day-to-day e-bike, it’s an off-road racing machine. This is a versatile full suspension trail bike that can navigate all types of mountains and trails, including very steep ones.

This Santa Cruz electric mountain bike has the well-known Shimano EP8 motor, which is incredible. It’s combined with a 720 Wh battery that’s completely hidden inside the downtube.

The super lightweight Carbon frame boasts front and rear suspension for maximum comfort and off-road performance. Therefore, you have enough capability to go anywhere into the wild.

  • Excellent all-around performer, good for all types of trails.
  • Front 160mm RockShox Lyrik and rear 150mm RockShox Super Deluxe suspension.
  • 12-speed drivetrain with a wide-range cassette.
  • EP8 motor and 720 Wh battery.
  • 29″ x 2.5″ Maxxis front tire and 29″ x 2.4 Maxxis Rear tire.

The groupset is the legendary SRAM NX 12 speed. It offers you a huge range of gears not just for climbing but downhills too.

This bike also features hydraulic disc brakes with massive rotors, these will stop you literally on a pin.

This is an excellent full-suspension mountain bike for versatile riders who love testing their limits on different types of terrain.

Vvolt Sirius

Consider Also: Affordable Versatile Off-Road Commuter

MSRP: 2,799 Battery Motor: 375Wh battery and 250W motor Features: Lightweight aluminum frame, front suspension, a mid-drive motor, torque sensor, enviolo rear hub

Vvolt’s Sirius is not a trail-worthy or a race-ready full-suspension electric mountain bike, but we still decided to include it in our list. We did it because we think it would meet the requirements of many riders out there—it’s fun, versatile, ready for paved and unpaved adventures, and it does not cost a fortune.

Sirius sports a 250W mid-drive motor, which is one of the most popular units on the market. It’s combined with an integrated 375Wh battery that gives you an impressive range of up to 60 miles, according to the manufacturer.

  • Step-over aluminum frame suitable for male and female riders.
  • 100mm air suspension fork makes off-road rides smooth and improves comfort.
  • Class 1 e-mountain bike with a 20 MPH maximum assisted speed.
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Enviolo rear hub with stepless shifting

This Vvolt electric mountain bike is off-road ready, but we wouldn’t put it through too much abuse. It features a 100mm air suspension fork, an enviolo stepless rear hub, and trusty hydraulic disc brakes. Therefore, it is well equipped for off-road routes.

What we also like is that Sirius is versatile and can be used for city commuting. It comes with fender and rear rack mounts, and powerful front and rear lights.

All things considered, this is the best value electric bike for the average rider. It’s pretty much the only e-bike you need if you commute by bicycle, ride for fun, and take detours off the beaten path just for kicks.

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Take a look at our list of the best mountain bike brands.

Rambo Krusader

Best AWD All-Terrain E-Bike

MSRP: 4,999 Battery Motor: 14ah Battery and 2 x 500w motors Features: 26″ wheels, aluminum frameset, suspension, 1 speed, Maxxis Minion fat tires, rear rack

The Rambo Krusader is an all-terrain e-bike, which means it’s perfect for riding on rough terrain, away from the beaten paths, and even on roads. It’s built around a durable aluminum frameset and comes with excellent components for the money.

This Rambo electric mountain bike is a proper trail-ready machine thanks to the front suspension. The setup is made for extreme comfort. The larger tires and relaxed geometry will keep you on the bike for many miles before needing to stop.

The aluminum frameset is durable and stiff. It brings the weight down and improves performance despite the extra pounds added by heavy-duty electronics.

  • Versatile 26″ wheels.
  • A great all-around performer with front suspension.
  • Single Speed Drive
  • Powerful 2 x 500W motors and a 14ah battery.
  • Reliable hydraulic disc brakes.

If you’re struggling to ride uphill the twin 500W mid-drive unit will help you do it. Plus, the 14ah battery will give you enough range to do it again and again until you find the perfect spot for a rest. The beauty of this bike is the fact both wheels drive so you can imagine you’re getting incredible grip and torque from this bike.

This bike has a comfortable and versatile geometry, as well as mid-range components, so it won’t limit your trail riding in any way. Instead, it will enhance it and allow you to ride further and spend more time in the forest and in the mountains. If you are concerned about just having a single gear don’t be the motors are powerful enough to still take you up tough inclines.

The Rambo Krusader is definitely not a cheap electric mountain bike, but it is worth the money. If you like the 26″ setup and want dependable 1000W pedal assistance, you shouldn’t hesitate to get it.

Haibike ALLMTN 3

Best All-Mountain Electric Bike

MSRP: 5,800 Battery Motor: 625Wh battery 250W motor Features: Mountain bike drivetrain, aluminum frame, 160mm travel front 150mm on the rear, fat tires, hydraulic disc brakes

The Haibike ALLMTN 3 is an amazing electric mountain bike that has everything you could ever ask for when hitting a technical trail. However, it has something you might dislike as well, which is a very steep price of 5,800.

With that number in mind, it’s worth considering if the features reflect the investment, and the answer is yes. This Haibike electric mountain bike has some mouth-watering components and features.

It is powered by a 250W motor that makes climbing on any terrain and gradient super easy. This way, you can get the most natural pedaling assistance when you need it the most. The bike itself as an e-bike is incredibly light and it is nimble and agile to use.

  • Lightweight and stiff full suspension aluminum frame.
  • 27.5″ / 2.8″ wide rear tires, 29″ / 2.5″ wide front tire
  • 250W motor
  • Full suspension

This is an electric mountain bike, in our opinion, it’s one of the best-looking electric mountain bikes you can get. It looks great and with that full suspension setup performs great too.

The groupset comes in the form of SRAM SX 12-speed mountain bike groupset. It is known for silky smooth shifting and is probably one of the most reliable groupsets you can buy.

What’s good is that this bike boasts powerful Shimano hydraulic disc brakes which are going to stop you very quickly if you require them to.

If you enjoy mountain biking and are looking for a full-suspension bike that is going to give you a bit of assistance the Haibike ALLMTN 3 is got everything you need.

People Also Ask

Do you have any other questions about electric mountain bikes? You’re not the only one!

What is the best electric mountain bike?

The best mountain bike is not the same for everyone. On our list, Rad Power RadRover took the first position because it is versatile, capable, and affordable. Thus, it can be the best electric mountain bike for different types of riders. Others might like another model on the list better, which is why it’s hard to give a universal answer.

Is an electric mountain bike worth it?

An electric mountain bike is definitely worth it. For the right type of rider, an e-MTB does not really have any disadvantages. If you’re struggling to ride as hard or as long as before due to an injury or age, an electric mountain will quite literally change your life.

How much does an electric mountain bike cost?

Electric mountain bikes cost anywhere between 1,000 and 10,000. However, on average, you should expect to spend around 4,000 for a mid-range model with quality suspension, components, and electronics. Such a bike will be trail-ready and will allow you to ride as hard as before.

How long do e-mountain bikes last?

Electric mountain bikes can last just as long as non-electric bicycles. Over time, the battery capacity deteriorates, so you need to swap it every 3–5 years. However, all other parts should last for years with proper maintenance. Of course, regular servicing is a must.

Bottom Line

While creating this list, we aimed to include a wide variety of electric mountain bikes that would satisfy different types of riders. Therefore, we’ve reviewed off-road commuters, lively electric hardtails, and full-blown trail shredders with full suspension.

Whichever model you end up choosing, you may rest assured you’ll be getting a well-built, high-quality e-bike that will give you more mobility and boost your fitness and health. The only drawback to many of them is the high price, but the benefits are often worth it.

Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев if we failed to include your top pick and we’ll consider reviewing it in the future!

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Uh… Rocky Mountain much? Not only built around an in-house drive, also happens to have the most – let alone MTB-specific – torque.

Electric Bikes for Kids and Teens – A Buying Guide and Top Picks

Electric bikes for kids are quickly gaining in popularity, and the technology powering them continues to get better and better. From electric balance bikes for motocross kids to electric commuter bikes and e-mountain bikes, kids ebikes are an incredible tool for enabling kids to go faster and farther than their little legs can carry them on their own.

Whether you have a future bmx star, a young child tackling longer distances, a teenager commuting to work, or you’re a parent looking to replace short car trips, there’s an ebike for that! Ebikes for kids vary widely in purpose, so understanding what to look for as well as what is available is essential to finding the right bike for your child and your family.

In order to help you find the best electric bike for your needs, we’ve broken this article into four sections. The first section is a buying guide that covers everything you need to know about buying an ebike for your child, and the remaining three sections provide tips and specific bike suggestions based on the age of the rider.

While we highly recommend reading our full electric bikes for kids buying guide, here’s are some quick tips and specific bike recommendations for those TL;DR folks :-).

Quick Tips for Buying a Kids ebike

(1) Be aware of your local laws and regulations: Many areas prohibit kids from operating Class II (ebikes with throttles) as well as Class III ebikes (ebikes with a 28mph max w/wo a throttle).

(2) Look for a bike with a torque sensor: Torque sensors allow the rider to control the speed of the bike with the pedals. Without one, pedaling slower will NOT slow down the speed of the bike, which can be very confusing and dangerous for kids.

(3) Say no to the throttle: Throttles allow kids to reach high speeds quickly without pedaling and should be avoided. Throttles on essentially all ebikes, however, can be turned off or removed after purchase.

(4) Pay attention to weight: ebikes can weigh up to 60 lb. (or more!) and can be a lot for an adult, let alone a child, to handle.

(5) eBikes vs. electric balance bikes: Small electric balance bikes without pedals (such as STACYC) typically are not covered under ebike laws, but should still be used with caution.

The Best Electric Bikes for Kids

This list was compiled after extensive research as well as leaning heavily on our own experience with electric bikes. Unlike our other “best” lists throughout this site, we fully admit that we have not tested or personally seen all of these bikes.

details about these specific bikes are included in the age-based sections below. Like always, any additional feedback and suggestions are welcome in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев.

Electric Balance Bikes STACYC 12 eDrive STACYC 16eDrive GoTrax Kids STACYC 18e Drive STACYC 20E Drive Electric Bikes for Kids woom UP Commencal Meta Power 24 eBikes for Carrying Kids RadRunner Plus Aventon Abound Ferla Family Bike
3 to 5 9 mph 799
5 to 7 13 mph 1,049
5 to 8 15.5 mph 449
8 to 10 18 mph 1,999
10 to 12 20 mph 2,599
8 to 12 Best all around eMTB 3,799
8 to 12 Ultimate eMTB for advanced riders 3,800
Adult Comes with light, fenders, and rear seat 1,899
Adult Peppy longtail ebike, holds two kids 2,199
Adult Holds up to 4 kids! 3,999

Electric Bikes for Kids – Table of Contents

Jump Down Menu – Click to Jump to your Desired Section

  • Electric Bikes for Kids Buying Guide
  • eBikes for Kids (Bikes with pedals – age 6)
  • Electric Bikes for Toddlers and Preschoolers(Balance bikes – no pedals)
  • Electric Cargo Bikes for Carrying Kids(Cargo-esque bikes that allow for a child seat)

eBikes for Kids Buying Guide

If you are new to ebikes, there is certainly a lot to learn! In this guide, we will be focusing on the features of ebikes that are particularly important for kids. While the specifics of battery life, battery volts, motor torque, and countless other ebike components are very important to the overall performance of the bike, they don’t necessarily affect kids more than adults, so we won’t be discussing them here.

For a more general reference about electric bikes, REI’s How to Choose an Electric Bike is a great place to start. For a deep dive into the electric systems of ebikes, ebikes.ca is a top-notch resource, while Juiced Bikes does a great job going into the specifics of batteries. Lastly, for reviews on adult ebikes (including some small enough for tweens and teens), electricbikereview.com is a great resource.

Why an ebike for kids?

Two words – distance and elevation. Electric bikes allow kids to ride their bikes for longer distances as well as tackle greater elevations gains. Based on our experiences with our own kids, ebikes can magically transform rides that were previously too hard, too long, or too boring… into exciting adventures that kids truly enjoy.

Electric bikes are very different than electric scooters. Many people balk at the idea of a child riding an electric bike as they envision kids zipping down the street without taking a single pedal stroke. While this is certainly possible, it’s not probable nor is it the purpose or design of ebikes for kids.

When given the right bike (kids don’t need a throttle!) and in the right conditions (longer rides or in hilly areas), kids can still get plenty of exercise on an ebike.

Kid-specific ebikes don’t have a throttle (more about this below) and require kids to pedal for the motor to even kick on. If they stop pedaling, the motor also stops. While many tweens and teens can technically fit on adult ebikes with throttles (Class II or III), many areas have regulations to prevent kids from riding an ebike with a throttle.

Class of eBikes

Prior to shopping for an ebike, it is important to understand the differences between the three classes of ebikes on the market. Many states do not allow kids under the age of 16 to ride a Class III ebike, while many states don’t allow anyone (even adults!) to ride Class II ebikes on bike paths and trails. Check out Bikes for People’s Electric Bike Laws to learn more about your state’s regulations.

The two main differences between the classes of ebikes are:

What is a bike throttle? A throttle is a lever or button that activates the motor of the bike without having to pedal. If a bike does not have a throttle, the motor can only be activated by pedaling the bike.

Max mph assist Throttle
Class I 20 No
Class II 20 Yes
Class III 20/28 Optional

Class I

The motor on Class I ebikes cannot assist the rider above 20 mph max. While the rider can pedal to accelerate the bike faster than 20mph, the motor will stop providing additional assistance once 20mph is reached.

Class I ebikes also cannot have a throttle. The motor can only be activated via pedaling and the rider must continue pedaling in order for the motor to operate. Most ebikes sold in big-box stores are Class I ebikes.

All kid-specific ebikes are Class I, but for added safety, they typically have a lower speed at which the motor will stop assisting. For example, the kid-specific woom UP line maxes out at 12 mph and the Kent Torpedo at 17 mph.

Class II

Like Class I bikes, the motor on Class II can only assist up to 20 mph. The main difference is that Class II bikes have a throttle that allows the rider to turn on the motor and propel the bike forward without pedaling the bike. The rider can also choose not to use the throttle and to activate the motor via the pedals as well.

Class III

Stepping it up a notch, Class III ebikes can assist the rider up to 28 mph when pedaling, but only up to 20mph when using the optional throttle. Due to their higher speeds, Class III ebikes are the most regulated and in many areas are limited to street use only.

Ebike Sizing vs. Traditional Bike Sizing

Like regular kids bikes, ebikes for kids are sized according to wheel size. So if your child is riding a 24″ bike, they will likely fit on a 24″ kids electric bike.

Like all bikes, it is also important to take minimum and maximum seat heights into account as they can vary widely within a wheel size, depending on brand. If you aren’t sure what wheel size your child needs, be sure to check out our Kids Bikes Sizing Guide.

Currently, there are only a handful of child-specific ebikes on the market (in the US). The smallest bike we are aware of is the Kent Torpedo 20″, which has a minimum seat height of 27″ and can fit kids as young as 7. The Swagtron EB-6 20″ bike is a popular bike marketed as a kid’s bike, but it is too tall for most kids and with only 1 PAS mode, it is too fast for kids to ride safely.

Larger kids electric bikes are available from woom and Commencal, but they are designed for more aggressive trail riders, versus everyday neighborhood riders. With suspension and top-of-the-line components, these bikes are powerhouses on the trail but also come with a steep price tag that puts them out of reach for many families.

As a result, many older kids (tween and teens at least 5′ not riding on a mountain trail), will likely ride an ebike designed for an adult. Our page on Electric Bicycles for Women has many bikes small enough for a 4’11 – 5’0 kid rider.

The wheel sizes on adult electric bikes vary widely from 20″ fat tires to 700c street tires. As a result, the wheel size on adult ebikes cannot be used as an indication of the overall size of the bike.

Weight of eBikes

Ebikes are heavy! While the motor does help to compensate for the additional weight to get the bike moving, ebikes can still be significantly harder to maneuver than traditional bikes. This is especially true for tweens and teens riding adult ebikes, which can weigh up to 70 pounds.

Kid-specific ebikes tend to be a bit lighter than adult bikes, but they are in turn much more expensive. As a point of reference, the 3,750 woom 6 UP with 26″ wheels weighs 37.3 lb. while the 650 26″ Hyper MTN weighs 48 lb.

Like traditional bikes, lightweight ebikes tend to be very expensive. Don’t be surprised if entry-level ebikes don’t have their total weights listed. When researching for this article, reviews of specific bikes on YouTube and electricbikereview.com were helpful in providing information about the weight and overall size of the bike.

For adults carrying kids as passengers on an ebike, the total weight of the bike can be a lot to negotiate. Over the years, we’ve found Class II ebikes with throttles to be a gamechanger when riding with a heavy load.

Using the throttle to propel that heavy load forward from a standstill is significantly easier than attempting to do so by pedaling, even with pedal assist. Once the bike is moving, it is easy to maintain balance and momentum on the bike by pedaling and the throttle is no longer necessary.

Pedal Assist Modes (PAS)

A bike’s pedal-assist mode or PAS, determines how much “help” the motor provides while pedaling. Most ebikes have 3 to 5 pedal assist modes. The higher the pedal-assist mode, the more the motor will assist in propelling the bike forward.

The PAS modes are easily adjusted by pushing a button on the bike’s display on the handlebars, or on some bikes, the downtube. PAS modes can be changed at any time during a ride.

Pedal-assist modes work by altering the total output of the motor (watts). The higher the pedal-assist mode, the greater the percentage of output the motor will produce, and the less effort the rider has to exert on the pedals to propel the bike forward.

As a point of clarification, be aware that these percentages are the MAX percentages the motor or the rider can have on the total output (basically speed) of the bike. The bike does not need to reach “100% output” in order to move.

best, electric, mountain, bikes, 2023, affordable

The % of the output from the rider, as well as the motor, can vary within the set PAS range. For example, on a bike with 3 PAS modes, in PAS 2 the motor can apply up to 80% of the output, while the rider can apply up to 20%. As a result, the higher the PAS mode, the less effect the rider’s pedaling has on the speed of the bike. In all PAS modes, however, the motor will stop providing additional assistance once the bike reaches its max MPH allowed for motor assistance.

Riding with PAS

The rider must continue to pedal at all times in all PAS modes. If the rider stops pedaling (even in PAS 5), the motor will stop providing output. The bike, however, will not stop as it will continue to coast like a traditional bike. (Note: If you are engaging the throttle on a Class II or Class III ebike, the throttle overrides the PAS and you don’t need to pedal.)

To stop the bike, the rider can stop pedaling and coast to a stop or simply apply the brakes, which automatically turns off the motor.

The “feel” of riding with PAS can vary greatly from bike to bike. Compared to higher-end ebikes, lower-end ebikes tend to be jerkier and can also limit the rider’s ability to control the speed of the bike with the pedals. These differences are the result of the bike’s ability (or inability) to regulate the rate at which the motor output is applied.

Some ebikes will automatically apply the max motor output for every PAS (for example, ramping quickly up to 80% output at the first pedal stroke), while others will slowly ramp up the output based on the pedaling of the rider (slowly increase from 0% to 80% based how hard or fast the rider is pedaling).

A bike’s ability to quickly or slowly apply power to the bike is determined by the bike’s PAS sensor. There are two main types of sensors – a cadence sensor, and a torque sensor.

Cadence Sensors vs. Torque Sensors

While the PAS modes control the max % of output the motor will produce, the sensors on the bike determine the rate at which that max % of output is applied. There are two main types of sensors – cadence sensors, and torque sensors. While seemingly minor, these sensors can make a huge difference in how the bike reacts to the rider.

A cadence sensor detects if you are pedaling (not how fast, but whether the pedals are moving or not) while a torque sensor measures how hard you are pedaling (~how much tension is on the chain). Lower-end bikes typically have cadence sensors, but higher-end bikes have torque sensors.

While riding both bikes is the best way to “feel” the difference between the two, we’ll do our best to explain the difference and why we highly recommend bikes with torque sensors for kids.

Cadence Sensors

Cadence sensors act as on and off switches for the motor. Upon sensing a forward movement on the crank arms and pedals, the cadence sensor turns the motor on. Once the motor is on, it then applies output according to the PAS mode selected. The higher the PAS mode, the more output is available from the motor.

The cadence sensor, however, does not have the ability to determine how fast or how hard you are pedaling, it just looks to see IF you are pedaling in a forward motion. On a bike with a cadence sensor, you can be pedaling in a very low gear with NO tension on the chain at all and the bike will still be propelled forward by the motor.

As a result, the benefit of cadence sensors is that very little effort from the rider is needed for the bike to function, especially at high PAS levels. But on the flip side, since the sensor cannot monitor how fast or slow the rider is pedaling, it can be very challenging, or in some cases not possible at all, for the rider to control the speed of the bike with the pedals.

Regardless of how fast or how slow the rider is pedaling on an ebike with a cadence sensor, the motor will apply the max % of input based on the selected PAS mode. For example, if your bike has 5 PAS modes and you are riding in PAS 3 (60% motor input, 40% human) the bike will automatically ramp up to 60% of its motor output once the pedals start rotating. Slowing down or speeding up your pedal strokes will not affect the amount of output the motor is providing to the bike.

You can increase the speed of the bike by pedaling hard and adding to the 60% output the motor is already providing (the 40% rider output), but you cannot decrease the output of the motor by pedaling slowly. If you are already pedaling at a slower pace (so as to not add to the motor’s output) the only way to slow the speed of the bike is to decrease the PAS mode, brake (which stops the motor), or stop pedaling (which also stops the motor).

It can therefore be very difficult to ride at a slow speed on a bike with a cadence sensor, especially at high PAS levels. Whether you are spinning in granny gear or huffing and puffing in high gear, the output of the motor will remain the same.

For young riders, the lack of ability to control the speed of the bike with their feet can be VERY confusing and potentially dangerous. As a result, we highly recommend ebikes for kids with torque sensors (explained below).

Torque Sensors

While cadence sensors act as an “ignition” switch to the motor (turning it on or off), bikes with torque sensors take it one step further and essentially turn the pedals into a “gas pedal”.

By monitoring the amount of pressure applied to the cranks and pedals, a torque sensor allows you to slowly ramp up the output of the motor by pedaling faster and decrease the output by pedaling slower in all PAS modes.

So instead of quickly ramping up to the max % output in the selected PAS mode (like on ebikes with a cadence sensor), an ebike with a torque sensor will slowly increase the output of the motor according to how much tension the rider applies to the pedals (until it hits the max PAS %).

For example, if the selected PAS has a max output of 80%, the bike will feather the motor’s output from 0% to 80% depending on the force applied to the pedals by the rider. At a slow pedal rate, the motor may only output 20%, but as the rider pedals faster, the rate will increase until it maxes out at 80%.

So while bikes with torque sensors require more effort from the rider (the rider can’t just coast – they must apply pressure to the pedals), setting the bike to a higher PAS mode still allows the rider to get plenty of assistance from the motor by pedaling harder (like you would on a traditional bike).

As a result, like a traditional bike, an ebike with a torque sensor allows the rider to always be in control of the speed of the bike via the pedals. Want to go faster? Pedal faster. Want to slow down? Pedal slower.

The downside of torque sensors is that they are much more expensive to incorporate on a bike. As a result, ebikes with torque sensors are rarely found under 1,500 and are usually closer to 2,000.

Single-speed or Geared

PAS modes on a bike do not replace the gears. Like traditional bikes, gears on a bike allow you to alter how hard the bike is to pedal. The PAS modes on the bike adjust how much additional input the motor adds to your effort.

Gears are especially important when tackling steep elevation changes or technical terrain. If a bike does not have a “granny gear” to allow you to easily start pedaling the bike, the motor can’t kick in, regardless of the PAS mode you are in. As a result, if you stop on a steep incline you may not be able to get the heavy bike started up again. (Unless you have a throttle.)

On technical terrain, this is especially important as the PAS modes can’t help you power through a particularly rough part of a trail if the bike is in too hard of a gear to pedal. On an electric bike with a torque sensor (which most e-mountain bikes do), in order to get full input from the motor in your set PAS mode, you also need to be able to pedal at a decent speed.

If technical terrain or strong elevation gains are not in your plans, then a single-speed ebike with several PAS modes should suit you just fine. Bikes with throttles also typically don’t necessarily need multiple gears as you can always rely on the throttle to power you up a hill.

Keep in mind, however, that regardless of the class of ebike, the throttle can never accelerate the bike past 20 mph. Speeds beyond 20 mph require input from the rider via the drivetrain (you gotta pedal hard!), so gears are also essential for riders aiming for higher speeds.

Motor Placement – Hub vs. Mid-drive motor

The motor on ebikes can be located in three different places, (1) within the hub of the front wheel, (2) the rear wheel, or (3) at the bike’s bottom bracket (called mid-drive motors). Rear hub motors are the most common on low to mid-range ebikes, while mid-drive motors are standard on most high-end bikes. Front hub motors are not common.

Mid-drive Motor vs. Rear Hub Motor

For basic riding on paved surfaces, rear-hub motors do just fine. Bikes with hub motors are typically much cheaper than bikes with mid-drive motors, but they can throw off the weight distribution of the bike. As a result, for more technical riding, mid-drive motors are always recommended. In addition to being centrally located on the bike, they are also placed lower, thereby helping to lower the overall center of gravity of the bike.

Another benefit of mid-drive motors is that it is much easier to repair or replace the rear tire of the bike. With a rear hub motor, removing a rear wheel is certainly possible, it just takes a lot more time and effort.

The Best Electric Bikes for Kids (with Pedals)

From 8-year-olds taking on longer distances with their parents to teens needing a budget ebike to commute to work, we’ve done hours of research to find the best electric bikes for kids. While we have not personally seen all of these bikes, we have tested four different ebikes with seven different kids on a variety of trails.

The best ride for your child really comes down to your budget and how you plan on using it. Per our explanation provided in our buying guide above, we have not included any Class III ebikes. While we do not recommend bikes with throttles for kids, we have included several Class II on this list knowing that the throttles on essentially all ebikes can be removed.

We have also not included high-end kids eMTB bikes (with the exception of the woom UP which can be used as an eMTB and a commuter). From geometry to tires, suspension and brakes, there are a lot more variables to consider when shopping for an eMTB, but the basics outlined here still certainly apply.

If you are unaware of the importance of a torque sensor, please read our section about the differences in ebikes sensors above. Essentially, without a torque sensor, the speed of the bike cannot be controlled by the pedals.

Electric Bikes for Kids Comparison

Bikes for Ages 7 to 12. Class I. No throttle. 12 to 17 mph max woom UP 5 woom UP 6 Bikes for Ages 12, Class I. No throttle. 20 mph max Hyper eRide City Townie Go! 7D Priority Current Bikes for Ages 14, Class II w/ Throttle. 20 mph max Aventon Soltera Electra Townie Go! 7D Step-Thru If the throttle is removed, these bikes are suitable for kids 12
3,799 28″. 33.5″ 35.6 Yes 3 11 250W
3,999 30.9″. 37.4″ 37.3 Yes 3 11 250W
648 53 No 3 6 250W
1,899 4’11 – 5’11 44 Yes 3 7 250W
3,299 30.5″. 36.5″ Yes 5 5 500W
1,199 4’11”. 6’1″ 43 Yes 5 7 350W
1,599 4’11”. 5’11” 48 No 3 7 250W

The Best Electric Balance Bikes

While electric balance bikes should never be a replacement for a traditional balance bike, they are great fun for tiny riders, especially future motocross or riders or BMX racers. From doing laps at the track to simply riding around the campground or backyard, these electric balance bikes can help instill a passion for riding at a very young age.

STACYC electric balance bikes (owned by Harley Davidson) are by far the best quality and most popular. While other cheaper brands have hit the market, most are significantly heavier than the STACYC line and don’t offer as many speed settings.

Compared to the similarly-sized Yamaha PW50 kids motorcycle, electric balance bikes are quieter, lighter, and significantly cheaper! Like the PW50’s governor, most electric balance bikes have several speed settings to limit the top speed for new riders.

MSRP Seat Height Speeds Wt. Range
Bikes for ages 2 – 5
STACYC 12eDrive 735 14″ – 16″ (3) 5, 7, 9mph 17 lb. 30 – 60 min
Bikes for ages 5 – 7
GoTrax Kids 399 19.3″ – 20.9″ (1) 15.5 mph 27 lb. 15.5 miles
STACYC Brushless 16eDrive 1,049 17″ – 19″ (3) 5, 7.5, 13 mph 19 lb. 30 – 60 min

STACYC bikes are also available under several other brand names, including Harley Davidson (who purchased STACYC in 2019), KTM, GASGAS, and Husqvarna. As far as we are aware, besides aesthetics, the bikes themselves remain the same across all lines.

Electric Cargo Bikes for Hauling Kids

From quick drop-offs at a friend’s house to skipping the pick-up lane after school, electric cargo bikes are a fun and fast way to get around the neighborhood! With the flexibility to hold everything from toddlers in child bike seats to a full-grown adult, your family is sure to get many years of use from an electric family bike.

There are many different types of electric cargo bikes (or trikes!) to consider. In addition to the information covered in our buying guide above, there are a lot of variables to consider. For an in-depth dive into the specifics of cargo bikes for families, we highly recommend checking out Bike Shop Girl’s Cargo Bike buying guide.

When it comes to your budget, higher-end bikes are typically lighter, offer better speed control via a torque sensor, as well as increased durability from the drivetrain and electronics. If your planned trips are within a few miles around your neighborhood, however, don’t be afraid to go for a lower-end cargo bike, such as the RadRunner Plus shown above. Although heavy and not as fine-tuned as other bikes, it works great for quick trips and after 100s of miles, we have no complaints!

MSRPWeightTorque SensorRange
Bikes for 1 Child
RadRunner Plus 1,899 74.3 No 45 Mi.
Aventon Abound 2,199 81 Yes up to 50 Mi.
Bikes for 2 Kids
RadWagon 4 1,899 76.7 No 45 Mi.
Aventon Abound 2,199 81 Yes up to 50 Mi.
Xtracycle Swoop 4,999 62.9 Yes up to 60 Mi.
Tricycles for 2 Kids
Ferla Family Bike 3,999 130 No 25 Mi.
Bunch Coupe 6,999 132 No 75 Mi.

All bikes listed, except the Bunch Coupe, have a throttle

Natalie Martins

Natalie has basically been obsessed with kids’ bikes since 2010 when her oldest of three kids began riding a balance bike. After trying to convince everyone she knew about how amazing balance bikes are, she began Two Wheeling Tots. As a certified secondary science teacher, she loves digging deep into the why and how of kids biking. With her in-depth knowledge of the kids’ bike world, she has consulted with many top brands as well as contributed to articles at NY Strategist, the Today Show, and more.

The Best Electric Cargo Bikes of 2022

Haul kids, dogs, gear, and groceries with our favorite electric cargo bikes. With options ranging from front-load trikes to smooth-riding longtails, we’ll have you ready to pedal in no time.

For more than a year, our neighborhood has been testing a multitude of amazing electric cargo bikes. We’ve hauled everything from babies, kids, dogs, wood, inflatable SUPs, and even huge Costco and farmer’s market hauls. If our destination is within 15 miles, we go on cargo bikes.

Below, we highlight, categorize, and review the best bikes we tested. They were all standouts in their own unique way. But before we dive in, check out the lingo below, which helps explain the different styles of electric cargo bikes on the market today.

Electric Cargo Bike Styles

Long-john bike: These have the cargo box up front with the front wheel stretched out in front of you. Some also have the capacity for another passenger to ride on the back. This style takes a bit of practice when you first get on, as it handles a little differently than a traditional bike.

Longtail bike: These ride more like traditional bikes and can fit up to three small passengers (kids) riding on the tail. Most can also fit a clip-on seat for younger kids (9 months and up).

Front-load trike: These have two wheels and the cargo box in front. This stable style can fit as many as four kids in the box and sometimes an extra kid or panniers on the back.

Scroll through to see all of our recommendations for the best electric cargo bikes or jump to the category you’re looking for. At the end of our list, be sure to check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide.

The Best Electric Cargo Bikes of 2022

Best Overall Family Bike: Yuba Spicy Curry

Yuba’s mission is to make bikes that can easily haul kids, gear, and groceries, all while putting a big smile on everyone’s face (bystanders included). Other than its awesome name, we love the Spicy Curry (5,199) for its sturdy, tank-like feel. Even when it’s loaded down and our son is waving side to side on the back, we barely notice.

For some extra money, you can choose different add-ons for the bike depending on your lifestyle. We wanted to make this bike our main one for taking our son to preschool, so we opted to get the adjustable Monkey Bars (200) as well as a Yepp Maxi Easy Fit kid seat (259).

Our son loves the combination of the seat and the Monkey Bars. He gets to ride up high so he can see Mom or Dad and can hold on whenever he feels like it. Later, we added the 2-Go Cargo Bags (199) and the Bread Basket (200). This more than doubled our carrying capacity.

The frame looked big at first sight. But after adjusting the cockpit and seat to my 5’1″ height, I was pleasantly surprised at how natural and comfortable it felt. It has easily been the neighborhood’s most widely used bike. It’s simple to adjust the size of the bike, and it fits a wide variety of heights.

The components consist of a Shimano Deore 10-speed adjuster and Shimano Disc Brakes. And although I was wary at first of the non-internal hub, I grew to really like how much it felt like all my other bikes. The large front wheel helps smooth out bumps; it’s smooth enough that my son regularly falls asleep on the way home from school.

The motor is a very powerful and smooth Bosch Performance CX mid-drive with a 36V 500Wh battery. It has four levels of assist: Eco, Tour, eMTB, and Turbo. All of these are easy to click through on the control panel, which also displays the mileage, range, and speed.

On a single charge, I can get up to 55 miles on Eco mode or about 25 on full Turbo mode. The eMTB setting switches between all the modes depending on how it senses I’m riding, and I average between 30 and 40 miles.

Again, this bike has been the most used in our neighborhood of four families. It is easy to adjust, feels most like a regular bike, and can haul up to 300 pounds. At 60 pounds and 6 feet in length, it’s not the easiest of the bunch to store. But for carrying capacity, length, and price, this is easily one of the best electric cargo bikes money can buy.

Specs:

  • Weight: 60 lbs. (without any of the add-ons)
  • Length: 6′
  • Carrying capacity: 300 lbs.
  • Range: 25-55 miles depending on mode and capacity
  • Best for: Around town errands, kid pickups and dropoffs, dogs, big grocery or hardware store buys

Pros:

Cons:

Best Budget Cargo E-Bike: Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4

While this cargo e-bike (1,999) is still a major investment, it’s one of the most affordable options we’ve found. And although it may lack some of the capacity and extras of other higher-end bikes on this list, we’ve found it’s a solid contender and a great ride for most people.

The 750 W geared hub motor provides plenty of power, even when loaded up to the max 350-pound payload. It has five pedal assist levels, and we found it very easy to change between modes.

Weighing in at nearly 77 pounds, our smaller riders were worried it would feel unmanageable. For riders of all sizes, however, it rode smoothly and never felt overly heavy. The double-leg kickstand is sturdy and provided enough stability to load and unload wiggly children.

The 22X3 inch tires gave a very smooth ride while keeping the ride low and stable. It’s worth noting that these unusual tire sizes can be hard to find in local bike shops. It’s not a bad idea to have a spare on hand just in case.

Like other electric cargo bikes, the RadWagon 4 has integrated lights, so you won’t have to worry about forgetting your bike light at home.

The battery for this bike charged quickly, and we easily got 30-45 miles of travel, even when loaded down and traveling along hilly terrain.

All in all, this is a quality electric cargo bike at an unbeatable price.

Specs:

  • Weight: 76.7 lbs.
  • Length: 6.5′
  • Carrying capacity: 350 lbs.
  • Range: 25-45 miles depending on mode and capacity
  • Best for: Around town errands, kid pickups, and dropoffs

Pros:

Cons:

Best Compact, Daily Commuter: Tern GSD S00 Folding Bike

The Tern GSD (4,999-5,799) is simply a remarkable all-around bike. Many of the complaints about cargo bikes are that they are big, heavy, impossible to transport, and hard to store. All of that (except weight) gets turned upside down with the Tern GSD, which aptly stands for “Get Stuff Done.”

Tern Bikes is known for its ingenuity in creating folding bikes. So when the brand came out with a cargo bike that was the length of a regular commuter bike and could fold down to fit easily in most midsize SUVs or minivans, many bike commuters (including us) took notice.

The bike is even made to stand vertically on its back rack so that it takes up minimal space when stored inside. For the urban family who lives in an apartment building, people with limited garage space, or anyone who just doesn’t want to deal with a big classic cargo bike, the Tern is the answer.

Other specs that set the GSD apart are its carrying capacity of 440 pounds and the ability to fit two high-powered Bosch batteries on it. This gives it an impressive range of up to 155 miles. From the Green Guard non-puncture tires to the infinite-adjust internal geared hub, this bike is clearly made to last.

Like the other bikes, you can customize it however you like. We opted to try the Clubhouse basket (200), the Cargo Hold Panniers (175), and a Thule Yepp Maxi child’s seat (220). We were pleased to find out that the Cargo panniers were still usable with the Yepp Maxi seat over top of them. And with the batteries, panniers, and rack all sitting lower than your average bike, the handling and riding experience for both the driver and passenger is very smooth and comfortable.

Like all the other cargo bikes on this list, it fits a range of riders from 5′ to 6’5″. The unique handlebar, seatpost, and stem adjustment make it even quicker and easier to truly find a perfect cockpit for riders of various sizes. We used this bike exclusively for an entire week to see how quickly we would need to charge it. It lasted the entire week. We clocked 90 miles, using a mix of tour and eMTB mods, and it still showed two of five battery bars.

At 4,999 with a single battery and 5,799 with a dual battery, this one comes in at the middle of the pack price-wise. But it has our vote for being one of the most versatile, longest-lasting, and smoothest rides out of all of them.

Specs:

  • Weight: 70 lbs. (with one battery)
  • Length: 6′
  • Folded length: 71″ x 16″ x 33″
  • Carrying capacity: 440 lbs.
  • Range: Up to 200 km
  • Best for: Ultimate one-size-fits-all family utility bike

Pros:

  • Stem/handlebars/seatpost can fold down in 5 seconds, allowing it to fit in many vehicles
  • Can carry a ton of gear and people
  • Compact for e-bikes
  • Attention to total detail seems highest of all bikes
  • Just an outstanding design overall

Cons:

Best Kid-Hauler: Bunch Original Family Cargo Bike

This crowd-stopping, front-loading trike (4,285) gets high points for its lower price range (compared to other e-cargo bikes) and ease of assembly. It literally showed up at my house fully assembled via a semi-truck. All we had to do was take off the packaging, adjust the seat, and it was ready to go.

The big cargo box fits up to four kids and comes with comfortable cushions and easy-to-use shoulder straps. In the span of a few weeks, we took it out with all combinations of cargo: a dog and two kids, three kids and a cooler full of snacks, and even a week’s worth of groceries. Our 2-year-old loved it because he was up high and could chat with his friend across from him.

The bike has additional add-ons like a rain cover and a sunshade, which the kiddos and dog all appreciated when the elements became too much. Unlike other cargo bikes where it’s hard to secure your stuff, the cargo box has a lockable under-storage box that can easily fit a purse, computer, and other smaller valuables.

The components aren’t of the highest quality possible, but the combination of the Shimano Tourney SL-TX50 and the 500W 48V Dapu Hub motor created a smooth shifting and pedaling experience. And the easy-to-charge battery kept us motoring around town for almost 25 miles before we had to charge it up again.

The standover design and easy-to-adjust seat make it fit a wide range of sizes. I’m barely 5’1″, and I can ride it just as well as my 6′ stepdad. The control panel is also very intuitive, making it easy to turn on your headlight and see speed and battery life.

For the family who wants something to replace their car for short, local trips, this bike is the perfect ride. However, it’s not for the person who wants to get to where they’re going fast. While the motor will assist up to 20 mph, it comes with a factory set max of 15 mph (this is easily changed via the settings).

And because it’s a trike, the bike’s handling is a bit unstable at higher speeds, especially in corners where you can’t lean like a normal bike. So we’d recommend keeping that 15mph limit for a while until you learn the limitations. Think of this bike as more of a “take it easy and enjoy the sights” bike. It’s a super fun experience to share with your kids.

Specs:

  • Weight: 148 lbs.
  • Length: 6′
  • Carrying capacity: 220 lbs.; four kids, a mixture of one medium dog and one kid, or two kids and a big grocery buy
  • Range: 20-30 miles depending on load and speed
  • Best for: Taking multiple kids to the local park, dogs, and big grocery buys

Pros:

  • Comes fully assembled
  • Has a secure lockbox
  • Thick, durable, flat-proof tires
  • Can fit up to five kids (with one on the back)

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Harder to back up and turn around than other more bike-like models
  • Can take up a lot of space in the garage

Smoothest Ride for Big Loads: Yuba Electric Supermarché

For hauling a big grocery buy, transporting your SUP to the local surf wave, or taking your dog and kiddo to the river for a hike, this bike (5,999) is the ticket. With a Bosch Performance CX mid-drive motor and PowerPack 500 battery, the ride is fast and smooth.

For ease of use, there is a range of gears and four levels of pedal-based electric assist. Like all the others, it only can get up to only 20 mph, but it feels like you’re going much faster. And at stoplights, it was the easiest of the bikes to start due to the internal hub that allows you to switch gears while stopped.

It takes a bit to get used to the longer and heavier front end, but after a few practice runs, it felt very natural. The hard part is recalibrating your turns on your conventional bike!

The control panel is the fanciest of all of the interfaces. It lets the user see how much power they’re using, how long the trip is, total milage so far, and how many miles you have left on your charge. The Magura MT5 Next Hydraulic Disc brakes and the always-charged LED lights keep the parents happy and the kiddos safe.

The range on the Supermarché lasts anywhere between 20 and 40 miles. For our family, we used it three to four times a day with an average of 7-mile outings carrying 200 pounds. We drained the battery down to one bar almost daily. Luckily, it’s very easy to park it in the garage and charge for another round. The step-through frame and easy-to-adjust cockpit fit the entire neighborhood, with heights ranging from 4’9″ to 6’5″.

Although 5,999 sounds like a pretty high price, when we compared this to other premium-brand long-john bikes, it was actually one of the lowest prices. And if you know you’re going to use it daily (and save some money on gas), it may just be worth the cost. The Supermarché is also available in a non-electric option for 2,999.

Specs:

  • Weight: 78 lbs.
  • Length: 8’5″
  • Carrying capacity: 300 lbs.
  • Range: 20-55 miles depending on load and power-assist mode
  • Best for: Big Costco buys, giving the kids a ride to school, food or paper deliveries

Pros:

Cons:

  • The passenger can feel the bumps more than if they’re on the back of the bike, as it lacks shocks
  • It’s long and on the heavy side

A Great Value: Radio Flyer L885

While the new L885 cargo e-bike (1,999) from Radio Flyer is still a big investment, it’s one of the more affordable options at the moment. Other bikes in this price range arrive without any carrying capacity included. Radio Flyer adds in the kid/cargo carrier which is a major bonus for many families. And although it does not have the higher range like some of the other bikes listed here, we’ve found it a very solid choice for many families out there.

The 500W brushless hub motor coupled with the five-level pedal assist and a half-twist throttle provide plenty of power to ride up any hill or pick up speed at the start of an intersection. We found that even when loaded down at its full capacity of 400 pounds, we could get a full 40 to 45 miles out of it before charging it again. And if more battery power is needed, there is an option to buy another battery for 499. For our daily use, however, we have yet to feel like we need this.

The bike weighs in at 73 pounds but feels surprisingly light and nimble, especially when compared to the Tern GSD. The 26-inch front wheel and the 20-inch back wheel are both standard tire sizes, which is nice for changing out the tubes and tires if needed. So far, after about 200 miles of riding — some on dirt and sharp rocks as well as over some glass (on accident) — I have yet to have a flat thanks to their 3” puncture-resistant liner.

The L885, like many electric bikes these days, has integrated lights, which adds to its carefree nature. The dual leg kickstand is also great for stabilizing the bike while unloading wiggly kids.

The battery charges on par with the other bikes listed here. As long as I remembered to plug it in at night every two to three days, we were good to go for another couple of days of riding.

All in all, this is an amazing electric cargo bike at a very affordable price.

Specs:

  • Weight: 73 lbs.
  • Length: 83.78″
  • Carrying Capacity: 400 lbs.
  • Range: 45-50 miles
  • Best for: errands around town, picking up and dropping kids off, nearby adventures

Pros:

Cons:

  • Front basket and rear basket are a little small for carrying large amounts of groceries.
  • One bike does not fit all sizes

Lightest Weight Ecargo Bike: Tern HSD P9

The new Tern P9 HSD (3,699) is the younger sibling to the older dual-battery GSD model. Where the GSD is longer and heavier, the HSD is more compact, much lighter, and has less carrying capacity. The P9 HSD can fit into many different categories.

With one wheel in the commuting realm and one in the cargo category, this bike can wear many hats, depending on the user. For our purposes, we turned it into the ultimate kid, gear, and grocery hauler. However, Tern has many different configuration options on its site for carrying cargo. With a 115 cm wheelbase, 170 cm in length, and coming in at just under 57 pounds in weight, this bike is the lightest and most compact e-cargo bike we have tested yet.

Tern is known for their unique bikes that can be easily stored and have the ability to fit many different riders on one single frame. The HSD can fit me, at 5′ 1″, and my stepfather, who is 6′ 1″, thanks to an easy-to-adjust cockpit and seat.

Unlike other cargo bikes, this bike was amazingly nimble and easy to maneuver. With a custom Suntour suspension fork, it made the bumpy roads a bit more enjoyable for both me and my passenger. The battery, a Bosch Powerpack 400, and the motor, a Bosch active line, both helped power myself, my five-year-old son, and a ton of farmer’s market goodies around town with no problem thanks to its 375-pound carrying capacity. With a range of 69 miles, I have yet to worry about running out of battery even after a full day of back and forth commuting.

The HSD features integrated lights and a double-sided kickstand for easy on and off for cargo and passengers.

Overall, this little bike packs a powerful punch. It’s easy to store (as with all Terns, it can be stored vertically), can haul everything from gear to dogs to one kid, and is surprisingly very light when compared to other e-cargo bikes. It’s also fun to ride!

While it is not the most expensive bike, it does still dent the wallet. For those looking for more bells and whistles, the HSD comes in 5 different models with the P9 being the most affordable of them all.

Specs:

  • Weight: 57 lbs.
  • Length: 170 cm
  • Carrying Capacity: 375 lbs.
  • Range: 69 miles
  • Best for: Daily commuting, grocery trips, single kid drop off and pick up, and can fit every adult in the family

Pros:

  • Very light
  • Can still carry a large load even though it is so small
  • Can fold and fit into small areas

Cons:

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose an Electric Cargo Bike

What Kind of Family/Rider Are You?

Before starting your search, first ask yourself what you will be using the bike for most. Grocery shopping? Kid pickups and dropoffs? Delivering pizzas? Taking your dog to the dog park? Hauling the boards to the local surf wave? All of the above? When you narrow your search down in this way before you start looking at the options, it makes it less overwhelming.

What Is Your Budget?

New electric cargo bikes can range from as low as 1,800 to as high as 8,000. Cargo boxes, panniers, front boxes, kickstands, and kid seats all cost extra and can add up quickly. However, after doing a quick search on my local Craigslist and online market groups, I have seen some pretty good options out there that are much cheaper than buying them brand new.

How Long Is Your Average Commute?

Identifying how long your longest average commute is will give you a good idea of what kind of range you’re looking for. There are a lot of options as far as battery and motor power are concerned. And more and more bikes are coming out with the option of attaching another battery to the frame.

How Much Space Do You Have to Store It?

Making sure you have enough space to store it is very important. Other than the GSD, many take up a substantial amount of space in your garage. Some, like the Bunch Bikes, have an outdoor cover that protects them if you are storing them outside.

What About Bad Weather?

Cyclists and commuters know that the weather makes no guarantees. What starts as a dry ride can quickly turn into a downpour. Aside from packing a good rain jacket, there are a couple of accessories we’ve found particularly useful.

For the colder months and mornings, Yuba bikes came out with the only rain cover to fit over a long tail bike. We have been using ours for the past couple of months and our kids love to be cocooned up in it. While it doesn’t cover their legs, it does keep the cold wind and rain off their faces and upper body.

The setup is super easy. It attaches to the monkey bars and can either be left on or taken on and off. We have kept ours on all winter long. On warm days we can roll up the sides for more airflow and on super cold days, we just zip it all up.

And if you’re looking for a cargo basket cover, check out Argo’s rain canopy. It takes a few minutes to set up for the first time, but after everything is installed, it takes just two minutes to put up or take down or stow away. Our boys absolutely love the cover. They call the Argo their “spaceship” and love being all cozy underneath their “magic” cover.

FAQ

What is an electric cargo bike?

An electric cargo bike, or cargo e-bike, combines the best of both two-wheeled worlds. It’s a larger, gear-hauling bike with a motor. So, you can load it up with kids or groceries, and still be able to pedal uphill on the way home.

Cargo bikes are very popular in bike-friendly countries like Denmark, but their popularity is growing rapidly in the United States.

What is a pedal assist bike?

Pedal-assist is a common mode or design for many electric bikes. As opposed to running the motor with a throttle, the power is integrated with the pedaling.

Generally, you can choose from assist levels ranging from Eco to Turbo. The higher the level, the more assist you’ll get (and the faster you’ll drain the battery).

What is the best electric bike for the price?

This varies widely depending on your use and needs. For the ultimate family and gear hauler, the Yuba Spicy Curry is hard to beat.

If you’re looking to get a budget-friendly cargo e-bike, the RadWagon 4 is reliable, durable, and among the lowest-priced electric cargo bikes around.

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