Best Electric Road Bikes of 2023
Are you dreaming of pedaling up that hilly mountain road at speeds fast enough to qualify you for the Tour-de-France? Well, dream no more.
Thanks to advances in battery technology, e-bikes have come along way, and can go along way as well, pun intended.
Electric bikes come in a variety of forms and flavors, fat tire, eMTB, folding, you name it. In this review we will be focusing on road e-bikes, which when compared to their fat tire or mountain bike relatives, are really able to extract the maximum performance out of the electric motor and battery. This is due to lower rolling resistance, as well as better aerodynamics, but more on that later.
If you’re new to the e-bike world, you should do your research first (that you’re probably doing right now) before going with a specific e-bike.
There are a lot of options to choose from, and every single one may be a bit different or a lot different, depending on the bikes you’re considering.
Keeping this in mind, we highly recommend you write down possible uses for an e-bike in your life, how often you’ll use it, and under what conditions you’ll ride an e-bike.
These are all essential things that will help you choose the perfect electric bike for yourself.
What Kind of Electric Road Bikes You Can Buy in 2023
Today electric bikes are no longer rare. Many well-known bike manufacturers are offering their e-bike models. Trek, Giant, Cannondale, and many others today have their own models of e-bikes in 2023. Many manufacturers provide simple pedal-assist or so-called “pedelec” bikes, but they also offer power-on-demand bikes as well as fast S-pedelecs bikes.
Electric Bike Classes
The motor engine is not larger than 750W, and pedal assistance is up to 20mph.
The motor is limited to 750W, and motor throttle assist is as standard, limited to 20mph.
It has a 20mph throttle, and 28mph pedal assist with the motor engine up to 750W.
It has a motor over 750w or pedaling assistance over 28mph.
Cannondale – Topstone Neo 5
Adrenaline lovers will be particularly interested in the Topstone, a model that has been redesigned and remodeled in 2020, and it has become quite better.
This bike is equipped with a BallisTec Carbon frame, and it has a Bosch 250 W motor, as well as a matching Bosch 500 Wh battery. The hydraulic disc brakes by Shimano ensure your safety and ease of braking, while the slightly bendy tires ensure a smooth ride on most terrain.
The bike’s frame is made of carbon, which is a completely new technology that helps with control and sturdiness, but it also increases the bike’s weight slightly. The Bosch motor helps you reach up to 28 mph, which is something most bikers enjoy when hurrying to work.
One more thing worth mentioning on this bike is the phenomenal Bosch Kiox display that we prefer over the Bosch Purion. It has better visibility, more info, and it’s very intuitive, making it perfect for both the kids and the elderly.
Aventon. Pace 500
When you think of comfort in eBikes, a few criteria should be met, and a few checkboxes should be checked. Aventon Pace 500 checks many of those boxes. and is worth mentioning when it comes to comfort.
The biggest thing that sets the Aventon Pace 500 from the rest of the eBike roster is that they don’t believe in the “one-size-fits-all” approach that the majority of eBike companies go by these days. Instead, they have three sizes that you can pick and choose from depending on your body type and height.
In addition to that, the speed of this e-bike hits an impressive 28 MPH on pedal-assist. which, by the way, has five levels. and 20 MPH on throttle alone, and that puts it well above average performance-wise.
The motor on this eBike is fantastic. With a peak power of 750W and a sustained power rating of 500W, this 48V brushless rear hub motor sounds like it could make the Pace 500 climb walls.
The Aventon Pace 500 is a steal for how impressive it is. You simply can’t find a better road bike that’s in this price range.
Ride1Up. Roadster
Elegance and grace are not something you expect to see when looking at an eBike made for rough terrain and extensive use. But the Roadster, while bringing that rugged feel, also looks like something you could label as “sophisticated.”
Having said that, you can’t disagree with the fact that looks aren’t everything. Well, it seems like Ride1Up thought about that, as well.
Besides the good looks, this eBike provides you with much more.
In addition to the elegance, the frame is pretty light, clocking in at 33 pounds. which is easy to move around and carry if necessary.
An efficient 350W geared hub motor with 40Nm torque provides you with the ride you’re willing to take. You should be able to get between 20 and 30 miles, depending on rider weight, terrain, incline, level of assist, and some other circumstances.
The battery in the Roadster is a 36V 7.0ah Samsung 35e Cells battery that only takes two to four hours to charge. which is practically nothing compared to an average electric bike. It can be done overnight. or even during the day, between two rides; two hours fly by fast!
Trek – Domane ALR
Trek is one of the most popular bike companies in the world. They made one of the top bikes, which helped many professional drivers to climb the racing podium. But not many people know that this company also offers electric bikes. To tell you the truth, their electric bikes are as good as their regular bikes.
Domane ALR has a removable battery and motor. When you don’t need pedaling assistance, you can remove electric parts from the bike. This is also helpful if you want to race in standard races and don’t want to cheat.
Trek Domane ALR is a class 1 bike with a 300 Series Alpha aluminum frame. In this model, Trek uses Shimano 105 hydraulic brakes and Shimano 105 R7000 2×11 gear system. The frame makes clear that this is a professional racing bike. It is as good as other Trek racing bikes, only that this model comes with a motor and battery to provide additional power to the bike when needed.
Cannondale – Adventure Neo 4
Here we have another great addition from the Cannondale family. Unfortunately, it’s not as powerful as the Topstone Neo 5, but the smooth ride it offers is nothing to laugh at. Equipped with a 400W Bosch PowerTube it has a range of up to 65 miles. This ebike is ideal for long city commutes and it’s 27.5″ Kenda tires insure that you’ll have a great time out on the open road.
The Adventure Neo 4 has a SmartForm C3 Alloy step-thru frame which also brings a few pounds to the total weight. Brakes are very solid, Tektro M275 hydraulic disc brakes, so you don’t need to worry about coming to a safe stop even when reaching the bike’s top speeds.
Juiced Bikes. Crosscurrent S2
Speed and endurance are pretty important when it comes to electric bikes; that’s a fact that’s obvious to the makers of Crosscurrent S2 eBike.
Besides looking like something from a sci-fi movie, Crosscurrent S2 is a bike that offers many things in the categories of speed and endurance.
First of all, the pedal-assist on this eBike is something you’ve probably never tried. And with the 9-Speed Shimano Cassette transmission, you’re guaranteed a smooth ride. Cadence Torque Sensors on the pedal-assist do make a huge difference. something you’ll notice right away.
Also, the speeds that you can achieve while riding this eBike are no joke:
The manufacturer says that you’ll be able to develop a top speed of 28 MPH, but if you’re really trying to go a bit faster, it is possible. This speed is dangerous, so all riders need to be aware of that. and proceed with care.
Other than that, Crosscurrent S2 is an overall fantastic e-bike to own and ride regularly. Comfort and good looks are always a good pair. especially when backed by a reliable motor.
LOOK – E 765 Optimum Disc 105
LOOK obviously has looks, but that’s not all; this bike is made explicitly for making massive miles.
Without a doubt, this bike is a high-end road bike made for professionals or anyone who likes to ride a bike with excellent performance. Whether you are traveling the hills or lowland, you can benefit from everything this bike offers.
E 765 Optimum Disc 105 is a durable, lightweight bike made for road biking. You better not go off-road with this bike because that’s not its purpose, and you may damage it.
Assistance Levels
You can use four different assistance levels. You can power it by yourself by pedaling or choose one of the three speeds at your disposal. You can select 125W, 250W, or 400W.
The bike is made from carbon and alloy. This material allows bike lightweight riding with a very comfortable seat and handles. E 765 Optimum Disc 105 is a class 1 bike which means pedaling assistance works up to 20mph.
Other Specifications
When pedaling, you can use extra precise 22 speed Shimano 105 and Shimano 105 hydro brakes. Fazua Evation battery is of decent quality.
Orbea – Gain M20i
Orbea Gain M20i is a full carbon electric bike that offers a lot. You would think this is a regular bike since the motor and battery are well hidden on the first look. Orbea makes one of the best e-road bikes, and thanks to their expertise, Gain M20i is famous among bikers. Many folks enjoy this bike that allows them to do long distances and travel at 20mph at ease since that is the pedaling speed assistance that this bike offers.
Suppose you appreciate old-school looks but want innovative pedal assistance technology. In that case, the Orbea Gain M20i is one of the ideal bikes for you. If you want an affordable bike, you can choose a heavier frame to save some money.
Gain M20i is a class 1 bike which means you won’t need any additional license to drive it on public roads. You can either choose a light carbon frame or choose a heavy frame and save some bucks. Brakes on the bike are hydraulic, Shimano Ultra. You can pedal in one of the 22 speeds offered by Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8050.
Overall this bike is excellent for longer traveling and light offroad driving if you have tires for it.
Niner – RLT E9 RDO
If you love futuristic looks, then RLT E9 RDO is the one for you. An excellent frame with professional handlers will leave you breathless. Everywhere you go, people will turn their heads around. Colorful green just adds to the looks and makes this bike look like it is coming from the distant future.
Niner RLT E9 RDO is ideal for road traveling, but you can go off-road without a problem, thanks to the powerful tires. With this bike, thanks to its battery, you can do long-distance traveling or fast short rides. You can choose pedal assistance up to 28mph.
RLT E9 RDO is a class 2 bike that can handle high speeds thanks to a robust Niner RDO Carbon frame. Such powerful bikes need high-quality brakes, which are thanks to Shimano GRX 400 hydraulic brake system. When pedaling, you can enjoy a 2×11 gear system by SHIMANO GRX 800.
Specialized – Turbo Creo SL
Turbo Creo SL is one of the bikes that can travel for the whole day, and after the entire day of pedaling, you would not be particularly tired. This bike is an absolute monster thanks to its heavy-duty battery that can assure enough power for pedal assistance up to 28mph. With battery assistance, you can travel up to 80 miles. Recharging the battery will take a little bit over two hours. After that, you are ready to do another 80 miles with assisted pedaling.
With Specialized Turbo Creo SL, you can travel the whole day, especially if you pick the model with full carbon. However, we need to warn you that Turbo Creo SL price can go up to 15 000 if you opt for the high-quality material.
Specialized Turbo Creo SL is a class 3 bike with a lightweight frame that can do distance riding with little effort. It can go up to 28mph without problem, and thanks to the lightweight but robust frame and Shimano GRX 810 hydraulic brakes, high speeds are safe. When pedaling, you can choose one of the 11 Shimano RX812 GX gears.
Wilier – Cento 1HY Ultegra
Wilier is famous for making highly competitive racing bikes. Cento 1HY Ultegra is made for competitive cyclists who need all the benefits of the competitive bike with a light battery that provides energy in pedal assistance. The battery is light which keeps the total bike ewight under 27lbs. This bike is ideal for training because you can choose from three different assistance modes. When you feel you need more assistance during the training, you pick a higher assistance mode, and when you feel powerful, you can opt for low assistance. With this bike, you can train even when feeling tired. With a low weight and powerful motor and a decent battery, you can climb mountains without a problem.
Other parts of the bike are also great and provide good racing additions. Carbon frame allows this bike to be light, but Shimano Ultegra hydraulic brakes provide safety at high speed or downhill driving. Pedaling gears are also unique, and you can choose gear from 2×11 Shimano Ultegra R8000.
Bianchi – Aria Ultegra
When you see the light blue color on the road, you can hint that this bike was made by Bianchi. The light blue color is their trademark. When you look at this road bike, you can see that it is not that different from regular Bianchi bikes. The only difference is a fatter frame where the battery is installed. The motor used in Aria Ultegra is adjustable and can provide from 30%, 60%, and 100% pedaling assistance. However, the battery is not that powerful, and you will be able to do up to 25 miles with one charge.
Bianchi made this model for competitive riders who want additional electrical horsepower to help them in some part of the training. Everything else on the bike screams professional bike. A high-quality carbon frame with Shimano Ultegra R8070 hydraulic braking system is what most regular professional bikes have. Shimano Ultegra R8000 gear changing system allows pro riders to enjoy all the benefits of the professional bike.
Bianchi Aria Ultegra is a class 1 bike which means you won’t need any additional driving license for riding this bike on open public roads.
FAQ
What to look at when buying an electric road bike?
When buying an electric road bike, you need to ask yourself if you need a bike for endurance, race, or gravel. After that, you need to choose the proper size for you. And the third option is parts that the bike offers, like battery quality, breaks, derailleurs, and other bike components.
Why choose an electric bike?
Some people pick e-bikes to cheat at races. That’s wrong, and you won’t go too far with that because the motor and battery are visible on many models. However, many bike drivers pick e-bikes because they need a comfortable ride without breaking a sweat.
Some people want to ride a bike, but they have some problems like arthritis or joint problems. Even if you are not 100% fit, you can enjoy a bike ride with an electric bike. Other people just want to travel high distances, which with the regular bike they are unable to do.
Suppose you think that e-bike is not a good exercise. In that case, you are wrong because the latest research shows that people improve their fitness with e-bikes, probably because they stay on the road longer with an e-bike.
In the end, we must say that riding a bike is lots of fun and the majority pick an electric bike over a regular one just because of that reason.
How much do electric road bikes cost?
Just like with regular bikes, you can buy affordable e-bikes or expensive ones. But we must agree that electric bikes are more expensive than traditional bikes. You will hardly find a decent e-bike under 2000. Top bikes are around 6000, while the price can quickly go over 10 000 if you look at the most innovative bikes.
E-bikes disadvantages?
Ebikes are usually heavier than regular bikes. These bikes are also expensive, and if something goes wrong with bike repairs will also cost more than the regular bike repairs.
Which electric road bike brand is the best?
There are many manufacturers, well-known Trek and Merinda, but we think the best electric bikes for the road are made by Look company.
Are electric road bikes still worth it?
If you need an electric road bike to keep you outside cycling, then without a doubt e-bike is a good investment. Many people use e-bikes to go to work, and by that, they save money on transport. Ebikes today are more accessible because affordable batteries and motors make the bike price lower than ever before.
What groupset is best on an electric road bike?
Just like regular bikes, e-bikes use the same equipment. However, the gear system is what is most important on an e-bike for the road. Usually, Shimano Ultegra or GRX are decent solutions for electric road bikes.
What electric road bike is lightest?
We know that because of the battery and motor, an e-bike can not be extremely light. However, the Scott Addict eRIDE has only 23.7lbs and is probably the most lightweight bike in the world.
What’s the most affordable electric road bike?
Unfortunately, finding a decent electric road bike for under 2000 is a problem. If that’s above your budget I can only recommend the Ride1up Roadster, which is going around 1000. The more money you can spend on the electric bike, the higher quality one you can get. However, it is public opinion that e-bikes’ price will only go down over time because more competition is coming to the market, and parts like batteries and motors are getting cheaper every day.
NEMO
Folded Size: 29.3015.7525.20 in 1.Max Handlebar Height：39.37 in 2.Min Handlebar Height：33.46 in 3.Standover Height：19.09 in 4.Max Saddle Height：37.00 in 5.Min Saddle Height：30.31 in 6.Wheelbase：37.00 in 7.Reach ：15.74 in 8.Width：23.42 in
Shipment:Ship within 48 hours
Once your order is received, a confirmation will be sent by email or text, it takes us 48 hours to prepare your order, and you will be notified as soon as it ships.
Orders placed on weekend will be arranged on next business day.
Please obey the laws of your state. Ride safely, wear a helmet
Mphㅤ
SLEEK FOLDING FRAME
Aluminum Alloy Grade 6061 frame and front fork, totally new design, passed all vibration tests, light but strong enough to hold a 220lbs rider. It could also be folded with 3 easy steps for storage or transporting in your vehicle.
CUSTOMIZED QUALISPORTS MOTOR
Customized 250W high speed geared brushless motor, weight only 4.85lbs but with 30 N.M torque, so you can conquer small slopes easily.
It’s so powerful that you can against the wind without any sweat.
What’s more, with a built-in clutch, you will never feel any magnetic resistance when riding without any power—it’s a pure, comfortable bike.
STRONG PAS
Our multifunction fully integrated large LCD display features a 12 point sensor and “FOC” technology (Field Oriented Control).
With FOC we can control and drive motors with higher efficiency and less noise and operates in sync with our PAS “Pedal Assist System”.
RELIABLE Samsung BATTERY
To make our Qualibike physically appealing, we created a unique seat-post lithium battery as our power system.
Most people won’t recognize it’s an e-bike at their first sight. And BMS system is also important, It keeps your battery safe from over-charging, over overheat and safe from reaching high temperatures.
The BMS also manages all the cells to work more efficiently to offer you a longer range.
The seat-post battery is removable so you can either charge it in the bike or separately in your room.
SPECIFICATIONS
Battery TypeSamsung Lithium-ion BatteryBattery Capacity36V 7AhCharging Time3.5 HrsMotor BrandQualisports USA Custom Manufactured 250WMotor Torque30 Newton metersMax. Speed16 mphEstimated Range30 miles (PAS)Display BrandKT-7 LCD Display with USB Chraing PortDrive ModeCadence Sensing Pedal Assist-Trigger Throttle (12 Magnet Sealed Sensor)/Normal Biking/Cruise/Walk Assist
Size51” x 23” x 38”Folded Size31.5” x 17” x 25.5”Net Weight34 lbsMax. Load220 lbsFrame TypeMid-Step, FoldingGearing Details1 Single Speed, 14 Tooth SprocketCranksProwheel Forged Alloy, 170mm Length, 52 Tooth Chainring with Plastic Guard
How far can Qualisports bikes go on a single charge?
Distance differs on the terrain, weight of the cyclist, and the power mode you are using (pedal only, full Throttle, or pedal assist).
The typical range on Nemo is 16 to 30 miles on a single charge using primarily electric power. If you use the PAS, mileage can increase. Some riders can achieve over 30 miles when cycling in pedal-assist mode.
How to turn on/off the front headlight?Turn on the LCD display, hold the display’s UP button for 2-3 seconds, the headlight/LCD display background light will both be turned on. Hold the power button the same way to turn it off.
Is the bike pre-assembled?95% of the bikes are pre-assembled, with detailed installation videos for the front and rear fenders.
Optibike Argon
At only 37 pounds (17 kg), the Argon is a super lightweight e-bike. At least 15 lbs lighter than other e-bikes with similar size batteries. This makes it easy to carry up some stairs or put on a bike rack.
Elegant design combined with a large battery and high quality components make this the best value on the market today.
Every aspect made with performance, quality, and longevity in mind. The aircraft grade aluminum alloy frame is stylish and durable, and a sleek design looks like a regular bicycle.
Designed in Colorado and made in Taiwan; giving you high quality E-Bike with excellent performance at a low price. Optibike has been designing E-Bikes for over 20 years and is the oldest maker of electric bikes in America.
Unpacking and Getting Started
Easy To Ride Torque Sensor: Just Pedal and Go!
The Argon is easy and simple to ride. With no gears to shift and a powerful 500 watt motor, the bike can get you where you want to go with minimal fuss.
The near silent 500 watt motor is more powerful than other similar ebikes. Combined with the dual sided torque sensor, this bike goes up steeper hills and travels further compared to the competition.
Maintenance Free
The Belt Drive requires no lubrication so you don’t get grease on your pants, and it never gets covered with grime.
Effortless Control
Pedal harder and the bike goes faster, it’s intuitive and easy to ride! The only bike in its class to feature a dual sided torque sensor for motor control.
Range Anxiety? Not here!
Largest battery in a bike of this weight class.
The Argon uses a 14Ah Li-ion battery, which is double the capacity of similar ebikes. This gives you double the range, better hill climbing and longer life for the battery.
With the Argon you will have a smoother ride, more range, and climb steeper hills.
If really extreme range is more your style, we have models that go up to 300 miles on a charge!
Better Ride Quality
Wider Tires and a Carbon Fiber Fork
Wider 38mm (1.5inch tires) give a softer ride and better traction. And the full carbon fiber fork absorbs bumps better and keeps the weight lower.
Great Stopping Power
With Shimano hydraulic disk brakes front and rear, the Argon stops quickly and is safer to ride.
Legal Anywhere
The Argon can be easily configured as a fully compliant Type 1 Ebike, so it is legal to ride almost anywhere a regular bicycle can go. This is great for urban commuting on bike paths or roads.
Easy Service
The battery and controller are one unit and easily removed for service.
© 2023 Optibike High Performance E-Bikes. All Rights Reserved.
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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What is the lightest electric bike?
Due to the motor and battery, electric bikes can be quite a bit heavier than their unpowered equivalents.
For example, the standard Raleigh Strada weighs 13kgs, while the electric version is 19kgs. Bigger batteries are usually a big factor. They give you longer range but the increased cell density makes them heavier.
So, what are some of the lightest electric bikes available? Why not visit our London electric bike store and try one out for yourself!
Coboc One Soho
When it comes to a stylish bike that is lightweight and doesn’t look at all electric, there is really no competition for Coboc.
The ONE Soho (£3,275) weights just 13.7kgs but carries a punchy single speed motor, with batteries all concealed within the frame.
Little more than three LEDs in the top tube give away to the stylish power this bike delivers. The lightness of this bike means it can easily be ridden when you’ve run out of power and handling is responsive. If you have a bit more money to burn to get the lightest full sized electric bike on the market, then take a look at the TEN Torino.
A full-sized bike with a battery that’s twice the size of competitors below such as the Hummingbird at 352Wh, giving an impressive 50 miles of range. Expect to pay for this engineering genius though, as it costs £4,999.
Hummingbird
They are no stranger to making bikes light, having also designed a 6.9kg folding bike from the ground up. Their electric equivalent doesn’t see this change all that much either, weighing in at just 10.3kgs. Lighter than most bikes generally, they partnered with some of the world’s leading engineering companies that work on brands like Aston Martin’s racing team. Being constructed mostly out of Carbon Fibre certainly helps too.
However, this does come at a cost. The intensive manufacturing methods and high end design means it does cost £4,500.
For this you get a stripped back, pure speed and weight-loss focused bike that’s fast, but maybe not all that comfortable. Much like a Lotus Exige is light, you forgo comforts such as suspension, battery charge indication and there are no integrated lights.
The catch? With a battery of just 158Wh, expect to see just 20 miles range from a full charge.
CARBO
Another folding bike that’s made from Carbon Fibre, the CARBO was funded on crowdfunding platform IndieGoGo last year. It was quite successful too, receiving 1,050,000 from a goal of 50,000.
A total weight of 12.2kgs sees it a little heavier than the Hummingbird, but it’s also a little more affordable with an estimated starting price of 1,799.
Whether this will ever make the UK market, or meet that price, we will have to wait and see. Currently in production.
Further Considerations
If you’re concerned about control of the bike due to the heavier weight, do not fear! QWIC bikes are built by the Dutch and as such, handle fantastically. they certainly know about cycling. Their range of Premium Electric Bikes have integrated batteries into the downtube, and powerful mid mounted motors. This combines into a well balanced, easy to ride bike that while heavy on paper, is light and agile in the real world. It really has to be ridden to be believed. Book a test ride today.