The best budget electric bikes for 2023
The Ride1Up Roadster V2 is an all-around great ebike that won’t break the bank.
Most electric mountain bikes cost thousands of dollars. This one’s highly capable and costs less than 700.
The Vivi 26-inch Folding Electric Mountain Bike feels especially solid for a folding ebike.
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Is the term budget electric bike an oxymoron? Two things are certain about ebikes: They’re really cool, and they are very expensive. They often cost upwards of 2,000, so getting one is no small investment. There are plenty of people who can’t afford one. That said, it is possible to get a decent ebike for less than 1,000. A few brands have designed relatively affordable ebikes that deliver admirable functionality at the low end of the price range. They tend to be foldable or compact versions for commuters, so they’re made for relatively light use, but there are options for trail bikers, too. Let’s examine the benefits and limitations of the best budget electric bikes.
- Best overall:Ride1Up Roadster V2
- Best for urban adventures (and apartments):Lectric Bikes XP Lite
- Best mountain:Ancheer Electric Mountain Bike 350W 26”
- Best folding:Vivi 26-inch Folding Electric Mountain Bike
- Best compact:Sailnovo 14” Electric Bike
- Best for beginners:Propella Mini
- Best for under 500:Engwe Electric Bike
How we chose the best budget electric bikes
I’ve been an avid outdoorsman enthusiast for my entire life, which has resulted in several years of providing gear and tech coverage for outlets like Popular Science, the Daily Beast, Runner’s World, Thrillist, the Manual, and more. My love of cycling has been a recurring theme throughout all of it.
Over the past several months, I’ve ridden dozens of electric bikes at all different price points and categories. I have come to learn what to look for when separating genuine quality from flashy marketing. In certain cases, those tests were supplemented with research collating reviews from experts and impressions from customers alike.
The best budget electric bikes: Reviews Recommendations
The best budget ebikes span several different riding purposes and considerations. While most low-cost ebikes are often very similar, our picks offer distinctive riding experiences. They got our attention, and maybe you’ll see something in them, too.
Best overall: Ride1Up Roadster V2
Buy it used or refurbished: eBay
Why it made the cut: The Ride1Up Roadster V2 is an all-around great ebike that won’t break the bank.
- Battery capacity: 36V 7Ah (252Wh)
- Range: Approximately 12-20 miles (and maybe even more)
- Motor: 350W (500W peak)
- Solid all-purpose bike
- Relatively good range and power
- Classic looks
- Smooth ride
For just 1,000, the Ride1up Roadster V2 is a remarkably well-rounded and polished bike. High-powered for its price with a 350W motor, the Roadster V2 provides strong acceleration and propulsion, making it capable of reaching 24 miles per hour with pedal assist. It also has a range of 12-20 miles on average, with several riders suggesting they’ve gone 25 miles on a single charge. That’s a great range for an around-town cruiser.
It’s lightweight—only 33 pounds—and durably built. Plus, it looks very slick, with a classic aesthetic that almost doesn’t look like an ebike.
The Roadster V2 isn’t perfect, though. It’s a very tall bike, best suited for riders 5’8” and over. It also doesn’t have much in the way of accessories; there’s not even a headlight, which is pretty standard at this point.
Still, with all the core features working at or above our expectations, you’ll be hard-pressed to find an ebike that works so well for this price.
Best for urban adventures (and apartments): Lectric Bikes XP Lite
Why it made the cut: Small but spry, the Lectric Bikes XP Lite lets you zip through crowds and doesn’t require much storage space.
- Battery capacity: 48V 7.8 Ah (374 Wh)
- Range: 15-40 miles
- Motor: 300W nominal, 720W peak
Started in 2019 from a garage in Phoenix, Ariz., Lectric Bikes expanded quickly because of the company’s restless spirit. Not only are the company’s ebikes intended for the intrepid—for gaining the experience points, XP, in the bike names—but the founders are continually listening to user feedback to refine the product line while maintaining affordability.
Foldable yet offroad-friendly, the core Lectric XP 3.0 model can comfortably accompany RVers and van-lifers. The less-expensive XP Lite, meanwhile, was developed as the optimal option for city dwellers needing a lighter-weight ebike that could go from closet to commute. It even shows up quickly in a surprisingly compact box. At 46 pounds, and 36- x 16- x 26-inch folded dimensions, the XP Lite is easy to tuck and transport via elevator, as shown above—or even stairs in a pinch, as shown below—while packing in a lot of features for its 799 price point.
Class 1 and 2, the XP Lite features a twist-grip throttle plus five levels of pedal assist, with slimmer tires that assist the maneuverability needed in active urban environments. The 48V lithium-ion battery can get up to 40 miles on a charge (assuming you’re using no more than intermittent pedal assist level 1). Or you can use the throttle to scoot to/from work, the store, etc., quickly with the least effort and sweat (the single-speed drivetrain makes it easy—just twist and go—but you’ll get max 15 miles in this mode).
The base XL Lite includes front rear safety lights, and a backlit heads-up LCD screen offers trip and battery info (electrical components are IP65-rated in case you get caught in incremental weather, but don’t leave the bike out in the rain). You’ll absorb some shocks if navigating uneven asphalt, and acceleration—while appropriately fast for street navigation—isn’t always the smoothest in transition. But you can buy an optional seat with a suspension post, and you’ll appreciate the nimble nature of the bike whether you’re zipping through downtown or kicking up some dust on more developed trails. — Tony Ware
Best mountain bike: Ancheer Electric Mountain Bike 350W 26”
Why it made the cut: Most electric mountain bikes cost thousands of dollars. This one’s highly capable and costs less than 700.
- Good range and power
- Solid build quality
- Shock-absorbing fork
- 21-speed shifter w/ throttle
It’s not uncommon for electric mountain bike to steer closer toward 10,000 than 1,000, making them a very hard sell. Luckily, Ancheer makes a highly capable alternative that costs less than 700.
With a 350W motor capable of cruising at 20 miles per hour, the Ancheer Electric Mountain Bike has no problem charging up inclines. It also has a substantial range, with many users reporting that it will go well over 20 miles if you’re using the throttle economically.
Its design is also surprisingly solid for a budget electric mountain bike, inspiring several buyers to leave shining reviews after several months of hitting the trails. Shock absorbers in the fork deliver a smooth, capable riding experience. And its overall aesthetic is clean and sporty.
Best folding: Vivi 26-inch Folding Electric Mountain Bike
Why it made the cut: The Vivi 26-inch Folding Electric Mountain Bike feels especially solid for a folding ebike.
- Solid all-purpose bike
- Relatively good range and power
- Shock absorbers
- 21-speed shifter w/ throttle
Most folding electric bikes feel somewhat rickety, thanks to their signature hinges. Budget bike-maker Vivi somehow made a folding design that minimizes that wiggle in its 26-inch Electric Mountain Bike, and does so without charging an arm and a leg.
Its strong 350W motor will zip you up to 20 miles per hour using either throttle or pedal assist. Its 14-mile range can’t compete with high-level ebikes, but is acceptable for an 800 bike and should be more than enough for local commuters to ride their daily route on a single charge. What’s more, its Shimano 21-speed transmission makes taking on hills effortless.
When you’re done for the day, folding the bike up to store is easy, as is reassembling it to ride. importantly, the bike feels sturdy despite the movable points on the frame and provides a comfortable riding experience. And it has a built-in headlight that can be switched on via the handlebar control pad, which is also used to shift between three riding modes: normal bike mode, pedal-assist, and pure electric power.
While Vivi has a solid bike on its hands here, the company has earned a reputation for poor customer service when issues have cropped up. This may impact the bike’s long-term viability, but it is also a common issue with companies targeting budget products.
Best compact: Sailnovo 14-Inch Electric Bike
Why it made the cut: The Salinovo 14-inch Electric Bike offers supreme portability and solid performance.
- Battery capacity: 36V 10.4Ah (374.4Wh)
- Range: Approximately 18 miles
- Motor: 450W
- Strong motor
- Relatively good range
- Waterproof
- Throttle and pedal assist
The Salinovo 14-inch Electric Bike is surprisingly powerful for a compact electric bike. Its 450W motor can quickly reach just shy of 20 miles per hour via either the throttle or pedal assist. (Salinovo claims the range goes much further, but some reviewers reported that it falls short of those claims.) Round that out with a surprisingly solid range and little flourishes like integrated head and tail lights, plus a central shock absorber, and you’ve got a pretty solid bike for around 500 bucks.
Some serious cyclists might find that compact, foldable ebikes at these don’t deliver the structural solidity they expect from a bike. Generally, they can feel a bit more rickety than their non-folding counterparts. With a bike like the Sailnovo, it’s important to remember that you are making a compromise, favoring affordability and portability over feel and stability. All in all, though, it’s a great little commuter or a fun way to explore a neighborhood.
Best for beginners: Propella Mini
Why it made the cut: If you’re looking to learn the ebike ropes, the Propella Mini is a great place to start.
- Good range and power
- Lightweight
- Fast charging time
- Straightforward operation
The Propella Mini is a great ebike for beginners, offering decent performance without overwhelming you with features. It offers decent range and power, and it’s not overpowered, which allows you something of a learning curve before stepping up to higher-performance bikes.
It’s also extremely lightweight, making it easy to lift in and out of a vehicle or carry up stairs. While it is pretty limited in features (there’s only a single gear to help with hills, for example), that might be exactly what you’re looking for. After all, fewer features mean less to manage. We think a headlight would complete the package, but you can always find a third-party light.
Best under 500: ENGWE Electric Bike
Why it made the cut: With surprisingly solid performance for such a low price, the Engwe Electric Bike is as capable as it is cheap.
- Solid all-purpose bike
- Relatively good range and power
- Shocks and Shimano shifter
- Handles hills well
When you’re shopping for an electric bike with less than 500 to spend, you’ll look at a lot of undersized folding bikes. The Engwe Electric Bike is a rare exception, allowing you to buy a traditional bike frame at an incredibly low price.
The Engwe features a 250W motor capable of throttling or pedal assisting up to 20 miles per hour, an admirable range of roughly 18 miles, front fork shocks, and hill-conquering Shimano 21-speed shifters. Its no-frills, the traditional design also looks better than pretty much any ebike you’ll find in its price range. It delivers a surprisingly great riding experience without breaking the bank.
As with many of our picks, Engwe’s Achilles’ heel is customer service. It’s also worth noting that it’s a smaller bike, which means riders taller than an inch or two past six feet will likely fit it a bit too petite. However, if the size is right for you, the price will be too. You may also want to consider it as one of the best kids’ bikes.
Things to consider before choosing a budget electric bike
If you’ve come looking for the best budget electric bikes, rather than simply the best electric bikes, then we know the price is on your mind. Even cheap bikes cost a few hundred dollars, though, so you want to make sure you’re putting that money into something worth riding. There are several specific factors you should keep in mind, so you can figure out whether a budget ebike is a bargain or, for lack of a better word, junk. The best budget electric bikes will deliver in these specific ways.
Price
First and foremost, you’re here because you’re looking for an electric bike that won’t cost as much as a used car—all of the bikes on this list cost under 1,000. We also included a few compact bicycles that cost around 500. These offer somewhat limited functionality and durability compared to full-size ebikes, but they’re still great for the price.
Riding range
An electric bike that runs out of juice after a few miles isn’t worth buying, no matter the price. What good is a motor if it can’t get you from point A to point B? A large battery will ensure you get a boost from your ebike, rather than pushing it home.
Most ebikes rate their batteries in a combination of volts (V) and amp-hours (Ah), which you can combine to calculate a bike battery’s actual capacity in watt-hours (Wh). Watt-hours are the more useful specification, as they allow you to approximate how long the battery will last at a given speed.
Converting volts and amp-hours into watt-hours is easy. Simply multiply the two numbers together. A number of our picks, for example, boast 36V 8Ah batteries. 36 x 8 = 288, so we know that battery lasts for 288Wh. With this number, we can calculate how far the battery will take us by dividing the number of watt-hours by your speed to see how far you’ll go. So, at 20 miles per hour, a 288Wh bike should carry you about 14.5 miles.
“About” is an important word here. In the real world, your actual range will be affected by things like rider weight, road surface, flat vs. hilly terrain, and other factors that can demand more or less power. So, while you can’t measure and determine the minimum amount of juice you’ll need on spec, you can probably figure out if a bike can get you where you need to go.
If nothing else, remember that a bigger battery is always better.
Motor
There’s no point in having an ebike if the motor isn’t powerful enough to take the edge off your pedaling effort. Power is one of the biggest differences between less expensive ebikes and the cream of the crop. Many are so weak that you’ll barely notice the pedal assistance. However, all of the bikes on this list deliver at least 250 watts, meaning they’re capable of delivering solid pedal assistance or even propelling themselves at 20 miles per hour or higher.
Keep in mind that your actual speed will vary based on factors like payload, road conditions, stops and starts, and so on, but a high-watt motor is important, especially when looking to spend less money.
Durability
Whenever you’re going with a budget-tier version of a product, you need to pay extra attention to its overall construction. You aren’t saving money if you buy something cheap, but it breaks down after several uses. To verify the durability of our recommendations, we’ve scoured reviews from owners who can attest to the longevity of each bike.
When you’re checking out a specific bike in the real world, check over its various parts to find out if anything rattles to a worrisome degree. Some budget picks may feel more rickety than their more expensive brethren, but they should still be sturdy and comfortable to ride.
Accessories
Ebikes can come with an extremely wide range of accessories, including lights, bells, cargo carriers, and so on. While you don’t need accessories like these, they can make your riding experience safer, more fun, and more versatile.
FAQs
Q: Are electric bikes worth the money?
Electric bikes are absolutely worth the money for commuters if it allows you to cut down on expenses like gas, parking, and vehicle maintenance. They’re also incredibly fun to ride, especially when they let you blow past traffic jams. That said, they are very expensive, so we’d only recommend them for people who ride a lot. You don’t necessarily need to be a commuter, but they aren’t a worthwhile investment for people who only bike once in a while.
Q: What are the disadvantages of electric bikes?
As we’ve discussed here, money is a major hurdle for most people considering whether or not to buy an ebike. Electric bikes usually cost more than traditional bikes, and they feature more complicated machinery, which translates into more maintenance and repair costs. The range can also be an issue. Electric bikes tend to be very heavy. When they run out of juice, they can be difficult to ride without power assistance.
Q: Do you pedal an electric bike?
You can, but you don’t always need to. On Class 2 and 3 electric bikes with throttles, you can propel the ebike with zero effort. On class 1 bikes with pedal assist, you have to pedal, but the motor speeds you up and does most of the work. Technically, some companies also sell “electric bikes” without pedals. These tend to be cheaper and work similarly to using the throttle on a class 2 or 3 bike. By removing the pedals, these companies are playing with the line between an electric bike and an electric scooter or moped, so we’re not sure they fit what we think of when we talk about ebikes.
Q: How fast do electric bikes go?
Your ebike’s top speed comes down to the motor of its motor, plus several other factors, including rider weight, flat vs. hilly terrain, road surface conditions, bike weight, cargo weight, and so on. They are not so powerful that they can push their limits under any conditions. That said, we generally expect budget ebikes capable of average top speeds between 15-20 miles per hour. A top-of-the-line model should be able to go a bit faster, up to about 28 miles per hour.
Final thoughts about the best budget electric bikes
Electric bikes are an environmentally friendly, fun way to get around town, whether commuting, running errands, or simply going for a ride. While they often come with a hefty price tag, there is a price range, and you can get one that won’t cost too much. If 500-1,000 is still too much, looking for a used or refurbished model may help you cut costs.
Why trust us
Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.
Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.
Nick Hilden writes reviews and recommendations coverage of fitness, outdoor and tech gear for Popular Science. He’s spent over a decade writing about lifestyle and culture topics for a slew of publications, including Scientific American, the Los Angeles Times, Vice, and Men’s Health, among others.
The 5 Fastest E-Bikes for Sale in 2023
These e-bikes are not only fast, but have excellent range, too.
Readers like you help support MUO. When you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read
The e-bike craze has officially hit the USA, and tons of performance e-bikes capable of extreme speeds are swarming the market. These bikes do, of course, have to abide by government regulations that limit their speed depending on what class they fall under.
So, if you’re purchasing an e-bike, ensure it meets your local laws and regulations. Many manufacturers ship your e-bike with a restricted top speed to abide by local laws. But they allow you to unlock the bike’s full speed through certain modes that can be used in special settings.
Let’s explore the fastest e-bikes available in the US!
Hi Power Cycles Revolution XX
The HPC Revolution XX is the type of e-bike you look at and immediately begin to wonder if e-bikes are getting slightly out of hand. The Revolution XX is the world’s fastest e-bike, with a top speed of 74 miles per hour (tested on a dry lake bed), thanks to an output of 10,000 watts, or 13.4 horsepower. The crazy part is that you can even pedal along at that speed—yikes!
The fact that this e-bike can achieve 74 mph proves that e-bike manufacturers have lost their collective minds. Quietly, this might start an e-bike performance war that could rival the competition going on between the bonkers-fast Tesla’s Model S Plaid and the Lucid Air super EV sedan. The funny thing is that the Revolution XX that will ship to you in the States complies with Class 2 regulations, which means its top speed is limited to 20 mph. Only with the limited top speed could you expect to achieve the maximum claimed range of almost 100 miles.
You can then choose to activate the off-road mode wherever it’s legal to do so, which gives you full power. Only 20 of these super e-bikes will be built, so if you want one, hurry up and order one. The price is an eye-watering 20,000. One thing is for sure: if you want the absolute fastest e-bike out there, your wallet will not go unscathed.
Hi Power Cycles Revolution X
The Revolution X is a 13,000 e-bike with a top speed of 65 miles per hour (if you opt for the 8,000-watt model, which adds 2,000 to the base price). If you need to prioritize torque over top speed, you can order your Revolution X with the Torque motor, which is better for climbing hills and going off-road. You can choose between three battery pack sizes: 1.3 kWh that’s good for 55 miles of range, 1.8 kWh that pushes range up to 80 miles, and the top 2.4 kWh pack that will take the bike up to 100 miles on one charge.
If you want the ultimate top-speed machine, you can go for the Speed motor, which emphasizes outright speed over hill-climbing ability. The great thing is that choosing whichever motor fits your needs best is a no-cost option. Hi Power Cycles (HPC) allows you to customize your Revolution X as much as you want; you can even choose any color you want for the wheels and body if you go for the Stage 2 option, which will set you back 700.
The HPC Revolution X isn’t a cheap e-bike by any stretch of the imagination, but if you want a high-quality e-bike capable of achieving amazing speeds, the Revolution X is hard to beat.
Stealth Electric Bikes B-52
The Stealth B-52 e-bike doesn’t just have an extremely cool name; it’s also very fast—this bike can accelerate to a top speed of 50 mph. The B-52 features a 2.5 kWh battery that provides up to 43 miles of range, and it can be fully recharged from empty in 3 hours.
This ultra-fast e-bike also features a six-speed transmission, so it’s definitely useful in many scenarios. The e-bike itself features a futuristic design that’s sure to capture many looks wherever you go. Honestly, like many of these super powerful e-bikes, it looks more like a motocross bike with pedals attached to it, but the look works very well.
Another cool visual touch is the placement of the company’s logo, which adorns the side of the B-52 in dramatic fashion, making this e-bike instantly recognizable as a Stealth product.
Delfast Top 3.0i
The Top 3.0i will be shipped to the buyer in legal mode, essentially making it a Class 2 e-bike limited to 20 mph. As crazy-fast as this bike is, it’s even crazier to think about riding around on a bike that looks this aggressive while being restricted to a 20 mph top speed. With the limiter in place, fast cyclists on traditional bikes can speed past your restricted Delfast bike. Thankfully, you can unlock the bike’s 50 mph top speed if you’re going off-road by entering Unlimited Mode. Unlimited Mode gives you access to the Top 3.0i’s full power.
The Delfast Top 3.0i is another e-bike that blurs the lines between a full-on electric motorcycle and an e-bike. But Delfast markets the Top 3.0i as an e-bike, even though its appearance is so radical. This e-bike wouldn’t look out of place in a Blade Runner movie, especially in the hands of one of the bad guys. It looks like a futuristic motocross bike, but without any unwanted noise because it’s fully electric.
The 50 mph top speed makes the Top 3.0i a formidable e-bike, guaranteeing no other cyclists on traditional bicycles will simply pedal right past you. The top speed is especially amazing when you consider that the range of this monstrous e-bike is an astonishing 200 miles thanks to its large 3.5 kWh battery. Of course, it doesn’t beat the Optibike’s 300 miles of range, but considering the Delfast Top 3.0i can smoke the Everest in terms of top speed, nobody will be complaining too much.
Another great thing about the Delfast Top 3.0i is that the official website carries replacement motors (attached to a new wheel and tire combo) and replacement batteries.
Optibike R22 Everest
The Optibike R22 Everest is an impressive e-bike. It’s very fast, with a top speed of 36 mph, which puts it in rarified air in terms of e-bikes. It’s also one of the few e-bikes that can handle pretty much anything you can throw at it. There isn’t much that will hinder the R22’s progress, whose powerful electric motor serves up to 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. But there’s so much more to it.
The R22 Everest offers up to 300 miles of range, which means it can go toe to toe with many electric cars and is among the e-bikes with the longest range. The reason for this extended range is the battery, which has a capacity of 3.26 kWh.
The Optibike Everest R22 is the perfect example of an e-bike that can easily serve as your daily driver. The fact that it’s equipped with a throttle and an enormous battery pack makes it an ideal companion for urban driving, even for longer commutes. This is especially true if you’re navigating a city with lots of hills, like some in California.
Using the R22 as your daily urban runabout would definitely be a breeze thanks to its 36 mph top speed. The great thing about the R22 Everest is that you’ll arrive quickly at work sweat-free thanks to the e-bike’s throttle (so you don’t have to pedal at all), and you probably won’t have to charge it for the entire week thanks to the huge battery capacity.
Performance E-Bikes Offer Impressive Versatility
It will be interesting to see how manufacturers try to top the performance of the current crop of e-bikes in the future. The models described above are all absolute monsters and feature incredible ranges to go along with their earth-shattering performance, making for versatile rides that offer speed and everyday usability. Hopefully regulations don’t start to sap the fun out of e-bikes in the future because it will be great to witness how far e-bike performance can be pushed.
Electric Bikes
The ebike model that started it all: Hop on our flagship fat tire and you may never want to leave. Now in its sixth version, the RadRover 6 Plus powers through all types of weather and terrain, with the technology and design to make it your best ebike ride yet.
The ebike model that started it all: Hop on our flagship fat tire and you may never want to leave. Now in its sixth version, the RadRover 6 Step-Thru makes it easy to step on and power through all types of weather and terrain, with the technology and design to make it your best ebike ride yet.
This next-level hauler is perfect for taking the kids across town or loading up at the hardware store. The electric cargo bike‘s elongated frame and lower center of gravity provide stable, reliable rides, even when you’re taking full advantage of the 350 lb. payload capacity. Take a passenger (or two!) for a spin.
The RadCity 5 Plus High-Step makes commuting the best part of your day. The high-step frame delivers a traditional bike-feel, offering hydraulic disc brakes and a 750W geared hub motor help you conquer hills without breaking a sweat, while a semi-integrated battery makes recharging and storing your battery a breeze.
The RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru makes commuting the best part of your day. Hop on and off with ease via the step-thru frame design. Hydraulic disc brakes and a 750W geared hub motor help you conquer hills without breaking a sweat, while a semi-integrated battery makes recharging and storing your battery a breeze.
The RadRunner 3 Plus raises the bar for what you can expect from an electric utility bike. Featuring a redesigned low-step frame, hydraulic brakes, and our most up-to-date tech, it’s expertly engineered to deliver an unmatched riding experience.
x.png?v=1684283466″ alt=”Side view of a black RadRunner 2 electric utility bike” width=”” /
This head turner delivers on more than just style: it can help you carry cargo, passengers, and even your morning joe. Factor in over 330 possible accessory combinations, and you can customize this moped-style ebike to your heart’s content.
Our latest folding ebike has fatter tires to tackle adventures of all sorts. Featuring a step-through frame, and allows you to customize your ride with adjustable handlebars, seven speeds, and four levels of pedal-assist.
Perfect for errands, perfect for fun, this electric utility bike comes fully-loaded with exclusive accessories to elevate your everyday experiences. The passenger package invites you to bring a friend for the ride, while the premium headlight gives you the confidence to hit the road any time.
High-Step Frame
Step-Thru Frame
Lower top-tube angle than a high-step frame. Riders find a more forgiving angle for swinging their leg over when mounting and dismounting.
Mid-Step Frame
Frame design without a top tube. No need to swing a leg over. rider mounts and dismounts by stepping over the low, dropped frame.
Electric bikes for all
Rad Power Bikes was founded in 2007 as a sole proprietorship and today, it’s North America’s largest electric bike brand. We rely on hundreds of designers, engineers, and support specialists to ensure that all 450,000 customers ride the best electric bikes possible. Our vision is a world where transportation is energy-efficient, enjoyable, and accessible to all.
An electric bike is simply a traditional bicycle that has been equipped with a battery-powered motor that makes it easier for riders to climb hills, go faster, haul cargo, and cover longer distances without getting tired with support from a pedal assist feature or a throttle. It is also known as an ebike or e-bike.
You can ride an electric bike the same way you would ride a traditional bike. The only difference is you have the option to summon power from the motor to make pedaling easier or operate the bike without pedaling.
In North America, electric bikes are commonly put into three different regulatory classes.
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only; motor provides assistance all the way up to 20 mph.
- Class 2: Pedal-assist or throttle; motor provides assistance all the way up to 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal assist only; motor provides assistance all the way up to 28 mph.
At Rad Power Bikes we exclusively make Class 2 electric bikes. All of our electric bikes include a battery that lasts 45-50 miles per charge, depending on the amount of power used, the type of terrain being ridden on, and the weight of the rider and cargo.
How do ebikes work?
The geared hub or direct drive motor channels energy from the battery to the pedals, which adds extra power with each pedal stroke to help the rider operate the bike. This is the pedal assist feature. Some electric bikes, like Rad’s, also include a throttle which propels the bike forward without the rider having to pedal, similar to a moped.
There are two ways electric bikes can be made. They can either be designed to be electric bikes from the start or developed by converting traditional bikes to be electric. An ebike conversion kit is a set of equipment that can be used to convert a traditional bicycle to an electric bicycle. Since ebikes for sale at Rad Power Bikes come standard with the motor and other necessary components, an ebike conversion kit is not necessary.
Why should I consider an ebike?
Electric bikes can fit seamlessly into your everyday life. They can be used to help you run errands, commute to work, enjoy outdoor activities like camping, hiking, skiing, fishing, or hunting. They can also enhance your mobility and help you ride with children. In short, they’re a fun, easy way to get around and do more of what you love.
Electric bikes also have commercial uses. Domino’s pizza franchises use our ebikes to deliver food and hundreds of rental fleets rely on Rad Power Bikes.
Match your lifestyle and ride needs
We know that different riders have different needs. While all of our bikes are great for multi-use situations, some models have special features. Electric cargo and utility bikes can be used to haul gear or ride with children. Electric folding bikes are designed to fit in RVs, trunks, small apartments or other compact spaces. Electric city and commuter bikes are designed for urban travel, reducing car trips, and saving you gas money. Electric off-road and all-terrain bikes are designed for camping trips, hunting, fishing, and light mountain biking.
In addition, we also design step-through electric bike models that make it easier to mount and dismount the bike and enhance mobility for all kinds of riders. All of our electric bikes can be used to climb hills easier, cover long distances, and haul cargo without getting tired.
We also sell ebike accessories that you can use to customize your ride. These include products for storage and transport, safety and security, seating and comfort, and ebike upgrades like phone mounts and USB chargers. To help you find the best accessories for your needs, you can select a curated electric bike kit or use the ebike customizer option at checkout.
Energy efficient transportation
There are environmental benefits that come with riding an ebike. Electric bikes are a key form of energy efficient transportation. They do not give off emissions while riding, ease traffic, and reduce congestion. Check out how ebikes can cut your carbon footprint with our emissions calculator.
Save money
Electric bikes can help you save money on gas since they provide a reliable alternative to cars. In addition, ebikes can reduce costs associated with parking and routine car maintenance.
Health benefits
Research says electric bikes can improve your health by helping you get exercise. When you pedal an ebike, you burn calories – especially if you are not using a high level of pedal assist. Electric bikes also make it easier to go longer distances than traditional bikes, which can extend the amount of time that you exercise.
We’ve heard from many customers that our electric bikes have improved their health. Rider Blair Hebert says his ebike helped him lose 40 lb., reverse adult onset diabetes, and recover from fatty liver disease. Another rider told us that he used his electric bike to lose weight ahead of a kidney donation surgery. (These are testimonials from customers and are not meant to constitute specific medical advice or claims.)
How to buy Rad
We sell electric bikes at affordable as a direct-to-consumer company which means we don’t sell our products through third-party retailers, helping reduce overhead costs. We then pass the savings on to our consumers. We were the first electric bike company to pursue this business model. You can also take advantage of flexible ebike financing options, free shipping, a one-year warranty, and a 14-day free trial.
To help find the best electric bike model by browsing our website, using our ebike finder, reading our guide to the best electric bikes, or calling our specially trained customer support team and asking for their advice. You’ll be prompted to enter your zip code where you can choose to have the bike sent directly to you, sent to a bike shop for assembly, delivered fully-assembled by a velofix mobile service provider or for online pick-up at a Rad Power Bikes retail store.
We have retail stores in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. When you shop at a retail store, you can test ride models and ask for advice from our retail team to find the best ebike for you. Find a location near you here. Our customer service team can take your order over the phone, answer additional questions you have about ebikes, and help you pick your preferred shipping option.
Owning a Rad ebike
We design high-quality electric bikes our customers are proud to own. Every ebike is rigorously tested to ensure quality before it reaches your doorstep. To learn more about our design and quality assurance process, read our guide.
Our Product Support team can help you troubleshoot issues online or over the phone. For service maintenance and repairs, you can take your electric bike to a Rad Power Bikes service center, book a mobile service visit from our third-party partner, velofix, or bring your ebike to a local bike shop in our network.
Thank you to our 450,000 customers who are having fun and riding Rad!
Take this short quiz to find your perfect ebike.
Fastest Electric Bikes for Sale in 2023: Top 5 Rapid E-Bikes
The Monaco-made Voxan Wattman has 150kw of power, or 203 horsepower, and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 3.4 seconds. It was specially created to set new world speed records, so you can’t just go out and buy one.
Another super-fast e-bike that is solely made to break records is White Motorcycle Concepts’ WMC250EV.
It’s not intended to be a road-going machine, and was created to target the world land speed record for electric motorcycles, and also to show that its unusual technologies are improvements over conventional ones.
Its name comes from its intention to hit 250mph, but its final top speed may be higher than that. When it was initially tested, just to make sure that its systems and technical elements were working as they should, it got up to 170mph without really trying.
Fastest E-Bikes You CAN Buy
Hi Power Cycles Revolution XX
Heavy-Duty Tyres and World-Class Brakes
Windscreen for High Speeds
i Power Cycles’ Revolution XX Super E-Bike is an impressive machine with extraordinary performance and incredible top speeds.
The top speed of the Revolution XX is officially listed at 70mph, and test riders have been able to achieve 74mph on a flat surface.
The manufacturers state that they believe this is the fastest e-bike ever produced that has usable pedals at top speed.
It looks more like a dirt bike than a bicycle, with heavy-duty tyres, world class brakes and even a windscreen — necessary when going at such high speeds.
The windscreen is specially designed to breach wind resistance at top speeds, helping riders gain an extra few mph on the top end, and the suspension system is individually factory tuned to suit the rider who purchases it.
The battery system allows for a nearly 100 mile range, which is more than enough for an off-road speed run.
Only 20 units of the Revolution XX will ever be made, so this is a very exclusive bike.
It is also worth noting that, according to the HPC website, the bike will ship fully compliant with US Class 2 e-bike laws, meaning it will be limited to 20mph. Of course, as we’ve discussed earlier, you can remove speed limiters, but it will render the bike unusable on public road
Hi Power Cycles Revolution X
Upgraded motor with increased efficiency and lower weight
Compliant with US Class 2 e-bike laws
Hi Power Cycles’ Revolution X is the manufacturer’s flagship model, which boasts a top speed of up to 65mph depending on which power option you choose.
The Revolution X has a 6,000W power level as standard, but buyers can upgrade to a 7,000W or 8,000W machine to reach the top speeds.
The model was first launched five years ago, but in 2022 the manufacturer has added an all-new motor, a 7% increase in maximum efficiency, a lower weight and less cogging torque.
The bike’s starting price is 13,000, with any added extras like two-stage colours, coloured rims, upgraded power levels, upgraded charger, individually factory-tuned suspension, added lighting etc costing extra.
As standard, you can choose from gloss red, gloss white, matte black or clear coat paint.
You can choose from the Thunderbolt (speed motor) or Striker (high torque motor) depending on what kind of ride you’re after.
The Speed motor blends speed, acceleration and torque in a way that’s perfect for moderate trails and moderate hills. With this motor, you can achieve speeds of 55mph on the 6,000W model, 60mph on the 7,000W model, and 60mph on the 8,000w model.
The Torque motor is for riders who want more acceleration/torque while sacrificing a bit of top speed. It’s more efficient than the Speed motor in most circumstances, and is better suited to steeper hills and trails. With this motor, you can achieve speeds of up to 45mph with the 6,000W model, 47mph with the 7,000W and 50mph with the 8,000W.
Like the XX, the Revolution X will ship fully compliant with US Class 2 e-bike laws, meaning it will be limited to 20mph.
Stealth B-52
2500W continuous power: highlights the power capability
60-mile range: emphasizes the range of the bike
Motorcycle-grade brakes: emphasizes the quality and precision of the braking system.
The Stealth B-52 reaches top speeds of up to 50mph, and is comparatively cheaper than the Revolution models listed above at around £9,500.
It weighs 64kg, has a max range of 60 miles on economy or 25 miles on full-throttle, and a recharge time of 3 hours.
The Stealth B-52 comes complete with motorcycle-grade brakes which gie you precise stopping control with just two fingers on the levers.
A silent, high-torque, brushless DC hub motor gives you fast acceleration, and is coupled with suspension that will give you a smooth ride even on the toughest trails.
It is designed with solid state, digital inverter technology with no moving parts to prevent wear-and-tear and reduce maintenance intervals.
It has a continuous power of 2500W and the peak power is 6200W, and its noise emission is just 65db — quieter than the average vacuum cleaner!
You can get the Stealth B-52 in Pitch Black or Pitch Black Fluo depending on preference, and you can add on front and rear mudguards and a controller cover if you wish.
Delfast Top 3.0/3.0i
Full charge range of up to 200 miles
On-board computer with GPS
With a full charge range of up to 200 miles and a top speed of 50mph, the Delfast Top is a great e-bike for anyone looking for endurance as well as speed.
Some critics say it blurs the lines between electric bicycle and electric motorbike, but as it still has pedals, we’re including it in this list — like many of the other bikes we’ve featured, it looks more like a dirt bike with pedals than a regular bicycle.
There are two models of the Delfast Top available depending on your location — the Delfast Top 3.0, which can be bought in the EU and internationally, and the Delfast Top 3.0i, which is only available in the US.
The Delfast Top 3.0i has an on-board computer and 4G GPS, while the 3.0 has a built-in 3G GPS navigation system. Aside from this, they are functionally the same in terms of speed, range and more.
In terms of speed modes, both bikes will ship as a Class 2 e-bike, powering up to 750W with a top speed of 20mph and a Gates Carbon Drive single gear belt drive.
The EU version has a limited mode with a 15mph max speed, which is suitable for road driving in the UK and EU, as well as a 20mph eco version.
Both bikes have an Unlimited mode, which on the US 3.0i model is up to 5000W and 50mph, while the EU 3.0 model can go to 3000W and 50mph.
Therefore, while the top speeds remain the same, the regional versions of the bike are adapted to be road legal in their respective territories while still able to be opened up off-road if you choose — a great bike for all terrains and uses, including commuting.
Both models come in a range of colours, with black or white as standard and orange, red and blue available at an extra cost.