Best electric bikes 2023 for every kind of rider
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If you’re looking for the best electric bikes, there are a lot to choose from, with electric motors and batteries added to a wide range of bikes to add extra power.
Electric road bikes will come with dropped handlebars and favour low weight, whilst electric hybrid bikes will come with flat bars, wider tyres and accessories to aid commuters – such as mudguards and lights. Electric folding bikes are useful if part of your journey involves train travel or you’re short on space.
Here at Cycling Weekly, we’ve reviewed bikes from these three categories and there are links to our more detailed reviews for each bike in this guide. Our testing involves a range of routes and ride lengths and our highly experienced team of testers understands what makes a good bike and what to look for in the best electric bikes.
Electric bikes can be expensive, but there are options too if you’re looking to keep costs low with starting from around 450,000: check out the best budget electric bikes. If you’re into tinkering with your bike, you might also want to look at the best electric bike conversion kits as an alternative to buying a completely new electric bike.
Women may benefit from female specific components on the best women’s electric bikes, and if you’re venturing off-road, check out the best electric gravel bikes.
If you’re looking for the best electric mountain bike though, follow this link to head over to our sister publication MBR which specialises in mountain biking.
Top picks
Here’s a quick look at our top choices from the best electric bikes, including a folding option.
The Specialized Turbo Vado is designed for fast urban riding but with its suspension fork and wider tires it can also handle rougher roads.
There’s a lot of clever tech in the aviation-inspired Gocycle G4i, with a neat folding mechanism, lightweight frame and decent mileage from its internal battery.
The Giant Fastride’s neatly integrated battery and quality spec make it a great option for the commute, with wide gear range and hydraulic disc brakes.
If your e-bike riding heads off-road, the Neo Carbon Lefty has front and rear suspension and a powerful Bosch motor to help you up the hills.
The Cento1 Hybrid takes Wilier’s race bike pedigree and inserts a rear hub motor in a stealth package that keeps the bike’s performance and doesn’t add too much weight.
The classic Brompton with the same folding mechanism, but with a front hub motor and battery housed in a neat removeable bag.
Electric hybrid bikes are the fastest selling style. Their flat bars, usually wide tyre, and commute friendly fittings. such as mudguard mounts and rack mounts. make them extremely practical machines.
The motor can be housed in the rear hub, or at the cranks, and the torque will vary. low torque models offer a natural pedalling assistance, but high torque versions will move off the lights more quickly.
Reasons to avoid
The Ribble Hybrid AL e is a road-going hybrid bike that’s equally at home on gravel paths and trails, with a comfortable and confidence-inspiring upright riding position, so great for returning or newbie riders.
For us, we think the bike is one of the best looking hybrids we’ve ever come across, with the design hiding away the motor incredibly well, although we were a little sad that adjusting the seat post left behind scratch marks. The fully loaded package includes fenders (mudguards), lights and a rear rack making it perfect as a daily commuter or for ditching the car when going to the store, although we did find these a little rattily on test.
The Ebikemotion motor delivers its power smoothly and efficiently and offers long-range in between charges, making the Ribble far more than just an A to B bike.
Understandably it doesn’t perform in the same way as the Canyon Grail:ON in terms of fast and tight torque, but tap along and it will tick over nicely, taking the top off any strenuous rides.
With all the added extras as standard and classy looks, the Ribble Hybrid AL e is a great electric bike for the money.
Reasons to avoid
A fun ride that’s great in urban environments but also provides a confidence-inspiring ride on rougher terrain is what the Specialized Turbo Vado is all about.
If you’re after a bike that is fully integrated with lights, fenders and rack (27kg capacity) as well as security (on the App removable battery using a key), then this represents a straight forward choice. Only the weight, and to a lesser degree cost, need consideration.
We found the 70Nm/250W custom-tuned motor applies power seamlessly and powerfully as soon as you push down on the pedals. Range is excellent too. 95-130km / 60-80 miles should be easily attainable using the default settings of Sport’ and ‘50% power’. There is an Eco mode as well as Turbo, so if you’re careful you can expect much greater range.
It is a heavy machine at 60lbs/ 27kg, so not easy to lift, so anyone needing to navigate steps in or out of the bike’s storage place will need to take this into consideration, but aside from that we found the Specialized Vado Turbo to be a joy to ride.
Reasons to avoid
We absolutely loved zooming around on the speedy Ride1Up Roadster V2 with its five levels of power assist. If you’re anything like us and are more used to training and racing on standard road bikes it can easily become your guilty pleasure. it’s fantastic fun to ride.
The bike was so quiet, even on level 5, convincing onlookers that our tester had to be some kind of super Hero to ride so fast up 15 per cent climbs. The only downside. in common with other e-bikes that only assist when you’re pedalling. was where there was a requirement for a hill start, the cranks had to be turned over in order to get the motor to engage, creating a pregnant pause at the lights, before vavavooming off.
The claimed 24mph maximum assisted speed (in the US) needs input from the pedals to reach on the flats, but without a doubt it’s noticeable downhill, where other bikes, such as the Wilier Cento1Hy Ultegra Di2 e-bike auto assist would cut out and slow you down.
This extra speed also puts the bike into a class 3 e-bike, meaning that it doesn’t meet EAPC rules in the UK, but that’s by the by as US brand Ride1Up doesn’t currently ship there.
If you are in a country lucky enough to be shipped to: the US, Canada and Mexico, then it’s a great option and one that has a very high fun-to-dollar ratio.
Ride1Up is a direct-to-consumer brand. check out the Roadster V2 on its website here.
Reasons to avoid
The Canyon Precede:ON is an efficient automatic transmission city bike that performs well in multi-terrain settings whether for utility or for leisure purposes thanks to a powerful motor and control panel.
With built-in accessories such as lights, mudguards, rack and kickstand all the trappings are there to make for a comfortable ride with style straight out the box. All these add ons however do make it one of the heaviest e-bikes on the market, even heavier than the Specialized Turbo Vado.
Our picks for the Best Electric Bikes for Seniors, 2023
There are undoubtedly many seniors who read the above list and scoff because the bikes we chose are too laid back or aren’t fast enough.
That’s fine, we’ve got recommendations for other e-bikes (like electric fat bikes and high-speed commuters) that might suit your tastes better. But while what makes someone a “senior” is nothing more than their age, there are certain considerations that often come up when we get asked for our opinion on the best e-bikes for older riders. Those considerations often involve mobility constraints, concerns over balance and flexibility and whether a bike’s riding position is too aggressive. Oftentimes, on top of any one of those considerations, this is that person’s first time back on a bicycle in a long, long time.
This list was made with those seniors in mind.
We used a few key criteria to compile this list, mainly:
- Stability and comfort: Comfort and how stable they feel on the bike is often high on the mind of older riders. Bikes that earn a spot on this list shouldn’t just be supportive, they should invoke a feeling of confidence in corners and over varying terrain.
- Quality and components: We evaluate each bike’s spec sheet to make sure manufacturers are making good component choices; a good bike is much more than its frame.
- Value: What are you getting for your money? Are the components better than average and is the craftsmanship on par? We also account for things more intangible than parts bolted to the bike, such as quality customer support, brand reputation and the availability of good in-person service.
- Power and range: How fast does the bike go and how far can I ride on a single charge? These questions are often the first on the mind of someone shopping for a new e-bike so they’re at the top of our mind, too.
- Was it built specifically with seniors in mind?: This may seem like an obvious one, but we tried to find e-bikes built specifically for older generations of riders. Do these design characteristics make sense and are they executed well?
This list does not cover every single bike on the market today that would be a good option for seniors and older riders. In fact, I think most of the EBR staff would argue that almost any e-bike would be a good option for seniors. But, based on a plethora of reader questions (we get TONS of questions about e-bikes for seniors), we compiled this list of our recommendations that we feel are suited best for the fast-growing demographic of older e-bike enthusiasts.
Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus ST
When considering our list of the Best Electric Bikes for Seniors, the Dutch-inspired RadCity 5 ST (step-through), has the “whole enchilada.” This user-friendly e-bike from Rad Power Bikes has the main features and components – comfort, stability, power and quality – that are preferred by older riders.
Classic design and exceptional performance are two distinctions not always found on electric bikes. The classic Dutch style provides a posture for comfortable riding, and the step-through frame produces rider stability. Powered by a 750-watt rear hub motor, the RadCity 5 ST cruises with distinction, and never feels like it wants to jump out from under you.
Energizing the sleekly integrated 12.3-amp hour battery, sleekly integrated into the frame bottom tube, to help you travel up to 50 miles between charges. Helping you maintain good looks while in a logjam, the half-twist grip throttle gives you the quick acceleration you need to dart ahead.
As this bike makes you look good as you go, it also confers an air of eminence as you stop. The hydraulic brakes perform well and the suspension forks keep you in control. The medium size aluminum frame can accommodate riders ranging in height from 4’8” to 6’0”. The tires are 27.5” x 2” puncture-resistant tires and you get riding experience that makes you feel in full control.
With its 15-inch seat post tube, this bike is sure to be a hit with shorter riders. The 275 lbs capacity allows for heavier riders or riding with cargo, using one or more of the optional rack accessories.
Looking at all the features this e-bike includes, the RadCity 5 ST is a great deal.
Pro’s
- Stable, comfortable posture makes it easy to climb aboard and ride for miles.
- Predictable handling, the power from the 750W motor is nice and moderate at low speed with plenty of torque for climbing.
- Rad’s reputation in the affordable customer service
- Looks
- The NUTT hydraulic disk brakes are spectacular under hard braking. This bike set a new record for the best stopping distance of any e-bike we’ve reviewed.
- Rear rack capable of carrying lbs of cargo.
Con’s
- The cable tidiness from the handlebars can be better. Instead of shortening cables where needed, they’re managed in zip-tied clumps that detract from the overall finish of the bike.
- The dual display setup is a unique and useful design, but the left-hand display can be tough to read in direct sunlight.
Aventon Pace 500 Step-Through
For the record, we’re rolling with the Aventon Pace 500.2 here. The Pace 500.3 is awesome, but the savings right now on the second iteration are hard to pass up.
Seniors looking for a casual cruising bike that packs power will like this e-bike. With its upright cruiser frame, this Class 3 (throttle and PAS up to 28 mph) e-bike offers a good balance of comfort and power. The 500w motor dishes out power when you need it, and the 48-volt 12.8-amp hour battery will take you up to 60 miles.
The Pace 500 ST’s 500-watt rear hub motor, 5-level pedal assist system and throttle offer a great mix of cruising speed and acceleration – when you need it. We never felt like the bike wanted to storm ahead and shake us out of our seats – something less experienced riders will definitely like. The Zoom hydraulic disc brake system
The upright positioning and nimble handling made this bike feel more like a city commuter as we maneuvered around sharp corners and obstacles. The Shimano Acera 8-speed makes pedaling pretty pleasant in every gear. Stylish but simple looking, the Pace 500 ST has two frame sizes – medium and large, in four available colors.
Rolling this 53 lbs lightweight down the road on 27.5” x 2.2” Kenda multi-purpose tires, stopping is managed with the help of Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, which automatically shut of the motor when in use. Also keeping you safe are the integrated headlight and taillight.
This e-bike satisfies the needs of most senior riders with its reliable performance, good design and a comfortable ride. Whether you’re an experienced rider looking for something more casual, or someone getting back into riding after a long hiatus, we think you will have fun riding this e-bike. Aventon has dealers throughout the US and also ships bikes to buyer’s homes. Some assembly is required.
Pro’s
- Powerful 500w motor engages smoothly with the rider’s pedaling
- Upgraded 12.8 Ah battery can take you up to 65 miles on a single charge.
- Great ergonomics providing a comfortable ride.
- Adjustable stem makes sizing a snap for different size riders.
- Zoom hydraulic brakes provide safe stopping power.
- Shimano Acera 8-speed gives good range with no ghost pedaling.
- Rear rack can carry 55 lbs of cargo.
Con’s
- Pedaling in turns might cause the pedal to scrape the ground, due to the low bottom bracket and 170mm long crank.
- Suspension forks and seat post would be nice to round out rider comfort.
Product Guides
Find Your Electric Bike on our Product Guide Page and find out how to properly take care of your electric bike so it can properly take care of you.
Taking on dirt, gravel, sand and just about anything you can throw at them. Our all terrain electric bikes are meant to go where others can’t follow. When shopping for an all terrain ebike, it is best to find the one that makes you comfortable.
Suspension Type. All Terrain or Mountain ebikes feature varying types of suspension. Hardtail, front suspension only, and Rigid, no suspension, are the two most common types at GOTRAX.
Frame. Off road ebikes need a durable, lightweight frame to handle most of the heavier impacts that is why all of our ebikes are made with aluminum alloy.
Tires. Varying from bike to bike, you want to find the right ebike for your. Fat tires help with looser terrain while mountain bike tires are better suited for trails and dirt.
Take on any challenge with this ebike that features one of our most powerful battery Motor combos to date
City Electric Bikes
Stop getting stuck in traffic or trying to find parking every morning. Our City Ebikes make for one quick commute. Similar to your standard bike in tire size and frame but that is where the similarities end. These ebikes were made for those looking for a new way to get around town.
Environmental Impact. Every day you chose to take your City ebike instead of your car, you remove part of your carbon footprint.
Removable Battery. Don’t take your entire ebike with you just to charge it. An easy to remove battery, just in front of your seat, can be taken with you to charge inside.
Frame Options. Our CTI electric bike comes in Step Over (SO) and Step Thru (ST) versions. SO is for a more active, mobile rider. The ST is for relaxed rides with easy mounting and dismounting.
Time to get out of rush hour in style. The CTI arrives just in time for summer.
Foldable Electric Bikes
The ideal ebike for dorm rooms, one bedroom apartments, and weekend adventurers. Foldable electric bikes are great for those already short on space who still want to have the convenience an ebike can provide. Luckily, our foldable ebikes also come with a removable battery so you won’t have to take the whole ebike to your outlet to charge.
Folding Frame. All of our F-Series ebikes feature folding frames and handlebars. This will help you save space when you aren’t riding around on them. The one-touch mechanisms are easy to lock back into place with a telltale click, you’ll be ready to ride.
Fat Tires. Each F-Series ebike in our collection has 2.6 wide tires or larger. This increased surface area allows for improved traction, making our foldable ebikes a great choice for new riders.
Dual Braking. Safety is a top priority on all of our ebikes so we wanted to highlight one of our main safety features. Front and rear wheel braking provides quick, secure stops when needed.
Updates and new colours for eBike Sport and eBike Cross
The existing Sport and Cross models will also be powered by the Shimano EP-801 motor in the future. The eBike Sport has also been upgraded with a Shimano XT DI2 12-speed rear derailleur with free shift function.
The eBikes Sport and eBike Cross of the first generation
The eBike Sport: the white eBike from Porsche. The flat frame design developed by Studio F. A. Porsche ensures optimum light reflections. The Shimano EP-8 motor provides powerful propulsion in conjunction with the 630 Wh drive battery.
Porsche eBike Cross. 2nd Gen.
Porsche eBike Sport. 2nd Gen.
The Porsche eBike Cross in dark gray
Off paved roads in difficult terrain, the Porsche eBike Cross is in its element. Here, too, the sporty character of the Porsche Taycan served as inspiration. The organically shaped carbon frame quotes the vehicle’s roofline.
Porsche eBike Cross. 2nd Gen.
Porsche eBike Cross. 2nd Gen.
Porsche eBike Cross. 2nd Gen.
Porsche eBike Cross. 2nd Gen.