Motion breeze electric bike
Our Burlington E-Bike Lending Library is open to Chittenden County Residents. If you live in another county, please reserve an e-bike from our Satellite or Travelling E-Bike Library that is closest to you.
This year, we also have a Traveling Chittenden County Library that will be visiting Hinesburg, Williston, South Burlington, and Essex Junction. If you live in one of those communities, please try to reserve an e-bike through them first.
Reservation Limits
In order to offer our free e-bike loans to as many people as possible, we are limiting reservations to 1 per family per type of e-bike. We reserve the right to cancel or deny multiple reservations of the same type of e-bike.
Reservation Commitment
You must be able to commit to picking up your reserved bike on the f irst day of your loan period (typically a Tuesday) at the scheduled time (4:30. 6 pm).
- If you do not pick up at the agreed upon time, your loan is forfeit and you will be unable to reserve a bike in the future
- Pick-up and drop-off is rain or shine. if you do not plan to ride in the rain, please arrange other means of transport (see below for details)
Returns are the last day of your 10-day loan period (typically a Thursday) from 4:30. 6 pm at the Local Motion office at 1 Steele Street, Burlington, VT. You must be able to return the e-bike at this time.
Transport from/to Local Motion
Ideally, you will ride the e-bike home. If that is not possible, you will need to transport the e-bike in a truck, van, or SUV with the seats down. It really depends on which e-bike since some are quite large (see individual bike details). We cannot send bikes out on car bike racks due to the risk of rack failure
Overnight storage
You must be able to store bikes in a locked indoor location that is not a shared location to be eligible to borrow a bike! We’re sorry if you can’t, but we can’t afford to lose them! Also, note that some of the bikes are heavy so some bikes won’t be able to go upstairs. (see individual bike descriptions for bike weight)
Kids seats
A child seat can be requested for the RadWagons, which each hold up to about 45 lbs
Cargo
When carrying heavy items, be sure to balance the weight on both sides of the bike to prevent wobbly and sketchy riding
Helmet and lock
We will supply you with a lock but we ask that you bring your own helmet.
How It Works
Is the bike you’re interested unavailable? Get added to the waitlist!
Cargo Bikes
The RadWagon is a cargo e-bike that can carry you and your kids, groceries, and other valuable cargo around town and some mild backroads. The 5 pedal-assist levels and throttle help take the buckets of sweat away from your bike commute and the cargo carrying ability makes this a true car replacement! We have two RadWagons available, and can provide child seats rated for kids up to 45 lbs each!
This is a popular bike; reserve early!
MSRP: 1,999 Minimum rider height: 5’2” E-bike weight: 73 lbs Transport: ride home, truck bed, van
Commuter Bikes
RadCity 5 Plus
The RadCity 5 Plus is an excellent electric bike for a wide range of folks that’s built to make every day trips around town to pick up groceries, go to appointments, and even your commute a breeze. The powerful motor conquers hills with ease, and has a generous range of 28. 50 miles.
Transport: ride home, truck bed, van, SUV
Battery Range: 28. 50 miles
Specialized Turbo Como
We have two Specialized Turbo Comos! They are both great commuter bikes, and feel like a rocket ship (if you want it to!) Their oversized road tires absorb bumps and cracks in the road. The e-assist propels you over hills and across flats. The Turbo Como is great for commuting any distance, from 2 miles to 20 miles. With a range of up to about 60 miles, the Como will take you far! We have two Turbo Comos, a size M and a size S, available to borrow! The pink Turbo Como has a step-through frame.
MSRP: 3,250 Minimum rider height size M: 5’5″ / Minimum rider height size S: 4’10″E-bike weight: 48 lbsTransport: ride home, truck bed, van
Trek Verve and Trek Verve 2
These beautiful e-bikes will let you ditch your car at every opportunity. Integrated lights and fenders help keep you seen and dry. The e-assist flattens the hills along your route and makes your legs feel bionic. It’s hard not to smile while going to work, the store, or school! You can get up to 70 miles range with the motor! We have two Verves in the library fleet, both are size M! Available to purchase at North Star Sports and Earl’s Cyclery and Fitness.
MSRP: 2,850 Minimum rider height: 5′ E-bike weight: 46 lbs Transport: ride home, truck bed, van
This hybrid utility bike is able to handle the everyday needs of a wide range of riders. Because of its rugged front suspension and wide tires, it conquers hills and smooths out rough terrain with ease. It’s the perfect bike for two, as the rear-rack is able to easily fit a second rider.
(Approximate bike inseam between 26” and 36.25”)
Minimum rider inseam: 26” (4’11” minimum height)
Maximum rider inseam: 32.25” (36.25”
Maximum load weight: 300 lbs
Transport: ride home, truck bed, van, SUV
Battery Range: 25. 45 miles
contact Jessica ( [email protected] ) with any questions
This program is dedicated to the memory of Karen Freudenberger – passionate community activist, avid e-bike rider, and indefatigable promoter of social justice and peace.
Hub Motor Brands: The Complete Guide
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Hub Motor Types, Brands, and the E-Bikes That Use Them
All consumer-ready e-bikes provide assistance to their riders through either a mid-drive motor or a hub motor. While mid-drive motors are placed centrally at the bottom bracket and tie into their e-bike’s cranks, hub motors – as their name suggests – are mounted at the center of either the front or rear wheel. We’ll FOCUS on the latter type in this complete guide to e-bike hub motors; read on to learn the differences between types of motors, and keep scrolling to examine some of the best hub motors on the market!
At the present time, electric hub motors are much more affordable than mid-drives, and are subsequently much more prevalent. Additionally, hub motors are often much lighter than their cousins, and make practical additions to urban e-bikes or folding frames that need to be carried often. They also function well in conjunction with belt drives and internal gear systems that are nearly maintenance-free. In fact, you’ll find hub motors on some of the best electric bikes we have had the pleasure of reviewing.
Mid-drive motors, on the other hand, have a reputation for being more efficient and responsive than hub motors – though hub motor technology is improving constantly and coming ever closer to bridging the gap. Mid-drives are also known for their ability to replicate or approach the feel of non-electric bikes. They are, however, much more expensive, and as such are most commonly found on higher-end models.
The topic of e-bike motors is complex enough that we have a separate guide to mid-drive motors. In this article, focused exclusively on e-bike hub motors, we will dive into the most common manufacturers, discuss some of the best e-bike brands who use their products, and also cover some unique one-offs.
Rev your engines and get ready to read!
Hub Motor Types
We discussed the two main types of motors already, but when looking closer at the category of hub motors, the subject can be divided even further.
Front Hub and Rear Hub Motors
The first sub-category of hub motors is divided by their placement – either in the front or rear wheel hub. There are a few e-bikes out there that use dual (both front and rear) hub motors, but these tend to be special cases. The vast majority of e-bikes with hub motors have them mounted on the rear wheel. These types are known to give their riders the feeling of being pushed from behind, though this characteristic is often subtle and easy to get used to.
Front-hub motors, however, offer the opposite experience; the feeling of being pulled along. These have an advantage over rear-hub motors in that they are often smaller and lighter, but they can suffer from a tendency to lack traction.
The Eunorau Defender S is a rare example of an e-bike with both front and rear hub motors.
Geared and Direct Drive Motors
Regardless of their placement, hub motors can transfer power to drive their e-bikes in two different ways, and so have two further divisions or sub-categories; e-bike hub motors can be either direct drive or geared. We have a full article that goes into detail about direct drive and geared hub motors, but a brief mention of their distinctions is appropriate here.
In a nutshell, geared hub motors use a system of internal gears that drive (and turn) the shell of the motor. These are the most common type of hub motor, and are typically smaller, lighter, more efficient, and better at climbing hills than direct drive motors. They are also less expensive.
Direct drive motors are gearless, and use magnets to turn their shell, which is an essential part of the motor itself. Direct drives are larger and heavier, but are quiet and incredibly long lasting. Direct drive motors are also typically most efficient when operating at high speeds, and so are most often used only on Class 3 (speed pedelec) e-bikes.
Torque and Cadence Sensors
All e-bike motors require input from a sensor in order to provide assistance appropriately. There are two types of sensors used with e-bike motors: either torque or cadence. Usually, just one type is used at a time, but some e-bikes use a combination of both.
Cadence sensors are the most common variety used with hub motors. Again, they are also less expensive. These require only that the pedals be moving in order to activate their motor, and as such are less efficient than torque sensors that rely on rider input. Responsive cadence sensors can trigger motor assistance after only a quarter-turn of an e-bike’s cranks, while slower versions take a half or even up to a full turn.
Torque sensors are less common and more expensive than cadence sensors, but generally regarded as better. They are also more efficient, because they sense how much effort the rider is choosing to give (or HAVING to give, depending on gearing, terrain, etc), and respond accordingly. We often say that they allow the motor to meet the rider halfway at whatever level of effort they choose.This allows torque sensors to provide a level of responsiveness similar to that of a non-electric bike – a feature that, when combined with a mid-drive motor, adds to its already natural feel. For this reason, they are most commonly paired with mid-drives, though the technology is becoming cheaper, and seen more often with hub motors. For example, we have appreciated seeing torque sensors on the updated lineup of Aventon e-bikes.
Popular Hub Motor Brands
While we will provide information on some of the largest hub motor manufacturers out there, the full list of them is far too long for this article already, and continues to grow rapidly. The companies on this list produce some of the best hub motors on the market.
While their branding is not always so obvious, Bafang motors can be found on e-bikes in each corner of the market.
Previously known as Suzhou Bafang (due to their home office in the city of Suzhou near Shanghai) and 8Fun, Bafang is arguably the largest manufacturer of e-bike hub motors in the world. They are well-established at this point, having been established in 2003. The company’s philosophy is a commitment to quality and innovation. While their main manufacturing center is located with their home office in China, the company has a dedicated mid-drive motor factory in Poland, as well as sales and service centers in the USA and across Europe.
In addition to producing motors, they also manufacture batteries, sensors, controllers, and HMIs (human machine interfaces – displays and button pads) for e-bikes, as well as a range of products for electric scooters. At the time of writing, Bafang offers roughly a dozen models of rear hub motor ranging from 250W to 1000W, nearly as many mid-drives, and a handful of front hub motors.
Due to their quality and affordability, Bafang products have been used on a massive range of e-bikes; from small startup companies to large name brands like Pedego, Juiced, Aventon, and Charge.
The Suzhou Shengyi Motor Company, usually shortened to just Shengyi, is another large and well-established company with a home office and development center in Suzhou, China. Founded in 2003, the company surpassed sales of over 800k units in 2020, and by now is likely to be approaching 1 million (if they have not passed that mark already). Shengyi has manufacturing facilities in Suzhou and Taiwan, and sales offices in Germany and Tianjin, China.
In addition to both mid-drive and hub motors for e-bikes, the company builds other motors for electric scooters and motorcycles. Currently, they have a lineup of over a dozen rear hub motors, around 10 front hub motors, a few mid-drive options, and a couple of brushless single-piece wheel units with integrated motors. These range in output from 180W up to 1000W.
Shengyi products have been found on e-bikes past and present from globally-recognized companies such as Giant, Rad Power Bikes, MFC, and Aventon.
Aventon has been known to use Bafang and Shengyi products on their e-bikes, such as the Level 2 commuter.
Dapu, also known as the Chuo Bussan Group, is a Japanese-owned company with over a decade of experience in producing e-bike components. They place a FOCUS on making durable, powerful products with precision. Dapu has manufacturing plants in Japan, China, and Vietnam, which supply e-bike companies in the US and Europe.
Like Bafang, Dapu’s portfolio is diverse. They FOCUS exclusively on e-bike products, but currently produce an expansive selection of front and rear hub motors, torque sensors, HMIs, controllers, and a few mid-drive models. Dapu’s catalog of nearly 20 motor models range from 250W-1000W of output.
Well-known e-bike brands such as Pedego and Evelo have used Dapu products.
Founded originally as the Changzhou Huayuxinfeng Motor Company in 1996, this manufacturer began to FOCUS on e-bike products in 2004. They later changed their name to the Changzhou MXUS Import and Export Company, and have since expanded throughout Asia, Europe, and both North and South America.
MXUS offers a wide range of products for both e-bikes and e-scooters. Their full catalog of e-bike components includes batteries, chargers, controllers, HMIs, throttles, and even cargo racks. When it comes to motors, the company focuses exclusively on producing front and rear hub systems. They have a total of over 25 models between the two types, in both geared and direct drive models. Interestingly, MXUS makes one of the most powerful hub motors available; their products range from 180W of output all the way up to a staggering 5000W system.
MXUS products have been seen on e-bikes from the Electric Bike Company and other brands.
Electric Bike Company e-bikes like the decked-out Model Y have sported MXUS rear hub motors.
Other Manufacturers
The Taiwan-based company TranzX makes a full range of e-bike components – nearly everything but frames. They offer a small selection of motors (two hub motor options and two mid-drives), some of which have been found on Raleigh folding e-bikes and models from Diamondback, Bergamont, and Lapiere.
The Aikema Electric Drive System Company, or just Aikema, is a Chinese company with a respectable selection of motors and other components. They are partnered with some recognizable names like Ampler, MAHLE (see below) and VanMoof.
A German-based manufacturer called Neodrives produces paired motor / battery / display systems that have been used with some Pegasus, Raleigh, and Rennstahl e-bikes.
Another Taiwanese manufacturer, TDCM produces e-bike hub motors as well as components for the automotive, EV, and medical industries. Their products have been used by Brompton, Stromer, Flyer, and in bike ride share programs from Lyft.
SR Suntour is originally a Japanese company known primarily for their magnesium suspension forks. Their three models of HESC (Human Electro Synergy Components) hub motors have been used with Carrera e-bikes and other brands.
Unique Hub Motor Brands
As opposed to the ubiquitous, previously mentioned large-scale manufacturers, the companies in this next section stand out due to their tendency to approach things differently.
Karbon Kinetics / GoCycle
In 2002, Karbon Kinetics was founded by Richard Thorpe, with the goal of creating the perfect e-bike. Thorpe combined cycling passion and design experience from his history as a designer of McLaren racing components to create the GoCycle. The first generation of this lightweight, folding e-bike was released in 2009, and was designed to be elegant, fun, and highly functional. Since then, the company has continuously released updated models that frequently set new standards due to their fast folding, inclusion of bluetooth technology, and their use of innovative materials and manufacturing methods.
One of the core elements of the GoCycle in its current iteration is its proprietary G4drive front hub motor. This 500W unit is tiny and unobtrusive, but packs a surprising amount of power for speed and uphill travel. We loved the motor’s performance when we had the chance to review the GoCycle G4 – and due to its proprietary nature, it’s only available on this specific e-bike.
The GoCycle’s proprietary front-hub motor is small enough to go almost unnoticed but manages some impressive power.
As a division of the MAHLE Group, which focuses on the development of automotive technologies and components, MAHLE SmartBike Systems designs both hardware and software for use by e-bike owners, dealers, and manufacturers. MAHLE is based out of Palencia, Spain, and prioritizes innovation in their cutting-edge products, with the goal of making transportation comfortable, efficient, and environmentally-friendly.
While they manufacture components like batteries, chargers, shifters, and displays, all of these elements are designed to be used exclusively in conjunction with MAHLE’s limited selection of two drive systems, the X20 and X35. Both of these rear hub motors are extremely small and lightweight, and all of their unobtrusive components are designed to fit seamlessly into an e-bike’s frame. In fact, MAHLE advertises the X20 system as the lightest drive system on the market.
The X35 was originally manufactured by Ebikemotion prior to MAHLE’s purchase of the company in 2018. It is still sometimes referred to as the Ebikemotion X35 for this reason.
Considering their high-performance nature and intended use with electric mountain, urban, gravel, and road bikes, MAHLE products can be found on more sophisticated models from BMC, Orbea, Cannondale, and SCOTT.
Owned by an automotive technology company called Eldor Corporation since 2019, ZEHUS is able to leverage international development and manufacturing resources to produce innovative EV, e-scooter, and e-bike drivetrains.
Prior to 2023, the Italian-based ZEHUS were known solely for their cable-free BIKE all-in-one system that combines a motor, battery, sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity in a single package. This 250W system provides 40 Nm of torque, and can travel a minimum distance of 35 km / 22 miles in Turbo mode, or a maximum of 60 km / 37 miles in Eco mode. It is available in a single speed version, as well as a cassette version with either 4, 7, or 9 gears.
At the CES in 2023, the company unveiled an upgraded version called BIKE with a claimed unlimited range, thanks to the unit’s Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) that uses regenerative braking when backpedaling to recharge the battery.
ZEHUS systems are primarily found on European e-bikes such as those made by Cooper Bikes, Neomouv, and Hummingbird.
Velotric’s proprietary Velopower motor was designed by the company’s team of engineers and is built by a leading but unnamed motor manufacturer.
Globe / Electra / Volt / VanMoof / Velotric / Etc.
These names are listed together due to the fact that they likely all have a similar approach: partnering with one of the larger, previously mentioned companies for the production of their own proprietary systems. We say “likely,” because in the case of Globe (which is a subsidiary of Specialized), VanMoof, and Electra (which is owned by Trek), details about their motor manufacture are not readily available through their respective websites. With Globe, this is more understandable, since (as of the time of writing) details about their first e-bike are still scarce. Electra, on the other hand, advertises their use of Bosch mid-drives, but their less expensive line of “Go!” e-bikes use proprietary rear hub motors.
Other brands are more open about their partnerships, such as Volt’s pairing with Bafang for the production of their SpinTech rear hub drive system. Similarly, Velotric – while keeping the name of their specific manufacturer to themselves – have been up-front about a partnership in developing their proprietary Velopower motor.
E-Bike Motors with Custom Branding
Separate from the partnerships previously mentioned, it is worth noting that many motor manufacturers offer custom branding services with orders of significant quantities. For this reason, it can be difficult or impossible to discover the manufacturer of a motor that displays an e-bike brand name instead of a manufacturer’s stamp, and also difficult to discern such a motor’s quality. Some may be made by reputable companies like Bafang, while others could just as easily be made by a small startup offering low-quality parts.
Hub Motor Conversion Kits
While far less popular now than in the early days of e-bikes (due most likely to their increasing availability and falling prices), conversion kits used to turn a non-electric bicycle into an e-bike can be an affordable solution and can also allow a favorite bike to get more mileage. The aforementioned Bafang offers conversion kits, but there are still some smaller, more unique contenders in the game as well.
The Swytch Kit is considered by many to be the best – and most common – hub motor conversion kit on the market.
Swytch was founded in 2017 with the goal of converting drivers into cyclists by expanding the accessibility of electric-powered transportation. They also place a FOCUS on sustainability. The UK-based company began through a highly successful Indiegogo campaign for their Swytch Kit, then released a second-gen model in 2019 using the same approach. Swytch currently has over 60,000 customers worldwide.
At the time of writing, Swytch makes two conversion kits – one universal model, and another specifically designed for folding bikes. Each system uses a 250W geared front hub motor in conjunction with one of two battery pack options that are scarcely larger than a smartphone. One pack offers up to 15 km / 9 miles of range, while the MAX model can power the motor for up to 30 km / 18 miles. Swytch Kits are available in nearly every wheel wheel size, and are compatible with both disc and rim brake systems.
In 2019, Bimotal was founded after its CEO experienced a skiing accident that left him unable to climb steep hills when mountain biking. The San Francisco-based company set out to produce a lightweight and easily removable drive system to enable healthier lifestyles. Bimotal’s founder, Toby Ricco, is an engineer with experience at Tesla, and the company employs a team of other engineers with Formula 1 and aerospace backgrounds.
Bimotal’s single product, the Elevate, is technically not a hub motor, but we feel it’s close enough to warrant discussion on this list. Instead of having a fixed placement at the center of the wheel hub, the Elevate is a removable system that mounts to a non-electric bike’s externally-mounted disc brakes (though it is not compatible with all frame designs) with the addition of a special brake rotor/cog system. It is a 750W motor that produces between 50 and 100 Nm of torque, and can provide a range estimated between 15 and 30 miles. Additionally, it has been designed to attach or be removed in seconds. The unit’s stealthy cylindrical battery has an appearance similar to a water bottle and mounts to the bike’s frame with the use of a cage.
The company also has a mid-drive system in development with even greater torque for a better eMTB experience.
The Bimotal Elevate system is a conversion kit that attaches and separates in seconds.
Like the ZEHUS system covered previously, the SmartBikeWheel is an all-in-one system, though its hub shell is significantly larger. The reason is simple; instead of a torque or cadence sensor, the front hub system uses an internal gyroscope and tachometer to sense changes in terrain and provide assistance appropriately. This SmartAssist technology, in combination with Bluetooth connectivity and an internal battery providing roughly a 35-mile range, makes the SmartBikeWheel functional, affordable, and user-friendly.
In our review of the SmartBikeWheel, we were seriously impressed by the system’s power and performance; it rivaled and surpassed that of many entry-level e-bikes we have tested.
MODEL J
Ships with 21 days from Date of Order. Arrives fully-built.
Max Speed 28 mph10 year warranty
Up to 150 milerange
Factory settings 20mph Throttle / 20mph PAS(Can re-program to 28 mph PAS once confirmed with local city regulations. Learn )
NEW Model J
Model J, experience the Journey on our retro, moto-inspired, smaller, nimbler, e-bike geared towards our youthful explorer. Combining luxury and leisure with a commitment to the safest, most technologically-sound e-bikes and batteries.
See where the J takes you…
As always on our E-Bikes, you can colorize, customize, accessorize and stylize until your heart’s content.
“I’ve tested several e-bikes from EBC, as well as visited the company’s Newport Beach factories to see how they build and package their e-bikes first hand. It’s frankly inspiring to see so many local Californians lacing motors into wheels, painting frames, wiring e-bikes, assembling batteries, and performing every other step of the process that we normally associate with nameless overseas factories”
NEW TURBO – Extra Motor, Throttle Battery 999
Add an additional throttle to TURBO boost your E-Bike power. Perfect for hilly terrain and weight boosting. Carry and pull heavier cargo with ease. Simply add to your Bike during your custom build, or if you already own an EBC bike, talk to our team of experts about upgrading your E-Bike today.
- Additional 40-50 mile range
- Mini Display and Control screen included
- Perfect for those living and riding in hilly terrain or carrying / pulling heavier Cargo than average.
Features
Tire options for looking good going fast
We have you covered with our classic Schwalbe Fat Frank Tires. The streamline tire looks so sleek on our Model X. Signature Puncture protection consists of natural rubber and reinforced with KEVLAR fibers. Available in all Black or Brown with white sidewall. We also offer a tire upgrade to Continental E50 should you choose.
Go further with our Batteries
We have directly designed and engineered our very own battery pack with performance and safety standards our priority. We use certified, tested and internationally EBC approved, quality, lithium Ion NMC battery cells with a world leading 5 year warranty for safety, reliability, range and life cycle. An optional external, super-charger is also available for a Rapid charge. We provide international battery exchange, and easy maintenance and service with our plug and play wiring system.
BEST motor in the world
Our motors are built to the strictest Electric Bike Company standards – our motors have the highest quality copper and neodymium magnets to ensure quiet, efficient output, along with sealed bearings and state of the art circuitry. The powerful high torque, geared hub motor, provides zip when you need it. Designed by our in-house team of experts to make climbing hills efficient and carrying cargo effortless. Our motors can get you a max speed up to 28 mph and comes with a 10 year warranty.
Factory settings 20mph Throttle / 20mph PAS(Can re-program to 28 mph PAS once confirmed with local city regulations. Click HERE to learn how.
Always check your local laws before riding your E-Bike)
Aluminum 6061, Hydro-formed Frame
Constructed via a 7 step process including painting, cleaning, base primer, 3 coats of paint, and 2 coats of clear sealant. A heat treatment gives extra strength and durability. Our frames are constructed to ensure neat, hidden wiring while still looking classic. Strong, patent-pending, front bracket allows for cargo adaptation and basket assembly, which ensuring secure handlebar functions. While most frames are 1.5 mm thick, we double that in most areas to 3 mm for sturdiness.
Plug Play. it’s easy
Electric Bike Company’s patent pending, waterproof wiring system couldn’t be easier. Match the colors and you’re good to go! Developed for ease of replacement, maintenance and service.
Thumbthrottle for safety
We prefer thumb throttles over twist throttles, as we have found twist throttles very dangerous, especially when lifting your bike over curbs and obstacles. Operators often twist the throttle in error which can cause the E-bike to shoot forward and out of control.
Brakes to STOP
Safest electric bike braking system world wide by far. 5 Star hydraulic disc brakes with sensor control design and motor disconnect and a two piston brake caliper allows for single finger braking. The 180mm rotors come with stainless steel attachment hardware, for extra safety and stopping power.
Double up on lights
Every EBC bike comes with integrated front and rear safety lights. Add a Basket, no worries, they have an integrated lighting system too.
Premium rims for higher speed
Since e-bikes are faster, used more often than regular cruisers, and often with more cargo; we install motorbike grade, double walled, Aluminum 2″ wide Ebike Rims. Our Premium, high quality rims, ensure safety standards are always met.
Stainless Steel
Hardware Integrated Bearings
Since our bikes last a lot longer than traditional cruisers, safety and reliability throughout the life span of the bike is crucial. We hand build all bikes with hardware and integrated bearings to be 100% stainless steel, rust resistance and corrosion free. Stainless Spokes Nipples ensure a well-built, high-quality bicycle wheel. For this reason, we build our wheels from scratch in our factory, under strict quality control management. We inspect, test and use the highest quality, 13-gauge stainless, non-rust spokes and brass corrosion free nipples for both front and rear wheel construction. Our state-of-the-art wheel truing machine ensures perfect wheel alignment and balance.
Comfort Seat Grips
Hand stitched leather grips and comfortable 300 x 300 x 100mm thick, high density foam, and back bumpers for support and cushion. Our Grips are hand stitched with aluminum secure ends to ensure they do not slip and jam the throttle as on other E-bikes.
LCD Color Display
A multi level, compact, user friendly, LCD color screen is equipped with a convenient UBS port for charging phones, playing music and more.
Ideal Chain Ring Cogs
Ideal gearing considerations for our Cruiser style riding is a front 58T chain ring and 18T for the rear for medium to hilly terrain terrain.
Since many of our bike owners will be at the coast or leave their bikes outside, we hand build our bikes with stainless steel chain rings chains and sealed bearings bottom brackets to enhance the longevity of the bike as a whole.
Optional Suspension Seatpost
The Suntour Suspension seatpost has been engineered and built for years of comfort and performance. The unique design allows for small bump compliance, with a total of 50mm travel to make for a smooth ride. Comfort, low maintenance and long term durability is what this post is all about. This is a must have accessory for any cyclist looking for the ultimate in comfort. Available in Black Silver.
Specs
Motor
Max speed up to 28 mph 10 year warrantyFactory settings 20 mph throttle and 20 mph PAS (Can re-program to 28 mph PAS once confirmed with local city regulations. Learn How
Battery
a. 50 Miles (12 Ah) b. 100 Miles (24 Ah) c. 150 Miles (36 Ah) EBC approved and certified Lithium-Ion NMC Cells (5 year warranty) Please see warranty information
Battery Charger
3.5 Amp Smart Super Charger with Smart charging technology, cooling fan, aluminum cover 3 prong charging port for safety
Brakes
2 Piston, Hydraulic Disc Brakes, 180 mm Stainless steel (1.8 mm thick) Comfort grip levers with motor cutoff safety sensor
Drive Train
Amplified (58T) Chainring Sealed bearings for durability, low maintenance and safety over time Engineered specifically for ease of rider operation 5 Power Assist Levels (Optional 7 speed derailleur) Torque Sensor. Optional
Fork
Rigid Steel 1-1/8″ fork with threaded steerer tube Suspension fork with hydraulic lockout and preload adjustment, turn lockout on at anytime while riding, 80 mm travel
Kickstand
Motor Bike Grade, Heavy Duty Non-slip sole wide reinforced rubber foot prevents slipping and sinking
LCD Screen
Multi Level, user friendly, Interactive, Color LCD Display with USB Charging Port for phone and other accessories
Lights
Front and Rear LED safety lights standard Optional High/Low Beam, Turn Signals, Brake Lights, Automatic Light Sensors
Wheels
24″ Wheels Build in our factory – Dished, Trued and Tension perfectly ensuring efficient tracking, safety and range. Double Walled Rims, Stainless Resistant 13G Spokes, Brass Nipples, Sealed Bearings in Hub
Video Reviews
Customer Reviews
Love love my custom model R, E-Bike!! Rugged. so comfortable a beauty!! It is a pleasure dealing with Electric Bike Company. Their customer service goes above beyond!! A special thank you to Mike for all your help guidance. I have recommended this company to all my friends family. Super quality!!
I called technical support with a problem I was having with a bike I bought 2 years ago. I got a human on the phone immediately. She helped me troubleshoot and we fixed it, it was a wire connection that had come loose. Excellent customer service! I love my ebike!
We were trying to decide if an ebike was what we wanted so we visited an Electric Bike Company dealer in Richmond, VA while we were visiting the area. We were very impressed with the bike and that dealership. We took a test ride for about 30 minutes. We loved them, we were sold! The dealership also took all the time we needed to answer our questions and helped us along with how to place an order. They gave us step by step instructions. We called them back with questions and even went back a second day to check out a few options we were thinking about. The staff there and the customer service online were all top notch. We compared other ebikes and determined that EBC was the best for us! We placed our order and have been thrilled by the service we’ve received.
My husband and I took a lot of time did a lot of research and couldn’t be happier with EBC. Thank you blake who answered all my questions with confidence!! We love them !
Our new Model E bikes are EVERYTHING the dealer said they’d be. We test drove several other models and found these to be the most stable, comfortable, and controllable of them all. Excellent value!
We took a lot of time and did a lot of research before purchasing our ebikes and we couldn’t be happier with our decision to go with EBC. From our first visit to the Huntington Beach showroom we were sold. Our sales rep Jeff was so helpful and knowledgeable. The online platform allowed us to customize our bikes and see different variations and models. My husband picked the X and I picked the S. The bikes were done in less than a week and Jeff kept us informed throughout the process. We took the first of many long rides tonight and the bikes have far exceeded our expectations! They are solid, well built, beautiful bikes and we are looking forward to riding around the hills of Hermosa Beach this Labor Day weekend and beyond! Thanks to Jeff, Jesse, Lucas and the entire EBC team. The BEST!
Love, Love, Love my EBC Model Y in Lapis Blue. I call it my “Blueberry”. It is especially perfect with the 24” wheels for my petite frame. I see ladies asking about needing a slightly smaller electric bike. This is the one for you. I am so glad to have discovered Electric Bike Company.
I love my Model R. It’s extremely comfortable to ride and has the option to use pedal assist on 5 levels or use the throttle. The battery is located inside the frame so it makes the bike look more sleek. Blake, at the HB store was super helpful and knowledgeable. I highly recommended test riding the bike at the store and designing it on their big screen. Worth every penny!
Purchased a model R from the HB shop and this bike is nothing less than beautiful. I did a ton of research on multiple companies and multiple different bikes. After much consideration we decided to go with the model R’s. Love the design and feel of a traditional cruiser bike with five mode pedal assist and throttle mode. Went 50 miles on pedal assist 1-3 with ease. If your considering purchasing an E bike I recommend heading over to the shop and taking them for a test drive!!Best purchase I’ve made in a long time. Also 10 year warranty on the motor!10/10 satisfied so far
I love my E bike. I had a E-lux bike before. But like this better. Had more features with just the standard bike. I have the Y model and love that the battery is I. Bottom of basket. I got white and then had custom painted flowers put on. I highly recommend the bikes. They are less expensive to get repaired than the E-Lux bikes.
We just got our new EBC bikes and LOVE them! So smooth and easy to handle. We have enjoyed our daily evening rides. Thanks EBC!
Preemptive TLDR: The Model S I purchased overall proved an excellent purchase while being used as a commuter and light product carrier for 1,000 miles in six months so far, and EBC proved to absolutely stand behind their product.I received my Model S at about the very end of February, and began using it to commute around town immediately. While I am not likely to test it in icy conditions, it ran in below freezing temperatures perfectly. Through spring, I put over 400 miles on the Model S with no issues, commuting to work and back and occasionally carrying groceries and other light loads via a Basil Double Bag and the front basket. After dealing with an issue I will detail below, it’s now racked up 1,000 miles travelled as of this review, and continues to serve well. It runs excellently for all forms of road as well as limited off-road travel.As for the aforementioned issue. during late spring the bicycle developed an issue I will detail here so anyone else, in the extremely unlikely event they experience this issue, may catch it early. I began to notice a regular light groaning sound coming from the rear wheel when in motion, regardless of pedaling or the motor being engaged. My local bike shop misdiagnosed this issue as spokes on the rear wheel possibly rubbing together, which might sort itself out eventually.In fact, the screws securing the motor to the rear wheel assembly were shearing off. Whether originally a defect or other issue I cannot say, as I only confirmed this after all the screws failed (the majority likely due to increased strain after initial screw failure), leaving the bicycle inoperable. After contacting EBC and sending them pictures by request, they requested I send the rear wheel assembly back for repair. I received the perfectly repaired assembly back only three days after they received it. This was in spite of me forgetting to register my Model S for warranty purposes, proof EBC will stand behind their work and take care of their customers.Some additional notes:- I unfortunately left the torque washers and flange nuts on the rear wheel assembly when shipped for repair, and they were likely lost during the repair. I replaced them with generic M12x1.25mm pitch flange nuts and torque washers which serve just as well as the OEM parts in spite of the new torque washers being a somewhat different style.- While the paint is perfectly good, it inevitably takes some wear over time. While EBC touch up paint works well enough, I found for the standard white paint Rust-Oleum Bright White Gloss protective enamel makes a quite durable alternative.
I’ve had my Model E for a couple of weeks now and I’m really enjoying it! It’s so fun to ride and beautifully well built. I did call EBC with a couple of questions and they were very responsive. Love my Model E, I’m looking forward to riding it as much as possible. Life is short, enjoy riding bikes while you can.I recommend this company.
Looked at a lot of reviews, ebike sites, also some local shops. Ebc was the first site I shopped on. Awesome site. Customizing colors and accessories is great. Spent awhile on other company sites but was drawn back to ebc several times before ordering. Ordered a C, decided on a mix of the standard colors in favor of upgrading the suspension, seat, and battery. After placing the order I decided to also add the 7 speed, they added it quickly over the phone for the same price as if I ordered it initially. very pleased. I received it in a few weeks. was surprised by how fast it was. Built perfectly. Had it about a month, ridden several times and it meets or exceeds my expectations. I would order the same thing again. I have also needed to contact customer service for a small issue. The took care of it and gives me confidence they stand behind their bikes.
Bought a Model E for my wife who loved it so much that I bought a Model R for myself. Build quality is fantastic, delivery is quick and they come fully assembled. Fantastic bikes!
I ordered through my local dealer which I am very happy I did since I had to have a major component replacement within the first 30 days. I picked the model based on internet chat with EBC. Their recommendation was off the mark. I wish I had bought a different model. Now I have a 3K bike which is very difficult to get my foot over the battery on the tube. I was up front about having fake knees and mobility issues. I got a loaner which was the one with the battery in the back. It was so much easier and comfortable. Now I am really disappointed with mine.
Happy man, happy dog! Jim and Bogie love their E Bike from The Electric Bike Company. It’s going on two years and running strong! Jim cruises from Long Beach to Newport with ease. I’m deciding which model to buy for myself. Thank you, for such a great product.
I was nervous to buy a electric bike on-line but I read many reviews about this company and made the decision to purchase a bike. I bought the bike and was very happy with the delivery, the truck driver even helped to take the bike out of the packaging. I am very happy with my bike and have been riding it daily. I’m 65 and out of shape but this bike really helps me get out there and ride! It has a lot of power to get me up the hills near my house. I bought the model E and I love it. I had fenders added to it also.
I purchased a model R pretty much fully loaded. Extra battery in the front basket. Numerous colors. Fenders, suspension seat post. I have put over 500 miles on it this summer. Just had my knee replaced and this helps in my rehab. Very high quality. Beautiful colors. I get compliments all the time on it. I’m 72 years old and this ebike lets me enjoy life a lot more. I have recommended EBC to others. Very pleased with this bike.
Generally we are happy with these bikes but boy, as time goes on, I’m realizing how utterly terrible all the plastic parts are. They are so brittle and breakable. I’m so frustrated that I am having to buy fairly expensive parts because I can’t just buy the plastic bits. I have to replace the whole thing. My bike is currently not rideable because I haven’t been able to purchase replacement pieces for the up/down button and the screen mount. Both just snapped one day with just normal riding. Very, very frustrating.
Great Bike, extremely well designed. I’ve ridden and visited many more places than with my regular bike. I ordered the standard fixed speed bike but found I really needed the 7 speed. After 2 months I had it put on. and for me it made a big difference going up hills! And it only took 1 day.Thanks again, great customer service, friendly staff.Addendum: I have ridden almost 1300 miles in about 10 months ( wanted to do 2000 miles in a year but broke my ankle-had to take 2 months off).Still love it, have gone grocery shopping many times, including Costco (which limits the amount I can carry back home) A friend of mine, who bought his EBC bike at the same time, and I both talk about the excellent decision we made to buy our bikes at the time we did. I have had numerous other bike riders comment on how great the bike looks. Thanks again EBC, #electricbikecompany.
This bike is awesome! It feels just like my old beach cruiser, but even more comfortable. The people at Electric Bike Company are great. Excellent customer service. Ordered it online and picked it up at their Newport Beach office. Love the fact that each one is custom made for you here in the USA. My only wish is that the tires were all black as opposed to having the white reflector stripe, but all good. Totally satisfied with the whole experience.
hello. i love my model s. it came quickly and ready to go. i ride it on dirt gravel grass and trails. read your manual and avoid the things i figured out the hard way. built like a tank and alot of fun.
Good folks there at EBC. It’s nice to know real people here in the states is behind the company, and they make buying a bike a really pleasant experience.
We just received my wife’s bike ( bought it for our anniversary ) Just how it came packaged in the box was truly amazing! Happy wife. Happy Life! Can’t say how beautiful and premium this bike is.
When I purchased this bike I had high expectations. After riding my model R several times it has exceeded them. I’m 6ft 215 lbs and I top end at slightly over 20 mph without pedal assist. Took me no time to have it out of the box and heading down the road. The fat tires means I’ll be using it for hunting.couldn’t be anymore stealth
LOVE this bike! It is really well built, it goes as slow or as fast and helps as little or as much as you’d like. Looks super sharp. the first night I took it for a ride on the beach I got a “nice bike” from two random people. The customer service reps are really helpful if you call with questions about which options to get, and the local dealer I bought it from allowed me to test a couple models and decide which model to get. It’s a nice ride, good job EBC!
I love the model E bike. However, I brought 2 bikes and one of the bike will not charge. I have sent 3 requests for help and nothing. I have call and was given a number to call the head mechanic and had to leave a message. I am not happy with the response time.
What a Great BikeI was looking for a bike made in the USA. Bikes from the Electric Bike Company are engineered, designed, and Assembled right here in the USA. During my investigation several things impressed me about the Electric Bike Company. the motor is co-engineered with MXUS, the lithium batteries are co-engineered with Samsung. In addition, the brakes, front suspension fork and seat post shock absorber are all brand name units. Finally, the bike frame and motor are backed up with a 10 your warranty and the battery is backed up with a five year warranty. Due to the COVID-19 it took a while for the bike to be built and shipped but when I received it it came exactly as they claim. Very well packaged and no damage from California all the way to Ohio. After riding the bike I was that much more impressed with the performance, handling and style. The model C is a large bike and it met all my expectations. I am 5 foot eight and I did not have to raise the seat and I am completely comfortable starting up and operating the bike. The motor is very impressive during acceleration and maintaining speeds as high as 28 mph. for cruising 15 to 20 miles an hour I was happy that I ordered the bike with the 16 tooth rear sprocket versus the 18 tooth standard sprocket. I will be ordering a model S for my wife.
Although we were waiting for the folding model I decided to order the X model. It transports easily on our pickup truck bed Thule rack thanks to the quick release front wheel. Kudos to EBC for quickly dealing with an issue with the chain and promptly reimbursing the bike shop charge. It performs great on our Vermont hills. I brought it to the Airstream International Rally in Maine where it drew positive attention. Best of all we met some EBC owners who reported 4 years of trouble free use! It’s a winner.
My custom order of the Model C was a breeze and I’ve been riding this bike all the time since I received it! It came out exactly how I pictured.
I bought the Model E, white frame, black accents. I prefer no basket with a rack on back, makes it easier to maneuver. I also added the gear shifter, I like being able to adjust this as I’m riding different speeds.
Love my bike. I have the Model E. Amazing ride, so far have gone as fast as 19mph and level 3 woo hoo. I did add fenders, basket and back rack all of which I had painted white. A little pricey but worth it as bike looks amazing. My little 15lb dog fits perfectly in the front basket.
I do not even know where to start, there are so many amazing things I could say about EBC. I will start with the fact that they have excellent customer service from start to finish. From their online chat, to talking with someone over the phone to meeting their team in person. I had rented an EBC months before purchasing and did a little homework before making my final purchase of the Model E from EBC. EBC bikes are second to none. Not only are the built here in the USA, they are beautiful and of unbelievable quality! So many electric bikes I have seen aren’t also real bikes and don’t look like a typical pedal bike which is one thing that was important to me. I had considered many common bike companies for my electric bike but they were only maybe slightly under what I paid and made in production without the extra care and consideration. With EBC, I built my bike over the phone with Kyle who was super helpful and patient and was able to see it in person before it was shipped to my home in Charlotte. They even changed the basket color for me as I built mine looking online and once I saw it in person, felt a different color basket would look better. They changed it for me before shipping it to my home. I was really nervous about the delivery given how disorganized shipping companies are but RL Carriers were fantastic too! They even called prior to arriving at my house as promised! That in itself was a huge win! The bike came in perfect condition and was so well packaged to protect it. Everything sent from EBC about the tracking number and quick start guide came the day my bike was shipped too. Just another thing to show EBC’s proof of exceptional customer service. I can’t wait to tell everyone where I got my bike and that they should order their’s from Electric Bike Company! Thanks, Sean, Kyle and team!
Below is my 1 month review for my EBC Model R bike, after riding just over 100 miles. I’ll start with the Pros:- it’s a beautiful bike that lets you customize to your dreams delight. I went with straight black, so not too much customization coming in at 3k.- the customer service is great. You definitely want this, cuz ebikes will have issues of some kind. And I live close to the Newport Beach facility.- the warranty is a security blanket. I haven’t had to test this yet, and I hope the battery wont need it (see below)- ability to test the demos for hours- it’s a blast to ride.Cons:- I did have an quality control issues which required me to take it in a few times for them to fix during the first 30 days. The location on Newport Blvd was the best location to go to. with Belle, Claudia and the rest of the team being very attentive.- the screw in middle of back fender was grating the tire while riding. The guy who put the bike together initially didn’t adjust the back rack correctly, so it pushed down on fender into the tire.- the chain rubbed against back tire in both 1st and 2nd gears. This was also fixed, by raising frame off wheel a little. Not sure how mechanically sound that is long term, but EBC was the one making the adjustment so I’ll trust it.- paint was scratched a little in various places, but they gave me some touch-up paint for it- Battery life not so great. I was able to get about 35 miles on a full charge, but I live in a hilly area of Orange County along the coast. The next time I charged I committed to not using PSA 4 and 5 unless I really need help on hills. Unfortunately I only got 25 miles on that next charge. It quit out on me halfway home. Fortunately I have the 7 gears and I’m under 170 lbs., unfortunately it’s a big bike. I don’t expect to have super long rides, but it would be nice to have the extra level of comfort just in case. And I’m not going to spend another several hundred for another battery after spending 3k on a bike.- the bike doesn’t seem to perform as well as the demos I tried. And I did test them on the hilly areas behind the Newport Blvd location.Bottom line: it’s a beautiful bike, which seems to have some quality control issues (variability between units). Would I buy it again? I think I’ll need to revisit after 6 months. The customization is great, but I went with all black. The customer service is great, which is critical for me. especially if I have more quality issues.
I received my Type R on June 24th. I just set an appointment for my Local Bike shop to do it’s 100 mile checkup. I love love love this bike. I used it as my daily driver. Work, Store, Pokemon hunting with my son. It is a solid beast.I chose this brand and style to help strengthen my hip after a total hip replacement. I live on an extremely steep hill and my bike pulls it. Keep in mind I am 6 ft and 350 lbs. I have the extra basket battery and have never come close to running out of battery.This is by far the best present my wife has ever gotten me. I am not a E-Biker!P.S. my local bike shop is thinking about carrying EBC bikes after seeing mine.
This 73 year old man has been riding all of his life and the transition to an electric bike was seamless. On the Olympic Discovery Trail in Washington State, I typically ride 8-15 miles roundtrip. Terrain includes flat sections to 250º inclines. The e-bike handled all of this with ease. With the 7 gear option installed, I found it conserved power usage pedaling and using the gear range up the steepest of inclines. I found that a lower number in the power assist mode was the optimum and safest way to proceed from a stand still. Motor has a lot of power!The finish and detail was exceptional right down to who assembled it. Thanks, Oliver! The pallet options of colors and combos I found to be visually exciting and unique to my taste. Mine already has a marketing tag of “ ’49 Sheriff Cruiser” because EBC allowed me to have my personal input.All functions, to name just a few, lights, brakes, power assist, gear changing, etc. performed to this purchaser’s expectations. The finish was excellent to my discerning eye. It did not give me the feeling of mass production in a foreign land, but rather quality right here in the good old USA!The Dealer, Discoverebike.fun, out of Port Angeles made the experience seamless. This mode of transportation will see this old man happily riding off into the sunset.
Yesterday I took a maiden ride on my new Model S e-bike and I loved it! She arrived in immaculate condition with a fabulous paint job and such attention to detail. She drew the attention of the neighbors who had to come check her out. A beauty! I live on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State and I have the luxury of the 130 mile Olympic Discovery Trail just a block from my house. What a fabulous ride. My new e-bike easily adapted to whatever speed I wanted to take up and down the rolling trail along the coast of the Salish Sea. My destination was the Sequim Bay State Park 5 miles away. I was there in no time! And what a gorgeous location my new trusted friend took me. She looked beautiful at my picnic site and she received appreciative Комментарии и мнения владельцев and questions. A mother even took pictures of her little girl perched on my lovely e-bike. I had the 7 speed added to my bike and found that shifting to a lower gear made my pedal assist on 2 a breeze up some of the steeper inclines, therefore saving my battery. The ride home was quite breezy and traveling directly into the wind, but it wasn’t a challenge at all. The e-bike handled it beautifully. I’m excited to cycle many more miles on the ODT in the days to come!
The daughter loves the bike and rides it every day. The bike was built fast and was ready for pickup earlier than expected. Quality of the bike it top-notch. Thank you!
Received our new electric bikes, yes we bought two, and couldnt be happier. We look forward to many miles of fun! And in these Rocky Mts this bike will keep us riding for years to come. We bought ours from Boost E bikes in Denver. Stop by to see what they can do for you! They are phenomenal and their customer service beats all others hands down!
My wife and I absolutely love our custom EBC ebikes. We carry them on a rack on the back of our motorhome as we travel the country. We do not tow a car so we use the ebikes to get around, including to shop for groceries and sightsee. We have ridden them on a number of beaches. These ebikes are versatile. They are cool too. We get a lot of Комментарии и мнения владельцев and inquisitive questions from total strangers who are attracted by the unique design and colors.
I love my new EBC electric bike! Great quality. My wife ordered one too and it should be here in about another week. My only concern (and why I only gave 4 stars instead of 5) is because I am trying to learn more about the bike, including the alarm, but the brochure does not go into depth as a user guide. I have questions about the display screen and it’s functions, and I have questions about the alarm. But overall I am sure I will learn about it all and will enjoy my bike for years to come!!Update: I change my review to five stars because the electric bike company has a chat option to ask questions and I was very successful at getting immediate answers to the questions that I have. Very impressive.
Ordered a model X all the way from Connecticut. Was looking for a beach cruiser type. Delivery was quick and product is outstanding! Live in a very hilly area in the Farmington Valley and it handles every hill with ease. I was unsure about purchasing an electric bike but finally just went for it. The best buy I’ve made in years. Model X with just the standard battery w/ gear shift. Absolutely would recommend.
I just purchased my second ebc bikeI really like the quality of the bikes. We do a lot of leisure biking and I enjoy the carrying optionsOn my first bike, I have the front and rear basketI really like it, but is makes it very heavy and I am always worried about running out of battery on a rideI have actually ran out twice… although we ride 40 mile ridesI have thought about getting a larger battery, but they are very expensiveMy second one is a basic model r, and it seems to never run close to running battery out, although I only had it a weekI really am enjoying both bikes
The Best E-Bikes of 2023
Whether you’re looking to improve your commute, save gas money, or get more fresh air, we’ve reviewed the best e-bikes to get you on the road emission-free.
(Photo/Chelsey Magness)
The e-bike industry experienced meteoric growth following the pandemic, leading to plenty of options for the modern commuter. While the industry initially focused on electric assist cargo bikes, now you’re just as likely to see electric cruisers, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, fat bikes, and folding bikes cruising local roads and trails.
Our team spent 3 months and 5,000 collective miles putting 20 different e-bikes to the test, with 12 making the cut for our list of recommendations. We’re confident our time and effort will help you narrow your search and choose the right e-bike for your unique needs.
Listed here are our favorite bikes of the bunch. Each entry has been thoroughly ridden and tested, with special attention to fit and feel, maintenance, and build difficulty. We highlight the key aspects you need to consider when purchasing an e-bike, including range, top speed, and carrying capacity.
We also list the appropriate surfaces for each bike based on our experience. Use the links below to jump to the type of e-bike that piques your interest or scroll along and take in the full breadth of our review. Use our comparison chart for a side-by-side look at specs and features and be sure to read our buyer’s guide so you know what to look for when considering an e-bike.
- Best Overall E-Bike: Specialized Turbo Vado SL
- Best Budget E-Bike: Schwinn Coston CE Step Thru
- Best Mountain E-Bike: Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Alloy
- Best Folding E-Bike: ET Cycle F1000 Electric Fat Tire Bike
- Best Single-Speed E-Bike: State 6061 eBike Commuter
- Best E-Gravel Bike: Alchemy Bikes eRonin Electric Gravel Bike
- Best E-Bike for Kids: Woom UP E-Bike
- Best of the Rest: Biktrix Juggernaut Hub Duo Step Over
- Xtra Cycle Swoop
- The Ride Radiant Carbon Electric Bike
- Yuba Kombi E5 Bike
- FREY AM1000 V6
Specialized Turbo Vado SL
Specs
- Range 80 miles (120 with range extender)
- Class III (top speed of 28 mph)
- Throttle No
- Drivetrain 11-speed
- Carrying Capacity 55 lbs. on bike rack/250 lbs. on the bike frame
- Weight 33 lbs.
- Surfaces Pavement, gravel, some dirt
Cons
The motto “innovate or die” has been guiding Specialized’s ship for the past three decades. So it’s no wonder their e-bikes are some of the best, sleekest, and most inventive in the industry.
Most commuter bikes are clunky, heavy, and cumbersome. The Vado SL (3,750), however, is built to get on and go — and then get off again and carry up and down stairs, get on a subway, and go again. Weighing in at a mere 33 pounds, it’s one of the lightest e-commuters on the market.
The ride experience is smooth, fun, and zippy, seamlessly blending your power with the bike’s custom Specialized SL 1.1 custom motor. Some bikes give you bursts of acceleration that interfere with your pedaling — not so with the Vado. It gives you boosts that keep your cadence smooth and steady. Every ride feels like at least a bit of a workout as the system just amplifies the power the rider is putting in. Proper gear selection on steep climbs is still essential — it just feels like you have stronger legs!
The components consist of Sram and Praxis, which are all high quality. The Tektro brakes stopped us smoothly and effectively. The chain is protected by a minimal chain guard, minimizing the need to oil it. At night we felt safe and seen thanks to the bright front and rear light. The front light was bright enough to let us see on some very dark gravel roads. While the rack is nice and slim, the carrying capacity is only rated for 50 pounds, but it handled a few days of groceries just fine.
At first glance, it’s hard to tell this is an e-bike, as everything is internal and streamlined. With a push of the button on the top tube, the bars light up and tell you how much power you have left. On the left handlebar, there is an up and down button that lets you scroll through the three different power modes: eco, sport, and turbo mode. On the right, you can easily shift through 12 different gears.
On the website, it says the Vado SL can go up to 28 mph for 80 miles. While we didn’t test this specifically, we rode it every day for an average of 8 miles and went between all of the modes depending on how fast we needed to get somewhere or how we were feeling that day. On a single charge, it lasted 5 days. If you need more range, there is an option to get a range extender. To charge it back to full capacity, it only took 2 and a half hours, which is on the faster end.
All Specialized bikes come with a handy and easy-to-use app called Mission Control. The app tells you all the usual information (range, power, and total trip miles), but what we loved the most was it told us how efficiently we were using the motor. People who live in big cities will love the security measure. Through this, you can activate an alarm if the bike is moved that only the owner can disable and you can also disable the motor so that it does not function at all.
Maintenance-wise, this bike is low-key. Besides oiling the chain and updating the battery through the app, it requires little upkeep. This bike is perfect for running quick errands and commuting to and from work and or school. We think it’s the best e-bike available.