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If you're in search of an e-bike that goes beyond gentle pedal assist, check out the best class 3 electric bikes from our review. While Class 3 is a broad categorization, this selection represents 8 of our favorite moped-style and fat-tire models that we've stacked up, tested, and compared to help you find a model that's right for you. We spend several weeks testing each bike, putting them through rigorous tests in the performance areas that matter most. Our ratings and results allow you to choose the bike that best suits your needs. Whether you want an urban commuter, a zippy grocery getter, or a comfortable way to take in the miles, we'll show you what to expect for your dollars.
We really enjoyed the Ride1Up Revv 1, but the Ride1Up Revv 1 FS adds more than just full suspension to the attractive package. This “electric bike” blew us away with its power, comfort, and convenience features. This is the highest-ranking bike in our review of class 3 electric bikes. The Revv 1 FS has a massive 1040Wh battery, giving it more range than any other bike we've tested. The 52V system and 1000W hub motor give it ample power, making it fun and capable enough to charge up even the biggest hills.
The bike employs a Multi-Class Speed System letting you adjust its output for the terrain (and local laws). An off-road mode can be unlocked by registering the bike, giving it incredible performance capabilities. A dual crown fork, rear shock, and 18" long seat make this bike comfortable on all types of surfaces. The seated position is upright, with excellent visibility for urban riding. Fenders, lights, turn signals, and a horn give the Revv added utility and a distinctly moped vibe. The screen serves as an instrument cluster of data, and it's laid out quite well. The screen is large, has clear contrast, and provides a wealth of data.
Ride1Up didn't build this bike for pedaling; its bicycle drivetrain seems incidental or tacked on to skirt electric moped laws. That's ok because it has a range of almost 40 miles (without pedaling) and can even accept a second battery to double its range. The bike arrives mostly assembled and comes in a top-off style carton that holds it steady while you put the finishing touches on it. It includes all necessary tools and instructions; even assembly videos are available for visual learners. It's a great way to run errands or explore trails, but transporting it may be an issue. The bike weighs just shy of 100 pounds, which is more than most bike racks can handle.
If you're looking for an e-bike that can reach any destination, check out the Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through. Floating on 4-inch knobby tires and 80mm of front suspension, this bike smooths the trails and softens rough terrain. It has a sleekly integrated 720 Wh battery and a powerful 750W motor (1,130W peak) that can reach speeds up to 28 mph using pedal assist. The user interface is easy to navigate, with intuitive controls and a vibrant color display that integrates with the Aventon app. With the app, you can record your rides, share your adventures, and modify the bike and display settings. We tested the step-through model, which has a low frame, is offered in two sizes, and is suitable for rides from 4'11" to 6'2". It comes loaded with features such as fenders, a torque sensor, USB charging, a working brake light, and turn signals. An optional front rack is available if the included rear rack doesn't offer enough carrying capacity.
The Aventon Aventure.2 bike is a great choice for adventurous riders but has a few drawbacks. Weighing 77 lbs, moving around, or transporting on standard bike racks may be challenging. The 4-inch wide tires offer improved terrain and surface versatility but can cause noise, drag, and a grabby sensation when riding on pavement. Nevertheless, if you're looking for a durable electric fat tire bike for your adventures, the Aventon Aventure.2 is one of the best bikes you can buy. You might also consider the Lectric X-Peak that testers also appreciated. The XPeak doesn't have the refined ride quality of the Aventure.2, but it's quite capable. The Aventon has a much nicer display and a higher overall weight capacity; both bikes are capable and fun!
A comfortable and fun way to get out and explore, the Aventure.2 is a great bike.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
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Why Trust GearLab
Since 2019, we have tested over 80 different electric bikes across several e-bike categories. We've been watching the electric bike market offer consistently more capable bikes, and some have started to blur the lines between bicycles and motorcycles. This review began with a look at bikes we were already testing, included extensive research on batteries and motors, and considered the market's direction. We analyzed various models across different price ranges to ensure we provide consumers with the best options, considering their performance and customer feedback. After selecting the top models, we unboxed and assembled them in preparation for our thorough testing process. Our testers incorporate each bike into their daily routine for several weeks, using them for commutes and leisure rides. We also have standardized circuits to evaluate each model uniformly. Our comprehensive testing process involves compiling notes and scoring each product across various metrics, resulting in a cumulative score for each bike tested.
Our testing of folding electric bikes is divided into five rating metrics:
Ride Quality (20% of overall score weighting)
Range (20% weighting)
Motor Power (20% weighting)
Interface (20% weighting)
Assembly (20% weighting)
Our team of e-bike testers is led by Joshua Hutchens, our Senior Bike Review Editor at GearLab. Joshua has been professionally reviewing bikes and e-bikes since 2017. Over the past four decades, Joshua has raced nearly every cycling discipline, led cycling trips throughout the world, and continues to share his love for bicycles by coaching mountain biking. He's owned and operated a bicycle shop and an indoor cycling park and has worked as a professional consultant in the cycling industry. He lives in Lake Tahoe, where he has access to hundreds of miles of single-track and still combs the US in search of seasonally perfect trails. Joshua's vast experience building, repairing, and riding bicycles has honed his ability to perceive subtle differences in materials and performance.
The Aventon Aventure.2 is a wildly capable bike that is also quite fun to ride.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Analysis and Test Results
Through our side-by-side testing, we present the advantages and disadvantages of each bike model. We utilize both quantitative and qualitative data to score each product comparatively. We assign weights to each performance metric based on their relevance to the general user and tally overall scores after conducting all tests. Our discussion below highlights the key areas of performance we assessed these bikes across, pointing out the standout models in each category.
What's the Best Value?
The value of an e-bike may be contingent upon how much you use it, so it's important to select a bike that will fit your needs. There is also a more objective way to look at value in relation to performance. A higher overall score in our review and a lower price tag equal good value. One of our favorite value class 3 bikes is the Lectric XP Step-Thru 3.0; it's capable and just happens to fold up small enough to fit in the trunk of a car. The most valuable bike to you won't necessarily be the best value for everyone, so check the metrics below to see how one of these bikes could add value to your life based on your specific needs.
Ride
Our Ride metric focuses on the overall riding experience and how each bike's design, components, and features make the ride more enjoyable. To assess ride quality and convenience, we test every bike on various terrain, from city streets to off-road trails. We found that bikes with larger wheels generally scored higher in ride quality, but not always. We evaluate each model's handling ability at different speeds and turning radii, as well as the quality of the brakes and shifting. We aim to measure how each model provides a smooth and comfortable ride that instills confidence in the rider. Additionally, we consider comfort and other features that enhance the ride experience.
For slightly different reasons, the best ride quality belongs to the Ride1Up Revv 1 FS and Specialized Haul ST. The Revv 1 uses moped wheels and tires that give it an insulated and comfortable ride. The bike feels confident and capable, even in rough terrain. We've moved the Specialized Haul ST to the cargo bike review as it fits better there, but it's also a class 3 bike that provides an exceptionally high-quality ride. The brakes are smooth and powerful, shifting is precise, and, importantly, the assistance provided by the motor feels seamless.
There seemed to be no limit to how far we wanted to ride the Haul; it's a really enjoyable bike.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
The Specialized Haul ST is a wonderful riding experience. The 20-inch wheels aren't generally responsible for comfort, but the 3.5-inch wide tires create just enough isolation from the road that the bike doesn't hang up on its smaller wheels. The short-tail aluminum frame is incredibly stiff and responsive, allowing it to carry up to 419 lbs without feeling squirmy or compromised. Unladen, the short wheelbase feels sporty and maneuverable, allowing the rider to negotiate obstacles easily. The wide and stiff handlebar helps to triangulate the rider's upper body, giving an enhanced feeling of control. The Haul has an outstanding amount of adjustability for riders of different sizes, owing largely to its long quill stem and telescoping seatpost. The Microshift drivetrain feels unambiguous and effective for pedaling with a large 50T chainring, and the Tektro hydraulic braking system feels perfectly suited for the bike with 8-inch rotors. Fenders and ultra-bright integrated lights make the bike feel readily equipped and prepared for anything. We had no complaints about the Specialized display, but using the Globe app provides a data-rich dashboard, and the display has a USB port to keep your phone running and charged.
The Haul ST display features a USB port that allows you to plug in a phone and run the Globe app (or app of your choice) and enjoy navigation and an enhanced dashboard.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
The Ride1Up Revv 1 FS also delivers excellent ride quality. While it feels more like a moped than a bike, its power and poise give it a remarkably positive feel. 4-inch tires and suspension help to isolate the rider from roadway imperfections. This makes it perfect for those who enjoy the journey more than the destination. The bike isn't conducive to pedaling, but the 1000W hub motor and large battery give the bike ample power and range.
The powerful hub motor got us up the trails and into the woods with ease.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Range
If you enjoy long rides or have a lengthy commute, paying attention to a bike's range is important. This metric indicates how far you can go on a single charge, enabling you to plan your route accordingly. To assess the range of each model, we conduct a standardized range test using the same course and rider for every bike (to eliminate the variable of rider weight). We begin with a fully charged battery and ride until it is completely drained, documenting the distance traveled, elevation changes, average speed, and elapsed time. During this test, we only use the throttle to remove the rider input variable through pedaling, providing a clear baseline of each bike's range potential. You can achieve significantly more range by utilizing the pedal-assist modes on these bikes.
The Ride1Up Revv 1 FS boasts a large 1040-watt-hour battery, which has the highest capacity among all the models tested, giving it a throttle only range of over 37 miles while climbing over 1500 feet. The Super73 S2 also had impressive range. Carrying a 960Wh battery, the S2 went almost 30 miles without pedaling.
The 780 Wh battery provides ample juice, making the Revv1 can go and go and go...
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
The Specialized Haul ST range was similarly impressive, with a throttle-only distance of 31.9 miles. The Haul's 772Wh battery is smaller than the moped style bikes but it's also lighter. Its 3.5" tires may also create a bit less resistance with their narrower profile.
Bring a snack because the Haul ST will just keep going.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Power
Our evaluation of power considers the acceleration, top speeds, and overall power output of both throttle and pedal assist modes. A powerful motor is advantageous for navigating through crowded traffic or uphill terrain. To measure the power of our motors, we measure the time it takes to reach top speed from a complete stop and uphill speed. We also reward smooth acceleration, as overly aggressive acceleration can be uncomfortable. Moreover, having multiple levels of pedal assist allows riders to adjust their speed based on their level of exertion.
The Ride1Up Revv 1 FS stands out in this metric for its incredible power. In off-road mode, the motor can generate 1468 watts at peak output. That gives it the ability to climb incredibly steep grades or, as we found in our test, propel us to 46 mph on flat ground! In our uphill testing, the Revv 1 reached 21.2 mph under throttle power, and its power delivery was incredibly smooth. When we look at motor specs, most of the bikes in this class offer motors with nominal power of 750-1000 watts, but many can peak at much higher numbers
The Super73 wasn't the most powerful of the group but still lots of fun to ride off-road.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
The Blix Ultra is another incredibly powerful model, hitting 18.5 mph in our uphill test. Its 750-watt motor has a peak output of 1350 watts in optimal conditions. Its power comes in handy, pushing its fat tires through sand, and it is one of the few bikes that can successfully traverse the beach. All speed data is extracted from a Garmin 805 and cross-referenced with multiple GPS apps. Speedometers on display units are not very accurate; the Revv 1 speedometer showed a speed up to 19% faster than the actual speed.
Powerful enough to charge through the sand and snow, the Ultra is no slouch.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Interface
As a rider, you engage with the bike using its user interface, which encompasses the display, controls, and even the battery. The displays vary from simple LED lights to more advanced LCD screens. Our Interface metric evaluates the arrangement of controls and how easy they are to use. Moreover, detachable batteries offer the convenience of charging away from the bike and provide extra security when leaving your bike unattended.
Our favorite user interface is on the Revv 1 bikes. The displays have large numbers and graphics featured prominently in the center of the handlebar, and the controls are placed in close proximity to the grips, making thumb operation easy while riding. The plus/minus buttons for toggling through PAS modes, headlight switch, and horn are easy to access. The screen displays the current speed, total mileage, pedal-assist mode, and battery life, all in an easy-to-read format. The lockable battery features a handy LED window to quickly determine the amount of charge without turning the bike on.
An example of an excellent display that is large, easy to read and contains relevant data.
The Aventure.2 even tells you how many trees you've saved by riding it.
With ergonomic controls and a large, easy-to-read digital display centered on the handlebar, the Aventure.2 had one of the best user interfaces we tested. The color screen shows your data in an intuitive and user-friendly way. Aventon bikes use the BC-280full-color display, which syncs with the Aventon App. The system controls are mounted on the handlebar next to the left grip. This small control unit has five buttons arranged in an intuitive orientation that is easy to reach with the thumb while riding. Once you've depressed the main power button on the down tube, the remote's power button brings the bike to life. The + and - buttons are located high and low and increase or decrease the pedal assist level, while the set button is used to change the data field being displayed. The throttle is a small paddle located next to the left-hand grip and is easy to reach and press with the thumb.
Class 3
USB charging is a convenient feature on bikes that utilize apps.
Easy to read the state of charge indicator on the battery and USB charging shown here.
Assembly
The bikes we tested for this review all arrived in boxes, which is becoming far more common as bicycle companies sell directly to consumers. For this reason, we heavily weigh the ease of assembly in evaluating these Class 3 bikes. We realize that you'll likely only assemble the bicycle once and possibly skip this step by having your local bike shop take care of the assembly. Even then, the ease of assembly can give us clues about quality and customer service while helping us to get acquainted with the working of the bikes. If you're unfamiliar with bikes and their components and want to assemble your own, you'll find this metric important. We recorded how long it took us to assemble each bike set up from its boxed state using the included tools and directions while noting any difficulties.
The easiest bike to assmble was the Super73 S2, which took about 19 minutes. It arrived almost fully assembled inside the shipping boxes with wheels already attached. The Specialized Haul was also exceptionally easy to assemble with clear, easy-to-follow instructions, and large yellow stickers were used to denote the order of operations. All the bikes tested came with the tools necessary to build the bikes. The Specialized Haul ST even included torque wrenches to ensure bolts were tightened to the proper torque spec.
Assembly is made easy with the good planning from Ride1Up.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
The Blix Ultra included the necessary tools, but utilizing our own (longer and more ergonomic) wrenches would have made the process easier. The only item the bikes needed but did not include was an air pump. Getting tires to the proper pressure before riding is important, so ensure you have a pump on hand if you plan to assemble them at home.
The weight of these bikes can be the biggest assembly challenge.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Conclusion
A Class 3 e-bike can be a convenient way to replace car trips, reduce your commute time, and still get some exercise. The ever-expanding e-bike market offers a wide array of useful and fun bicycles that can fit most people's budgets. There are many factors to consider if you're planning to purchase a Class 3 bike; our real-world testing and analysis can help you narrow down the choices and find a bike that feels perfect for you and your lifestyle.
