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We purchased and tested the best electric bikes for commuting, recreation, cargo hauling, and more; here are our top recommendations.
I only stopped because the road ended, the Xafari's large battery gives the bike exceptional range.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
By Joshua Hutchens ⋅ Senior Review Editor ⋅ Updated September 4, 2025
Electric bikes have an incredibly wide appeal. They're easy to ride, far less expensive than cars, and help you spend more time outdoors with less time in traffic. During the past nine years, GearLab has tested well over 100 of the most popular e-bikes with a keen eye on who can benefit most from their convenience. We purchase all the top models and assemble the consumer-direct models. We then test their range, measure their power and torque on a dynamometer, and record their dimensions and weight.
The bike with the widest appeal and best value is undoubtedly the Segway Xafari. It's powerful, comfortable, and ready for just about anything. The full-suspension Xafari is chock full of impressive features and excelled in every one of our tests.
If replacing your car sounds attractive, the Aventon Abound LR hauls up to 440 pounds of kids, gear, or whatever you can strap to it and is a delight to ride.
The Aventon Aventure.3 is a fun, fat-tire bike that can comfortably conquer almost any terrain. Huge 4" tires and a powerful motor will redefine what you can do on a bike.
Who it is best for: The Segway Xafari is an incredibly well-designed bike with more impressive features than any other bike we've tested. This bike has front and rear suspension for an incredibly comfortable ride. High-volume, knobby, 3" tires give the bike excellent traction and the versatility to explore beyond the bike paths. A massive 936Wh downtube-mounted battery gives it the stamina for exceptionally long rides or extended intervals between charging. Our testers rode the Xafari over 38 miles, using only the bike's throttle. The Xafari is loaded with practical tech, like a self-locking system, super bright commuter lights, and GPS tracking. The bike is sold as a Class 2 (20 mph with throttle) but can be switched to a Class 3 (28 mph, no throttle) mode for those who want a bit more giddy up. Since the bike uses GPS, it automatically adjusts itself to comply with local regulations. We recommend the bike for pleasure riding and comfort, but with a rack, fenders, and lights, it's also the runaway favorite in our electric commuter bike review.
Why we love it: With 1300 watts of power, full suspension comfort, and more range than any other bike we've tested, this bike is seriously impressive. “The suspension and high-volume tires make this one of the smoothest bikes I've tested,” says editor Joshua Hutchens. An intuitive Tesla-style scroll wheel makes interaction with the bike's software feel intuitive. The Segway app enables you to track your bike, plug in navigation, and even take phone calls directly through the bike's screen. A built-in gyroscope detects hills and adjusts power accordingly. Segway thought of everything.
Should you buy it? While this is one of our favorite electric bikes, its bevy of features all add weight. At 94 pounds, the Xafari isn't for everyone. If you plan to load your bike on a bike rack or carry it up a flight of stairs, you'd be wise to look for something lighter. The Xafari is only available in one size and has a limited amount of adjustability, so riders who don't fall between 5'1" and 6'2" should also look elsewhere. Since Segway sells through a dealer network, you can test ride the bike at a local bike shop and won't have to worry about assembly. If you're looking for a seriously capable pleasure bike that you won't need to transport often, the Xafari is a fantastic choice.
Who it is best for: The Aventon Abound LR is the most impressive electric cargo bike shootout that we've tested to date. It is ideal for families with small kids or large grocery hauls. The suspension fork and seatpost with 3" tires give it comfort, while the wide, dual-foot kickstand makes it easy to park and stable when loaded. Aventon offers a wide array of accessories that let you customize the bike to your specific hauling needs without spending a fortune. Our office parking lot has several Abounds that have been customized for snow commuting, family hauling, and cooler transport.
Why we love it: We love how easy the Abound is to ride, its stability, and ride quality make it the perfect bike for those new to cargo bikes. The large battery gives the bike exceptional range; it traveled 33.4 miles without pedaling, effectively eliminating range anxiety. The 750W motor and torque sensor deliver smooth acceleration and ample power. Unique features like rear turn signals, automatic locking, and a lockable storage box provide safety and security. The Aventon Control Unit (ACU) lets you track, locate, and even geo-fence the bike. Tester Victoria McNamara praised the bike's versatility, noting. “The compact wheels make parking easy while still feeling substantial for heavy, squirmy loads, like kids.”
Should you buy it? After extensive testing, we feel this is not only the most impressive cargo bike but also one of the best values. Its impressive range, powerful motor, and thoughtful features stand out for safely and comfortably hauling heavy loads. While the 20" wheels make the bike compact and easy to store, they're less ideal on bumpy roads and the bike's 87-pound curb weight makes it a poor candidate for transport on bike racks.
Who it is best for: The Aventon Level 3 is a near-perfect electric commuter bike with a host of features that make it ideal for jaunts across town. Commuter bikes sometimes sacrifice their sportiness, but the Level is capable and fun to ride. The bike includes a rack, integrated lights with turn signals, fenders, and a built-in electronic lock. While less powerful than some of the other commuters we've tested, it's light enough to fit on a bike rack and still has a range of over 28 miles (without pedaling!) The bike's hybrid-style design offers excellent visibility for both urban landscapes and rural countryside cruising.
Why we love it: Aventon really dialed this bike in for commuting, and the high-tech ACU really impressed us. Magura hydraulic brakes, although lacking a motor cut-off, feel much smoother than most off-brand hydraulic brakes found on commuter bikes. The ACU uses 4G connectivity and GPS to track, navigate, and even geo-fence the bike through the app. You can lock the bike's rear wheel or eject the keyless battery using a code in the display or the Aventon app. The bike feels agile and sporty, making commuting a joy.
Should you buy it? If it's time to Level up your commute, this bike's merits earned it top marks in our testing. Choose from two sizes and two different frame styles to fit riders between 5'3" and 6'4". Since Aventon sells primarily through its online store, the bike is priced very well, but it can be challenging to find a place to test ride prior to purchasing.
Who it is best for: The Lectric XPedition 2.0 is an incredible little cargo hauler with an even more incredible price. The bike boasts a 450-pound payload capacity, with a rear rack capable of hauling 300 pounds, making it ideal for carrying children, groceries, or heavy gear. The highly adjustable bike features a low step-through design and accommodates riders from 4'11" to 6'5". With three different battery options (624Wh, 1248Wh, or 1680Wh), you can choose just how much range you need. We tested the standard (1248Wh battery) and, using only the bike's throttle, were able to make it 43 miles on a charge. You'll be hard-pressed to find a better value than this bike and the XPedition.
Why we love it: While the bike has a compact footprint, it can dutifully carry more cargo than most of the bikes we've tested. Smaller wheels can sometimes feel harsh, but the stretched wheelbase, suspension fork, and 3" tires provide a remarkably smooth ride. The 750W motor with a torque sensor is powerful enough that it doesn't feel burdened when loaded to capacity. Lectric kept the price low but outfitted the bike with powerful hydraulic brakes, quality lights with turn signals, and a crisp, clear display that keeps your ride info in your line of sight. To really unlock the utility of a cargo bike, you'll want ot customize it to your needs, and Lectric offers a full range of well-designed accessories at attractive prices. Tester Joshua Hutchens notes, “This bike is incredibly user-friendly and we have yet to see a better cargo bike anywhere near this price.”
Should you buy it? In short, yes. If making traffic and parking a thing of the past sounds appealing, this is one of the easiest car replacements you'll find. The center mount kickstand isn't the best one we've used, but it's adequate on most surfaces. Cargo bikes are heavy, and the XPedition is no exception; at 75 pounds, it isn't easy to transport or carry, but it does contribute to the bike's stability. If you opt for the dual-battery version of this bike, getting a second battery charger will reduce your charging time.
Who it is best for: The Rad Power Radster Trail is a delightfully stable and easy-to-ride Class 3 capable e-bike. An upright seated position, suspension fork, and high-volume tires give this bike a competent and confident feel over a wide array of terrain. An ergonomic cockpit gives the bike a user-friendly and unassuming disposition. Rad uses a powerful 750W motor, but the bike's acceleration is gentle and predictable, even in its most powerful setting. The Radster is perfectly suited for mellow riders who want a capable bike that puts safety and stability first.
Why we love it: The Radster Trail has a rider-first design that is well-thought-out and confidence-inspiring. 3" knobby tires with a smooth center tread give the bike above-average utility without sacrificing range or ride comfort. An intuitive display and operating system allow you to easily switch between Class 1, 2, and 3. The 720Wh Safe Shield battery gives the bike an impressive range without adding a ton of weight. I've recommended this bike to countless people who are nervous about having a powered bike; it's the goldendoodle of e-bikes.
Should you buy it? If you're shopping for a first e-bike or want something a bit more refined, the Radster Trail might have your number. Since it doesn't use 4" fat-bike tires, the bike never feels lethargic or slow to respond, but it preserves quite a bit of off-road capability. The bike has useful features that enhance your ride experience without feeling overly techy. It's not exactly lightweight, but the battery can easily be removed, so consider how you'll transport it if you're not riding from home.
Who it is best for: As a lifelong bike geek, the Specialized Haul ST absolutely deligthts me. After my first ride, I found myself looking for excuses to add the Haul to my quiver of bikes, and once I did, it quickly became a favorite. With a utility-forward design, it's ideal for urban commuters, families with a single child, or someone looking for a heavy-duty do-it-all bike. A relatively short 43" wheelbase gives the bike quick handling and a “normal bike” feel. Capable of hauling 419 pounds, the Haul can, ahem, haul just about anything you can strap to it. As one of our testers commented, “It's not too much bike for commuting, but it's enough bike to replace most car trips.” The short-tail design makes it easy to park and store, and it is compact enough to transport on a bike rack, making it ideal for those with limited space or plans to take it on the road.
Why we love it: This bike has top-notch ride quality thanks to a well-designed geometry and 3.5" Carless Whisper tires that mute the bumps while providing above-average versatility. The massive battery had enough juice to push us 32 miles without pedaling, using the added throttle. and it has a 28 mph top speed. Specialized offers an abundance of thoughtful accessories that allow you to customize the bike. Their accessories are more expensive than most, but many of them, like the Cool Cave Panniers, provide a unique way to get your gear around. We loved the Haul because, while being incredibly useful, it's still really fun to ride.
Should you buy it? While we really like this bike, it's priced higher than its competition, and its proprietary accessories add to that cost. For some of us, the extra $1000 you might spend on this bike might seem ridiculous, but to others, that will amount to mere cents per mile. We'd recommend pricing out the Haul package you're interested in and comparing it to other bikes with similar accessories. A bike like this can become a daily ride, replacing car trips. If you're like me, you don't want a bare bones offering that “just does the job.” After two years (and thousands of miles) on the Haul, I'm still impressed with what a cool bike it is.
Who it is best for: The Ride1Up Roadster V3 strips away the ugly wires and bloated lines of many of today's e-bikes, giving you a lightweight and stylish bike that can shave some time and sweat from your commute. The 42-pound bike has an agile ride quality and preserves the portability that many people appreciate in a simple commuter bike. If you need to hang it in the garage or carry it up a flight of stairs, no problem. A single speed might not be ideal for some locations or commutes, but it's more useful than it seems. Without a traditional drivetrain, the bike is lighter and quieter, and the motor's assistance “mostly” negates the need to shift gears. Available in three frame sizes and with traditional gears or as a belt-driven single speed, it can accommodate most riders up to the 300-pound weight limit.
Why we love it: The Roadster is refreshingly simple and a joy to ride. The handling is lively and responsive; you almost forget that you're riding an ebike. Tester Chris McNamara noted, “I didn't realize how sluggish and heavy most ebikes are until I got on this flyweight.” An integrated torque sensor paired with the 250W hub delivers a smooth, intuitive assist that can be mistaken for a tailwind. As you might expect, the bike uses a small battery that doesn't have a tremendous range, but we were still able to ride almost 19 miles without pedaling. Not enough range for you? There is an optional range extender that provides 40% more power. Everything about the bike feels sleek and refined, with hidden cable routing, a minimalist display, and Schwalbe gravel tires; the Roadster feels like a work of art.
Should you buy it? The Roadster is the perfect blend of style, performance, and functionality for the cyclist who craves simplicity. It's 25 mph pedal-assist speed (20 mph throttle-only) can whisk you across town with ease. The rigid design and narrow tires don't provide much vibration dampening, but the Roadster isn't uncomfortable. This bike offers compelling value, riding perfectly fine without power and switching on to make your commute more enjoyable.
Comfortable fat tires are great on almost all surfaces
Aventon Control Unit with 4G / GPS
REASONS TO AVOID
Large tires can feel sluggish on pavement
Difficult to lift or move on a bike rack
Who it is best for: The Aventon Aventure.3 is a monster truck masquerading as a bike. Climbing on the Aventure, you get a giddy feeling of capability and courage. The 4" tires and suspension fork give the bike the bravado to explore just about any terrain, rough road, or steep hill. Available in two frame styles (step-over or step-thru) and two sizes, for inseams between 26" and 35", the bike can carry up to 400 pounds. If you want to explore off the beaten path in comfort, the Aventure's high-volume, knobby tires and suspension will keep you smiling. The bike comes with fenders, lights, a rear rack, and even turn signals. It might feel like overkill around town, but the bike's abundant power makes the giant tires feel sensible.
Why we love it: The overall design of the bike gives you an intrepid, go-anywhere feel. With ample power and comfortable suspension, you don't realy worry about the terrin aunder tire. Aventon spec's the new Aventure with their high-tech ACU which allow you to lock, track, and even geo-fence the bike. A new high resolution display provideds detailed ride data and allows you to easily switch ride modes and classes. The massive tures and heavy weight don't make for a very efficient ride, but the large battery and powerful motor larely negate the downside. On a full charge, we were able to ride the bike over 28 miles without pedaling.
Should you buy it? If you value capability and all-terrain versatility, the Aventure isn't going to let you down. This bike can go almost anywhere and elicits smiles along the way. but its 79-pound curb weight makes it hard to transport or move around. It weighs too much for most bike racks and is difficult to carry up stairs or even load into a truck. If you're not plannining to ride off pavement, the novelty of this bike might wear off, and while you can swap to smoother tires, they're not much more efficient.
Who it is best for: If getting out on gravel roads sounds appealing, you're not alone. Gravel riding (or comfort road riding) is more popular than ever, thanks to lightweight, comfortable bikes with the tire clearance to tackle it. Having a little bit of electric assistance on a long gravel journey can be the difference between fun and misery. The CF Racer packs in just enough power to be helpful without making the bike feel like a heavy battery-laden e-bike. The bike can be bought as a road or gravel bike, and even folks that plan to stay on the road might consider getting the gravel version with its large comfortable tires.
Why we love it: The Ride1Up CF Racer1 is an insanely good value or a full carbon gravel bike. “At just over 28 lbs, you can hardly tell that the bike has a motor and battery,” remarked tester Joshua Hutchens. The build kit is really impressive and gives the bike a remarkably nice ride that we found comfortable for long days on old logging roads.
Should you buy it? While the bike is fantastic and incredibly well priced, it only comes in two sizes with limited adjustability, so check your measurements carefully to see if it might work for you. If you need a bike with more range, consider getting the CF Racer with a range extender battery.
Who it is best for: The Blix Vika X is a true folding electric bike that offers the best balance of convenience and performance that we've tested. It's not too heavy to be practical and is ideal for bopping around town. If you need bikes for your RV or small plane, the Vika X would be an excellent choice. You don't have to have space constraints or special needs to appreciate the Vika; having a folding bike can negate the need for a bike rack and even allow you to store it in a closet when not in use. The bike folds to just 35" x 20" x 26", and weighs less than 56 pounds. The Vika fits riders between 4'10" and 6'2", though taller riders may feel slightly cramped.
Why we love it: Folding bikes can sometimes be quirky and ride like they've made a lot of compromises, but the Vika X rides much more like a traditional bike. The Vika is also much better appointed than you might expect in a folding bike with features like hydraulic brakes, electronic shifting, and a torque sensor. The bike features a high-quality display and includes lights and fenders for enhanced visibility in dark or wet conditions. Despite being fairly lightweight, the bike still has enough battery to propel us 25 miles with the throttle alone. The bike arrived almost completely assembled; it took us just 13 minutes to make it roadworthy.
Despite its compact nature, it still offers features like turn signals, a horn, and a light-duty cargo rack rated for 60 lbs.
Should you buy it? While this is a fantastic folding bike, it uses 20" wheels, so if you don't need the folding feature, you can benefit from larger wheels that provide a smoother ride. Of all the folding bikes we've reviewed, this one is the easiest to fold and transport and the most pleasant to ride. Budget-conscious buyers have an abundance of options, but won't get the refined feel or convenience features the Blix offers. This is still our highest-rated folding bike, and if you are willing to spend a little extra, we highly recommend it.
Who it is best for: The Lectric XP4 750 is ideal for riders needing a powerful, compact, folding electric bike that fits in tight spaces like car trunks, office corners, or small apartments (and also fits in a small budget). It can be adjusted to accommodate riders from 4'10" to 6'3", and has a weight limit of 330 lbs. With a cargo rack, fenders, lights with turn signals, ergonomic grips, and an optional passenger seat, the bike has incredible utility.
Why we love it: Lectric has built a folding bike with more power and carrying capacity than 90% of the electric bikes in our review. The bike arrives assembled, and you can be riding it 15 minutes after opening the box. You can switch between Class 1,2,3, and California Class 3, and utilize five different power modes to reach speeds up to 28 mph. While 20" wheels aren't renowned for the comfort they provide, Lectric's 3" tires and suspension fork take the edge off and give you a quiet, dampened ride. You can kiss range anxiety goodbye with the 840Wh battery; we were able to ride almost 37 miles on a single charge, without pedaling!
Should you buy it? The XP4 has a strong value proposition and more utility than anything else in its class. The 750-watt motor is more powerful than most people likely need, and the massive battery adds more weight than we'd like to load in the trunk of our car. The new 3" tires increase the bike's range but don't offer much traction off the tarmac. Our bike arrived less than perfect, needing some attention to address the rattles inside the frame, but we solved those issues with minimal heartache, and the bike is worthy of applause. If you don't need the massive power and range, the XP4 500 is likely a better fit for several hundred dollars less.
Who it is best for: The Ride1Up Revv 1 FS is … not really a bike, but it's a fabulous little ride for adventurous riders and urban commuters. These moped-style bikes are unconventional and likely challenge your local laws, but they're also wildly convenient. Ride1Up makes three models of the Revv1, and all of them have been impressive, but the FS strikes a perfect balance of performance and versatility for the dollar. The Revv uses a Multi-Class Speed System and an unlockable off-road mode for riders wanting to let loose at high speeds on private property.
Why we love it: This bike can feel like a cheat code for life. It's relatively inexpensive, cheats traffic, can be parked almost anywhere, and doesn't require a special license or insurance. It's like a miniature motorcycle that fuels up in your garage overnight. The 52V system and 1000W hub motor provide remarkable power for its size. 120mm of front and 50mm of rear suspension take the edge off rough roads and let you venture into rougher terrain. I passed on the bike to a few others on the testing team, and they noted, “I could easily read the central display for all the crucial ride data, and it was easy for me to assemble, even though I wouldn't consider myself super techy.” While other bikes have unlocked off-road modes, one reviewer noted, “Most bikes are not even in the same league of speed and power. I get to most places around town faster than a car, especially when you factor in ease of parking.”
Should you buy it? This is a top choice for power, range, and comfort, but it's nearly 97 pounds and difficult to transport without a truck and loading ramp. Even if you happen to have a bike rack rated to 100 pounds, the large tires and fenders make it tricky to secure. While its pedals make it a “bike,” you can't raise the saddle or shift gears, so “pedaling” the bike isn't practical. Fortunately, the big battery gives you almost 40 miles per charge.
Who it is best for: The Aventon Ramblas is a hardtail electric mountain bike that will blow you away with its value proposition. Available in four sizes (with the smallest using 27.5-inch wheels), the Ramblas can accommodate riders down to 5'1". While less adept in technical terrain or aggressive trails, its ample power, suspension fork, front and rear lights, and even a kickstand make it a surprisingly versatile choice. As tester Chris McNamara said, “No other E-MTB so easily doubles as a daily commuter.”
Why we love it: As a total newcomer to the electric mountain bike market, Aventon is making waves with the Ramblas. A large battery and motor 100Nm motor give the bike the power and range to go anywhere you point it. The components are all respectable with a RockShox 35 suspension fork, SRAM brakes, and a seat dropper. “Holy smokes, this thing rips!” exclaimed one tester; the motor's power is only eclipsed by the new Specialized Levo at 3X the price.
Should you buy it? The Ramblas should be on your shortlist if you're seeking a value-packed e-MTB with impressive power. It's not the most comfortable frame and lacks tubeless-compatible wheels, but the power and price more than compensate. As with other hardtails, you won't be isolated from the terrain but the bike holds its own on technical trails. At 54 lbs, it feels hefty and prefers life on the ground, but that doesn't mean it isn't sporty. This Class 1 e-bike provides assistance up to 20 mph in 4 different modes.
The amount of torque and power from the A100 motor can change the way you look at the trail landscape.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Could Owning an Electric Bike be Free?
While it's hard to come across a free electric bike, replacing your car trips with an eBike will likely save you more in gas, maintenance, and depreciation on your vehicle than the costs of an eBike over 1-2 years. Read more in our free electric bike article.
Why Trust GearLab
Bike testing at GearLab started with mountain bikes in 2017, and we've branched out to include over ten bike categories, adding electric bikes to our lineup in 2019. At that time, we purchased and extensively tested more than 100 of the best e-bike models across various categories. We're constantly on the lookout for the latest and greatest e-bikes to compare to our tried and true favorites. With more than 1,000 bikes and bike-related products tested, we've had a little taste of it all.
Joshua Hutchens: I am a lifelong cyclist and self-declared bike wonk. I had my first bike shop job in 1986, and as a meticulous mechanic, lifelong commuter, and athlete, I am obsessed with bicycles and how we use them. I have spent my life imparting my two-wheeled passion to others in various roles, including my current position as Senior Bike Review Editor at OutdoorGearLab. I have spent many years guiding cycling trips all over the world with Backroads. I owned and operated one of “America's Top Bike Shops,” and I was also one of the founders of The Lumberyard Indoor Bicycle Park. I have raced nearly every cycling discipline and now spend my days testing bikes and coaching mountain biking through the local community college.
Jeremy Benson: I am a long-time Tahoe resident and occasional pro racer, and I use my biking experience to contribute to our e-bike and mountain bike reviews. I have been riding bikes for over 30 years and have authored multiple guidebooks, including a resource for the Lake Tahoe basin, Mountain Bike Tahoe.
Enduring gratitude to Kyle Smaine for his contributions. Smaine was a South Lake Tahoe native, a World Champion skier, a talented rider, and a meaningful contributor to our reviews.
Our multi-faceted hands-on testing process involves lots of real-world riding, handling tests, assembly, and an examination of each bike's features.
Other Notable Electric Bikes to Consider
The Rad Power RadRunner Max is a bike that stands out for its unique design approach. A compact-sized bike with serious hauling capacity that is incredibly nice to ride. With an upright, aware position, the bike is perfectly suited for the urban environment. Equipped with a rear-view radar and a rack that can haul a passenger, the RadRunner doesn't fit into a category as well as it fits into a parking spot.
The Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Alloy is a full suspension, full power electric mountain bike for trail riding, but we see it being used widely for all kinds of riding. Akin to driving around town in a big truck, the Levo has six inches of suspension that mutes all but the largest bumps. With the best motor integration of any ebike we've tested, the bike might be overkill for some, or a great way to get into exploring your local trails.
Ride1Up Portola - If space is tight or you'd rather not own a bike rack, the foldable Portola is an excellent option. Packed with features and capable of carrying a passenger, it makes a great final-mile vehicle or standalone utility bike with more versatility than most. You can easily stash it in the trunk of a car, and nothing about its ride quality would indicate that it's a folding model. With lights, fenders, a rack, and exceptionally low step-through, the bike is easy to ride and ready for almost any conditions.
The Portola arrives with the majority of the assembly done for you. Putting this bike together took us less than 30 minutes.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Trek FX+7S - If you want a commuter bike with some assistance that doesn't look or feel like an e-bike, check out the lightweight Trek FX. This bike is powered by a tiny but mighty motor and a smaller battery than most, giving it a quick and agile feel that excels in urban areas. This bike is low-key high-tech, featuring awesome app integration and a cool quad-lock phone mount that lets your phone double as a digital dashboard for navigation.
Blix Packa Genie - The Packa Genie is a do-it-all kind of cargo hauler that can make you question why you own a car. Get out of the traffic and enjoy the Packa's excellent ride quality and customizable range. Modular racks allow you to deck the bike out in the way that best suits your family or hauling needs. The Blix is highly adjustable for riders of different sizes and can haul up to 400 pounds.
The Blix Packa Genie is a versatile cargo bike that can save you from traffic.
Credit: Jason Peters
Aventon Aventure M - This bike uses a mid-drive motor to give the impressive Aventure a more balanced feel and robust pedal assistance. If you plan to propel yourself by throttle power, the Aventure.3 is probably a better bike, but this mid-drive is throttle compatible and can conquer almost any terrain with its 4" tires and suspension fork.
Casually capable, the mid-drive Aventure M is feature-packed and fun to ride.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
How We Tested
Not all e-bikes are built for the same purpose, so we use a multi-faceted approach to testing that considers the type of bike, its intended use, and what we feel matters the most in each category. The most important metrics are ride quality, range, user interface, and power output. These apply to all e-bikes. From here, we delve deeper into the nuance of specific categories, evaluating downhill and climbing performance for mountain bikes, carrying capacity for cargo bikes, and folded size for folding e-bikes. In addition to miles of methodical testing on and off the pavement, we build, tune, and maintain these bikes. For Class 2 e-bikes that use a throttle, we test their power output on a modified Dyno-Jet motorcycle dynamometer.
Testing involves a lot of measurements, power, dimensions, tension and time are just a few of the metrics we record.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
The bikes get loaded, carried, and hauled around for months, going from garage to bike racks to trailhead. We measure angles, record their weights, and, the fun part, assess ride quality. We spend enough time with each bike to identify its best and worst attributes, even riding them outside their intended uses to see how versatile they can be, and disassemble them to inspect wiring and motor connections. Over the years, we have developed favorites that we hold onto, giving us a multi-year period to develop thoughts on their long-term performance and durability. We have been testing different styles of bikes since 2017, but our team of bike experts has been at it for a combined century.
How to Buy the Best Electric Bike for You
Deciding that you want an electric bike over an analog is the first step, but the decision doesn't end there. Almost every bicycle has an e-bike equivalent these days, and with so many options, it can be tough to sift through the motor specs, weight limits, and other features to find what works best for you. However, it is possible!
Where Do You Want to Ride?
Your lifestyle, location, and budget are probably the three most influential factors when deciding which e-bike will suit you, so you have to ask yourself: Where do I want to ride? The answer to this question will help you narrow down the enormous number of choices to a select few from the right category. For example, if you want to rip around on mountain trails, an e-MTB is the obvious choice. If you live in the city and want to bike-commute to the office daily, a sleek, zippy, and lightweight electric commuter or city bike will be your best bet. For weekend cruises to the park or beach, consider a bike that balances comfort and cost. If you have kids, pets, or other precious cargo to haul, you'll select something from the electric cargo bike category. Different classes of bikes will also dictate where you can ride. State, local, and regional regulations vary, so it is best to check if your bike is within the regulations of your area.
Simple, inexpensive, and delightful to ride, the XP-Lite is almost too good to be true.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Classes of Electric Bikes
The 3-class system is becoming widely accepted as a way to regulate e-bike use, but laws and regulations vary by state and even by country. With some of the more powerful bikes riding the border between mopeds and e-bikes, and others simply adding a boost to your own leg power, a bike's power and speed capabilities determine where you can legally ride them.
Some bikes can be configured to fit into several categories if needed. For example, the speed limit of many class 3 bikes can be adjusted in the bike's settings to have it top out at 20 mph or class 2, and often, the throttle can be disconnected to fall under class 1. Regardless of class, most e-bikes are limited to a motor with one horsepower (750W) or less.
Class 1
Electric bikes that fall into Class 1 are pedal-assist only, which means that power is only delivered when the rider is moving the pedals. Motors on Class 1 bikes support top pedal-assisted speeds up to 20mph, and they are typically allowed in bike lanes and multi-use trails, essentially anywhere a regular bike can go. Nearly all electric mountain bikes fall into this category.
Class 2
Class 2 e-bikes also have a top motor speed of 20mph (although it is possible to ride them faster if your legs are strong enough). The main difference between classes 1 and 2 is that class 2 bikes have a throttle, usually a thumb paddle or twist grip on the handlebars, that will propel the bike forward without any help from the rider. If you've ever ridden an electric scooter, you'll be familiar with the system. Class 2 ebikes also have a pedal assist option with different levels of power, depending on your preference. They are usually allowed in bike lanes and multi-use paths, but there are exceptions in certain states and localities.
Class 3
Class 3 electric bikes take it up another notch with a higher speed limit. These bikes can have a throttle (or not) and pedal assist, with the throttle limited to 20 mph and the pedal assist up to 28 mph. If your legs can push one of these heavy bikes faster than 28mph, kudos to you, but you won't get any help from the motor after 28 mph. There are typically more restrictions regarding who can ride them and where. You may be required to wear a bike helmet, and in many states, anyone under a certain age is not allowed to ride a class 3 e-bike unless they are a passenger, and they are not always allowed on bike paths. However, it is ultimately up to the discretion of the local government, so be sure to check regulations before heading out. A new California law requires Class 3 bikes not to have an active throttle, so bikes sold within the state need to have the throttle disabled if you want pedal assistance up to 28 mph.
The Radster Trail makes an excellent companion for exploring off the beaten path.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Types of E-bikes
Whatever your preferred riding style, there is probably an e-bike version to fit (if you can't find one, it's probably in the making). While many of the features found on e-bikes are the same as in the traditional bike world, a few motor or battery-specific details are different.
Cruiser Electric Bikes
Cruiser e-bikes focus on comfort, convenience, and straightforward operation, much like traditional cruiser bicycles. They feature a more relaxed, upright seating posture and are designed for leisurely rides along neighborhood paths or quiet streets that lead to the beach. Typically, these bikes come with an intuitive control system and often include a step-through frame, making it easier for most riders to get on and off. Equipped with wider and smoother tires, they are ideal for pavement rides. While they may not offer the same power or speed as some other e-bike types, they do enhance your pedaling experience, making rides enjoyable and comfortable.
Using these electric bikes for months helps us understand the nuances of their utility and durability.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
City/Commuter Electric Bikes
Commuter bikes are specifically designed for the urban environment with good visibility and features that enhance safety and security. They generally have lights for night riding and a rack to carry your belongings. If you have a long commute, consider a bike with a larger battery or range extender to stave off range anxiety. Additional features like fenders help protect against road spray and keep you dry on wet roads. We have conducted detailed side-by-side tests of commuter ebikes. Below is a chart displaying the overall scores of the complete test fleet.
Easy to stash in your trunk or hide in a closet, the Vika X is still full-featured.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Folding Electric Bikes
As the name suggests, these bikes are designed to fold down to minimize size and maximize portability. Folding electric bikes are designed for riders with limited storage space or those who need to transport their bike in a vehicle rather than on a bike rack. They are also perfect for those who would prefer to bring their brand-new e-bike inside rather than leave it chained to the bike rack outside (it's a significant investment; we understand if you want to baby it). People who travel with their bikes frequently, RVers, city dwellers, and office workers are the most likely to benefit from this style of bike. The downside to this style of e-bike is that they often have less stable handling. This is a result of smaller wheels, tall handlebars, and geometries dictated by their folding designs. If you'd like to see how they compare, check out our side-by-side analysis of folding electric bikes. This chart shows the overall scores of all bikes in the test.
With an abundance of useful accessories, bikes like the RadWagon can change your commute for the better.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Electric Cargo Bikes
For most people, a cargo ebikes is more likely to replace a car than any other style of electric bike. Often, these bikes are extra long to accommodate a larger rear cargo rack or have a box/wheelbarrow-style cargo space in the front or rear of the rider. A dual foot kickstand is a common feature that helps support the heavier bike while you load it. Most cargo bike makers sell accessories to tailor the storage/cargo space to your needs. These include items like front/rear baskets, bike trailer attachments, child seats, and mounts for your favorite bike pannier bags. The larger hauling capacity and extended length can mean trickier handling and a much heavier bike, even before you add all the cargo. These models are not very portable and are best suited to those who can ride them from home. The chart below shows how all the cargo e-bikes we have tested compare to one another.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Fat Tire Electric Bikes
Fat tire electric bikes feature extra-wide and often knobby tires, much like their analog counterparts. The higher volume of the tires increases the contact area, so they float better over soft conditions like sand and snow, and they also dampen the ride enough that these bikes often don't have a separate suspension system. Tires can range from 3.7" to 5.2" wide, compared to the 1.75" to 2.25" width found on most standard bikes. Because of the larger tire size, analog fat tire bikes tend to move slowly and steadily, so adding a powerful motor helps to propel you through varying terrain and surface conditions more quickly. (See our favorite non-electric fat tire bikes in our dedicated review.)
The XPeak is ready to explore more terrain than most bikes.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Electric Mountain Bikes
E-mountain bikes are built for off-road use and are equipped to handle steep ups and downs, just like their analog mountain bike cousins. They are often some of the priciest options available, because they are built with more rugged suspension systems, light(er) weight frames, beefy tires, and frame geometry that make them well-suited to riding rougher trails.
Electric mountain bikes can change the way you interact with the trail and greatly expand your range.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The motors on e-MTBs are typically regulated to class 1, with multiple pedal-assist levels and top supported speeds of 20 mph. We recommend gearing up with the proper protective gear, like a well-fitted helmet and sturdy knee pads for this type of riding. We are continuously adding new electric mountain bikes to our lineup. To see an overall comparison of bikes tested so far, check out the chart below.
Electric Road Bikes
Traditional road bikes (and gravel bikes too) have sporty forward-leaning geometry, narrow tires, and lightweight frames, all with performance and efficiency in mind. Their motorized counterparts have the same features, but E-road bikes are inevitably heavier due to the battery and motor. With that in mind, many analog road bikes can exceed the 20mph power cutoff of e-bike motors when on flats and downhills, so you may end up hauling dead weight through these sections of your ride. However, if you ride in an area with many hills, you'll probably appreciate a little pedal assist occasionally. Fancy carbon frames and sport-specific builds can often make them pricier than other categories of e-bikes.
Electric Gravel Bikes
Striking a balance between road and off-road use, gravel bikes are the Swiss Army knives of versatility. Adding a motor enhances this versatility and can expand your riding range even further. Electric gravel bikes strive to keep the weight low and generally offer less assistance. Benefiting from a multitude of handlebar positions and a more upright position, e-gravel bikes are a comfortable option for long days of exploration.
Adding a few watts to your gravel adventure can increase your range and your level of fun.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
What Else to Consider
Now that we've covered the main groups of e-bikes, you've probably had a chance to narrow down the type of bike you want. When it comes down to the finalists in your list, these features and specs can help you narrow your choices even further.
Motor and Battery Specs
Most e-bikes have a range of 20-35 miles, depending on battery size and motor power. Additional factors like rider weight, terrain, and the amount of pedal assistance vs throttle used will also play a major role. Not surprisingly, a little leg power from the rider can add many miles to a bike's range. Batteries are measured in Watt-hours, and the higher the Wh number, the more power storage and the longer the range. However, this also means an increase in the weight and size of the battery. Most e-bike motors span the range of 250W to 750W. Larger motors generally produce more torque, accelerate faster, and support higher speeds.
Hub vs Mid Drive Motors
Hub-drive motors are located in the center of one of the wheels (typically the rear wheel) and transfer power directly to the wheel where it is mounted. These are more affordable, easier to maintain, and cause less wear and tear on bike components. However, their single-gear ratio makes them less efficient, and it's more difficult to change or repair tires. Mid-drive motors are located in the bike's center, usually around the pedal crank, and deliver power to the wheel through the chain. They're pricier but also more refined, using the bike's gears to maximize efficiency.
Pedal Assist Modes
Pedal-assisted power delivery options include a torque sensor or a cadence sensor. Torque sensors measure how hard you pedal using a strain gauge and deliver the appropriate power for the rider's chosen setting. While usually more expensive, torque sensors can feel more intuitive and natural because they adjust quickly to the rider's movements, providing more power when you pedal harder and less power when the pedals slow down.
Cadence sensors work more like an on/off switch. When you begin to pedal, the motor provides power, but the output usually needs to be manually adjusted using the controls on the handlebars. Some cadence sensors are a bit “smarter” because they can count pedal rotations (but still do not sense how hard you are pedaling) to adjust power output automatically. This type of system is usually more affordable.
There is a wide variety of ebike interfaces, some with smartphone integration allowing for tracking and navigation.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Features and Accessories
The last things to consider are ease of use features and included accessories vs. accessories that come as a separate purchase. The user interface also varies from bike to bike; some show minimal information like battery level and power setting, while others include speed and other stats about your ride. Some models have an app to track your ride and adjust settings on your smartphone.
While almost always available as aftermarket accessories, I appreciate when perks like a headlight, tail light, fenders, and cargo racks are included. Many brands also offer additional accessories like baskets and kids' seats designed specifically to fit their bike models. Most bikes these days have a removable battery, which makes charging as simple as carrying the battery to the nearest outlet rather than having to haul the entire bike over. I also consider it an additional security measure and a way to lighten my bike while transporting it on a bike rack.
All the features we want at an incredibly attractive price.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Conclusion
With such a wide variety of electric bikes available, there is sure to be a perfect model for you, but the sheer number of options can be overwhelming if you are new to the market. It is essential first to evaluate your lifestyle and do your research so you can make an informed decision; luckily, we put in the hours of research to help lighten the load. Hopefully, we have brought you closer to your dream bike so that you can spend less time in front of a screen and enjoy your electric bike more. Happy riding.
