Electric bikes (ebikes) are revolutionizing how we move, offering an eco-friendly, fun, and versatile alternative to traditional transportation. Whether you’re commuting, exploring rugged trails, or cruising the beach, there’s an electric bike designed for you. We’ve tested the top ebikes in every category, so you can find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Why Choose an Electric Bike?
For years, ebikes were seen as bulky, expensive, and inconvenient. However, advancements in technology have made them lighter, more powerful, and more accessible than ever. They’re ideal for riders of all fitness levels, help reduce traffic congestion, and are a sustainable option for urban and rural travel.
We’ve categorized the best ebikes for various needs to simplify your search.
Best Electric Bike for Most People
Trek FX+ 2
Price: $2,500
Why We Love It: Lightweight, versatile, and durable
With a 250-watt hub motor, a 250-Wh battery, and a sleek design, the Trek FX+ 2 is ideal for commuters and recreational riders. It offers integrated lights, a rear rack, and hydraulic disc brakes. At only 40 pounds, it’s easy to handle and perfect for daily rides.
Specs:
- Motor: Hyena 250-watt rear hub
- Battery: 250-Wh
- Payload: 300 pounds
Where to Buy: Trek Bikes
Best Commuter Ebike
REI Co-op Cycles CTY e2.1
Price: $1,799
Why We Love It: Affordable and packed with commuter-friendly features
This class 1 ebike includes a Suntour HESC motor, hydraulic disc brakes, and wide tires for stability. It’s not the lightest at 54 pounds but is perfect for urban commuters who value reliability and safety.
Specs:
- Motor: Suntour HESC 250-watt rear hub
- Battery: 418-Wh
- Payload: 300 pounds
Where to Buy: REI
Best Budget Ebike
Lectric XPress 750
Price: $1,299
Why We Love It: Affordable without compromising on performance
The Lectric XPress 750 features a powerful motor with 86 Nm of torque, making it suitable for hilly areas. Despite its budget-friendly price, it includes hydraulic disc brakes and a bright LCD display.
Specs:
- Motor: 750-watt rear hub
- Battery: 48 volts
- Payload: 330 pounds
Where to Buy: Best Buy
Best Mountain Ebike
Trek Slash+ 9.7 SLX/XT
Price: $8,000
Why We Love It: Perfect for trail enthusiasts
This bike’s TQ motor and idler pulley offer a quiet and natural riding experience, even on the toughest trails. Its high-end components justify the steep price for serious riders.
Specs:
- Motor: TQ 250-watt mid-drive
- Battery: 580-Wh
- Payload: 300 pounds
Where to Buy: Trek Bikes
Best Utility Ebike
Specialized Globe Haul ST
Price: $2,800
Why We Love It: A versatile car alternative
The Globe Haul ST boasts a powerful motor, a remarkable battery range, and robust payload capacity. It’s perfect for carrying groceries, kids, or gear for your next adventure.
Specs:
- Motor: Globe 700-watt rear hub
- Battery: 772-Wh
- Payload: 419 pounds
Where to Buy: Specialized
Best Folding Ebike
Montague M-E1
Price: $3,995
Why We Love It: Compact and convenient for storage
With its foldable frame, the Montague M-E1 is ideal for urban dwellers and travelers who need a portable bike without sacrificing performance.
Specs:
- Motor: 250-watt rear hub
- Battery: 418-Wh
- Payload: 300 pounds
Where to Buy: Montague
Best Heavy-Duty Cargo Ebike
Yuba Spicy Curry
The Yuba Spicy Curry (9/10, WIRED Recommends) stands out as a longtail cargo bike with exceptional load capacity and innovative design. It features a low center of gravity for better stability, even when carrying up to 440 pounds of cargo or passengers. The Bosch Cargo Line motor offers robust assistance, making it suitable for hilly commutes. A modular system lets you customize accessories, from kid seats to cargo racks.
★ Alternative: The Yuba Kombi E5 offers a more affordable, compact version for urban commuters who still need impressive hauling capacity.
Specs:
- Motor: Bosch Cargo Line mid-drive
- Battery: 500-Wh Bosch PowerPack
- Recommended Height: 5′ to 6’4″
- Total Payload: 440 pounds
$5,499 at Yuba Bikes
Best for Large Families
Riese & Müller Load 75
While pricier, the Load 75 delivers unparalleled performance for large families. It offers ample space for multiple kids or a mix of cargo, thanks to a larger front box. Full suspension smooths out rough roads, while dual batteries extend the range. With its powerful Bosch Cargo Line motor, the Load 75 is one of the most advanced cargo bikes available.
★ Alternative: The Riese & Müller Packster 70 is another spacious option with similar features but a slightly smaller footprint.
Specs:
- Motor: Bosch Cargo Line mid-drive
- Battery: Dual 500-Wh PowerTubes (1,000 Wh total)
- Recommended Height: Adjustable
- Total Payload: 573 pounds
Starting at $9,499 at Riese & Müller
Best All-Terrain Cargo Ebike
Tern Quick Haul D8
Tern’s Quick Haul D8 is a compact, versatile cargo bike designed for all-terrain utility. With its fat tires and sturdy frame, it can handle gravel paths and uneven city streets. It features Tern’s proprietary Cargo Mount system for attaching a wide array of accessories. The Shimano mid-drive motor delivers smooth, efficient power for various loads.
★ Alternative: The Tern HSD S+ offers an automatic shifting system and higher torque motor for effortless commuting.
Specs:
- Motor: Shimano Steps mid-drive
- Battery: 418-Wh
- Recommended Height: 4’9″ to 6’4″
- Total Payload: 330 pounds
$2,999 at Tern Bicycles
Best Budget-Friendly Longtail Ebike
Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4
The RadWagon 4 delivers an affordable entry into the world of longtail cargo ebikes. With a 750-watt rear hub motor and a 672-Wh battery, it handles up to 350 pounds of payload. The integrated rear rack accommodates child seats, panniers, or a platform for groceries. Its rugged frame and puncture-resistant tires make it a reliable option for daily errands or school runs.
★ Alternative: The RadRunner 3 Plus offers a smaller footprint and an equally competitive price.
Specs:
- Motor: 750-watt rear hub
- Battery: 672-Wh
- Recommended Height: 5’1″ to 6’4″
- Total Payload: 350 pounds
$1,999 at Rad Power Bikes
Choosing the Right Ebike for You
Your perfect electric bike depends on your lifestyle and riding needs. Whether you’re tackling mountain trails, cruising to work, or running errands, there’s a model tailored to your preferences.
Helpful Tips:
- Look for established manufacturers for better support and warranty.
- Test ride before you buy to ensure comfort and compatibility.
- Consider safety features, such as hydraulic brakes and integrated lights.
Stay Equipped
Once you’ve chosen your ebike, check out our guides for the Best Bike Accessories, Best Bike Locks, and Best Escooters.
Are you ready to embrace the ebike revolution? Let us know which model you love!
Can I Build My Own Bike?
Yes, building your own bike is entirely possible and can be a rewarding experience, especially if you’re a hands-on individual who enjoys customizing your ride. However, it requires a certain level of mechanical skill and familiarity with bike components. Here’s what to consider:
- Skill Level: If you’re new to bike maintenance, you might find assembling a bike from scratch challenging. Many affordable bikes come partially assembled, which can be a great starting point if you’re not yet confident about building one completely.
- Tools and Equipment: Building your bike requires specific tools, such as a torque wrench, bottom bracket tool, and chain whip, to name a few. Investing in quality tools will save you trouble in the long run.
- Components: You can source bike components from online retailers, local bike shops, or second-hand markets. Be sure to understand compatibility between parts, such as the drivetrain, frame, and brakes.
- Pre-Tuned vs. DIY: Direct-to-consumer bikes often arrive pre-tuned, but the assembly may still need fine-tuning. On the other hand, a DIY bike build allows for full customization but demands a good understanding of bike mechanics.
If you are interested in learning the process, many community bike shops and co-ops offer workshops on bike assembly and maintenance. Alternatively, online tutorials and forums can be helpful resources.
Why Do Some Bikes Cost More?
The price of a bike largely reflects its components and technology. Beyond the differences in motor and battery range noted earlier, premium bikes often feature:
- High-End Frames: Lightweight materials such as carbon fiber or titanium offer durability and performance but come at a higher cost.
- Advanced Suspension Systems: Full-suspension bikes for mountain biking, for instance, provide better control and comfort on rough terrains.
- Better Gearing Systems: Expensive bikes might use electronic shifting or a wider gear range for smoother rides.
- Durability and Longevity: Premium parts last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements or repairs.
What Terrain Do You Live On?
Understanding your terrain is critical when selecting a bike. Beyond motor power and brake types, consider:
- Tire Type: Slick tires are ideal for city commutes, while knobby tires are better for off-road adventures.
- Frame Geometry: For hilly areas, a frame designed for climbing, with a comfortable upright position, can make a significant difference.
Follow Some Basic Safety Tips
Biking safety is paramount. Alongside the tips mentioned earlier, consider the following:
- Helmet and Protective Gear: Always wear a certified helmet, and consider gloves and reflective clothing for visibility.
- Battery Safety: Avoid exposing the battery to extreme heat or moisture. Store it in a safe, dry location when not in use.
- Regular Maintenance: Check your brakes, tires, and drivetrain frequently to ensure everything is functioning properly.
For those who ride in urban environments, familiarize yourself with local biking laws and best practices, like using hand signals and staying out of vehicle blind spots.
Whether you’re building a bike or buying one, taking the time to understand your needs and preferences will ensure a safer, more enjoyable ride.
How the International English Test Can Benefit Cyclists Worldwide
Cycling isn’t just about fitness or commuting; it’s a global lifestyle that connects people across countries. Whether you’re joining international cycling tours, planning bikepacking adventures, or even working in the global biking industry, English proficiency can significantly enhance your experience.
The International English Test (IET) is an excellent option for cyclists seeking to improve or certify their English skills for international communication. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- Flexible and Affordable Certification
IET offers a variety of tests aligned with the CEFR levels (A1 to C2) to assess your language skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced English speaker, there’s a test for your level. Plus, the flexible, online format makes it convenient for busy cyclists who can’t commit to traditional testing schedules. - Real-Life Applications
- Travel: Use your English skills to navigate foreign cities, read maps, and communicate with locals while biking abroad.
- Networking: Join international cycling events, group rides, or forums where English is often the common language.
- Career Opportunities: Many cyclists work in related industries, like bike manufacturing, travel, or e-commerce. IET certification demonstrates your proficiency to employers.
- Comprehensive Testing
- The English Level Test evaluates your grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening skills in just one hour.
- The Speaking Test assesses pronunciation, fluency, and intonation, ideal for cyclists who might lead tours or collaborate internationally.
- The Writing Test ensures you can craft clear emails, social media posts, or travel blogs related to your cycling adventures.
- Customizable Validity
IET certificates can be valid for one year, two years, or even a lifetime, depending on your needs. This flexibility makes it a great investment for both short-term and long-term goals.
Cycling is a universal passion, and improving your English with IET can make your biking journeys even more enriching. For more information, visit their website and explore how IET can help you pedal toward your goals.
I am Nilay, an experienced English Language Assessment Director at the International English Test, where I have been working full-time since February 2020. I specialize in helping people worldwide validate their English proficiency through comprehensive assessments and certifications.
Before joining the International English Test, I worked as a self-employed English Language Assessment Consultant from January 2015 to December 2019. During this time, I assisted companies and individuals in improving their language skills, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
I hold a degree in Engineering and have also studied at Shafston International College in Australia. My educational background has equipped me with the tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of English language learning. Additionally, I enjoy sharing my expertise through articles that explore effective teaching methods and language assessment strategies, contributing to the International English Test and the broader assessment community.
