There are two types of ebikes, those that provide power assist you while pedaling. We also did our best to use the bikes in a variety of environments, including dense traffic, wide-open bike paths, and even dirt trails in a few instances.Electric bikes are often seen as regular bicycles that have a motor and a battery to provide assistance to the rider. We spent as long as a few weeks testing out certain e-bikes, and at least a couple of hours for others, looking for balanced handling, smooth power transfer, and overall ease of use with the bike’s electrical and mechanical systems. How We Chose the Best Electric BikesĪlthough specs can give you an idea of an e-bikes prowess, getting time in the seat is the only way to find out if a bike is worth your money. Be sure to check a bike’s size before buying (many bike listings will display the rider height range). Size: Proper bike sizing is always key for power transfer and comfort. Look for high-quality brake systems, ideally using hydraulic technology instead of mechanical. Those are bikes that take you from riding on the road to off-road adventures with ease.Īnother term to keep in mind when it comes to style is “step-thru.” These kinds of bikes feature a top tube (the upper bar in the frame) that’s been lowered or removed completely for easy mounting and dismounting.īrakes: Stopping power becomes more important with electric bikes. ![]() But there are also some excellent sporty road bikes with motors, as well as electric mountain bikes. Style: Most customers purchase e-bikes for commuting - these kinds of bikes are described as hybrid or city models. Typically, good e-bike batteries will get you 20 to 40 miles of range. uphill or downhill and street or trail) can affect a battery’s range. This is usually listed as a range because speed, rider weight, and terrain (i.e. ![]() If you’re just riding a regular e-bike, you don’t need a special drivers license.īattery: Longer battery life equals a longer range, which is always a plus. Also, note that e-bikes cap their reported electric-powered speed at 28 miles per hour by law - any faster and they’d have to be classified as a moped or motorcycle. If you already bike and just want minor help from a motor, a lower-wattage electric bike should be fine. Higher power is great (especially for heavier riders) and will provide more boost as you pedal. Power: E-bike power is measured in watts, with motors ranging anywhere from 250 to 750 watts. Below are some specs we looked at while choosing the best electric bikes for you. Shopping for electric bikes isn’t quite the same as finding a regular bicycle. When you’re ready to head back downhill, the bike is prepared with an 80-millimeter front suspension fork, 180-millimeter Tektro brakes, and knobby puncture-resistant tires.īuy Go Power Go Speed $1,549 Electric Bike Buying Guide All in all, this can transform tough uphill slogs into breezy jaunts. It features a 750-watt motor and a light aluminum frame for smooth climbs up steep trails. This Go Speed from Go Power lets you do that better than any non-electric mountain bike. Most mountain bikers have those rides when we just want to reach the top and enjoy a downhill run. We’ve rounded up some of the best electric bikes to buy online, as well as a few key considerations to help you make the right purchase. If you’re thinking of investing in an e-bike, read on. Plus, the best electric bikes provide a lovely weekend activity to boot. With the physical exertion of a light walk, e-bike riders are able to zip by traffic, park almost anywhere, and save a fortune on gas. ![]() In other words, the best electric bikes are now a viable alternative to driving - especially for daily commuters. They can travel up to 40 miles on a single charge and hit speeds of 28 miles per hour (all without us breaking a sweat), and their price tags are now more reasonable as well. Thankfully, there’s now a middle-ground: the best electric bikes.Īfter tremendous advancements over the past couple years, the best electric bikes (a.k.a. But bikes have their downsides too - whether as commuters or weekend cruisers - leaving us sweaty, tired, and possibly late to our destination. With expensive gas, scarce parking, and traffic, there are plenty of good reasons to ditch your car for a bike. If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
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