Electric bikes have surged in popularity, transforming commutes, errands, and recreational rides. The market is now flooded with options, making the quest for the perfect e-bike overwhelming. To simplify your search, we’ve rigorously tested and evaluated countless models to bring you our definitive guide to the Top 5 Electric Bikes available today. Whether you’re seeking unmatched value, cargo-hauling prowess, or a simple and stylish ride, our expert picks will steer you toward the ideal electric bike for your needs.
Top Electric Bikes of 2024: Our Expert Picks
Based on extensive testing and real-world performance, these are our top 5 electric bike recommendations for 2024, each excelling in its category and offering exceptional value and features.
Best Overall Electric Bike: Ride1Up 700-Series
ride1up 700-series
The Ride1Up 700-Series stands out as the best overall electric bike due to its exceptional performance, versatile features, and remarkable value. This hybrid-style commuter e-bike surpasses expectations, offering a premium riding experience without the premium price tag.
Overall Score: 90
- Ride: 9.0
- Range: 10.0
- Power: 10.0
- Interface: 8.0
- Assembly: 5.0
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent Performance for the Price: The 700-Series delivers performance that rivals much more expensive models, making it an outstanding value.
- Great Features: Packed with features like front suspension, fenders, lights, and a rear rack, this bike is ready for anything.
- Strong Motor: The powerful 750W motor provides ample power for quick acceleration and tackling hills.
- Excellent Range: The large 720Wh battery offers impressive range, ensuring you can go the distance.
Reasons to Avoid:
- More Involved Assembly: Assembly is more complex than some other e-bikes, requiring more time and skill.
- Heavier Weight: At almost 64 pounds, it’s heavier than some competitors, though the well-spec’d components compensate for this.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Size | 720Wh |
| Wheel Size | 27.5-inch |
| E-Bike Class | Class 3 |
| Motor Power | 750W |
| Pedal Assist Settings | 5 |
The Ride1Up 700-Series excels as a full-featured hybrid commuter e-bike, offering performance that significantly exceeds its price. Its 100mm front suspension and 27.5″ wheels contribute to excellent ride quality and versatility, making it suitable for various terrains and riding conditions. In our range testing, the large 720Wh battery propelled the 700-Series for an impressive 32.4 miles on throttle power alone. The powerful 750W motor enables quick acceleration to 20 mph using the throttle or up to 28 mph with pedal assist across five different settings. Similar to the Ride1Up Turris, the 700-Series is available in both step-over and step-through frame styles, catering to rider preferences and accessibility needs.
While both the 700-Series and Turris offer excellent performance, the 700-Series distinguishes itself as a more refined overall package. Riders seeking off-road capabilities might lean towards the Turris with its knobby tires, but for general commuting and city riding, the 700-Series shines. The 700-Series is equipped with an adjustable front end, allowing riders to customize their riding posture for optimal comfort. It also includes practical features like a rear rack, fenders, and integrated lights, making it ready for commuting in any weather conditions, day or night. While these comfort and convenience features contribute to a weight of nearly 64 pounds, the bike’s well-designed geometry and quality components effectively manage the added mass.
The primary drawback of the 700-Series is the more complex assembly process compared to some other e-bikes. It requires more time and technical skill, resulting in a lower assembly score in our testing. However, considering that assembly is a one-time task, this shouldn’t deter most buyers, especially given the bike’s exceptional overall value. Ultimately, the Ride1Up 700-Series impressed us with its power, range, comfort, and overall ride quality, all offered at a competitive price. Our testers found it ideal for daily commutes, errands, and leisurely bike path rides, making it a clear choice for our Editor’s Choice award. For riders who appreciate the 700-Series’ performance but prefer a more relaxed riding style, the Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser is a worthy alternative. The Cafe Cruiser shares the same powerful 720Wh battery and 750W motor but features 26″ wheels and a robust welded rear rack with a 130 lbs capacity. While the 700-Series has a 275-pound weight limit, the Cafe Cruiser can accommodate up to 350 pounds, making it suitable for heavier riders or cargo.
Read more: Ride1Up 700-Series review
ride1up 700-series
Best Value Electric Bike: Ride1Up Turris XR
For riders seeking exceptional performance without breaking the bank, the Ride1Up Turris XR is the best value electric bike. This model delivers impressive ride quality and features at an economically priced point, earning our Best Buy award.
Overall Score: 77
- Ride: 9.0
- Range: 7.0
- Power: 7.0
- Interface: 8.0
- Assembly: 7.0
Reasons to Buy:
- Economically Priced: Offers exceptional value, providing high-quality features at a competitive price point.
- Class 3 Speeds: Capable of reaching Class 3 speeds, offering both speed and versatility.
- Built-in Battery: Features a seamlessly integrated in-frame battery for a sleek aesthetic.
- Comfortable Front Suspension: 100mm of front suspension ensures a comfortable and controlled ride.
- Two Frame Styles and Multiple Colors: Available in step-thru and step-over frames with various color options to suit personal preferences.
Reasons to Avoid:
- No Cargo Rack Included: Does not come standard with a cargo rack, requiring aftermarket purchase for cargo carrying.
- Tire Resistance: Knobby tires, while providing traction, can create some resistance on smooth pavement.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Size | 614Wh |
| Wheel Size | 27.5-inch |
| E-Bike Class | Class 2 (Configurable to Class 3) |
| Motor Power | 750W |
| Pedal Assist Settings | 5 |
Our testers were thoroughly impressed by the ride quality of the Ride1Up Turris XR. Its 27.5 x 2.4″ Kenda tires and 100mm suspension fork provide a stable and confident feel across various surfaces. The Turris outperformed several more expensive e-bikes in our tests, solidifying its position as a top value pick. The powerful 750W hub motor propels this Class 2-3 model to 20 mph in just 8.4 seconds using throttle only. Reaching 28 mph is effortless with any of the bike’s five pedal assist modes. The hydroformed aluminum frame houses a locking 614Wh battery, which can be removed for convenient off-bike charging or to reduce weight for transport.
In our range testing, the Turris achieved 22.1 miles on throttle power alone while climbing over 1200 feet. While slightly less than the Aventon Level Step-Thru’s 28.4 miles, it’s important to note that our range tests are conducted without any pedaling, meaning real-world range is likely significantly higher. The larger diameter wheels of the Turris contribute to a smooth ride, and the durable knobby tires offer vibration damping and enhanced traction. Despite its stability, testers found the Turris remained agile and enjoyable to ride. Compared to the Ride1Up 700-Series, the Turris offers less adjustability, but its overall geometry and quality touchpoints satisfied our testers.
Available in both step-thru (5’1″-6’2″) and step-over (5’6″-6’4″) frame options, the Turris caters to a wide range of riders. The step-thru model is particularly user-friendly, offering easy mounting and dismounting, and features backswept handlebars for a more relaxed riding posture, making it ideal for seniors or riders prioritizing comfort. The Turris XR comes standard with full fenders, a headlight, and a kickstand, adding to its practicality and value. We found the assembly process to be considerably less challenging than the Ride1Up 700-Series. While not as upright as the Cafe Cruiser, the Turris provides a comfortable, commanding riding position. Weighing just under 61 pounds, it doesn’t feel overly sporty, but its 750W motor effortlessly handles riders up to its 300-pound weight limit.
For riders prioritizing extended range, the 700-Series with its 720Wh battery offers approximately 10.3 additional miles of range. Another excellent value option, particularly for those needing portability, is the foldable Lectric XP 3.0. Despite its folding frame, the XP 3.0 provides a surprisingly stable ride quality that our testers appreciated, achieving a throttle-only range of 24.5 miles and exceeding performance expectations for its price point. Considering its overall performance, features, and price, the Turris XR easily earned our Best Buy award, representing exceptional value in the electric bike market.
Read more: Ride1Up Turris XR review
The Turris bike is a crowd-pleaser, winning you over with its ease of use, price, and comfort.
Best Overall Cargo Bike: Aventon Abound
aventon abound
For those needing to haul significant cargo or passengers, the Aventon Abound is the best overall cargo bike. This Class 2 cargo hauler combines impressive carrying capacity with a smooth and powerful ride.
Overall Score: 90
- Ride: 9.0
- Range: 10.0
- Power: 9.0
- Cargo Carrying: 8.0
- Interface: 9.0
- Assembly: 7.0
Reasons to Buy:
- 440 lb Weight Capacity: Boasts a substantial 440-pound weight capacity, capable of handling heavy loads.
- Large, Versatile Rack: Equipped with a spacious and adaptable rear rack for various cargo configurations.
- High-Quality, Low-Price: Offers premium features and performance at a competitive price point.
- Massive Range: Exceptional range, minimizing range anxiety and maximizing utility.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Needs Accessories to Unlock Utility: Requires additional accessories to fully realize its cargo-hauling potential.
- Heavy: At over 84 pounds, it’s a heavy bike, which can impact maneuverability and portability.
- Slow to Power On: Slight delay in power engagement upon startup.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Size | 720 Wh |
| Wheel Size | 20-inch |
| E-Bike Class | Class 2 |
| Motor Power | 750W |
| Sensor | Torque |
The Aventon Abound is a Class 2 cargo e-bike designed for heavy hauling, boasting an impressive 440-pound carrying capacity. A 750W hub motor paired with a torque sensor delivers smooth acceleration and ample power for carrying substantial loads. Similar to the Rad Power RadWagon 5, the Abound features 20″ wheels, a suspension fork, and a stable dual-foot center stand for easy loading and parking. The Abound truly excels in range; in our testing against the RadWagon 5 on the same course with identical battery sizes, the Abound traveled a remarkable 12.4 miles further on a single charge. Its total range of 37.4 miles surpasses all other cargo bikes we’ve tested, effectively eliminating range concerns.
Tester Victoria McNamara praised the Abound’s versatility, stating, “I love how versatile this bike is for my family and how many cool accessories we can add.” Aventon offers a wide array of accessories to customize the Abound for diverse hauling needs, from transporting children and cargo to coolers and surfboards. The 20″ wheels give the Abound a compact feel for parking and maneuverability, yet it provides ample space for cargo. Unique features like integrated rear turn signals and a dropper seatpost enhance its usability and safety. Turn signals, while seemingly excessive, prove incredibly useful when carrying loads, as hand signals can compromise stability. The dropper seatpost, typically found on mountain bikes for descending, is a novel and practical addition to a cargo bike. It allows riders to quickly lower the saddle by 100mm with a lever under the saddle, enabling flat-footed stops for enhanced stability when loaded.
The Abound offers an upright riding position with a commanding view and adjustable 700mm handlebars via a telescoping stem, a feature absent on the RadWagon 5 and KBO Ranger. Aventon claims it fits riders from 4′ 11″ to 6′ 3″, which our testers found to be an accurate range. Standard features include fenders, wheel guards, a storage box, and battery-powered lights, contributing to its high overall score. Like other cargo bikes, the Aventon Abound is heavy, weighing in at 84 pounds 5 ounces, but the motor’s consistent power effectively masks its weight. While 20″ wheels contribute to its compact size, they don’t roll as smoothly as the 24″ wheels found on the Blix Packa Genie. After extensive testing, the Abound earned our Editors’ Choice award for its ease of use and cargo capabilities. For budget-conscious buyers seeking similar cargo capacity, the Lectric XPedition 2.0 offers comparable features with slightly less refinement at a lower price point.
Read more: Aventon Abound review
aventon abound
Best Simple Electric Bike: Ride1Up Roadster V3
For riders seeking a minimalist and stylish e-bike that prioritizes simplicity and lightweight design, the Ride1Up Roadster V3 is the best simple electric bike. This cafe-style e-bike offers a premium feel and responsive ride in a clean and uncluttered package.
Reasons to Buy:
- Premium Feel: Exudes a high-quality, refined feel despite its affordable price.
- Three Sizes Available: Offered in three frame sizes to accommodate a broad range of riders.
- Lightweight: Weighing under 42 pounds, it’s exceptionally lightweight for an e-bike, enhancing handling and portability.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Minimal Adjustability: Offers limited adjustability, which might not suit all rider preferences.
- Narrow Tires: Narrow tires provide less cushioning, potentially impacting comfort on rough surfaces.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Size | 360 Wh |
| Wheel Size | 700c |
| E-Bike Class | Class 1-3 |
| Motor Power | 250W |
| Pedal Assist Settings | 4 |
The Ride1Up Roadster V3 is an attractive and minimalist electric cafe-style bike characterized by its clean design and lightweight build. Weighing under 42 pounds, it delivers a lively and responsive riding experience. While the single-speed drivetrain might seem limiting, the powerful 500W hub motor effectively eliminates the need for gears in most urban riding scenarios. In our throttle-only range test, the bike’s 360Wh battery achieved an impressive 18.9 miles in its highest power setting. Ride1Up also offers a range extender that can boost the range by approximately 40%. The bike’s Intui-drive torque sensor provides smooth and intuitive power modulation, enhancing the overall riding feel.
Equipped with a VeloFox DM09 display that integrates the throttle, the Roadster maintains a clean aesthetic without sacrificing functionality. It features Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, a low-maintenance Dayco belt drive system, and a comfortable Selle Royal Vivo saddle, all contributing to its premium feel. Practical accessories such as integrated lights, fenders, a kickstand, and a bell come standard, making it well-equipped for urban riding. Additionally, mounts for a rear rack and water bottle provide customization options for individual needs. While adjustability is somewhat limited, the three available frame sizes should comfortably fit most riders. The 45c tires, while not the most plush, offer efficient rolling and sufficient traction for occasional light off-road excursions. The Roadster has a weight capacity of 300 pounds and can reach a top pedal assist speed of 25mph or 20mph with throttle only. Overall, the Ride1Up Roadster V3 offers a compelling combination of style, functionality, and performance, appealing to cyclists seeking a simple, elegant, and efficient electric bike.
Read more: Ride1Up Roadster V3 review
The Roadster V3 is a refreshingly simple bike that isn't encumbered by the technology of an e-bike.
Best Fat Tire Electric Bike: Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through
aventon aventure.2 step-through
For riders seeking versatility across diverse terrains, the Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through is the best fat tire electric bike. Its massive tires and comfortable suspension make it capable and enjoyable on everything from pavement to trails and even sand.
Overall Score: 84
- Ride: 8.0
- Range: 8.0
- Power: 9.0
- Interface: 9.0
- Assembly: 8.0
Reasons to Buy:
- Potent Motor: The 750W motor delivers ample power for tackling varied terrain and inclines.
- Comfortable Fat Tires: 4-inch wide fat tires provide exceptional comfort and stability on diverse surfaces.
- Large Battery with Respectable Range: The 720Wh battery offers a good balance of range and weight.
- Aventon Smartphone App: Integration with the Aventon app adds features and customization options.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Sluggish on Pavement: Large tires can feel somewhat slow and draggy on smooth paved surfaces.
- Heavy: At 77 pounds, it’s a heavy bike, impacting maneuverability and portability.
The Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through is a highly versatile e-bike designed to handle a wide range of terrains. Its massive 4-inch wide tires and comfortable front suspension provide stability, smooth rides, and the ability to explore dirt roads and leisurely trails with confidence. Despite its substantial 77-pound weight, the 750W motor effortlessly propels the bike to its top pedal-assisted speed of 28mph. In our range testing, the 720Wh battery powered the Aventure.2 for 28.1 miles using throttle only. While sharing similarities with the Lectric XPeak, subtle differences set them apart. The XPeak has a smaller 672Wh battery, resulting in approximately 3.5 miles less range. The torque sensor on the Aventure.2 contributes to a smoother ride quality and acceleration. The Aventure.2 also boasts a higher weight capacity of 400 pounds compared to the XPeak’s 330 pounds.
Testers particularly praised the Aventon’s high-quality, centrally mounted, and easy-to-read full-color display. Both step-through and step-over frame styles are available in two sizes to accommodate different rider physiques. Integrated fenders, lights, a rear rack, and even turn signals enhance its practicality for urban and commuting environments. This bike is well-suited for exploration, whether on adventurous trails or daily commutes. The most significant drawback of the Aventure.2 is its weight. At 77 pounds, it’s a bulky bike that can be challenging to transport. It may be too heavy for some bike racks and difficult to load into vehicles or carry upstairs. Removing the battery, while quick and easy, reduces the weight to 68 pounds, potentially making it compatible with more bike racks. While the 4-inch wide knobby tires excel on varied surfaces, they can feel sluggish on pavement, and the handling response may feel slightly delayed. Despite these considerations, the Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through is an excellent choice for riders seeking a versatile e-bike with fewer limitations on riding locations. For a more budget-friendly option with similar fat tire versatility, the Lectric XPeak offers comparable specifications at a lower price.
Read more: Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through review
aventon aventure.2 step-through
How to Choose the Right Electric Bike for You
Selecting the right electric bike involves considering your individual needs, riding style, and budget. Here are key factors to guide your decision:
1. Where Do You Want to Ride?
Your intended riding environment is the most crucial factor.
- Commuting and City Riding: Prioritize commuter or city e-bikes for speed, efficiency, and practical features like lights and fenders. The Ride1Up 700-Series and Ride1Up Turris XR are excellent choices in this category.
- Cargo Hauling: If you need to carry groceries, kids, or gear, a cargo e-bike like the Aventon Abound is essential.
- Leisure and Recreation: Cruiser e-bikes offer comfort and relaxed riding for bike paths and neighborhood cruises. The Ride1Up Roadster V3, while not strictly a cruiser, offers a simple and enjoyable ride for leisure.
- Off-Road Adventures: Electric mountain bikes are designed for trails and rough terrain. While not featured in our top 5, consider exploring e-MTB options if off-road riding is your focus.
- Versatile Terrain: Fat tire e-bikes like the Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through excel on varied surfaces, including pavement, gravel, and sand.
2. Classes of Electric Bikes
Understand the three classes of e-bikes and local regulations:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph. Allowed anywhere regular bikes are permitted. Primarily e-mountain bikes.
- Class 2: Throttle and pedal-assist, up to 20 mph. Typically allowed in bike lanes and paths, but check local rules. Cargo bikes and some commuters often fall into this class.
- Class 3: Throttle up to 20 mph, pedal-assist up to 28 mph. May have age restrictions and path limitations. Commuter and performance e-bikes often are Class 3.
3. Types of E-bikes
Choose the e-bike type that aligns with your riding needs:
- Cruiser Electric Bikes: Comfortable, upright, and easy to use for relaxed riding.
- City/Commuter Electric Bikes: Efficient, often faster, and equipped for urban riding. Our top picks, Ride1Up 700-Series and Turris XR, fall into this category.
- Folding Electric Bikes: Portable and compact for storage and transport. While not in our top 5, consider them for limited storage space.
- Electric Cargo Bikes: Built for hauling cargo and passengers. The Aventon Abound is our top choice.
- Fat Tire Electric Bikes: Versatile on diverse terrains, offering comfort and stability. The Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through leads this category in our picks.
- Electric Mountain Bikes: Designed for off-road trails and challenging terrain.
- Electric Road Bikes: Performance-oriented for paved roads, prioritizing speed and efficiency.
- Electric Gravel Bikes: Versatile for mixed road and off-road riding, balancing comfort and performance.
4. Motor and Battery Specs
Consider motor power, battery capacity, and sensor type:
- Battery Size (Wh): Higher Watt-hours mean longer range but potentially more weight.
- Motor Power (W): 250W-750W is common. Higher wattage provides more power and torque.
- Motor Placement: Hub motors are affordable and simpler, while mid-drive motors offer better balance and efficiency.
- Sensor Type: Torque sensors feel more natural and responsive than cadence sensors.
5. Features and Accessories
Evaluate included features and available accessories:
- Display: User-friendly display showing battery level, speed, and assist level.
- Integrated Lights and Fenders: Essential for commuting and practical riding.
- Cargo Racks and Mounts: Increase utility for errands and commuting.
- Removable Battery: Convenient for charging and security.
Conclusion
Choosing the best electric bike ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. Our top 5 electric bike selections represent the best in their respective categories, offering exceptional performance, value, and features. Whether you prioritize overall excellence with the Ride1Up 700-Series, unmatched value with the Ride1Up Turris XR, cargo capacity with the Aventon Abound, simplicity with the Ride1Up Roadster V3, or fat-tire versatility with the Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through, we’re confident you’ll find your perfect ride among these top contenders. Explore the detailed reviews of each model to delve deeper into their features and make an informed decision to start enjoying the benefits of electric biking today.
