This past spring at Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, Arizona, witnessing guided rides on the latest off-road adventure e-bikes was eye-opening. These machines, resembling Vespas in size and speed but equipped with robust knobby tires and electric motors, are engineered for exploring backroads and tackling daily tasks with a thrill. The sheer joy on the faces of riders returning from their test circuits was undeniable proof of their appeal – every single one sported a wide, satisfied grin.
Initially, I was skeptical, questioning the necessity of these bikes given the existing plethora of e-bikes, motorcycles, and scooters. However, the infectious enthusiasm at the Expo prompted me to investigate further. Upon returning home, I contacted several manufacturers and gathered a selection of off-road adventure e-bikes for thorough testing. The allure of these bikes became immediately apparent.
On my first ride, a simple lunch trip to a restaurant 10 miles away transformed into an adventure. Avoiding workday traffic by navigating side streets and cutting through multi-use dirt paths on a Super73 R Adventure Series (while my buddy rode an Ubco 2×2 Special Edition) was exhilarating. We enjoyed the fresh air and the thrill of the ride without the drawbacks of arriving sweaty or consuming gas.
Later that summer, a friend used the Super73 extensively on dirt roads to photograph Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta. The agility of the bike allowed him to move swiftly, capture stunning shots, and immerse himself in the environment, appreciating the sounds of nature without engine noise disrupting the tranquility.
Exploring rural New Mexico, I tested the Land District Scrambler, reaching speeds up to 72 mph on dirt roads near my mom’s house. Even a brief 10-mile ride ignited daydreams of extensive dirt road explorations, all powered by electricity and quiet operation.
Super73 also provided their K1D model for my children, a smaller, 15 mph bike that became an instant hit. Hours were spent in the local field as they navigated impromptu obstacle courses, reveling in this new way to experience movement. While they are avid fans of traditional bikes, the electric version introduced a fresh dimension of fun and skill development.
For overlanding enthusiasts, these bikes present a practical solution. One couple I know uses Super 73 R Adventure Series bikes mounted on their overland truck. They establish remote camps and then use the bikes for local exploration and quick trips to town, eliminating the need to break camp for errands.
Beyond recreation, the utility extends to practical applications. Ranchers could utilize these for fence and livestock checks, and hunters could transport game from remote locations. The versatility of electric adventure bikes is vast and continues to unfold.
To assist you in selecting the ideal adventure e-bike, we have compiled reviews of the models we tested, outlining their pros, cons, and optimal use cases.
Adventure E-Bike Reviews
Super73 R Adventure Series ($3,995)
Rider on a Super73 R Adventure Series off-road electric bike on a dirt path, showcasing its knobby tires and robust build.
Top Speed: 20 mph (motor only), 28 mph (pedal assist)
Range: 40 miles (motor only), up to 75 miles (pedal assist)
While achieving 28 mph with pedal assist on the Super73 R Adventure Series required significant effort, our testers consistently favored this model. Its simplicity and stability, combined with a comfortable 20 mph cruising speed, made it a standout. The inclusion of pedals, unique among the tested bikes, was surprisingly popular, even if it offered marginal speed gains. The robust knobby tires provided excellent traction on dirt and sand while remaining manageable on paved roads. The range is well-suited for day-long explorations, making it a versatile choice for various adventures.
Ubco 2×2 Special Edition ($6,999)
The Ubco 2×2 Special Edition electric bike in green, equipped with racks and pouches, parked on a gravel road.
Top Speed: 30 mph
Range: Up to 75 miles
The Ubco 2×2 Special Edition excels as a dual-purpose vehicle, ideal for both urban commutes and off-road excursions. Its integrated racks and pouches enhance its practicality for carrying essentials like water, gear, and groceries. Reaching 30 mph feels brisk on city streets and almost too rapid on loose gravel. The distinctive green color evokes classic military bikes, adding to its appeal. While the “Special Edition” carries a premium price, a similar base model is available at a more accessible price point, broadening its appeal to different budgets.
Land Energy District Scrambler (Starting at $7,800)
The Land Energy District Scrambler, a high-speed off-road electric bike, pictured on a scenic mountain road.
Top Speed: 72 mph
Range: Up to 120 miles (mode one), 60–80 miles (average use)
The Land District Scrambler is in a class of its own, offering four distinct modes. The initial modes limit speed to under 40 mph, often negating the need for a motorcycle license. However, unlocking modes three and four unleashes its full potential, exceeding 70 mph and requiring a motorcycle license. This bike transitions seamlessly from freeway cruising to challenging mountain trails. While its high performance might be overwhelming for e-bike novices, experienced riders will find it exhilarating. The base price is competitive, but achieving the extended 120-mile range necessitates an additional investment in a larger battery, enhancing its capability for longer adventures.
Super73 K1D ($1,295)
A young child riding a Super73 K1D electric balance bike on grass, showcasing its small size and ease of use for kids.
Top Speed: 15 mph
Range: Up to 120 minutes of use
The Super73 K1D serves as an excellent introductory electric bike for children, akin to a motorized Strider. Its modest speed is perfect for young riders learning throttle and brake control. While primarily a novelty for my children initially, its value as a stepping stone to more powerful motorized bikes is clear. It provides a safe and engaging platform for kids to develop skills and confidence before transitioning to larger models, paving the way for future off-road adventures.
