Bike enthusiasts often talk about having a “quiver” of bikes – multiple bikes, each perfectly suited for different riding styles and terrains. Even those who own just one bike secretly dream of expanding their collection. If that single bike happens to be an electric bike, it might seem a bit out of the ordinary in the traditional cycling world.
E-bikes frequently become additions to an existing bike collection. Many people opt for electric commuters for quicker and easier city travel. While some might prefer motorcycles for commuting, an e-MTB (electric mountain bike) can be a fantastic addition to the quiver, especially for trail riding. Although regulations might restrict e-bike access on certain trails and many riders still enjoy traditional bikes, the e-MTB offers a unique and enjoyable experience.
This raises a crucial question for riders with a stable of bikes already: How can you incorporate an e-MTB without breaking the bank? What are the Electric Bikes Cheapest options that still deliver solid performance on the trails?
Are Used Electric Mountain Bikes the Cheapest Route?
Yes, used e-MTBs can definitely be more budget-friendly upfront. However, diving into the used market for electric bikes opens a new set of considerations, which we can explore in detail another time. When considering a second-hand e-bike, you’ll need to investigate factors such as the motor’s usage hours, the battery’s health and lifespan, and whether the bike’s software is still up-to-date.
Buying used e-bikes requires caution. But, if you stumble upon a recent model from a reputable brand with minimal wear, it could be an excellent way to find electric bikes cheapest.
Key Considerations When Searching for Cheap Electric Bikes
Let’s establish some guidelines for finding affordable e-MTBs. Firstly, avoid unknown brands from online marketplaces that might compromise safety and quality. Secondly, for true mountain biking, prioritize full-suspension e-MTBs over hardtails. Hardtails, in general, can be less comfortable and capable on challenging trails. Ideally, look for an e-MTB with at least 140mm of suspension travel, as discussed in our Norco Fluid VLT review.
Here’s a practical approach to finding electric bikes cheapest that are still trail-worthy:
Consider direct-to-consumer brands. Buying directly from manufacturers often results in significant savings because it eliminates the traditional bike shop markup, typically around 30%. While local bike shops offer valuable services, experienced mechanics comfortable with bike maintenance might find direct-to-consumer brands a cost-effective option.
Aluminum frames are your friend when seeking electric bikes cheapest. While carbon fiber frames are lighter, alloy frames significantly reduce the price. The added weight of an alloy e-bike frame is less noticeable on trails compared to non-electric bikes, especially when you have motor assistance.
Two shock options on e-bikes
Pay attention to suspension components, especially when looking for electric bikes cheapest. While compromises are inevitable on a budget, prioritize decent rear shocks and forks. Specifically, for e-MTBs with over 140mm of rear travel, avoid rear shocks without a piggyback reservoir. Piggyback reservoirs provide extra oil volume, ensuring consistent damping performance during extended, rough descents. Shocks lacking this feature can overheat, leading to a bouncy and uncontrolled rear suspension.
A Strong Contender in the Realm of Cheapest Electric Bikes
Canyon Torque:ON 7
The Canyon Torque:ON 7, currently priced at $3,999, stands out as a top pick for electric bikes cheapest that doesn’t compromise significantly on performance. After extensive searching, it’s hard to find a better e-MTB at this price without resorting to questionable sources.
Canyon Torque:ON 7 – Pros:
- Powerful Shimano EP600 motor.
- Robust RockShox Zeb fork for capable front suspension.
- RockShox Deluxe rear shock equipped with a piggyback reservoir.
- Generous suspension travel: 175mm rear and 180mm front, ample for challenging trails.
Canyon Torque:ON 7 – Cons:
- 27.5” wheels. A mixed wheel setup (mullet) might be preferable for some riders, although retrofitting is a possibility.
- Entry-level Shimano M6100 components.
- Model name isn’t the easiest to pronounce.
Despite minor drawbacks, the Canyon Torque:ON 7 offers exceptional value, packing in a lot of bike for its price tag. Commencal, another direct-to-consumer brand, offers the Meta Power TR at a similar price point. The Commencal boasts a Bosch Performance Line CX motor, a notable advantage, but its suspension components are less impressive. If your riding terrain is less demanding, the 140mm travel 29er Meta Power TR could be a viable alternative in the electric bikes cheapest category.
Beyond these options, most entry-level e-MTBs from major brands start closer to the $5,000 mark. While spending more can get you upgraded components, the Canyon Torque:ON 7 remains a compelling option for riders seeking electric bikes cheapest.
While this search wasn’t exhaustive, if you know of an e-MTB that surpasses the Canyon Torque:ON 7 in value within the electric bikes cheapest category, share your recommendations in the comments below!
