Best Electric Bikes Consumer Reports Reviews & Buying Guide in 2020

The electric bikes are is a means of transport 12 times less polluting than the car. Able to cover long distances quickly, it offers electric assistance provided by the motor, the battery, and pedaling also. Electric bicycles, city bike, mountain bike or folding bike, choosing the right model is a puzzle. To make it easier for you, below are the best electric bikes reviews consumer reports in 2020.

List of Top Rated Best Electric Bikes

1. VELOWAVE Electric Bike Adults 500W 27.5” Ebike
2. sixthreezero Electric-Bicycles Around The Block Women’s Beach Cruiser Bike
3. Swagtron EB-6 Bandit E-Bike 350W Motor
4. XPRIT Folding Electric Bike, Light Weight
5. Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 Lightweight Aluminum Folding Electric Bike
6. Hiboy BK1 Electric Bike for Kids Age 3-5 Years Old
7. HITWAY Electric Bike for Adults
8. Aostirmotor Folding Electric Bike 20 inch Fat Tire Electric Bicycle

1- VELOWAVE Electric Bike Adults 500W 27.5” Ebike

Daily commuting should be made easier with the vehicles that are affordable and easy to handle. The public usually looks for safe travel options and Velowave made it possible in this era. It has come up with a feasible solution that will keep you grounded and allow you to reach your destinations on time.

This electric bike for adults comes with a 500W of power with a 48V 13Ah battery. Better acceleration and speed is built through the motor that is installed in this bike that can go as high as 25 mph. Even on hard trails and bumpy roads, move freely wherever you desire to be.

You also get to see a multi color TFT display that helps you during your ride. These features include increasing the speed from level 0 to 5, providing battery output and its capacity status. The vision is clear as daylight so that you do not have to squint hard and remove your focus from the road.

Thanks to the high performance suspension fork that makes this bike ready for mountaineering. Coming in the category of best electric bike under 2000, you are able to adjust the suspension according to your need. On top of that, a smooth shifting is possible with Shimano 7 speed drivetrain.

When you are moving on steep hills, the brakes need to be solid which is why this bike comes with dual discs on them. Safety is beyond everything and this feature helps achieve it easily. The height of tires are 27.5 inches with front suspension and a kickstand to park safely.

2- sixthreezero Electric-Bicycles Around The Block Women’s Beach Cruiser Bike

Sixthreezero introduces the best budget electric bike that comes in beautiful colors and a durable steel frame. With 17 inches of frame height, you can move around the neighborhood, beaches or parks without worrying about wrecking it. Coming with an upright riding style, you will have to be tired for about a minute or two.

To bring more comfort during the ride, there are double spring saddles as if you are sitting on clouds. Even the bumpy rides will not be able to hurt you anymore as it comes with form grips and a wide cruiser handlebar. Some of the components are blacked out to give more style and class to the bike.

You get to see 21 speed technology that is from Shimano tourney derailleur. It shifts the friction so that better tackling of bumps can take place. This makes your journey easier when you pass the uphill climbs and cover long distance destinations. Keeping in mind the safety, front and rear hand brakes are always active and ready to save you from trouble.

Its tire size is 26 inches and 2.125 inches wide in a structure which is made from aluminum rims. Comparatively large waffle tread tires contain better cushioning so that the ride becomes smoother than ever. Moreover, easy rolling will make it all possible when you do not have to paddle your lungs out.

One of the features that really stand out is the option for putting up a basket or panniers on the rear rack. You must have seen those pretty baskets filled with flowers in movies and this is your chance to recreate the classic move.

3- Swagtron EB-6 Bandit E-Bike 350W Motor

With a wheel size of 20 inches, this has to be the best electric bike under 1000. So the users who are tight on their budget but want a personal vehicle for daily commute. Swagtron becomes one of those brands that are affordable and highly accommodating to the users of their community.

Built with Fat tire range and aluminum frame, this bike is ideal for mountain climbing and tough trails. There is a 350 W hub motor that is chargeable and can work for up to 4 to 5 hours. A bell is also present to let the pedestrians alert while this E bike EB-6 is coming in hot.

You get to see great grip on the tires with 4 inches wire and 20 inches of rims. Making this perfect for bumpy roads and steep hill climbing, your ride will be smooth and hassle free. Thanks to the dual disc brakes that are ready for better paddling and coast without any trouble.

Stretch the dual level disc brake in case of emergency and even after you stop pedaling, there will be no incidents. This way, you get to see better control over your bike and accurate langinid once you reach your destination safely. In addition to this, you can shift and toggle with 7 speed gears as well.

Every road has its own demands and sense for the traveler so the speed is also different. The user gets to conquer the variety of terrains with this 6061 aluminum series bike. Being in control of your fingertips, still do not forget to wear a helmet as your life is more important than anything else.

4- XPRIT Folding Electric Bike, Light Weight

You get to see 14 inches of wheel size in this XPRIT folding electric bike to make it to the best electric bikes 2022. The reason is simple and convenient because this product is easy to use and even foldable so you can take it anywhere. Certified with 36V and 10Ah battery, it is integrated with 250W of motor.

You get to boost this beauty up to 15.5mph that will cover a distance of 27.9 miles through assisting the pedals. Keep it classy yet simple but safe with the dual disc brake system to avoid mishaps and accidents. There is a headlight LED that will glow during day or night to ensure a safe trail.

Its portable and lightweight structure makes it easy to be carried and driven anywhere around the block or far off distances. The load capacity of this beauty is up to 264lbs so the bulkiest of the body can also enjoy this E-bike anywhere. Working up to many hours after charging, you can notice the battery indicator on the LCD panel.

On top of this, you can also manage other features of this bike through the LCD display to monitor its health. The seat and handlebar are fully adjustable for all body types and moods. A luggage rack is also added in the construction with spring loaded clamping bar to remove the load from your body.

5- Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 Lightweight Aluminum Folding Electric Bike

When you are planning to hit the road but you have kids at home to take care of, it is time to bring them along for your adventure. This is where the Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 tags in as it is specifically made for ages 3 to 5. Integrated with standard battery and BMX style, teach your child the art of cycling.

You obviously want your kid to be safe and do not get too excited on the road so there is only 1 speed number. Keeping consistent speed will allow you to monitor them closely on your own bike as well if you plan to do so. The foldable quality and construction will also enable you to pack it with you on your road trips.

Whenever your child gets fussy, unfold this beauty and let the cool air breeze on them. With a 14 inches of wheel size, keep your freeStyle back in trend so that the swag keeps on burning. A 58cm of average height of this bike makes it medium in range and structure.

Even for teens and adults, the seat is fully adjustable to manage the height according to age. A comfortable ride is what you deserve no matter how long the distance is. Talking about the tires is important because they allow the usage to be smooth and sailing. This is why these wheels are air filled and made from solid rubber with incredible grip.

Through the quick disconnect power lines, you get to see amazing traction and easy maintenance on these flat terrain types.

6- Hiboy BK1 Electric Bike for Kids Age 3-5 Years Old

Since everyone is surrounded with unhealthy technology, an E bike will save you from sloth. This product is designed for young kids from ages 3 to 5 specifically because of their neat construction. Children can be clumsy at times but worry not, since this bike is durable and long lasting.

A great start to spending quality time with your kids on a perfect sunday will be possible once you get your hands on this beauty. Another good thing about it is that it comes 90% installed and fixed so you can give it away after inserting a few screws. From 13 to 16.5 inches of height adjustment, children of all young ages can enjoy this bike.

There are no pedals on the bike but it works with a start button and is easy to operate. After sliding for a short distance, the bike will be on its own and a flexible handlebar will allow kids to control them easily. Their anti-slip grips are present on each side so they do not lose control and trip.

Foot rest will have their tiny feet rest on it during the action and not hang here and there for disruption of balance. Many users like the idea of motorized features with a front V brake system. The E brake is another reliable stopping mechanism that is free of sudden jerks and smoothly stops when necessary. Do not forget to put helmets and knee pads on your kids since safety is important to us all. 

7- HITWAY Electric Bike for Adults

Hitway brings better technology to the public as it serves a portable and foldable vehicle that is long lasting. Even for adults, the 16 inches wheel size contains double suspension to make a bumpy ride smoother. Thanks to the dual disc brakes and electronic brakes and a 49.6 pounds of total weight of the item.

Being lightweight will allow you to take it anywhere and unfold to enjoy a long distance destination in minutes of reach. The whole frame is made from aluminum alloy magnesium so that it becomes nearly unbreakable. Its width is 30.31 inches and folds faster than ever for easily bringing it with you on trips and airports.

We all know riding a bike will be easier when you have no load on your shoulders. This is why the brand adds a rack for carrying a heavy bag and its quick release design makes it an ideal companion for daily commutes. Vacuum tires contain incredible grip and anti slip handlebars for better control over your terrain.

You get to perform amazing through the high end lithium batteries that can serve you many hours of joy and worry free travel experience. Move around the city without any fear and also safe with the headlights and bright backlight as well. There is a light present under the seat as well in case you go through a dark alley.

It has 250W of motor and the highest speed can be 15.5MPH with a gradient of 25 degrees. For maintenance and charging, a 7.5ah battery is removable that will be able to give you 28 miles in normal speed.

8- Aostirmotor Folding Electric Bike 20 inch Fat Tire Electric Bicycle

Talking about an electric bike that has made its way in the current era is the one that can uphold all ages and people. Different body types will not ruin its structure as Aostirmotor holds all the structure together on this product. This brand has created a solution for people who do not want to spend too much money on gas and avoid rush in local transport.

Thanks to this electric folding vehicle which is equipped with 500W of motor and 36C 13Ah of lithium batteries. Its suspensions present on the rear and front part are known to bring the most smooth ride you can ever imagine. Comfortable seating with 20 inches wheel size just feels perfect for all ages.

You can also adjust the height of the seat as if you are sitting on clouds with this one. An average speed of 25mph can cover a maximum distance of 20 to 35 mile with 4 to 6 hours in charging time. Making this vehicle a thing of today’s advanced age, there is an 866 LCD display that shows speed and battery left.

Change the course of the road with 7 speed numbers that require you to move as fast or slow as you desire. Furthermore, 90% of the bike comes assembled so you are almost always ready to go on an unplanned adventure. Its collapsible frame allows you to take with you anywhere or store in tight spots as well in your home or workplace.

How to choose your electric bike?

All over the world, electric bikes are gaining more and more followers. It is expected to sell 2 million electric bikes in 2025 . Fashion, leisure and sport, ecological fiber, practicality or economic logic, the reasons for this plebiscite are diverse. You still have to choose a model suited to your needs.

The type of electric bikes

Choosing an electric bike adapted to your practice and your frequency of use is obvious. You are not going to be cyclocross with a cargo bike! Know the electric city bike represents one pedelec sold out of 3. This means of transport is indeed suitable for urban journeys and for cycling.

After long pitting city bikes against leisure bikes, manufacturers decided to combine the two. This results in the all-road or hybrid bike, a mix between city bike and mountain bike, equipped with a luggage rack and mudguards. The motorized version of the electric bike was not long in coming. It is one of the most popular pedelecs.

The folding electric bicycle competes with the electric scooter for getting around town over short distances, with the additional use of public transport. As for the cargo VAE, it is suitable for transporting heavy loads, which is why many couriers use it. It can also carry children.

The electric mountain bike is aimed at athletes. It comes in several variants: cyclocross, hiking, downhill, freeride and enduro. Or you can choose the speedbike or speedelec , a very fast electric bicycle (over 30 km/h), but prohibited on cycle paths. And recently, the road bike has also gone electric!

The types of electric bike engine

The type of motor can greatly influence the riding comfort of an electric bicycle. This is why we advise you to focus seriously on the engine. Note that all electric bicycle motors have a power limited to 250W.

On most EVs, the motor is located in the crankset. This type of installation favors assistance, pedaling and speed. Despite this, the central motor is not immune to breakdowns, especially if the electrical wiring does not pass through the frame. In addition, the speeds reached encourage the cyclist to go ever faster.

In rare cases, the motor takes place in the hub of the front wheel.The advantage of this installation lies in its simplicity and ease of implementation. A bike equipped with such a motor will be perfect on a relatively flat vertical drop. On the other hand, it will have a lot of difficulty on the climbs and will suffer from slippage at the start. 

Finally, there are electric bicycles equipped with a motor located in the hub of the rear wheel . In this case, the assistance provided is qualified as “all or nothing”. They may well meet your expectations, especially if you want to significantly limit physical exertion.

Electric assistance

Like the engine, ebikes can offer different types of assistance. Cranksets with a force sensor are most often fitted to mid-range and high-end eBikes. They provide progressive assistance and encourage cyclists to exercise at a suitable intensity, to maintain excellent physical shape.

Unlike the pedal force sensor, those pedaling sensor greatly limit the efforts and enable long trips, with many elevation changes, not too tiring. If you ride in the city, opt for a crankset with a pedaling sensor. For versatile use, choose an eBike with a force sensor

Battery performance

The performance of the battery will justify, or not, the purchase of an eBike. Manufacturers generally equip their electric bikes with batteries from 11 to 14 Ah. Logically, the capacity of an accumulator influences its autonomy. However, this is not the only thing to consider when evaluating the performance of a battery.

There are batteries of capacity 400, 500 or 600 Wh, or even more in some electric mountain bikes . The distance to be traveled will condition this capacity. From 5 to 20 km / day, a 400 Wh battery will suffice. Above 20 km / day, opt for at least 500 Wh so as not to break down on the road or recharge too frequently!

Lastly, look at the battery voltage. The latter influences the ability of an eBike to survey the coasts. To be able to easily navigate the streets of your city and cover a greater or lesser distance with each charge, choose a bike with a minimum 11 Ah battery, with 36 V voltage.

The torque and the maximum speed

The torque of an electric bicycle depends on the power of its battery, but also on the torque of its engine. To climb hills with less effort, we recommend a high torque motor. Expressed in Newton-meter, abbreviated Nm, this criterion is always highlighted in the technical data sheet of VAE.

Opt for a torque of 70 Nm or more if you are planning mountain getaways . For city trips, first analyze the characteristics of the streets you use daily, to get an idea of ​​the ideal couple. In general, 50-60 Nm should be sufficient.

Regarding maximum speed, regulations prohibit electrically assisted bicycles from exceeding 20 km / h in urban areas. On track, forest path or during your mountain getaways, you can exceed 40 km / h. Whether for the city or for hiking, your VAE must be equipped with a cruise control.

Speeds

On an electric bicycle, the motor assistance disappears when the battery is discharged. You will therefore be forced to deploy your forces to pedal and reach your destination. To avoid making significant physical efforts, consider the number of speeds available.

For daily journeys on streets or roads with low gradients, you can choose a bicycle with only one gear. On the other hand, if you have to climb significant hills during your daily travels, choose a bike equipped with a minimum 6-speed derailleur.

For treks, the ideal is to invest in a 21-speed mountain bike. Thus, you can easily cross more or less uneven tracks, even without assistance. As for the transmission, the manufacturers offer you a classic derailleur or an integrated gear hub.

The console

Fixed on the handlebars, the console is an important element to which you must pay special attention. Also called the on-board computer, it must provide information on the pace, the gear engaged, the state of the battery or the distance that can be covered with the assistance of the engine.

In the majority of cases, mid-range and high-end bikes have a touchscreen console that offers the possibility of controlling the lights and the level of assistance with a few clicks. Some also offer Bluetooth connectivity, others include USB ports.

The weight

The ideal weight of an electric bicycle is 20 kg. You will easily find heavier e-bikes on the market, especially e-bikes. Except for sports and leisure, heavy pedelecs should be avoided. Indeed, you will have difficulty pedaling with the strength of your legs alone in the event of a battery problem.

However, a relatively powerful electric bike will quickly gain weight over long distances and steep terrain, thanks to the assistance. But keep in mind that you will need to wear it in certain situations. And to transport it on weekends or on vacation, you will need a towing ball carrier, the roof carrier being prohibited.

The different types of electric bikes

The enthusiasm for the electric bike is such that even road bikes have ended up doing it! Here are the models that you will come across the most.

City Electric Bikes

Size for urban journeys, the city VAE represents a third of electric bikes. It is also the most widely used electric bicycle in Europe, especially in large cities. Its motor and battery provide the necessary assistance to navigate more or less steep slopes without too much effort.

The electric city bike offers unparalleled comfort to cyclists in urban areas. But you guessed it, it’s not really suitable for country getaways. Even less if you take hiking trails!

Benefits :

• Made for the city
• Comfortable
• Easy maintenance
• Relatively efficient assistance
• Eligible for certain aid offered by local authorities

Disadvantages:

• Unsuitable for the countryside and hiking trails

Who is it for?

The electric bicycle for urban use is the ideal means of transport for city trips. However, despite its powerful electric assistance, it is not comfortable enough for journeys on rough roads.

Electric VTC

It is the most versatile of electric bikes. It offers total freedom, especially for hiking, trekking, daily journeys or walks. With an electric VTC, you can ride on forest trails, asphalt, hiking trails, towpaths, greenways, paved roads and many more.

Handy and comfortable, this type of VAE has most of the time a suspended front fork and also a suspended saddle. Other paraphernalia include the mudguards and the luggage rack. On the other hand, do not take the electric VTC for an ATV! Off-piste, cyclo-cross and downhill prohibited.

Benefits :

• Can be used in the city and the countryside
• Able to ride on almost any surface
• Very comfortable
• Suitable for daily use as well as occasional use
• Powerful assistance

Disadvantages:

• Will not appeal to daredevils or speed enthusiasts

Who is it for ?

The main advantage of the electric VTC lies in its versatility. No matter what surface you ride on, in town or in the countryside, this type of electric bike will combine comfort and performance.

Folding eBike

The electrically assisted folding bike is available in different models: mountain bike, city bike, mountain bike, cargo bike, etc. Its main advantage lies in its compactness when folded, a must to save space at home, to compensate for the lack of a garage or parking, or even not having to park the bike outside and risk being stolen. .

The folding eBike remains the ideal means of transport for anyone who wants to benefit from the advantages offered by intermodality, but also for those who wish to reduce the ecological impact of their long daily journeys. On the other hand, the battery considerably increases the weight of the folding bike. Good to know if you have to climb the stairs with it!

Benefits :

• Compact
• Comfortable
• Efficient
• Adapted to intermodality
• Available in different models (for city, country, sport, cycle touring, etc.)

Disadvantages:

• Maintenance sometimes difficult depending on the components (derailleur, etc.)
• Even folded up, a folding eBike remains very heavy

Who is it for ?

The electrically assisted folding bicycle is attractive with its compactness and practicality. It is the essential VAE to save space or use different means of transport (metro, train, etc.), during daily trips.

Electric Mountain Bike

This revolutionized mountain biking and made it accessible to as many people as possible. Now any budding cyclist can easily climb hills on a mountain bike, cover long distances and ride at 40 km / h. The geometry of their frame varies according to the practices: hiking, cyclo-cross, freeride, downhill, mountain …

Mid- and high-end E-MTBs typically use a Shimano XT, SLX, or SRAM drivetrain. The brakes are mostly hydraulic discs. And often, the engine delivers more power than an urban eBike. Thus, the electric mountain bike can easily climb significant differences in height and reach a high speed.

Benefits :

• Powerful
• Comfortable
• Safe
• Quick

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for city trips
• Usually more expensive than a city bike

Who is it for ?

Do you like to think outside the box? Treat yourself to an electric mountain bike to go fast and far. Powerful, comfortable and fast, this type of eBike will help you navigate the most uneven tracks, with many unevenness.

Cargo Electric Bike

Also known under the name of electric cargo-bike, the electric cargo bike is equipped with a powerful motor that can effectively assist its user, especially on long journeys with many unevenness. Note that there are different models of electrically assisted cargo-bikes: three-wheeler, two-wheeler and longtails.

It is an ideal form of transport to avoid traffic jams while traveling long distances. Nevertheless, it struggles to seduce because of its limited cargo capacity compared to a vehicle. Equipped with a wooden, plastic or metal crate, the cargo VAE carries both goods and children.

Benefits :

• Large load capacity
• Powerful
• Comfortable
• Easy to maneuver
• Stable
• A must-have bike for professionals, especially craftsmen

Disadvantages:

• Bulky
• Intended primarily for city trips

Who is it for ?

The cargo VAE takes up more space than conventional city VAEs. However, it is an essential means of transport on long journeys with more or less heavy loads. Some models of cargo-bikes can replace small utility vehicles.

Electric Road Bike

The road bike was the last to go electric. However, it did not take long to catch up by offering successful models both aesthetically and in terms of performance. The speed, endurance and ride comfort of electric road bikes is surprising, even among purists.

In addition to allowing better management of efforts, road pedelecs provide longer outings and more distant. The assistance remains proportional to the efforts not to transform the bike into a motorcycle! This type of bike will appeal to beginners, those who resume cycling or cyclists with average physical condition.

Benefits :

• Contained weight and perfectly balanced electric assistance
• The most aerodynamic of the VAE
• To travel very long distances
• Suitable for beginners and cyclists with average physical condition

Disadvantages:

• Very expensive
• Purists will say it’s cheating!

Who is it for ?

With a relatively modest weight for a VAE and very sophisticated aerodynamics, the electric road bike will allow as many people as possible to ride at very high speed and climb mythical passes. It is also a perfect tool for scrubbing or specific work.

What is the price of an electric bicycle

Entry-level electric bikes

It should be noted that electric bikes are expensive, including at the entry level. For less than 1000 dollars, you will mainly find electric folding bikes. There are also rigid bikes at this price point, but these are rarely a bargain. Count up to $2000 for a reliable and not (too) expensive model.

Mid-range electric bikes

For 2000 to $3000 dollars, you have a good chance of finding a quality ebike. Of course, carbon fiber frames are extremely rare at this price, but the bikes will offer more comfort and performance than at the entry level. City VAE, electric VTC or even electric mountain bike are among the models offered.

High-end electric bikes

From 3,000 dollars, an electric bike will be considered top of the range. Very high-end models start at 6,000 dollars. Sold for 10,000 to 12,000 dollars, the Trek Raill 9.9 is considered one of the most expensive. But without reaching such heights, you should find happiness between $4000 and $7000 .

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Which electric bike to choose?

A. In our opinion, the best electric bike for most people is the Swagtron EB5 Pro electric mountain bike. The Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 1 will be perfect for city trips. If you are looking for an electrically assisted road bike, the ANCHEER Electric Bike is a must have. Finally, the NCM Prague Electric Mountain Bike is a benchmark in electric mountain biking.

Q. How to choose your electric bike?

A. Many criteria are taken into account when choosing an electric bike: the type of bike you are interested in, the motor, the electric assistance, the battery performance, the torque and speed, the transmission, the console. order and the weight of the eBike.

Q. What are the different types of electric bikes?

A. In the market, there are city pedelecs, folding pedelecs, electric mountain bikes, cargo pedelecs and electric road bikes.

Q. How much does an electric bicycle cost?

A. The prices range from 800 to 12,000 dollars, or even more. Quality models sell for between $1500 and 6000 dollars.

Q. What are the best brands of electric bikes?

NAKTO is an essential brand in the pedelec market. When it comes to electric mountain bikes, Ancheer is number one in the world.