I wouldn’t necessarily consider myself an outdoorsy sort of guy, but I would consider myself a fan of feeling a breeze on my face and the heart-pumping exercise that one just doesn’t get in the comfort of my sedan. This summer, I’ve been pushing myself to take time to appreciate my surroundings a bit more than from my office window. In fact, I’ve been on the lookout for the right e-bike for me for quite some time.
I’m like Goldilocks in this way. Some e-bikes have been too fast, others are too slow. The charging took too long, while other batteries didn’t hold a charge long enough. While testing out and researching, I have compiled a list of the ten best e-bikes for commuting – or wherever the road may take you.
My criteria, you may ask? First is general performance. I want something that has an easy transition at the start, so that there isn’t any awkward stop-and-go, especially while on the road. I also look for quality brakes, charge time for the batteries, and overall comfort for various body shapes. Finally, I’m a bit conceited (and the Style Editor), so the design of course played a part in my decision-making.
The Best Electric Bikes Under $2,000
Velotric Discover 1
The first e-bike on the list is probably one of the best you’d find right off the bat and the one I’d recommend for pure beginners or those who don’t want to invest too much upfront. The Velotric Discover 1 is quality and comes in a few bright colors, which gives it a wider appeal for many who aren’t taking their commute all that seriously. What’s best about this bike is the battery – both in design and life. It’s totally integrated into the frame of the bike, making for a seamless overall look, while also giving you up to 60 miles on a single charge. Plus, it’s currently on sale for $1,349. For an entry-level electric bike, this might be your best bet.
Bee Cool Adventurer
Understanding that not all roads are created equal, I think having an all-terrain e-bike option (and at a great price!) was important to include. Bee Cool’s Adventurer is equipped with extra-fat tires, giving it a bit more stability than others in its class for whatever weather conditions you may find yourself in during the summer – from heavy rains to gravelly back roads. Plus dual hydraulic disk brakes, 7 speed gear shift, and up to 70 hour charge range gives you plenty to work with on this electric bike.
Radio Flyer M880
An iconic name, it’s nice to see Radio Flyer build an electric bike that is modern and competitive with newer brands. The model itself has a step-through design, making it easy to hop on and off, while a bit of weight makes it an all-around safe bike option. What I particularly enjoy about this model is the puncture-resistant tires, which will give me peace of mind on my commute. The last thing I want is to have a flat after an 8-hour day.
Lectric Xpremium Black
For a sub-$2,000 e-bike, it’s hard to beat the Xpremium. It’s punching way above its weight class with a lot to show for it. For one, the dual-battery technology allows for a whopping 100 miles possible on a single charge. For any on this list – especially in the lower-end price point – that’s impressive. Second to that, it’s a bike that folds up, making integration into office (or cubicle life) that much easier.
The Best Electric Bikes Under $5,000
Michael Blast Greaser Classic
Quite possibly my favorite on the list in terms of style, Michael Blast’s Greaser Classic is an aesthetic after my own heart. Integrating the design language of retro motorcycles into a thoroughly modern mode of transportation puts this bike in its own league here. But style aside, it’s a great all-around e-bike option for those looking to commute with upgrades available to customize the ride to your liking.
Veicar S300 Electric
Another bike with a retro feel, the Veicar S300 takes a more modern approach without sacrificing on charm. This electric bike was built for performance, with a sleek silhouette and 48V 1000W high-speed brushless motor. One could easily transition this bike from workday to weekend. Bonus – it’s currently $800 off.
Priority Current
First and foremost, Priority attracted me because of its dedication to comfort and performance, ensuring a well-rounded experience for any rider. The frame of this bike is a mid-step model with Goodyear Transit Tour tires and a gel-padded seat. While the range and speed of the model are pretty standard, what’s even more intriguing to me is that the Current is available in two shifting models, called Enviolo or Shimano. This gives riders a near-total option for the way they want to ride without spending extra on customization.
The Best Electric Bikes Under $10,000
Hummingbird Gen 2
The Hummingbird lives up to its name. It’s the world’s lightest e-bike and folds up so compactly–it’s a commuter’s dream. It’s made for city living in mind, with a peaked seat for extra visibility and alert riding. Not only that, but a special “boost” option is available to add additional throttle for steep inclines and quick maneuvering.
Vintage Electric Bikes Tracker Classic
Unbelievably cool, the Tracker is another retro-inspired bike that I’m coveting right now. Like the Michael Blast Greaser Classic above, don’t let the vintage design fool you into thinking it doesn’t have all the modern attributes of a stellar e-bike. Its design offers a smooth ride while its internal battery means you can get up to 75 miles with speeds averaging around 25mph – even in hilly areas like San Francisco! And with a tagline like “Laidback when you want it, powerful when you need it,” how could you not love it?
Stromer ST3
Reaching the top of the list and more expensive than my first car, I understand that this one may not be for everyone. But if you’re an experienced rider and want to upgrade, the Stromer may be for you. It’s a totally integrated riding experience, topping the charts on speed (reaching nearly 30 mph), range (about 110 miles), and even smartphone integration. With a traditional design that won’t go out of style, this bike is built to last and be your daily commuter for years to come.
