Electric bikes have exploded in popularity, and honestly, it's easy to see why. They can transform your daily commute into something faster, less exhausting, and way more enjoyable—plus you'll never get stuck in traffic again. Over the past eight years, we've put nearly 100 of the market's top electric bikes through their paces, watching them evolve from basic models to today's powerhouses that can double or triple your riding range compared to older versions.

We don't just read spec sheets here—we actually buy these bikes, assemble them ourselves, weigh every component, and test them extensively with our team of riders plus a motorcycle dynamometer for the technical stuff. It's been fascinating to watch how far e-bike technology has come.

Our top pick for most people? The Segway Xafari takes the crown as the best overall electric bike. It's got serious power, incredible comfort, and it's ready for pretty much anything you can throw at it. The full-suspension setup and feature-packed design make it a standout winner.

If you're planning to haul kids, groceries, or gear around, check out the Aventon Abound LR. We're genuinely impressed by how well this thing handles when loaded up with its maximum 440-pound capacity.

Fat tire bikes usually aren't much fun to ride, but slap an electric motor on one and everything changes. The Aventon Aventure.2 proves this point perfectly—those massive 4-inch tires combined with a powerful motor mean you can tackle terrain that would stop other bikes dead in their tracks.

For deeper dives into specific categories, we've got dedicated reviews covering commuter bikes, Class 3 speed demons, and cargo haulers that go way beyond what we can cover here.

Editor's Note: We updated this review on July 1, 2025, with the latest info on our testing team and to make sure our award picks are still the cream of the crop.

Our 11 Best Electric Bikes

Best Overall Electric Bike: Segway Xafari

What We Love:

• Seriously powerful motor (1300 watts at peak)
• Outstanding range that keeps going and going
• Massive battery capacity
• Full-suspension smooths out everything

What's Not So Great:

• Way too heavy for most bike racks
• Uses proprietary parts that might be tough to replace

Who should buy it: The Segway Xafari is perfect for commuters and casual riders who want a feature-loaded e-bike that doesn't compromise on comfort or capability. It dominated our electric commuter bike review for good reason. The full-suspension design, aggressive knobby tires, and huge battery make it ideal for long rides—we managed over 38 miles without touching the pedals. The 55-pound cargo rack, clever self-locking system, and incredibly bright lights make daily commuting a breeze. You can switch between Class 2 (20 mph with throttle) and Class 3 (28 mph, pedal-assist only) modes depending on your speed needs. Note: California riders are stuck with Class 2 only due to state regulations.

Why it's special: The comfort level and cutting-edge features are in a league of their own. That full-suspension frame delivers one of the smoothest rides I've experienced on any e-bike, while intuitive touches like a scroll wheel for single-thumb power adjustments make everything effortless. The massive 936Wh battery provides the longest range in our testing, and there's this cool gyroscope feature that automatically bumps up power when it detects you're climbing a hill. The high-tech app lets you track rides, navigate routes, and even take calls through the bike's display.

Should you pull the trigger? This is hands-down our favorite commuter bike, but that 94-pound weight is no joke—it's 20-30 pounds heavier than most other e-bikes. Good luck finding a bike rack that can handle it, and don't even think about carrying it upstairs. The specs work for most riders, but if you're particularly short (5'1") or tall (6'2"), the limited 6-inch seatpost adjustment might be a problem. The upside? The dealer network means no assembly headaches, you can actually test ride before buying, and pricing stays competitive with direct-to-consumer brands. If you're looking for a potential car replacement and plan to ride it everywhere rather than transport it, the Xafari is absolutely worth the investment.

Best Overall Cargo Bike: Aventon Abound LR

Price: $1,999 at Aventon Bikes

What We Love:

• Incredible 440-pound weight capacity
• Large, versatile rear rack setup
• High quality at a reasonable price
• Impressive range for a cargo bike

What's Not So Great:

• You'll need accessories to unlock its full potential
• Pretty heavy to move around
• Small display can be hard to read while riding

Who should buy it: The Aventon Abound LR absolutely crushed the competition in our electric cargo bike shootout. It's ideal for families, commuters, or anyone who needs to haul serious loads. The suspension fork and dual-foot center stand make parking easy and keep everything stable when you're loading up kids, cargo, coolers, or even surfboards. Aventon's extensive accessory lineup means you can customize it exactly how you need it. Several people here at GearLab have made the Abound their daily ride, and considering how many bikes we test, that says everything about how good this thing is.

Why it's special: The range and innovative features really set this apart. In our testing, it went 33.4 miles on throttle alone—perfect for anyone worried about running out of juice. The motor and torque sensor work together beautifully for smooth acceleration and power delivery. Cool features like rear turn signals and a suspension seatpost make every ride more comfortable. The lockable storage box and Aventon Control Unit (ACU) technology include GPS tracking and remote locking for security once you park. As tester Victoria McNamara put it: "The compact wheels make parking a breeze while still feeling solid for heavy loads, like when I'm hauling my three and five-year-olds on the back."

Should you pull the trigger? After extensive testing, we're convinced this isn't just the best-performing cargo bike—it's also an excellent value. The impressive range, powerful motor, and thoughtful features make hauling heavy loads safe and comfortable. However, those 20-inch wheels don't roll quite as smoothly as larger ones, and the hefty 87-pound weight is definitely a consideration. The size and mass could be challenging if you don't have proper storage space or need to maneuver in tight areas.

Best Electric Commuter Bike: Aventon Level 3

Price: $1,899 at Aventon Bikes

What We Love:

• Excellent ride quality that feels just right
• ACU functionality with 4G and GPS connectivity
• Quality brakes and drivetrain components
• Impressive range for daily commuting

What's Not So Great:

• Headlight could be brighter
• Charging port location below the downtube is awkward

Who should buy it: The Aventon Level 3 is nearly perfect for electric commuting, packed with features and easy rideability that make it ideal for getting around town. Bike commuters who want a sporty feel and the convenience of cycling without arriving sweaty are going to love this. It comes with a rack, integrated lights, fenders, and a built-in electronic lock. While not quite as powerful as some models, it's light enough to haul on many bike racks when you need to go faster or farther. The hybrid-style design gives you excellent visibility whether you're navigating city streets or countryside roads.

Why it's special: This bike's build is perfectly dialed for commuting, with details that genuinely impressed us. The Magura hydraulic brakes are smoother than most, and using the Aventon Control Unit (ACU) feels like tapping into the future. The 4G connectivity and GPS let you track, navigate, and even set up geo-fencing for your bike. It's light enough to feel sporty, but the large battery and efficient motor will push you 38.1 miles without pedaling. You can lock the rear wheel or remove the keyless battery using a code or the app. Front and rear lights, reflective tires, and turn signals provide excellent visibility for commuting.

Should you pull the trigger? If you want to seriously upgrade your commute, this bike earned its way to the top of our testing. Riders from 5'3" to 6'4" can choose from two frame sizes and styles, then dial in their fit with the adjustable stem. My main complaint is that it's tough to find a place to test ride before buying, but that's changing as Aventon builds relationships with local bike shops nationwide. This bike is also an exceptional value at this price point and feels genuinely high-quality.

Best Value Cargo Bike: Lectric XPedition 2.0

What We Love:

• Exceptional value for what you get
• Potent motor that handles loads well
• Available with massive 1680Wh battery option
• Large hauling capacity for families

What's Not So Great:

• Kickstand can be tricky to operate
• Pedals feel unstable during use
• Suspension seatpost can stick

Who should buy it: The Lectric XPedition 2.0 is perfect for budget-conscious families and urban commuters who need serious hauling capacity more than speed records. With a 450-pound payload capacity, including a 300-pound rear rack rating, it's ideal for hauling kids, groceries, or heavy loads. The stable frame works for riders from 4'11" to 6'5". Three battery options (624Wh, 1248Wh, or 1680Wh) let you match range to your needs, from daily commutes to long hauls, making it a practical and affordable car replacement for around-town errands.

Why it's special: This is hands-down the best value in a cargo bike I've seen. It delivers responsive power even under heavy loads. The suspension fork, hydraulic disc brakes, full fenders, lights, and turn signals improve both ride quality and road safety. Lectric's extensive accessory lineup, including child seats and cargo bags, maximizes versatility. As tester Joshua Hutchens noted: "I love the tunable suspension and robust hauling capacity. I haven't seen a better cargo bike at this price point."

Should you pull the trigger? While the value can't be beat, it weighs 75 pounds and has a kickstand that's tricky for smaller riders or when parking on soft ground. The single charger for dual-battery setups can also slow down charging times. For most people, the XPedition 2.0's performance, versatility, and unbeatable price make it a compelling purchase, especially for replacing car trips or handling family errands.

Most Useful Electric Bike: Specialized Globe Haul ST

What We Love:

• Great ride quality that feels natural
• Easy to store compared to long-tail cargo bikes
• Exceptional range for its size
• Tons of expansion possibilities

What's Not So Great:

• Accessories cost more than we'd like
• Only room for one kid in back
• Premium pricing throughout

Who should buy it: The Specialized Haul ST is ideal for urban commuters, families, or anyone looking to replace car trips with a versatile, heavy-duty e-bike. The short 43-inch wheelbase makes it agile and perfect for navigating city streets, while the burly frame and 419-pound capacity are built for hauling groceries, a single child, or other medium-sized loads. As tester Joshua Hutchens put it: "It's not too much bike for commuting, but it's enough bike to haul groceries or a single child." The short-tail design ensures easy parking and storage, and it's small enough to transport on a bike rack—appealing to those with limited space or frequent travel plans.

Why it's special: This bike has a fun, well-thought-out design that really works. The ride quality is top-notch thanks to quality tires that soak up bumps and provide incredible stability. The larger battery delivers nearly 32 miles of range, and it has a 28 mph top speed—8 mph faster than some cargo bikes. You can customize it with Specialized's accessory lineup or the T rail rack system, and the unique short-tail frame ensures nimble handling without sacrificing utility. As our testers noted: "This is one of the only cargo bikes I would describe as both fun and practical. Most other cargo bikes just aren't very nimble or fast."

Should you pull the trigger? I love almost everything about this bike except the price tag. Even the accessories cost more than I'd prefer. Specialized has some genuinely cool plastic cargo bins (sold separately) that outperform panniers, but they're expensive and require costly adapters. Many e-bike brands include more accessories or sell them at much lower prices. If you're willing to invest in a premium, fun, and highly capable bike to minimize car use, the Haul ST is a winner—but budget-conscious buyers should definitely compare options.

Best Simple Electric Bike: Ride1Up Roadster V3

What We Love:

• Premium feel throughout
• Three frame sizes available
• Lightweight compared to most e-bikes
• Clean, minimalist design

What's Not So Great:

• Minimal adjustability within each size
• Narrow tires offer little cushioning
• Limited to single-speed

Who should buy it: The Ride1Up Roadster V3 is an urban-focused e-bike with stylish looks and lighter weight—great for city commuting or casual rides. It scored among the highest in our budget e-bike shootout. At 42 pounds, it appeals to riders who value aesthetics and portability; most people will feel comfortable carrying it up a couple of flights of stairs, which isn't something I'd say about most other e-bikes. The single-speed drivetrain, paired with a medium-powered hub motor, works well on flat or moderately hilly terrain, making it ideal for city dwellers who don't need complex gearing. With three frame sizes, it accommodates most riders, though adjustability within sizes is somewhat limited. The 300-pound weight capacity is practical for a single rider.

Why it's special: I love the lively, responsive ride and clean design. As tester Chris McNamara noted: "I didn't realize how sluggish and heavy most e-bikes are until I got on this flyweight." The torque sensor delivers smooth, intuitive power, eliminating the need for gears in most conditions. The battery achieved an 18.9-mile range in throttle-only testing at the highest power setting, and an optional range extender setting can boost this by about 40%. The VeloFox DM09 display blends seamlessly into the bike's sleek aesthetic, and premium components like Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, belt drive, and a quality saddle enhance the ride. The skinnier tires offer efficient rolling and solid traction but aren't meant for long off-road adventures.

Should you pull the trigger? This bike offers a fantastic blend of style, performance, and functionality for cyclists looking for good value. The 25 mph pedal-assist speed (20 mph throttle-only) doesn't compete with more powerful models, but it's plenty for most people. The single-speed drivetrain and smaller motor limit performance on steep hills, and you'll feel more bumps with the small tires and lack of suspension. All that said, the Roadster V3 is a solid deal for those wanting a sleek, fun ride that can be carried up stairs when needed.

Best Fat Tire Electric Bike: Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through

What We Love:

• Potent motor with plenty of grunt
• Comfortable fat tires work great on various surfaces
• Large battery with respectable range
• Aventon smartphone app integration

What's Not So Great:

• Large tires can feel sluggish on pavement
• Pretty heavy to move around
• Takes up a lot of space

Who should buy it: The Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through is a versatile electric bike that will appeal to those who ride diverse terrains, from dirt roads to leisurely trails. It accommodates riders up to 400 pounds and offers both step-through and step-over frame styles in two sizes, making it accessible for many users. With integrated fenders, lights, rear rack, and turn signals, it's well-suited for everything from urban commuting to exploring in rain or darkness to adventurous outings.

Why it's special: I appreciate the robust performance and thoughtful design. The larger motor effortlessly reaches a top pedal-assisted speed of 28mph, while the battery delivers a throttle-only range of just over 28 miles. The 4-inch wide tires and front suspension ensure stability and smooth rides across varied surfaces. Many of my co-testers praised the high-quality, centrally mounted, full-color display for its clarity and ease of use, making this bike stand out for functionality and comfort.

Should you pull the trigger? This is a great choice if you value versatility and durability, but the 77-pound weight is substantial. As our testers noted: "It's challenging to transport. It's too heavy for most bike racks and difficult to carry up stairs or load into a truck." The big knobby tires, while excellent off-road, impact handling on pavement and can feel sluggish at times. But if you're not planning to haul or carry the bike anywhere, and you need something that can handle mixed-terrain adventures, it's a solid investment. I've started testing the Aventure.3 with all the ACU functionality; check back soon for the full review.

Best Overall Folding Electric Bike: Blix Vika X

Price: $1,799 at Blix Bikes

What We Love:

• Premium ride quality for a folder
• Quality features throughout
• Easy assembly out of the box
• Lightweight for this category
• Adjustable fit for different riders

What's Not So Great:

• Premium pricing
• Minimal vibration dampening
• Compromises inherent to folding design

Who should buy it: The Blix Vika X is a folding bike that offers one of the best balances of convenience and performance I've seen. The Vika series has been our top choice in folding e-bike reviews for years, and it's ideal for urban commuters or adventurers with limited storage space. It folds to a compact 35" x 20" x 26" and weighs less than 56 pounds, making transport manageable. It suits riders between 4'10" and 6'2", though taller riders may feel slightly cramped. Despite its compact nature, it still offers features like turn signals, a horn, and a light-duty cargo rack rated for 60 pounds.

Why it's special: Folding bikes often conjure images of quirkiness and compromises, but the Vika X is anything but. The motor delivers strong torque, accelerating to 20 mph with throttle and assisting up to 28 mph, while the battery offers a throttle-only range of nearly 25 miles—comparable to many full-size e-bikes. Electronic shifting, torque sensor, and high-quality display elevate the riding experience. Hydraulic disc brakes, fenders, and lights ensure reliability in various weather conditions. I also appreciated that the bike came nearly fully assembled, taking just 13 minutes to complete.

Should you pull the trigger? While the ride quality is enjoyable, it isn't as plush as heavier models with 4-inch tires and suspension forks. The range and comfort could be improved, and taller riders may find it less accommodating. For budget-conscious buyers, there are other options with similar adjustability and range at lower prices, but you may lose some torque and convenience features. This is still our highest-rated folding bike, and if you're willing to spend extra, we highly recommend it.

Best Value Folding Electric Bike: Lectric XP 3.0 Step-Thru

What We Love:

• No assembly required—arrives ready to ride
• Folding frame for easy storage
• Versatile tires handle various terrain
• Excellent value proposition
• Dual-battery compatibility

What's Not So Great:

• Shorter wheelbase feels less stable
• Average range compared to some competitors
• Heavy for a folding bike

Who should buy it: The Lectric XP 3.0 is ideal for riders needing a compact, versatile folding electric bike that fits in tight spaces like car trunks, office corners, or small apartments (and fits in a small budget). It adjusts to accommodate riders from 4'10" to 6'3", and surprisingly, it's one of the few folding options I was willing to take off the pavement—well-suited to urban commuters or casual adventurers. With a cargo rack, fenders, lights, ergonomic grips, and an optional passenger seat, it offers decent convenience and customization. The optional long-range battery opens doors for extended trips.

Why it's special: This bike delivers powerful performance and user-friendly design. Testers raved about the fully assembled delivery, which I know will be a huge draw for some riders. "I just unfolded it and started riding!" It reaches up to 28 mph with pedal assist and 20 mph on throttle, with range on par with other top folding models. The 3-inch knobby tires and suspension fork provide solid comfort, while wider handlebars and tight turning radius ensure maneuverability. Long-term testing has proven its durability—it has survived rough treatment and outdoor storage.

Should you pull the trigger? The XP 3.0 is a strong choice for those seeking portability and power, but the 62.5-pound weight is challenging to lift into vehicles or carry upstairs. While the wide tires offer more comfort than skinny ones, they're less plush than 4-inch tires, and the smaller wheels plus short wheelbase reduce stability at high speeds. However, this is common with folding bikes, and if you value easy storage, adjustability, and durability, the tradeoff can be worth it.

Best Moped Style Class 3 Electric Bike: Ride1Up Revv 1 FS

What We Love:

• Incredibly powerful motor
• Quick and sporty performance
• Class-leading range
• High performance-to-cost ratio

What's Not So Great:

• Nearly 100 pounds—seriously heavy
• This isn't exactly a traditional "bike"
• Pedaling isn't very practical

Who should buy it: The Ride1Up Revv 1 FS is perfect for adventurous riders and urban commuters who like to go fast. The Revv series has been on our Class 3 e-bike review podium for years. It's a powerful, moped-style Class 3 e-bike with exceptional range and comfort. The large battery delivered impressive throttle-only range, outpacing all tested models. Ideal for those tackling rough terrain or long rides, the Multi-Class Speed System and unlockable off-road mode cater to riders navigating varied terrains or private property.

Why it's special: I love the Revv 1 FS for its outstanding performance, comfort, and sheer fun factor. The 52V system and 1000W hub motor provide remarkable power for its size. For reference, few models can charge up a hill on throttle only the way this bike can. The 120mm front and 50mm rear suspension (most e-bikes don't have rear suspension at all) ensure a smooth ride on rough terrain. I passed the bike to others on the testing team, and they noted: "I could easily read the central display for all crucial ride data, and it was easy to assemble, even though I wouldn't consider myself super techy." While other bikes have unlocked off-road modes, one reviewer noted: "Most bikes aren't even in the same league of speed and power. I get to most places around town faster than a car, especially when you factor in ease of parking."

Should you pull the trigger? This is a top choice for power, range, and comfort. However, the nearly 97-pound weight may be too much for those needing to transport it frequently. Even with a bike rack rated to 100 pounds, the large tires and fenders make it tricky to load and secure. While it technically has pedals, using them is inefficient since it's hard to extend your legs fully, and the seat height isn't adjustable. Luckily, it goes nearly 40 miles per charge.

Best Budget Electric Mountain Bike: Aventon Ramblas

Price: $2,599 at Aventon Bikes

What We Love:

• Incredible value for an e-MTB
• Outstanding range for trail riding
• Class-leading power output
• Versatile enough for commuting

What's Not So Great:

• Pretty hefty for a hardtail
• Non-adjustable suspension fork
• Cable routing through the head tube

Who should buy it: The Aventon Ramblas is an affordable electric mountain bike well-suited for entry-level riders, especially those wanting a more robust ride without breaking the bank. It's offered in four sizes (with the smallest using 27.5-inch wheels) and accommodates riders down to 5'1". While it's not built for the most technical terrain or aggressive riding, its ample power, front and rear lights, and even a kickstand make it surprisingly versatile. As tester Chris McNamara said: "No other e-MTB so easily doubles as a daily commuter."

Why it's special: As a newcomer to the electric mountain bike market, Aventon is making waves with the Ramblas' strong value proposition. The build is trail-ready out of the box, featuring a respectable suspension fork, powerful brakes, and a dropper seatpost. The battery is among the largest available with impressive range and total vertical feet. Aventon's motor churns out a category-leading 100 Nm of torque. "Holy smokes, this thing rips!" exclaimed one tester—it's the most powerful motor we've tested to date.

Should you pull the trigger? The Ramblas should be on your shortlist if you're seeking a value-packed e-MTB with impressive power. It's not the most comfortable frame and lacks tubeless-compatible wheels, but the power and price more than compensate. Like all hardtails, you'll feel jolts and jostles on bumpy and technical trails. At 54 pounds, it's just a pound lighter than full-suspension competitors, delivering on fun and function. The Class 1 designation keeps it legal on many trails but prevents throttling up to 20 mph or pedaling up to 30 mph.

Could Owning an Electric Bike Actually Pay for Itself?

While finding a truly free electric bike is pretty much impossible, replacing your car trips with an e-bike will likely save you more in gas, maintenance, and vehicle depreciation than the cost of an e-bike over 1-2 years. We dive deeper into this topic in our free electric bike article.

Why You Can Trust Our Reviews

Bike testing at GearLab started with mountain bikes in 2017, and we've expanded to include over ten bike categories, adding electric bikes to our lineup in 2019. Since then, we've purchased and extensively tested more than 100 of the best e-bike models across various categories. We're constantly hunting for the latest and greatest e-bikes to compare against our tried-and-true favorites. With over 1,000 bikes and bike-related products tested, we've gotten a taste of just about everything.

Joshua Hutchens: I'm a lifelong cyclist and self-declared bike wonk. I had my first bike shop job in 1986, and as a meticulous mechanic, lifelong commuter, and athlete, I'm obsessed with bicycles and how we use them. I've spent my life sharing my two-wheeled passion with others in various roles, including my current position as Senior Bike Review Editor at OutdoorGearLab. I've spent many years guiding cycling trips worldwide with Backroads, owned and operated one of "America's Top Bike Shops," and was one of the founders of The Lumberyard Indoor Bicycle Park. I've raced nearly every cycling discipline and now spend my days testing bikes and coaching mountain biking through the local community college.

Jeremy Benson: I'm a long-time Tahoe resident and occasional pro racer, using my biking experience to contribute to our e-bike and mountain bike reviews. I've been riding bikes for over 30 years and have authored multiple guidebooks, including a resource for the Lake Tahoe basin, Mountain Bike Tahoe.

Enduring gratitude to Kyle Smaine for his contributions. Smaine was a South Lake Tahoe native, World Champion skier, talented rider, and meaningful contributor to our reviews.

How We Actually Test These Bikes

Not all e-bikes serve the same purpose, so we use a comprehensive approach that considers the bike type, intended use, and what matters most in each category. The most important metrics are ride quality, range, user interface, and power output—these apply to all e-bikes. From there, we dig deeper into category-specific nuances: downhill and climbing performance for mountain bikes, carrying capacity for cargo bikes, and folded size for folding e-bikes. Beyond miles of methodical testing on and off pavement, we build, tune, and maintain these bikes. For Class 2 e-bikes with throttles, we test power output on a modified motorcycle dynamometer.

The bikes get loaded, carried, and hauled around for months, going from garage to bike racks to trailheads. We measure angles, record weights, and assess ride quality. We spend enough time with each bike to identify its best and worst attributes, even riding them outside their intended uses to see how versatile they can be. We disassemble them to inspect wiring and motor connections. Over the years, we've developed favorites that we keep, giving us multi-year perspectives on long-term performance and durability. We've been testing different bike styles since 2017, but our team of bike experts has been at it for a combined century.

How to Choose the Perfect Electric Bike for You

Deciding you want an electric bike over a regular one is just the first step—the decision definitely doesn't end there. Almost every bicycle style has its e-bike equivalent these days, and with so many options, it can be overwhelming to wade through motor specs, weight limits, and features to find what works best for you. But it's absolutely possible to find your perfect match!

Where Do You Want to Ride?

Your lifestyle, location, and budget are probably the three biggest factors when deciding which e-bike will suit you, so ask yourself: Where do I want to ride? This question will help narrow down the enormous range of choices to a select few from the right category. Want to rip around mountain trails? An e-MTB is the obvious choice. Live in the city and want to bike-commute daily? A sleek, zippy, lightweight electric commuter or city bike is your best bet. For weekend cruises to the park or beach, you might opt for something prioritizing comfort and cost. Have kids, pets, or other cargo to haul? You'll want something from the electric cargo bike category. Different bike classes also dictate where you can legally ride, and state, local, and regional regulations vary, so check if your bike meets your area's requirements.

Classes of Electric Bikes

The 3-class system is becoming widely accepted for regulating e-bike use, but laws vary by state and even country. With some powerful bikes riding the line between mopeds and e-bikes, and others simply adding boost to your leg power, a bike's power and speed capabilities determine where you can legally ride them.

Some bikes can be configured to fit multiple categories if needed. For example, many Class 3 bikes can be adjusted to top out at 20 mph (Class 2), and often the throttle can be disconnected to fall under Class 1. Regardless of class, most e-bikes are limited to motors with one horsepower (750W) or less.

Class 1: Electric bikes that are pedal-assist only—power is delivered only when you're pedaling. Motors support top pedal-assisted speeds up to 20mph, and they're typically allowed in bike lanes and multi-use trails, essentially anywhere a regular bike can go. Nearly all electric mountain bikes fall into this category.

Class 2: These also have a 20mph top motor speed but include a throttle (usually a thumb paddle or twist grip) that propels the bike without pedaling—like an electric scooter. They also have pedal assist with different power levels. Usually allowed in bike lanes and multi-use paths, but there are exceptions in certain states and localities.

Class 3: These bikes take it up a notch with higher speed limits. They can have a throttle (or not) and pedal assist, with throttle limited to 20 mph and pedal assist up to 28 mph. There are typically more restrictions on who can ride them and where. You may be required to wear a helmet, and in many states, anyone under a certain age can't ride unless they're a passenger. They're not always allowed on bike paths, so check local regulations before heading out.

Types of E-bikes

Whatever your preferred riding style, there's probably an e-bike version to fit. While many features are the same as traditional bikes, a few motor or battery-specific details are different.

Cruiser Electric Bikes: These prioritize comfort, convenience, and ease of use, just like traditional cruisers. They feature relaxed, upright riding positions and are made for long, slow outings down neighborhood bike paths or side streets leading to the beach. Very user-friendly with step-through frame options for easier mounting and dismounting. Wider, smoother tires make them best suited for pavement rides.

City/Commuter Electric Bikes: Purpose-built with quick power output, many operate at higher speeds to keep up with city traffic. For some riders, they can potentially replace a car (and may even make commutes shorter). Depending on commute length, look for models with larger batteries to boost range. Many include headlights, tail lights, and brake lights for enhanced visibility, plus features like fenders or small racks for protection and cargo transport.

Folding Electric Bikes: Designed to fold down for minimal size and maximum portability. Perfect for riders with limited storage space or who need to fit their bike into vehicles rather than on bike racks. Also great for those preferring to bring their investment inside rather than leaving it chained outside. Ideal for frequent travelers, RVers, city dwellers, and office workers. The downside is often less stable handling due to smaller wheels, tall handlebars, and geometries dictated by folding designs.

Electric Cargo Bikes: For most people, cargo e-bikes are more likely to replace cars than any other style. Often extra long to accommodate larger rear cargo racks or featuring box/wheelbarrow-style cargo spaces. Dual kickstands commonly support added length and weight. Most brands selling cargo bikes also offer various accessories to tailor storage/cargo space to your needs—baskets, bike trailer attachments, child seats, and pannier mounts. Larger hauling capacity and extended length can mean trickier handling and much heavier bikes, even before adding cargo.

Fat Tire Electric Bikes: Feature extra-wide, often knobby tires like their analog counterparts. Higher tire volume increases contact area, so they float better over soft conditions like sand and snow, while dampening the ride enough that these bikes often don't need separate suspension systems. Tires range from 3.7" to 5.2" wide, compared to 1.75" to 2.25" on standard bikes. Adding powerful motors helps propel you through varying terrain and surface conditions more quickly.

Electric Mountain Bikes: Built for off-road use and equipped to handle steep ups and downs like their analog cousins. Often the priciest options because they're built with rugged suspension systems, lighter weight frames, beefy tires, and frame geometry suited to rougher trails. Motors are typically regulated to Class 1, with multiple pedal-assist levels and 20 mph top speeds.

Electric Road/Gravel Bikes: Traditional road bikes have sporty forward-leaning geometry, narrow tires, and lightweight frames focused on performance and efficiency. Their motorized counterparts have the same features but are inevitably heavier due to battery and motor. Gravel bikes strike a balance between road and off-road use—adding a motor enhances versatility and can expand riding range even further.

What Else to Consider

Now that we've covered the main e-bike groups, you've probably narrowed down the type you want. When it comes to finalists, these features and specs can help narrow choices further.

Motor and Battery Specs: Most e-bikes have 20-30 mile ranges, depending on battery size and motor power. Additional factors like rider weight, terrain, and pedal assistance vs throttle use also play major roles. A little leg power from the rider can add many miles to range. Batteries are measured in Watt-hours—higher Wh numbers mean more power storage and longer range, but also increased weight and size. Most e-bike motors span 250W to 750W. Larger motors generally produce more torque, accelerate faster, and support higher speeds.

Hub vs Mid Drive Motors: Hub-drive motors are located in wheel centers (typically rear) and transfer power directly to that wheel. They're more affordable, easier to maintain, and don't add as much wear to bike components. However, their single-gear ratio makes them less efficient, and it's harder to change or repair tires. Mid-drive motors are located in the bike's center, usually around the pedal crank, delivering power through the chain. They're pricier but more refined, using the bike's gears to maximize efficiency.

Pedal Assist Modes: Options include torque sensors or cadence sensors. Torque sensors measure how hard you pedal using strain gauges and deliver appropriate power for your chosen setting. Usually more expensive, torque sensors feel more intuitive because they adjust quickly to rider movements, providing more power when you pedal harder and less when you ease up. Cadence sensors work more like on/off switches—when you start pedaling, the motor provides power, but output usually needs manual adjustment using handlebar controls. This system is usually more affordable.

Features and Accessories: Consider ease-of-use features and included accessories vs. separate purchases. User interfaces vary from bike to bike—some show minimal information like battery level and power setting, while others include speed and ride stats. Some models have apps to track rides and adjust settings on smartphones. While usually available as aftermarket accessories, I appreciate when perks like headlights, tail lights, fenders, and cargo racks are included. Most bikes have removable batteries, making charging as simple as carrying the battery to an outlet rather than hauling the entire bike.

Final Thoughts

With such a wide variety of electric bikes available, there's definitely a perfect model for you, but the sheer number of options can be overwhelming if you're new to the market. It's essential to first evaluate your lifestyle and do research so you can make an informed decision—luckily, we've put in the hours of research to help lighten the load. Hopefully, we've brought you closer to your dream bike so you can spend less time in front of a screen and more time enjoying your electric bike. Happy riding!