Including mountain, step-through and folding e-bikes.
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If cycling around your neighborhood or commuting to work on a bike is your preferred method of exercise or mode of transportation, an electric bike can seriously upgrade your daily routine. Electric bikes are equipped with a motor and battery that provide various levels of pedal assist to make biking easier and faster. Whether you're toting groceries from the store or planning an adventurous trip with all-terrain bike trails, e-bikes have the potential to become your favorite way to get around.
But with the multitude of options available in online bicycle stores, finding the right e-bike for your lifestyle can be overwhelming. That's why we've curated this list of the best electric bikes of 2023.
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, our analysts, engineers and experts thoroughly test all kinds of workout equipment, including under-desk ellipticals and exercise bikes. In our recent evaluation of e-bikes, we rigorously tested nearly two dozen models, assessing their performance, ride quality, safety and stability, ease of use and comfort. While electric bikes can be a significant investment, we have included options at every price point from reputable brands that also get positive feedback from online reviewers.
"Pedal-assist e-bikes are remarkable and practical machines that offer unmatched flexibility, allowing you to adjust to the desired level of fitness or efficiency required in any given situation," says GH Institute Chief Technologist Rachel Rothman, who oversaw our testing process. As you explore our recommendations, please remember that wearing a bike helmet (like the ABUS helmet that received positive feedback from our testers) is essential for cycling safety, especially since some e-bikes can reach top speeds of up to 28 mph.
At the end of this guide, you'll find more information on our testing process for electric bikes, along with helpful tips for shopping and a comprehensive breakdown of the different types of e-bikes.
Over the years, we have extensively tested various models of VanMoof electric bikes and consistently find ourselves drawn back to the brand. While our previous best overall pick, VanMoof's X3, is now permanently sold out, we feel confident that the newer A5 model is just as impressive. Although it comes with a higher price tag, this e-bike is packed with cutting-edge tech features designed to enhance your riding experience, whether you're navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails.
One standout feature is the handlebars, which are equipped with an LED display that conveniently shows battery life and speed at eye-level, allowing you to keep your focus on the road — a safety detail that we deeply appreciate. Moreover, the VanMoof app enables you to charge your smartphone and track your riding stats. For iPhone users, the bike can be located using Apple's Find My network, adding an extra layer of security.
The bike's user-friendly and security-conscious design choices don't end there, either. A kick lock system allows you to effortlessly secure your bike with a tap of your toe. We're also impressed by the integrated security system, which includes an alarm and an automatic bike shut-off function, deterring theft attempts. Additionally, VanMoof offers optional accessories such as front and rear racks for optimal storage (although it's worth noting that some of the other bikes on our list already include these storage solutions at no additional cost). With its low-maintenance design, this high-tech e-bike is an investment, but one that can potentially save you significant money on repairs in the long run.
Battery: 463 Wh | Motor: 250 W | Top speed: 20 mph | Maximum estimated range: 34 to 87 miles | Weight: 48.5 lbs.
The Lectric XP Lite stands out as one of the most affordable electric bikes on the market — nearly half the cost of most e-bikes — and its performance did not disappoint, either. "The Lectric offers relatively smooth transitions, comfortable handlebars and an overall pleasant ride," says Rothman. Our testers appreciated features like its large, clear display, a removable 48V lithium ion battery, five levels of pedal assist and a throttle for those moments when an extra boost is needed. But we especially loved its compactness, as it can easily fold up to a smaller size, making storage in crowded garages or small apartments a breeze.
That said, some of our staffers thought the Lectric did not provide the same level of seamless performance and stability as some of the other e-bikes we tested. "The bike exhibited jerky acceleration when using the throttle, and the single gear setup resulted in awkward transitions between the powerful electronic component and manual pedaling," says GH Lab Assistant Nikolas Greenwald.
Although we would have preferred the inclusion of gear shifting, we think this versatile bike is user-friendly, convenient and suitable for riders of varying heights. If you're looking for an e-bike that offers a budget-friendly price point and a solid riding experience, the Lectric XP Lite is a worthy choice.
Battery: 375 Wh | Motor: 720 W | Top speed: 20 mph | Maximum estimated range: 40 miles | Weight: 46 lbs.
Rad Power bikes are known for their powerful motors, attractive designs, affordable prices and customizable options. While the RadCity model may not be as budget-friendly as the brand's RadRunner 2 or offer the same rear weight capacity (120 pounds) as the larger cargo RadWagon, it serves as a great middle ground. It's ideal for those seeking a fast bike for transportation or carrying a few items weighing up to 60 pounds. Unlike the RadRunner, the RadCity offers seven gearing options, a choice between a step-through or high-step frame, an upgraded motor and brakes and slightly more range.
Once our testers got going, they found their rides on the RadCity to be smooth and secure. "I liked how easy it was to accelerate and use the pedal assist," says GH analyst Jamie Spain. "The acceleration was really nice because I was able to move around without pedaling at all." However, she also notes that she avoided cycling without the pedal assist, because the bike felt unsteady when not moving fast enough. As a result, she says she wouldn't feel comfortable taking a child on it and recommends the RadCity for bigger, taller or more experienced riders.
Overall, we appreciated the responsive brakes, fenders that kept mud and dirt off their backs and the integrated lights for nighttime rides. However, we would prefer a single central display like the one found on the RadWagon, as the secondary pedal assist display can be difficult to see in bright sunlight.
Battery: 589 to 672 Wh | Motor: 750 W | Top speed: 20 mph | Maximum estimated range: 28 to 50 miles | Weight: 65 lbs.
Reaching over 25 mph in our tests, the Denago e-bike is a thrilling ride that certainly doesn't lack in speed. Equipped with sensitive controls and a responsive pedal assist, this bike propels you forward with the slightest touch, rendering the throttle almost unnecessary. While speed enthusiasts will revel in the Denago's performance, we recommend it for more experienced bikers.
"You can really feel the speed on this bike, which can be both exhilarating and challenging," remarks Saguin. "At times, I reached 20 mph in a quick jump. Just a single pedal stroke can launch you forward." Despite its rapid acceleration, our testers found the Denago easy to maneuver in crowded areas, both while riding and while dismounted. They also praised its comfortable braking system. "It felt exceptionally smooth on pavement and navigated easily around other cyclists," adds Saguin. "While the speed controls were sensitive, I found the brake control to be excellent."
Additionally, we appreciated the large and easily readable display on the e-bike, as well as the quick adjustability of the seat height.
Battery: 652.8 Wh | Motor: 500 W | Top speed: 28 mph | Maximum estimated range: 20 to 45 miles | Weight: 53 lbs.
The Gocycle G4 is a sleek option for those that prefer a foldable design. Testers were impressed with the bike's responsive pedal assist, which they found smoothly kicked in when pedaling harder without any sudden jolts forward. While you have to adjust the pedal assist through the Gocycle app before riding, we didn't really mind that you can't adjust the settings on the bike itself — especially considering the unexpectedly powerful throttle that provided assistance when we didn't want to pedal.
“I really liked how fast and compact this bike was," says Greenwald."Despite the unconventional sizing with its low-step frame and small wheels, the bike felt lightweight enough for commuting, whether taking it on a train or packing it into a car." The quick three-hour charging time is another plus for commuters, along with the bike's easy folding and unfolding mechanism. Some of our taller testers did note that the maximum seat height still felt relatively low, while one mentioned that reaching the brake handles was a bit challenging and led to fatigue over time. However, despite these minor drawbacks, our rides on the G4 were smooth, fast and enjoyable overall, even with the bike's smaller wheels.
Battery: 300 Wh | Motor: 500 W | Top speed: 20 mph | Maximum estimated range: 40 miles | Weight: 38.8 lbs.
Looking for a powerful e-bike that can conquer rugged roads, rain or shine? Look no further than the Aventon Aventure. Whether you reside in a bustling city or a rural area, this e-bike is designed to handle it all. With its 4-inch fat tire wheels, this bike effortlessly cruised over potholes, gravel and uneven terrain in our tests. That's because it's equipped with a suspension fork that helps absorb some of the shock when encountering road imperfections. "It provided the sensation of a motorcycle while embodying the true essence of a bicycle," said one tester. "The throttle kick-up was amazing, and I felt secure while riding."
Although most testers acknowledged that the bike felt heavy and would be challenging to use if the battery died, they still recommend it. "The ride was remarkably smooth and comfortable, and the bike exhibited exceptional stability," shared one tester. Just keep in mind that the Aventure requires ample storage space and may not easily fit into tight corners. However, its removable battery does make charging more convenient.
Battery: 720 Wh | Motor: 750 W | Top speed: 28 mph | Maximum estimated range: 45 miles | Weight: 73 lbs.
The Comfort Bike lives up to its name by providing a fast, comfortable and stylish riding experience. While the battery located above the rear wheel is large, it is removable which allows for convenient charging. It's also accompanied by a rack that provides a useful space for transporting items like backpacks or purses. This e-bike also features a small attached display that indicates one of five pedal assist levels and shows the remaining battery power.
In terms of design, the Comfort Bike is visually appealing, and we appreciated the inclusion of fenders to keep riders drier on rainy days. The integrated front and rear lights add an extra layer of safety for riding during darker hours. While the bike is easy to mount and get started using the thumb throttle, we think a seat handle for easy height adjustment would be a convenient addition.
Battery: 418 Wh | Motor: 250 W | Top speed: 20 mph | Maximum estimated range: 50 miles | Weight: 51 lbs.
If you're looking for a beach cruiser that offers easy accessibility, the EVRYjourney e-cruiser is not only stylish but also incredibly user-friendly. "I would recommend this bike to anyone living by the water," says GH analyst Emma Seymour. "It's so gorgeous and felt easy to ride with or without the electric features." She applauds the bike for its intuitive features and comfortable seat, noting that it provided a game-changing experience by alleviating the usual sore butt she experiences after biking.
While some testers mentioned that the bike felt slightly bulky, making sharp turns more challenging, the majority of riders found their journeys to be smooth and enjoyable. In terms of the cruiser's brakes, GH editor Jacqueline Saguin points out that "you need to apply a bit more pressure on the brake controls to slow down or stop." She suggests using the bike for lighter adventures in calm parks or along beach boardwalks rather than busy roads. Similarly, Rothman discovered that the cruiser performed best on flat surfaces, noting that she felt "the acceleration was jerky and overly responsive." Nevertheless, the cruiser remains a low-maintenance and beginner-friendly e-bike. "It has an aesthetically pleasing design with its pastel colors, faux-leather details and vintage-inspired shape," says Saguin. "The wide, cushy seat provided exceptional comfort while riding, and I didn't feel the need to hunch over the handlebars."
Battery: 500 Wh | Motor: 500 W | Top speed: 28 mph | Maximum estimated range: 20 to 40 miles | Weight: 64.8 lbs.
For dedicated cyclists seeking a high-quality, no-frills e-bike, we think the GT Grade Current is an excellent option. With its classic appearance and impressively lightweight design, it offers a delightful riding experience (even though it lacks a throttle). While adjusting the pedal assist levels may not be as intuitive as other models, it becomes second nature once you become accustomed to switching between the green, orange and red-colored assist levels using a button on the frame.
"I'm generally not a fan of e-bikes, particularly the ones that immediately accelerate as soon as you start pedaling or have a throttle that doesn't require any pedaling at all," shares one tester, who commutes 20 miles daily via bike to the office. "This bike felt like an e-bike for cyclists. It's remarkably lightweight and the motor seamlessly kicked in only when I needed it going uphill. If I were in the market for an e-bike, I would seriously consider something like this, which doesn't interfere with the cycling experience itself and just makes some of the tougher climbs a bit easier."
While the GT Grade Current may not have the most extensive range of features on the market, it resonated with most of our testers as a quality choice for those seeking an e-bike that stays true to its traditional nature without adding unnecessary weight. Plus, if you're looking for the e-bike with the most range, you can almost double the GT's estimated range of 45 miles by purchasing a 208 wH water bottle battery range extender that plugs into the charging port.
Battery: 250 Wh | Motor: 250 W | Top speed: 20 mph | Maximum estimated range: 45 miles | Weight: 33 lbs.
While the Cannondale's design and number of color options could be more enticing, this e-bike stood out as one of the least intimidating models we tested.
It has a "comfy, ergonomic design," as noted by Rothman, who had no trouble riding the bike even after its battery died. Testers also appreciated the familiar Cannondale feel and control when it came to turning and overall traction. In fact, this e-bike resembles a conventional bicycle more than an e-bike, particularly with its built-in battery, offering a sense of security, reliability and comfort on the road.
One tester did mention that the controls were less intuitive to operate compared to other e-bikes, saying that they were "almost too vague to understand." (The display consists of only three buttons, and the pedal assist level is indicated by color.) However, overall, our testers found the Cannondale to be an accessible, no-frills e-bike that's an ideal choice for someone seeking a trustworthy brand without the need for aggressive pedal assist or a throttle — just the occasional extra push when required.
Battery: 250 Wh | Motor: 250 W | Top speed: 20 mph | Maximum estimated range: 37 miles | Weight: 38.8 lbs.
If you're in need of a reliable and nimble road bike for short commutes, the Propella 7S is a fantastic lightweight option that offers great value for your money. While the standard frame may pose some challenges for petite riders when mounting the bike, once you're on it, you'll experience a sense of speed and easy maneuverability. The bike is also equipped with an easy-to-read display, which testers said enhanced their riding experience.
"I would recommend it for inner-city rides because of the quick acceleration," says one tester, who praised the bike's agility but also mentioned an incident where they nearly lost control on an all-terrain section of their ride. "The bike's tires are very thin, which helped with speed but made it unstable on anything other than perfectly flat surfaces."
Nevertheless, if your main goal is to get around quickly and you plan to do so on paved roads, this is a reliable road bike that will provide the assistance you need. Another noteworthy feature is the removable battery that weighs just 3.5 pounds, which makes the Propella 7S one of the lightest e-bikes we tested when the battery is detached.
Battery: 250 Wh | Motor: 400 W | Top speed: 19 mph | Maximum estimated range: 20 to 40 miles | Weight: 37 lbs.
The Flyer L885 is an impressive longtail e-bike that commands attention with its sleek design, despite its large size. With a remarkable weight capacity of 400 pounds, this bike can effortlessly transport up to 150 pounds on the rear rack alone, making it an ideal choice for carrying children or heavy groceries. We were particularly delighted by the rear rack's compatibility with various accessories, including versatile kid and cargo carrier baskets or a Thule Yepp child seat.
While our testers found the dual-leg kickstand cumbersome to use (it required lifting the bike to put it down), and noted that the bike is a bit more challenging to maneuver compared to lighter e-bikes, we still valued the integrated lights, twist throttle and small display. "The pedal assist was super easy to use and provided a substantial boost," says Scherma. "The bike's large wheels contributed to a stable ride, and adjusting the gears, throttle and pedal assist settings was easy."
While the Flyer has an impressive estimated range for a bike of its size, keep in mind that charging times are longer, taking up to 10 hours according to the manufacturer. Nonetheless, if you're seeking a robust e-bike with substantial carrying capacity and a stable ride, we think the Flyer L885 is a standout option.
Battery: 720 Wh | Motor: 500 W | Top speed: 20 mph | Maximum estimated range: 30 to 50+ miles | Weight: 73 lbs.
Available in two styles, three sizes and two colors, Priority's Current e-bike is a no-frills option that is straightforward to operate according to our testers, but it lacks some of the flashy features found in other bikes within the same price range.
That said, our staffers who recently took this model out for a spin gave it a perfect score for its performance on smooth surfaces like pavement; it also earned high scores for tackling hills. Testers reported that it was easy to shift gears and make turns, and that the bell was clear and loud — an important feature when riding amidst city traffic alongside cars, motorcycles, trucks and pedestrians.
While our testers felt secure and stable riding the bike, they did say that they found it to be somewhat cumbersome to transport. Although it's one of the lighter models in our list, one tester did find that "The bike is a bit heavy when carrying it up and down the stairs to the front door of my building." They appreciated the front and rear lights for urban cycling and the smooth pedal assist. "This bike has more subtle levels of pedal assist, which I find great, especially for city riding where you don't want the bike to suddenly surge forward or when you want to fine-tune the assistance level based on different situations in the bike lane," commented the same tester.
Battery: 500 Wh | Motor: 500 W | Top speed: 28 mph | Maximum estimated range: 20 to 50 miles | Weight: Varies by size
Available in five vibrant colors and boasting a charming, classic design, this e-bike is perfect for cruising around town. Our testers were delighted by how easy it was to mount the bike, and the wide, supportive seat cushion provided exceptional comfort. While we initially desired a more elaborate display, we soon came to appreciate the bike's simplicity. We found the small controller attached to the handlebar provided all the information we needed, such as battery life and pedal assist level.
"Although it had fewer pedal assist settings than others, the assistance was still extremely helpful," shares GH Test Engineer Alec Scherma. "I found the bike was user-friendly — just a simple press of a button for more pedal assist. Shifting gears was also pretty easy." Every aspect of the Townie Go! felt instinctive, and our experts regarded this modestly priced e-bike as an excellent choice for beginners or anyone seeking a straightforward and comfortable ride.
Battery: 250 Wh | Motor: 250 W | Top speed: 20 mph | Maximum estimated range: 16 to 40 miles | Weight: 44 lbs.
The Brompton e-bike stands out among the options we tested, not only because of its electric orange color but also because of its unique design.
Unlike other e-bikes, the Brompton features smaller wheels and a removable battery pack bag that can be easily detached with a simple click. It's also foldable, making it an ideal choice for urban dwellers who have shorter commutes. One of our testers, who is a long-time Brompton owner, was impressed by this bike's acceleration, stating that the three levels of pedal assist offer flexibility for various riding conditions. "The kick was very impressive without being startling, as is often the case on assisted bikes," the tester observed. "It was especially noticeable when starting and hills graded up."Another tester noted that the brakes were more responsive than expected but found the bike slightly clunkier and heavier compared to standard Bromptons, which could be a drawback when quickly entering and exiting buildings.
We also observed that the battery pack's placement reduces the available storage space on the bike, requiring commuters to carry their backpacks on their backs. Some testers found the bike less comfortable and stable compared to other e-bikes, but overall, we appreciated the adjustable seat height, accommodating a wide range of riders. While the Brompton may not be suitable for extremely rough terrains or slippery conditions, we think it's worth the investment for those seeking a compact and foldable e-bike.
Battery: 300 Wh | Motor: 250 W | Top speed: 15.5 mph | Maximum estimated range: 20 to 45 miles | Weight: 38.4 lbs.
Our team of analysts and engineers at the Good Housekeeping Institute conducted comprehensive testing of over 20 electric bicycles in Central Park for this article. Extensive evaluations were carried out, with each bike being ridden multiple times over several weeks.
We assessed various aspects of each ride, including overall quality, maneuverability, handling of sharp turns and the bike's performance on different terrains such as smooth, paved streets, uneven rocky paths and inclines. We also assessed how quickly and smoothly each bicycle responded to acceleration, either with the aid of pedal assist or the throttle.
To gather additional insights, we also invited consumer testers to join us in Central Park and provide feedback on each e-bike's ease of use, comfort and build. We evaluated the intuitiveness of turning the e-bike on, ease of mounting and dismounting and assessed the adjustability of the seat height. The design of each e-bike was scored for quality and attractiveness, while the comfort and cushioning of the seats and the overall frame construction (including handlebar positioning, brake handle placement, button accessibility, etc.) were thoroughly examined.
Key criteria such as maximum estimated range, battery power (measured in watts per hour), estimated charging time and motor performance were carefully considered to determine the quality and range of each bike. We took storage convenience into account as well as whether the battery was removable or built-in for easy charging. Finally, we tested the safety features of each e-bike, including the responsiveness of the brakes, frame stability and the presence of a loud, clear bell or integrated lights.
According to Chris Nolte, the founder of Propel, a prominent e-bike dealer with locations in Brooklyn, NY and Long Beach, CA, it's crucial to first determine your specific needs and reasons for purchasing an e-bike. "Bikes are built for different purposes," he says. "If you’re commuting to work, consider a bike with fenders, lights and racks. If you’re riding leisurely or not carrying around cargo, get a simpler model to save on cost and complexity."
In addition to these considerations, the bicycle experts we spoke to identified several other essential factors that should be taken into account to ensure a well-informed decision:
✔️ Battery: When purchasing an electric bike, take note of the type of battery it comes with. "Most batteries are lithium-ion and will be specific to the bike," says Jonathan Perry, a lead mechanic, rider support technician and certified bike fitter at Velofix. One important factor to consider is if the battery is removable or built-in. Removable batteries offer convenience when locking up an e-bike outside, as they can be detached and taken with you to prevent theft. It's also important to note that larger batteries may add several pounds to the overall weight of the bike, so take that into account if you want a lightweight model. Charging time is another aspect to consider, as some e-bikes require more time to fully charge compared to others. Finally, keep in mind that, similar to a cell phone's battery, the power capacity of every e-bike battery will diminish over time.
✔️ Estimated range: Additionally, when deciding on battery size, Nolte advises considering your desired range and power usage. The distance you plan to ride will determine the necessary battery capacity. Watt-hours (wH) are used to measure the energy supplied by an e-bike battery in one hour. For instance, a bike with a 250W motor and a 250wH battery can run solely on battery power for one hour before depletion. (Most batteries have a minimum capacity of 400 watt-hours.) The actual battery consumption depends on factors such as the motor power (wattage) and usage. Heavy pedal assist and throttle use will reduce the range more than occasional boosts. If you want to maximize the range of your e-bike, Perry advises relying on your own leg power more to avoid consuming a significant amount of battery power. "Full pedal-assist or full throttle all the time use lots of watts," he says. To optimize your range, he suggests selecting a battery that aligns with your specific range requirements. Additionally, he recommends purchasing a second battery that you can keep charged and easily replace with the depleted one, ensuring uninterrupted rides when needed.
✔️ Motor: “The main difference between a $2,000 to $4,000 e-bike is the type of motor,” says Perry. There are two main types of motors commonly found in e-bikes: Hub-type motors tend to provide a rougher ride experience. Therefore, Perry advises choosing an e-bike brand with a reputation for excellent customer service and a warranty that ensures prompt assistance in case of any issues. On the other hand, crank-based motors are considered the more premium option. "Established brands like Shimano and Bosch are known for manufacturing good products with these motors," says Perry. Crank-based motors are positioned low and at the center of gravity on the bike, which contributes to better weight distribution and generally results in a smoother overall riding experience.
✔️ Weight: E-bikes can be quite heavy — some of the ones we tested weighed close to 80 pounds! Before making a purchase, it's crucial to assess whether the bike is easy to navigate up and down stairs or move around as needed. “E-bikes are inherently heavy," says Perry. "The motors are heavy. The batteries are heavy. To keep the cost low on the bikes and to keep them sturdy, they’re often made of steel and sometimes aluminum, which are both heavier materials." He advises consumers handle the bike and gauge its maneuverability, particularly when not actively riding it, before buying. If the bike feels challenging to handle, he suggests opting for a lighter model to minimize concerns about stability and ease of lifting.
✔️ Pedal assist: Pedal assist involves receiving assistance from the motor when you pedal, and you can adjust the level of assistance on a scale of 0 to 5. Nolte emphasizes that not all pedal assist systems are the same and the experiences can vary. "Some give you predictable and smoother experiences, whereas some are not as intuitive," he says. "Some systems replace your pedaling while some augment your pedaling. The difference is the sensors and how they work." There are various methods to activate pedal assist, the simplest being a cadence sensor, which detects the speed at which you pedal. However, this approach can sometimes result in a jerky motion. A more sophisticated option is a torque sensor, which senses the force you exert while pedaling. For instance, when riding downhill, you may pedal quickly without requiring much power. On the other hand, when climbing uphill, you want the bike to provide additional power. A torque sensor is better suited for adjusting the assistance based on your pedaling output in different situations.
✔️ Throttle: Certain e-bikes are equipped with a throttle that enables the motor to propel the bike without the need for pedaling. Whether you require a throttle or not depends on personal preference and the type of bike you're riding. Perry suggests that individuals seeking a cargo bike to transport children or heavy loads should consider an e-bike with a throttle. The throttle can be particularly helpful for getting the bike moving with ease. Additionally, it proves useful for riders who prefer not to pedal immediately after a complete stop, especially when dealing with a heavier bike.
✔️ Gears: E-bikes come with different gear options, ranging from seven gears to three or even just one. "If you’re an active rider, you'll want some gears on your e-bike," suggests Nolte. "A bike with no gears will either pedal too fast or too slow." It's crucial to test ride bikes on different terrains to determine the ideal number of gears for your needs. This way, you can ensure a comfortable and efficient riding experience.
✔️ Tires: Thin tires are typically lighter and most suitable for riding on paved, smooth streets. However, in areas with rougher terrain, wider tires and suspension are recommended for enhanced traction and comfort, even if they slightly decrease speed. Perry suggests visiting a local bike shop for assistance in choosing the appropriate tires based on your specific location and riding conditions. If you ride frequently, it's also worth considering puncture-resistant tires to minimize the risk of flats and ensure a smoother riding experience.
✔️ Suspension fork: "Front suspension forks provide some shock dampening," says Perry. "When you hit something rough in the road, they compress and almost bounce up." That said, if you don’t intend on taking the bike onto off-road paths, gravel dirt roads or hiking trails, you'll want to avoid a suspension fork. "It adds weight to the bike,” says Perry. However, if you anticipate encountering bumps or potholes during your rides, a suspension fork can significantly enhance comfort by absorbing the shocks and providing a smoother experience.
✔️ Brakes: E-bikes are typically equipped with mechanical or hydraulic brakes, explains Perry. In general, mechanical brakes are more affordable and require less maintenance, but they may sacrifice some performance. They rely on the strength of your hands to apply braking force. On the other hand, hydraulic brakes provide a smoother and more responsive braking experience, placing less strain on your hands. However, it's worth noting that hydraulic brakes may require more frequent maintenance compared to mechanical brakes.
✔️ Extra features: While it may be considered the least important aspect, it's still worth considering the extra features that come with your e-bike. Take note of the display and its readability — is it large enough and are the buttons easy to adjust? Assess whether the bike provides ample storage options such as a front or rear basket, or additional compartments for carrying items like a purse, backpack or groceries. Check if the bike includes a bell and integrated lights for added safety. Consider whether fenders are included to protect you when riding over puddles or wet surfaces. Since each e-bike is unique, prioritize the features that are essential to you and take note of the ones that would enhance your overall riding experience.
In the U.S., e-bikes are categorized into three distinct classes based on their capabilities and speed:
✔️ Class 1 e-bikes can reach speeds of “up to 20 mph with pedal assist," says Perry. "They can go faster than that when going downhill, but the electric motor will stop giving you any kind of assistance once you’re at 20 mph."
✔️ Class 2 e-bikes also have a maximum speed of 20 mph, but they come with a throttle that allows you to reach this speed without continuous pedaling, says Perry.
✔️ Class 3 e-bikes have a top speed of 28 mph. While most class 3 e-bikes are equipped with a throttle, it is not always the case. It's important to note that these e-bikes are generally not permitted on bike paths and trails. "Check your local laws regarding the use of class 3 e-bikes," advises Perry.
Any type of biking carries inherent risks — and e-bikes introduce even more speed into that equation. While you always want to wear a properly fitting helmet, there are several other key considerations to keep in mind to ensure your safety when riding an e-bike:
✔️ Size and comfort: Choose an e-bike that fits you well and provides a comfortable riding experience. Consider factors like frame type (step-through or high-step), ideal ride position and overall comfort. Step-through frames are oftentimes the easiest to get on, and useful for days when you’re wearing a skirt or dress. High-step or step-over frames are a bit trickier to get on and less comfortable, especially for petite riders. As for ride position, Nolte recommends an upright position for better safety, comfort and visibility.
✔️ Pedal assist safety: When coming to a stop, turn off the pedal assist or set it to zero to prevent accidental throttle activation. Keep your hands on the brakes when at a standstill, similar to how you would with a car at a red light. Additionally, you can check if your e-bike's battery has Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 2849 certification for fire safety.
✔️ Assembly and maintenance: It's crucial to have your e-bike assembled and checked by a professional. Contact your local bike shop for assistance. While they may not handle electrical components, they can still ensure the overall bike is properly assembled. Services like Velofix are available for e-bike owners who require servicing or repairs, even at their homes.
If you're a frequent cyclist, a commuter, or looking for a convenient alternative to driving for short trips, buying an e-bike can be worth it. E-bikes offer numerous benefits, such as faster transportation, environmental friendliness and an opportunity to stay active.
However, it's important to note that e-bikes come with certain considerations. They tend to be heavier, pricier and require comparable (if not additional) maintenance compared to traditional bicycles, which can result in higher long-term costs. Therefore, selecting an e-bike from a reputable brand with reliable customer service is essential. Before making a purchase, check with your local bike store about their e-bike servicing options and take any opportunity to test ride the bike to ensure it suits your needs and preferences.
Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.
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