Electric bikes come in all shapes and sizes.
You can get a fold-up city bike, an off-road mountain bike, a step-through shopper and plenty more besides.
E-bikes are fast becoming the obvious choice for replacing short car journeys, because they’re better for the environment, help you get fit – or stay in shape – and can save money in the long run.
And if you wanted to take your child to school or buy some groceries, you might want to take a look at a cargo bike, which is designed for carrying – you guessed it – cargo.
On an electric bike, cycling up hills becomes almost effortless, and you won’t be slowed down by strong headwinds.
All the worst things about regular cycling are solved by an electric bike.
You can still ride an electric bike in the rain, though.
While electric bikes cost more than regular bikes, there are ways to bring down that cost.
In the UK you could ask your employer if you can buy an e-bike on the Bike2Work or Cyclescheme .
Are electric bikes worth it?
They make it easy to cover longer distances than you can on an ordinary bike, and you can easily cycle up hills even if you’re unfit.
Electric bikes help you to get fit, too, despite the assistance their motors provide.
Electric bikes really are for everyone, no matter your age or fitness level.
Electric bikes are legal in most countries, but the laws aren’t the same in all.
In Europe and the UK, motors are limited to 250W and assistance speeds to 15.5mph / 25km/h.
But in the US, bikes can assist to 20mph and have motors up to 1000W in certain states.
Best electric bikes: reviewed & ranked
1. MiRider One – Best folding electric bike
The MiRider One is a thoughtfully designed folding bike which is well built and great to ride.
It’s more affordable than some of its rivals, yet has very few compromises.
It’s relatively lightweight, built with good-quality components and is covered by a two-year UK warranty.
Mudguards and a front light are included as standard, and there’s no app to complicate things: you just unfold and ride.
Like some others here, it’s no longer as cheap as it used to be.
The current model costs £200 more than the 2021 version did, but has a larger-capacity battery for a better range (up to 45 miles) and a new motor with 25% more torque, so it isn’t just inflation.
It’s worth noting that there are no gears, which makes it harder to ride – especially up hills – if the battery runs out.
MiRider One review
2. Fiido L3 – Best budget electric bike
The L3 is a fold-up city bike that’s cheaper than you’d expect, and has a much bigger battery than most rivals.
Some people will dislike that this makes it heavy, while others – maybe cycle couriers – will appreciate that it will allow them to get around all day (perhaps even multiple days) without running out of juice.
It’s a budget bike, but that massive battery and the fact it’s a 48V system will be more than enough to persuade some that it’s the best choice over other foldable models here.
3. Carrera Vengeance E – Best budget off-road electric bike
Built to a budget, the Vengeance E offers a good overall specification, with a Suntour HESC system that uses a torque sensor rather than inferior cadence sensors.
The range of up to 40 miles is fine at this price, and unlike Chinese imports, you can take the Vengeance E to your local Halfords store to get it repaired should anything break.
The cheap-looking control panel from the 2019 model has been swapped for the much superior Suntour compact OLED and, aside from the slightly noisy motor, it’s great value compared to many electric mountain bikes.
Carrera Vengeance E review
4. Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 2 – Best fat tyre electric bike
Cheaper than a cargo bike
The RadRunner 2 is a utility bike that should appeal to anyone looking for an inexpensive electric bike for carrying luggage (or a second person) to replace their car for short journeys.
Range is relatively limited compared to other bikes here and optional accessories (of which there are many) can push the price up a lot from the attractive-looking purchase price.
If you can’t tell from the photo, this is a chunky, heavy bike but strangely it’s not well suited to tall riders, who may well find the frame too small for comfort.
Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 2 review
5. Volt Pulse – Best electric commuter bike
Powerful motor
Choice of frame size
One of the big changes is that the battery now slots into the frame, making it much neater.
The price includes the mudguards, lights, kickstand and built-in Dutch-style lock.
If you’re not bothered by the absence of GPS and Bluetooth anti-theft features (found on some bikes at roughly similar prices) then the Pulse is a great choice.
Just bear in mind it’s a big, heavy bike: this is great for touring around, but not if you have to regularly lift it up steps or onto public transport.
Volt Pulse (2021) review
Great ride quality
The Fiido X V2 is a superb folding e-bike which rides exceptionally well and has just about all the features you’d want.
It’s well priced, too.
The battery is built into the seat post and can be removed for charging, though the keypad security system is actually less convenient than if Fiido had opted for a simple key lock.
But it’s not a deal-breaker by any means, and you get built-in lights, a torque sensor (for smooth power delivery) and hydraulic disc brakes.
Thanks to seven gears, you can still ride this bike when the battery runs out, something that’s not as easy on single-speed electric bikes.
Like all Fiido models, watch out for the short warranty on many components: only the frame itself gets the full three-year cover.
Mid-drive motor with torque sensor
Only one frame size
The Eskute Polluno Pro is an e-bike that’s well suited to commuting.
But with its mid-mounted motor, torque sensor and comfortable, noiseless ride, plus nine gears and a step-through design it’s great for all kinds of on-road cycling.
It is heavy, though, and shorter riders may find it too big: there’s only one frame size available.
Eskute also sells a non-Pro model which is cheaper and has a motor in the rear wheel hub instead.
Eskute Polluno Pro review
Good range
The Array is Raleigh’s entry-level electric bike.
You can pick between three different frame styles, including a ‘shopper’-style step-through model.
Each comes in three frame sizes to suit wide variety of riders.
The classic looks are certainly a highlight, and there are seven gears to help when you’re pulling away from a standstill, as well as on hills.
But the powerful motor makes light work of those and the removable battery has a range of up to 60 miles.
That, as with all e-bikes, varies a lot depending on many factors.
The price includes lights, a kick-stand and mudguards, but there’s nothing in the way of security: no lock and no tracking tech.
Amazingly, the price has dropped since we reviewed it, bucking the trend here, and making the Array more attractive.
And as long as you’re able to keep it locked up securely and don’t have to leave it, say, on your local high street or at a railway station regularly, that may not be an issue for you.
Raleigh Array e-bike review
Bafang motor
If you’re not convinced by the Carrera Vengeance E, or you don’t live in the UK and therefore can’t buy one, the Eskute Netuno is another hard-tail mountain bike to consider.
There are some upgrades here, though, including a neat display built into the handlebar stem.
The battery is removable for easy charging, which will be a critical tick-box for some people.
The fork and chainset are entry-level components, but this leaves room in the budget for a decent Bafang motor.
It costs $400 / £300 more than the Voyager, which isn’t ideal, but it’s still at the more affordable end of the scale for anyone wanting an electric bike for some off-road fun.
Eskute Netuno review
Great fun to ride off road
Most folding bikes are designed for commuting, but not the Fiido M1.
If the tyres and suspension don’t give the game away, it’s for off-road riding.
Unlike cheap Chinese folding bikes we’ve tested, the M1 is sturdily built and feels sure-footed at speed, both on and off road.
Battery life is pretty good, but the 25kg weight and those wide tyres mean you’re not going to enjoy riding it under pure pedal power – especially if you have to cycle up any hills.
However, our main concern is that there’s limited warranty support should any components fail: Fiido doesn’t have a repair centre in Europe yet.
Fiido M1 review
Fiido M1 review
Fiido M1 review
Where to buy an electric bike
You can buy electric bikes from many bike shops these days, including Halfords in the UK.
Often you’ll be able to test ride one – some companies will even loan you a bike for a day or two so you can really try them out.
A lot of electric bike manufacturers sell direct to the public.
This can mean they’re a bit more affordable, or better value, but do consider how you’d return the bike if there is a problem.
It’s costly to return a bike to China, which is why most Chinese bike manufacturers will offer to send replacement parts you can fit yourself, or take to a local bike repair shop.
Don’t be put off buying Chinese bikes, though: quite a few brands now have warehouses in Europe, UK and the US, so delivery is quick and won’t cost a lot.
Local bike shops are better equipped now to service and repair electric bikes, too.
What’s important to understand is that you get what you pay for with e-bikes.
So, if you can afford to spend more than £1000, it’s wise to do so.
Even at this price, it’s almost impossible to find one which doesn’t have some compromises in component quality.
You might consider that a lot of money, but that’s an entry-level electric bike.
Top-end electric bikes can cost several thousand: as much as a used car in some cases.
Electric bike buying guide
When choosing a bike you should first decide what type you want.
All types are available including road, hybrid (touring / commuting), mountain, folding, shopper / step-through.
Frame sizeWeightSensor type – torque or cadenceGearsClaimed rangeWarranty terms
Some of those are fairly self-explanatory, but it’s worth briefly covering them all.
Don’t expect there will always be a choice of frame size.
Some of the bikes reviewed here come in one size, and it may be too big – or small – for you.
For weight, bear in mind that that e-bikes can be heavy, and therefore harder to ride with no assistance from the motor than a normal bike.
Weight can also be an issue if you have to carry your bike up flights of stairs.
But there are lightweight options at around 15-16kg – the heaviest e-bikes can weigh upwards of 25kg.
An e-bike may be cheap, but if a component fails you don’t want to have to pay to send the whole thing overseas for repair.
Worse still, if you can’t get replacement parts at all, your bike may cease to work at all.
Bike which meet current regulations come with no throttle at all and the motor just senses when you’re pedalling.
Special brake levers are installed on some e-bikes.
These detect when you apply the brakes and cut power to the motor.
There are laws in the UK covering electric bikes, and you can read more about which electric bikes are legal to use on the road.
Bikes that conform must have a motor outputting 250 watts or less (peak power can be higher) and must not operate the motor over 15.5mph.
Similarly, it’s worth getting a branded battery (Panasonic, Samsung, Sony etc) or at least checking if you can buy replacement batteries.
And batteries will lose their capacity over time, meaning the bike’s assisted range will decrease as the battery ages.
A removable battery means you can take it indoors to charge: handy if you don’t have a mains socket in your shed or wherever you keep your bike.
If you do buy a bike, you might be interested in our recommendations for the best bike lock for electric bikes and bike helmets.
Electric bikes too expensive?
Convert your existing bike with a kit
If you already own a bike, you can add a motor and battery to it and turn it into an electric one.
One of the best-known kits is from Swytch, but they’re so popular that you’d have to wait six months to get one, or pay over the odds to skip the queue.
The current Swytch kit costs £449 / $449, but if you want to wait only three months, it’s £549 /$549.
You could alternatively buy a kit from Amazon such as this Bafang one.
It replaces your bottom bracket (crank) and is much more difficult to install than a Swytch kit, but it’s cheaper at around £400 / $400 and there’s no waiting list.
Alternatively, there’s the Rubbee X which is the easiest of the lot to install because its motor rubs against your bike’s tyre and helps to turn it.
That costs €549, though, (around £480 / $580) so it’s a more expensive option.
Jim has been testing and reviewing products for over 20 years.
He also covers smart home tech, mesh Wi-Fi and electric bikes.
Wahoo Kickr review
Volt Alpine review
Ancheer electric mountain bike review
Weight does not matter when it comes to ebike options!
Whether you’re a heavier rider or in need of some serious cargo-hauling capabilities, below is an extensive list of many high-payload ebikes to choose from.
From city to mountain, we’ll help you find the right bike with all the specs you can think of.
The RadWagon 4 by Rad Power Bikes (350lb Payload)
Cargo bikes are known for their high payload capacity, and the RadWagon 4 proves it.
This bike can hold up to 350 lbs of weight with its longer frame and low center of gravity.
It is a 750 watt motor with a 48V 14Ah battery (672 watt-hours) —Rad estimates its range to be 24-45+ miles per charge.
With five levels of pedal assist, the RadWagon 4 will get you, your groceries, and your kids to your destination.
And in style too; there are three colors to choose from: Orange, Pearl, or Black.
There is also an integrated rear rack for any tagalong riders or cargo.
Check out our full RadWagon 4 review to learn more.
The RipCurrent S by Juiced Bikes (300lb Payload)
The Juiced RipCurrent S is a brand new model by Juiced Bikes that will be available for shipping in later September 2022.
If you’re adventuring with a partner, use the code 2BIKEOFFER for an additional $200 off your order when buying two bikes.
This model offers unparalleled power with its 1000 watt motor and 52V/19.2Ah battery (998.4 watt-hours).
This gives riders an approximate 70+ miles of range on a full charge.
Even with a total payload capacity of 300 lbs, this rig can reach speeds up to 28 MPH.
There are three sizes to choose from depending on your height: medium (16.5’’ inseam), large (18’’ inseam), and x-large (20’’ inseam).
The RipCurrent S is also offered in a step-thru variation.
For an even more customizable option, choose from red, gray, or black colors.
The Kommoda by Cyrusher (330lb Payload)
We’ve recently reviewed this model before, but couldn’t help but bring it up again.
The Kommoda by Cyrusher is a great bike from a brand that is known for their ebike designs that stand out.
This model offers a step-through frame, fat tires, and dual-suspension.
It fits people sized 5’3’’ to 6’ and can hold up to 330 lbs.
It features a 750 watt motor with a 1,000 watt peak.
It is a 48V, 14Ah battery (672 watt-hours) that estimates a 25-50 mile range.
There is tons of customization available via accessories, or even on the 3.7″ colored LCD display that lets riders toggle with the advanced settings.
This is a great bike for new or experienced electric bike riders—don’t miss out!
Lectric Ebikes with High Weight Ratings
Lectric is an awesome brand that we at Ebike Escape will always recommend.
They are known for their affordability and folding capabilities—so if you’re in a pinch and on the go, check out these models:
The Lectric XP 2.0 (330lb Payload)
This is a fat-tire, foldable frame that gets as small as 37’’ x 18’’ x 28’’ while also holding 330 lbs of payload.
It has a 48V, 9.6Ah battery (460.8 watt-hours) and a 500 watt motor that peaks at 800 watts.
It has Class 2 and 3 capabilities with five levels of pedal assist.
There’s a reason that the Lectric XP 2.0 has become one of the most popular ebikes on the market today.
It’s a solid choice for those on a budget, plus still comes fully outfitted with a rear rack, paint matched fenders, front suspension and front and rear lights.
Learn more in our Lectric XP 2.0 review or if you’ve already made up your mind be sure to hop over to our Lectric XP 2.0 accessories list.
The Lectric XPremium (330lb Payload)
This option also offers 4″ fat tires for a comfortable riding experience, but it goes further—quite literally.
The XPremium features a dual-battery system with nearly 1000 watt-hours of capacity, allowing for 100+ miles of range.
It has a mid-drive motor with 500 watts of continuous power too, all built into the foldable frame.
Learn more in our XPremium review.
The Aventon Brand
Every model of the Aventon brand offers a comfortable ride for heavier bikers.
They have six different models with differing specs depending on what you need.
An added plus to purchasing from the Aventon brand is their dealership network across the United States.
If you’re looking for a rugged look with unique color options, this is the brand for you.
Aventure (400lb Payload)
This model is available in both regular and step-through options to accommodate a variety of riders.
Additionally, there are small, medium, and large options.
It offers fat tires and about 45 miles of range.
Out of every bike on this list, the Aventure by Aventon has the highest total payload capacity.
The Aventure is a popular choice for those looking for a full-sized fat tire ebike.
Sinch (300lb Payload)
The Aventon Sinch shown as a step-through, folded up, and as a high-step
This is Aventon’s foldable model with fat tires that is made available in both regular and step-through options (pictured above).
With 40 miles of estimated range, the Sinch is a great option for folks who take their wheels everywhere.
Learn more in our Aventon Sinch review.
Level (300 lb Payload)
Aventon Level Step-ThroughAventon Level
Once again, this model is offered with or without the step-through.
The Level is a commuter bike with 40 miles of range that can reach 28 MPH.
A rack and fenders are included and it features a suspension fork for added comfort on your ride.
Pace 350 and 500 Next-Gen (300lb Payload)
The Aventon Pace step-through and high-step
The Pace 350 Next-Gen and the Pace 500 Next-Gen come with or without a step-through frame, depending on your preference.
Both have an estimated 40 miles of range.
Learn more in our Aventon Pace Next-Gen review.
Soltera (300 lb Payload)
The Aventon Soltera in Black
Step-through or not, the Soltera is a great lightweight option for heavier riders looking for a Class 2 ebike.
It has up to 41 miles of range, integrated lights, and the option for a single-speed or 7-speed shifter depending on the terrain you expect.
This is the ultimate bike for navigating the city and carrying it up the stairs to your apartment or place of work.
Learn more in our Aventon Soltera review.
Ride1Up Options
Ride1Up is a great brand for your needs if you’re looking for a traditional-looking ebike.
They are all about value-priced commuter bikes that allow you to ride in style and comfort.
Prodigy (300 lb Payload)
There are three frame types available on the Ride1Up Prodigy, as well as three colors.
Commuters or city riders may want to opt for the step-through or high-step but the XC offers more versatility and adds front suspension.
This Class 3 ebike offers a 30-50 mile range and a German engineered Brose mid-drive motor.
The alloy frame is lightweight, bringing it to around a 50 lb bike that can carry 300 lbs.
Learn more in our Ride1Up Prodigy review.
Cafe Cruiser (300 lb Payload)
This model has slightly thicker tires in comparison to the Prodigy, and is better equipped for cargo or even kid hauling.
The Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser is also a Class 3 bike that offers 30-50 miles of riding on a full charge.
It features a 750-watt motor that will keep you and your cargo moving no matter the terrain.
There are two different frame styles and three color options to choose from.
If you’re a heavier rider interested in the Ride1Up brand, this will be the cheaper option designed for larger payloads.
Learn more in our Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser Review.
Ariel Rider Options
The Ariel Brand is great for folks interested in performance and style-oriented ebikes.
These have tons of power backing the rider and offer a variety of styles depending on your needs.
Kepler (300 lb Payload)
The Ariel Rider Kepler 52V
The frame of the Kepler allows for either a high-step or low-step option depending on mobility.
It is a sporty style, which pairs nicely with the 1000-watt motor (1800-watt peak!) and the 52V, 20Ah battery (1,040 watt-hours).
If you plan to go on longer rides and want a full-sized fat tire ebike, this is the one for you.
Learn more in our Ariel Rider Kepler review.
X-Class (300 lb Payload)
The Ariel Rider X-Class
The design of this model plays around with 80s-style bikes, with a pinch of motorcycle design as well.
The Ariel Rider X-Class is bold and fun, matching that of the 52V, 20Ah battery (1,040 watt-hours) that will leave you riding on and on and on.
It also has an adjustable front suspension fork and rear shocks to aid in the comfort of your ride.
Grizzly (300 lb Payload)
The Ariel Rider Grizzly
Similar to the style of the X-Class, the Ariel Rider Grizzly bike brings on a unique design with higher handlebars.
It features dual suspension, dual motor, and dual battery!
It is designed for adventurers in it for the long-haul and those who want a no-compromises moped style ebike.
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The following brands have a variety of models for heavier riders, or those looking for high cargo capacities.
The Biktrix Brand
Many of the Biktrix models can support larger payloads.
The Juggernaut Series has capacities that range from 300 lbs to 380 lbs.
The Skycap 2 has 440 lbs worth of payload capacity!
They all have great features that are suitable for just about anyone.
The Biktrix brand comfortably supports taller riders as well and their quality customer support (chat or phone) can help you make the right decision for you.
View Biktrix Ebikes
This brand is all about flexibility; they offer a wide range of both styles and prices to ship to addresses in North America, Australia, and many parts of Europe.
You can customize the buying options too; they offer different wheels, colors, inseams, batteries, etc.
View Eunorau Ebikes
The Himiway Brand
All of the Himiway bikes are fat-tire ebikes that support high weight capacities, with a few being step-throughs.
You can expect up to 80-mile range on some of these models.
The cargo option, Big Dog, and full-sized Zebra can carry up to 400 lbs of weight!
Learn more in our Himiway ebike reviews.
View Himiway Ebikes
Options.
But we wanted to make sure that no matter your needs, there is an ebike option for you.
The amount of brands and models out there is unbelievable, and each one is doing its part to make sure anyone can hop on an ebike.