Best Electric Bikes for the Money
There are lower-priced alternatives to the top models from CR’s testing
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Electric bikes naturally carry a price premium over conventional pedal-powered bikes, but Consumer Reports has found that there are some compelling, less expensive alternatives to the pricey, top-rated e-bikes. Our tests show that the best e-bikes tend to cost more because they have higher-quality components and—in many cases—come from a big name brand.
Since there are as many types of e-bikes as there are conventional ones—commuters, cruisers, folding bikes, road bikes, mountain bikes, and cargo bikes—it’s important to consider which variety will work best for you. There are also three classes of e-bikes: Class 1, 2, and 3. Class 1 bikes require pedal effort to activate the electric motor, with e-assist topping out at 20 mph. Class 2 bikes have a hand-operated throttle lever that allows electric cruising without pedaling, and e-assist also tops out at 20 mph. Class 3 bikes are pedal assist-only, with electric power cutting off at 28 mph. CR doesn’t test Class 3 bikes.
Before you start shopping, there are a few things you’ll want to think about.
- Make sure e-bikes are allowed where you want to ride. City and state laws regulating electric bikes vary by locale, so it’s a good idea to check before you commit to buying.
- What kind of riding will you be doing? For example, if you plan on using an e-bike for your daily commute, or for getting groceries, you’ll need something different from someone who plans on riding trails.
- Is an e-bike right for you? If you live someplace flat and don’t plan on riding all that far, maybe you don’t really need the expense, weight, and complexity an electric powertrain adds to a bicycle.
- Be sure to go to a local bike shop before you buy anything. You’ll want to test-ride the models that interest you to make sure they’re comfortable and work well for you.
- Read CR’s e-bike buying guide to go deeper into these topics and further understand the differences in bike styles.
