Electric bikes have become super popular in the last few years thanks to their speed and user adaptability. But with so many choices on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. Electric bikes come in every flavor: mountain bikes, fat bikes, beach cruisers, cargo bikes and folding bikes. You name it and there's probably an option with engine power. To create this list, CNET's experts focused on commuter e-bikes ideal for smooth riding on paved roads. We've tested e-bikes from top brands like Rad Power, Aventon, Lectric, Fiido, and Ride1Up on daily commutes around downtown Manhattan. Central Park and on Bike lane on the West Side Freeway. For some models, we tested both suburban travel and light off-road use, though not on rough trails. We rate overall handling, engine performance, range, safety features and value.
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What is the best e-bike in general?
CNET editors crowned it Aventon Solterra 2 as the best overall e-bike. The Soltera 2 offers an affordable price, a lightweight bike frame and a seven-speed cassette, along with iOS/Android app compatibility and hill assist throttle. But there are plenty of other good options for those specifically after a folding e-bike, one that can carry a heavy load or something for kids and teenagers rather than adult commuters – and you'll find the full roundup of our favorite electric commuter bikes below. .
Best electric bikes for 2024
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The entire Aventon lineup offers affordability and versatility. $1,799 It abounds is a cargo bike suitable for carrying passengers or groceries, while $1,799 Adventure 2 is a multi-layer fat tire bike ideal for riding on all terrains in every season. On Single 2 is more of an everyday e-bike that is great for commuting, with a seven-speed cassette and a weight of only 41 kilograms. Like other Aventon bikes, the Soltera 2 features a sleek, detailed display, integrated signal lights, iOS/Android app compatibility and hill assist throttle.
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Engwe L20 2.0 is an updated version of L20 I have reviewed before and beloved. The update changed some things that made it better, such as the ability to fold the bike and a more powerful 1000W motor for smoother acceleration. The downside to the center fold is the reduced weight limit, so I wouldn't recommend riding with a baby seat like before on version 1.0. Other than that, the L20 2.0 is a great fat tire bike that my wife uses every day to ride around the neighborhood. — James Bricknell
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Watch this: Best e-bikes for weekend warriors and daily commuters
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The Lectric XP 3.0 Fat Tire Folding Bike is great for its portability, foldability and impressive capabilities. It's robust and versatile, with a total payload of 330 pounds, including a rear rack that supports up to 150 pounds. Furthermore, it offers a range of useful accessories and keyless ignition, making it less attractive to thieves. XP 3.0 also comes in a step-by-step version for easy on-boarding and off-boarding. The XP was also tested in South Carolina and proved to handle well due to the 20-by-3-inch tires and front suspension fork. In addition to being foldable and durable, the XP 3.0 can reach a top speed of 28 mph, powered by a 500-watt motor.
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My 6 year old and test partner really enjoyed her time on the Gotrax V14 balance bike. It helped her learn how to balance properly and she can move around at an average speed of about 11 miles per hour. We go down every day to take her bus to school as well as drive to the local parks. The Gotrax is incredibly sturdy and easy to use with great braking and a simple electric on/off that my daughter picked up straight away. I wish the bike had two speed settings, low and full, so kids could better handle acceleration when starting out, but I would still recommend this for anyone who wants to use their electric bike while their child rides. beside them. — James Bricknell
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For people who need pedal assistance without the bulkiness usually associated with e-bikes, the Tenways CGO600 Pro is an ideal choice. It offers a smooth ride, with assist on or off, and weighs about the same as a standard bike, 37kg. The Tenways CGO600 Pro uses carbon belt drive and hydraulic disc brakes, requiring minimal maintenance. Its design is so discreet that it's almost impossible to tell it's an e-bike from a distance. The bike's display is minimalistic, and the vehicle can be turned on via a password set by the user.
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The perfect bike for riding with youngsters — so no more travel fatigue. On Enjoy it The e-bike, sized for children or teenagers, has a premium design and three levels of pedal assist up to 12 mph. The bike includes a user-friendly app with simple assembly and provides a smooth, comfortable ride. Despite the starting price, its build quality and components are exceptional, and this bike should have some resale value as your little one outgrows it.
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On Fido H is a compact folding e-bike perfect for shorter trips and for small storage spaces like the average apartment. Its sleek design makes it one of the most attractive folding bikes available. You can easily store it in your car trunk, closet or bedroom corner. Whether it was part of my daily commute or on some trails in South Carolina, this bike held its own.
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With a futuristic design, the Async A1 Pro looks as fun as it does to drive. Its state-of-the-art features include a 5.5-inch display and Bluetooth connectivity with LTE, meaning users can track the bike using the Find My Bike feature. Its off-road mode allows speeds of up to 35 mph, providing an exhilarating driving experience. While you can use pedal assist to extend the battery, this isn't a bike you buy for exercise, but for full-speed thrills, as it defies the distinction between an e-bike and a motorbike.
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How fast can an electric bike go?
Do I need a permit or license to operate an e-bike?
Should I buy an electric bike or an electric scooter?