The full ratings from our latest e-bike evaluations are available to Consumer Reports members. Below, we have listed the three highest-rated models from our testing program. Without needing to shift gears, their throttle controls and acceleration ability make them exciting to ride.” But for pure fun, it’s hard to beat a Class 2 electric bike.
That setup, plus a bunch of gears to choose from, made for a bike that was almost as good without electric assist as with it. “We especially liked the mid-drive models that apply electric power where there would normally only be pedals. “Electric bikes tend to be more expensive than conventional bicycles, so most people will probably want a good all-arounder,” says Bernie Deitrick, the engineer who leads CR’s e-bike testing program. Depending on the model, electric assist was applied either at the hub of the rear wheel, or in what’s called a mid-drive, in which power is applied at the bottom bracket, where the pedals are located. Precaliber 20 7-speed, Voodoo Trek Black 20 wheel - In Stock NOW Precaliber 20 7-speed, Crystal White 20 wheel - In Stock NOW Precaliber 20 7-Speed is a rugged kids bike for young adventurers. More selectable gears made for a better riding experience once the battery was drained and pedaling provided the only motive power. Latest Estimated arrival date to US Ports Please allow 2 weeks for bike to arrive assembled at your local store. The highest-rated e-bikes were also the most expensive we tested, although none was anywhere near the $6,000 to $7,000 high end of the price range consumers are likely to encounter at bike shops. Of the 16 e-bike models CR tested, seven were in the Class 1 category, and nine were in Class 2. These faster, powered models might not be legal to ride in some areas, such as on bike paths.
There’s no throttle control on the handlebar to get the bike going the electric part works only when the rider is pedaling, and the e-assist cuts off at speeds above 20 mph.Ĭlass 2 bikes also have an electric motor that works up to 20 mph, either while the rider is pedaling (pedal-assist) or with electric propulsion alone, via a throttle control.Ĭlass 3 limits an e-bike’s top speed to 28 mph. Class 1 includes pedal-assist bikes, which power the electric motor as your foot applies pressure to the pedal.