Electric bikes have seen a surge in popularity in recent years as an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transportation. With powerful motors and long-lasting batteries, e-bikes make cycling easier while reducing your carbon footprint.
But with so many models on the market, it can be tricky to decide which electric bike is right for you. In this guide, we’ll review the top 5 best electric bikes available to purchase on Amazon right now. We’ll compare key features like motor power, battery capacity, riding range and more to help you find the perfect e-bike for your needs and budget.
Benefits of Riding an Electric Bike
Before diving into the reviews, let‘s first go over some of the main benefits electric bikes have to offer:
- Easier uphill riding – The electric motor provides power assistance to help you conquer steep hills with less effort.
- Increased range – E-bikes allow you to ride much further before getting tired, thanks to the motor assist.
- Greener transportation – Electric bikes produce no emissions, making cycling even more environmentally friendly.
- Versatile use – With different e-bike types available, they can serve as anything from daily commuters to off-road adventure machines.
- Cost savings – Riding an e-bike can save you money over driving costs like gas, parking fees and maintenance.
According to market research, over 130 million e-bikes were sold globally in 2021 – nearly double the previous year. This growth is expected to continue rising by 10% annually. Electric bikes are revolutionizing cycling for recreation, fitness and practical transportation needs alike.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Bike
E-bikes come in many different configurations to suit a variety of riding purposes. As you shop for the best electric bike for your needs, keep these key factors in mind:
Motor Power – Measured in watts, the motor determines how much assistance you’ll get when pedaling. Look for at least 250 watts for basic assisting power. 500 watts or more is best for tackling hills or carrying cargo.
Battery Capacity – The battery size, shown in watt hours (Wh) or amp hours (Ah), indicates the e-bike‘s electric range per charge. Batteries with 300 Wh or more will give you over 30 miles of assist. Larger batteries provide more range but add cost and weight.
Range – Consider the bike’s total mileage range to gauge if it fits your daily transportation needs. Also note if that range is using electric power only vs. pedal assist, which extends range further.
Intended Use – Are you looking to commute, tackle dirt trails or haul kids and gear? Choose an electric bike type (city, mountain, cargo, etc.) designed for your main purpose.
Price – Electric bikes range widely in cost from $500 portable models up to $5,000+ for premium electric mountain bikes. Set a budget that matches how you plan to ride.
Keeping these factors and your individual needs in mind will help guide you to pick the best e-bike match. Now let’s get into the top electric bike options available on Amazon today!
Best Electric Bikes on Amazon
NAKTO Camel
Best City Commuter Electric Bike
The NAKTO Camel is purpose-built for urban transportation with a step-through frame, automatic headlight and large rear rack. It can reach speeds of 25 mph thanks to the 500W brushless geared hub motor. The removable 36V 10.4Ah battery lasts for around 35 miles per charge – plenty for inner-city commuting and errands.
Other handy features that make the NAKTO Camel one of the best electric bikes for getting around town include integrated phone/cup holders, responsive mechanical disc brakes and an LED handlebar display showing your speed, battery level and riding mode. It also comes 85% pre-assembled for easier setup.
Key Specs:
- Max speed: 25 mph
- Motor: 500W geared hub
- Battery: 36V 10.4Ah (374Wh)
- Range: 35 miles electric / 45 miles pedal assist
- Frame: Step-through aluminum alloy
- Brakes: Front and rear mechanical disc
- Extras: Rear rack, fenders, kickstand & bell
With smart utility features and zippy 500W motor power, the NAKTO Camel is a great-value urban e-bike for commuting around town.
Aventon Soltera
Best Electric Mountain Bike Under $2,000
The Aventon Soltera stands out as an exceptionally well-equipped electric trail bike at an affordable sub-$2K price point. It’s outfitted with a 500W rear hub motor, removable 672Wh LG battery and 7-speed Shimano drivetrain – on par with eMTBs double the cost. You get up to 80 miles of range on a full battery charge.
Thanks to the powerful motor and 20 inch fat tires, the Aventon Soltera can tackle demanding uphill singletrack climbs as well as loose terrain like snow and sand. The durable aluminum alloy frame paired with a Suntour front suspension fork also helps smooth out rough descents. Hydraulic disc brakes provide strong stopping power.
This electric mountain bike punches far above its weight class. It’s a thrilling ride for off-road adventures that won’t break the bank.
Key Specs:
- Max speed: 28 mph
- Motor: 500W rear hub
- Battery: 48V 15Ah LG (672Wh)
- Range: Up to 80 miles
- Frame: 6061 aluminum alloy
- Brakes: 180mm hydraulic disc
- Suspension: 100mm travel Suntour fork
Ride1Up Roadster V2
Best Gravel Electric Bike for All-Terrain
Gravel riding grows in popularity for its versatility across pavement, dirt and trails. As a leading gravel e-bike, the Ride1Up Roadster V2 lets you roam wider with an ultra-capable Bafang mid-drive motor and long-lasting battery. Transition smoothly from street to forest thanks to the durable aluminum frame combined with 40mm gravel tires for stability across surfaces.
The 500W motor gives you plenty of boost for climbing terrain at up to 28 mph speeds. And the LG cell 48V 10.4Ah battery stores an ample 500Wh for approximately 50 miles of throttle-only range (or longer range pedaling). The quality components like Shimano Acera drivetrain, Tektro mechanical disc brakes and adjustable Suntour suspension fork further enhance the ride experience while keeping cost down.
If exploring a mix of pavement and natural landscape suits your adventures, the Roadster V2 stands as one of the top picks that can traverse most anything.
Key Specs:
- Max speed: 28 mph
- Motor: Bafang 500W mid-drive
- Battery: 48V LG cell 10.4Ah (500Wh)
- Range: 50 miles electric / 60+ miles pedal assist
- Frame: 6061 aluminum alloy
- Brakes: Mechanical disc
- Suspension: Adjustable Suntour fork
ECOTRIC Fat Tire Electric Beach Bike
Best Electric Beach Cruiser
When it’s time to head for sun and surf, the ECOTRIC Fat Tire electric beach bike makes the perfect oceanside companion. It combines an approachable step-through frame with ultra-wide 20 inch tires to traverse soft sand with stability. The 500W motor and 7 speed Shimano drivetrain deliver smooth acceleration up to 23 mph powered by the 36V 12Ah battery with long 45+ mile range.
Other details like the integrated LED headlight, ergonomic Velo Cruise saddle and built-in storage bag add convenience for coastal outings. With quality components and cushy 4 inch fat tires ready to blaze beaches and boardwalks, this ECOTRIC model arguably ranks as the ultimate electric beach cruiser you can buy.
Key Specs:
- Max speed: 23 mph
- Motor: 500W rear geared hub
- Battery: 36V 12Ah (432Wh)
- Range: 45+ miles
- Frame: Step-through steel
- Brakes: Tektro mechanical disc
- Tires: 20 x 4 inch fat
Himo Z20
Most Affordable Electric Bike
If you’re seeking electric assist on a tight budget, the Himo Z20 folds up to deliver surprising value. This nimble electric bike can motor you around town at 20 mph speeds thanks to the 36 volt 250W brushless rear hub motor. It comes equipped with a removable 36V 7.8Ah LG lithium battery storing over 280Wh – enough capacity for 20-30 miles per charge.
Despite the lower price, you still get quality components like 6-speed Shimano transmission, 20 inch pneumatic tires, front V-brakes and adjustable stem handlebar. The steel step-through frame folds down quickly for compact storage and transport. At just 44 pounds, it’s also one of the lightest electric bikes out there.
For penny-pinching riders after electric pedaling on a budget, the feature-packed Himo Z20 punches well above its petite price tag.
Key Specs:
- Max speed: 20 mph
- Motor: 250W rear hub brushless
- Battery: 36V 7.8Ah LG (282Wh)
- Range: 20-30 miles
- Frame: Steel step-through folding
- Brakes: Front V-brake, rear expansion
- Weight: 44 pounds
Choosing the Right Electric Bike Type
As seen in the e-bike models above, there are specific electric bikes tailored to different riding purposes. Selecting the bike type designed for how and where you plan to ride makes all the difference.
Here’s an overview of popular electric bike categories and recommendations:
Electric Commuter/City Bikes – Ideal for urban areas and daily travel. Look for step-through frames, racks, fenders and lights. Our pick: NAKTO Camel
Electric Mountain Bikes (eMTBs) – Rugged, durable bikes purpose-built for trail riding. Favor mid-drive motors, fat tires and front suspension. Our pick: Aventon Soltera
Electric Fat Tire Bikes – Extra-wide tires add stability across sand, snow and other loose terrain. Great for beaches. Our pick: ECOTRIC Fat Tire Electric Beach Bike
Electric Cargo Bikes – Haul kids, pets and gear thanks to heavy-duty frames with oversized racks/baskets. Often come with long wheelbases for stability.
Electric Folding Bikes – Compact and portable for multi-modal commuting and travel. Look for quick motor cutoffs when folded.
Electric Road Bikes – Sleek, lightweight frames similar to road racing bikes allow reaching higher speed. Targeted at fitness riding.
Consider where and how often you plan to ride when choosing among these different electric bike categories catered to specific needs.
Using and Maintaining Your E-Bike
Once you’ve selected the right electric bike for your travels, be sure to follow these usage and maintenance tips to keep your e-bike running smoothly for miles:
- Fully recharge battery after each use. Don’t let batteries drain to 0%.
- Check tire pressures and inspect brake pads regularly for safety.
- Use electric assist modes efficiently without overtaxing motors.
- Secure removable batteries when parked to deter theft.
- Weatherproof electrical connections and store indoors when possible.
- Clean dirty chains/gears gently. Lubricate monthly.
Following the owner’s manual for proper care, inspection and component lifespan will maximize your electric bike’s reliability. Consider signing up for an e-bike maintenance course for hands-on experience.
Investing a little extra effort into properly using and maintaining your electric bicycle will reward you with more miles of eco-friendly riding for years to come!
Electric Bike FAQs
Do you still have questions about purchasing or riding electric bicycles? Here we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about e-bikes:
How far can electric bikes go on one charge?
It depends on the battery size, power output and terrain. Expect 15-50+ miles from one battery. Using pedal assist extends range further.
Do you need a license to ride electric bikes?
Most states don’t require a license if top speeds stay under 28mph and motors are 750W or less. But regulations differ across regions, so check local laws.
Can electric bikes go up steep hills?
Yes, the extra power from electric motors helps conquer challenging inclines. Mid-drive motors perform best for climbing.
Are electric bikes safe?
Electric bikes don’t tend to go fast enough to be inherently dangerous. But be sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic laws. Their added weight takes some getting used to.
How much does a decent electric bike cost?
Plan around $1,000-$2,500 for a quality electric bike. Higher-end electric mountain bikes run $3,000+. More affordable options exist but sacrifice range or durability.
Hopefully these electric bike recommendations and FAQs give you a helpful starting point for picking your perfect e-bike match. With so many types and options now available, electric bicycles make cycling for fitness, commuting or fun more possible than ever!
