Compare electric commuter bikes

If you’re looking for an easier way to commute to work that’ll help you get fit at the same time, an e-bike could be a sound investment. Discover how to find the best electric commuter bike for your cycling needs and a few top picks.

5 popular electric commuter bikes

Here are five commuter e-bikes worth considering.

Affordable option: Aventon Pace 350 Step-through E-bike

• Top speed: 20 mph
• Range: 35 miles
• Charge time: Three to four hours
• Price: $1,100

It’s rare to find a solid bike around the $1,000 price point. But the Pace 350 is impressively good at balancing price and performance.

It has a Class 2 motor, which means you shouldn’t have a problem accessing bikeways, unlike its speedier Class 3 cousins. But its mechanical disc brakes are less efficient than hydraulic brakes.

Long-range option: Elby Bike 9-Speed Electric Bike

• Top speed: 20 mph
• Range: 80 miles
• Charge time: Four hours
• Price: $3,000

The Elby sports an aluminum-molded frame with a 500W rear hub motor.

It also features hydraulic brakes for effective stopping. And with a range of up to 80 miles on a single charge, the Elby is a good option for long recreational cruises or commuters.

But it’s on the pricier end of the market.

High-end option: Specialized Turbo Vado SL 5.0 EQ

• Top speed: 28 mph
• Range: 80 miles
• Charge time: Not available
• Price: $4,500

This sleek beast weighs only 33 pounds, making it easier to maneuver and carry than a traditional bike and most e-bikes. Characteristic of mountain bikes, it also has 20 millimeters of suspension to deliver a smoother ride. The hybrid frame makes it a star performer for zipping around town to conquering dirt paths — but you’d expect that at the $4,500 price point.

Folding option: Tern Vektron S10

• Top speed: 20 mph
• Range: 80 miles
• Charge time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
• Price: $4,500

This folding e-bike uses a Bosch Performance motor and computer with a 10-speed drivetrain, delivering smooth pedaling. It also has a quiet motor and hydraulic disc brakes for a safe and enjoyable ride. And its muted color scheme doesn’t make you look like you’re riding a child’s bicycle.

Popular overall: Charge Bikes City

• Top speed: 20 mph
• Range: 50 miles
• Charge time: Not available
• Price: $1,700

While it’s not a folding bike, the Charge Bike has foldable handlebars and pedals to make it easy to move and store. And its puncture-resistant Goodyear tires deliver all-weather traction for any commute. It has five pedal-assist modes, so you’ll have no trouble going up hills. While it’s not the best looking e-bike in town, it’ll get you where you want to go.

What to look for when comparing electric commuter bikes

Consider the following factors when shopping around for a new e-bike:

• Motor. Check how much power and torque the motor provides and how many assistance levels it has.
• Battery life and range. Consider the maximum range you’ll get before you need to recharge. And some companies have removable batteries for more convenient charging.
• Brakes. Most e-bikes come with disc brakes, but higher-end models have hydraulic brakes.
• Weight. Many electric bikes weigh about 50 pounds. Check the specs sheet to make sure the bike will be easy enough to maneuver and lift when you’re not riding.
• Warranty. Check the length of the warranty that comes with the bike and exactly what it covers before you buy.
• Price. The cheapest commuter e-bikes start at around $1,000, while high-end models can exceed $10,000. As a general rule, the more you pay, the better-quality components (gears, cables, etc.) and frame you can expect on your bike.

Pros and cons of electric commuter bikes

If you’re on the fence about an e-bike, consider its perks and disadvantages:

Bottom line

An electric bike can help you get to work faster, get fit and tackle hills you otherwise wouldn’t dream of riding up. But even most entry-level e-bikes require a sizable spend of more than $1,000.

Be sure you’ll get plenty of use out of your e-bike before you buy and compare electric bicycles to find the right features that fit your budget. Consider asking your local bike shop for a test ride to see whether this riding style is right for you.

Frequently asked questions

Find even more answers to your questions about commuter e-bikes here.

What are the rules around licensing an electric bike?

You generally don’t need a special license or registration to ride an e-bike. However, be sure to check all regulations that apply in your state or city to ensure that the bike you buy complies with all local laws.

How fast can I go on an electric bike?

An e-bike can go as fast as you can make it go using pedal power — but assistance from the motor generally drops off once you reach 20 mph.