Welcome to Part 2 of our review of the best e-bikes of 2023! We’re back with a mid-year update to keep you informed about the latest and greatest electric bikes hitting the market. If you haven’t seen our previous video highlighting the top picks for 2023, be sure to check it out for even more exciting options.
In Part 1, we explored some incredible electric bike options that have been making waves in the cycling world, from the Best Moped Electric Bike to the Best Fat Tire Electric Bike.
Now, get ready to dive into a whole new set of e-bikes that are pushing the boundaries of performance, design, and technology.
BULLS Alpine Hawk EVO
The Best Road Electric Bike, 2023
The Bulls Alpine Hawk is a game-changer for the road biking community. Despite its motor-equipped design, it maintains the essence and feel of a true road bike. This e-bike subtly enhances the road biking experience, making it appealing even to the lycra-clad cycling enthusiasts who thrive on leg power.
Weighing just 33.5 lbs, the Alpine Hawk is lighter than most e-bikes and delivers a small but well-calibrated boost of assistance through the Fazua motor. This assistance doesn’t take over the ride; instead, it complements your effort, resulting in modest speed increases that offset the bike’s weight and more.
What sets the Alpine Hawk apart is its ability to remove the motor and battery entirely, offering the choice between traditional road biking and an electrified ride. This thoughtful feature showcases the Bulls’ commitment to catering to the e-bike-curious road crowd.
If you’re a road biking enthusiast who’s been hesitant about e-bikes, the Bulls Alpine Hawk is the perfect solution. Priced at $5,799, it seamlessly integrates motor assistance into the road biking experience, allowing you to ride faster, conquer headwinds with ease, and tackle hills with reduced effort—all while preserving the essence of pure road biking.
GoCycle G4
The Best Lightweight Electric Folding Bike, 2023
The GoCycle G4 is undoubtedly a masterpiece from the mind of a former supercar designer. With its carbon fiber construction, including stunning one-piece spoked carbon wheels and a sleek folding frame, this e-bike exudes a minimalist and sleek aesthetic. However, beneath its carbon facade lies a wealth of features and intelligent integration that sets it apart from other e-bikes.
As the fourth iteration of the British fast folder, the G4 family boasts even more carbon and a highly integrated cockpit. GoCycle has also managed to double the torque produced by the front hub motor, proving that size doesn’t dictate power. The G4 is surprisingly agile and excels at climbing hills.
Weighing in at approximately 36 lbs, the GoCycle G4 is one of the lightest folding e-bikes available today, priced at $5,499. Its unique and cool appearance, along with its smooth folding mechanism and feature-rich build, make it undeniably one of the best lightweight folding e-bikes of 2023.
Aventon Soltera
The Best City Electric Bike, 2023
The Aventon Soltera tackles a common challenge in e-bike design: balancing power and weight. Instead of opting for a larger motor and battery, this bike takes a different approach. Priced at just $1,199, the Soltera features a 350-watt brushless motor and a 360 Wh battery while weighing just 41 lbs. This makes it a lightweight and efficient option for riders seeking a cost-effective yet capable e-bike. Modeled after single-speed, flat-bar road bikes, the Soltera features narrower tires that provide a more agile and efficient riding experience. The 700C wheels ensure a smooth ride over bumps and offer stability at higher speeds.
While the Soltera is available in a single-speed version, Aventon also offers a 7-speed option for those who prefer extra gears for tackling hills. The inclusion of traditional rim brakes is a unique feature among the e-bikes we’ve reviewed, providing ample stopping power. The tires, though narrower than typical e-bike tires, still offer a comfortable ride even on rough roads.
Overall, the Aventon Soltera stands out for its lightweight design, efficient performance, and versatile gear options. It’s a compelling choice for riders seeking a nimble and comfortable e-bike experience.
Mokwheel Basalt
The Best Camping Electric Bike, 2023
The Mokwheel Basalt is an e-bike that offers campers the opportunity to explore their surroundings without getting exhausted. With its Class 3 classification and a top speed of 28 mph, it’s perfect for getting around various terrains.
At first glance, the Mokwheel Basalt may seem like a typical e-bike, but it has some standout features. The 750-watt brushless hub motor provides an impressive torque of 90 Nm, making it suitable for tackling steep hills. The 110mm-travel suspension fork enhances control on bumpy terrain, while the 7-speed Shimano drivetrain ensures efficient uphill and downhill rides. Hydraulic disc brakes deliver powerful stopping performance, and the Chaoyang 26 x 4-inch tires provide cushioning and traction for off-road exploration.
What truly sets the Mokwheel Basalt apart is its exceptional 940 Wh battery. This battery powers a 100-watt power inverter, allowing riders to run essential devices such as phone chargers, coffee makers, electric grills, and laptops. For longer camping trips, Mokwheel also offers a solar charger to keep the battery charged and extend the e-bike’s usability.
The Mokwheel Basalt is available in both traditional and step-through frame designs, catering to different riders’ preferences. With a remarkable payload capacity of 450 lbs, it can even carry groceries or camping supplies. This feature makes it an ideal choice for campers who want the convenience of electricity during their outdoor adventures. Overall, the Mokwheel Basalt stands out as an e-bike that combines off-road exploration capabilities with unique accessories for a versatile camping experience. With a price tag of $1,799, it offers exceptional value for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable and feature-packed e-bike to enhance their camping adventures.
Specialized Turbo Vado
The Best High-Performance Electric Bike, 2023
Specialized has always embraced innovation, and its commitment to pushing boundaries is evident in the Specialized Turbo Vado. This e-bike is a testament to world-class engineering and meticulous attention to detail. The 250-watt mid-drive motor is finely tuned and impressively responsive, providing just the right amount of assistance as soon as you start pedaling.
Don’t be fooled by the lower wattage rating; the Turbo Vado has plenty of power when needed. It offers three different assist levels—ECO, SPORT, and TURBO—each with a distinct feel, and the bike handles excellently across all modes.
The motor alone is worthy of praise, but Specialized doesn’t stop there. The Turbo Vado is equipped with high-quality components, including SRAM hydraulic brakes, an SRAM NX 11-speed drivetrain, and a generous 710 Wh battery that provides ample power.
While high-performance bikes often come with a hefty price tag, starting at $3,250, the Turbo Vado offers exceptional value for its component package, engineering investment, performance, and top-tier customer support. Every penny spent on this bike feels justified considering the overall package you receive. In conclusion, the Specialized Turbo Vado exemplifies Specialized’s commitment to innovation and delivers a superb riding experience with its responsive motor, top-notch components, and excellent value for money.
Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5
The Best E-Bike For Smaller Riders, 2023
For riders under 5 feet and 5 inches tall, finding a suitable e-bike can be a challenge. Most bikes are designed for riders around 5 feet 10 inches, resulting in a less optimal fit for smaller individuals. However, the RadExpand 5 addresses this issue with its thoughtful design. The high-rise handlebar can be adjusted to a more comfortable position, reducing the reach, and the step-through design not only facilitates easy folding but also effortless mounting and dismounting.
What sets the RadExpand 5 apart is its versatility. It’s equipped with essential features for commuting, including lights, fenders, and a rear rack. Additionally, the bike’s wide tires ensure a smooth ride even on rough roads.
With its powerful 750 watts brushless hub motor, the RadExpand 5 offers more than enough power, especially for smaller riders who may not have as much strength. This makes it an excellent choice for those who frequently encounter hills or rough terrain.
In summary, the Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5 stands out as the top choice for small riders, priced at $1,449. Its step-through frame, adjustable handlebar, and powerful motor address the specific needs of smaller individuals. Furthermore, its versatility and commuter-friendly features make it a capable and enjoyable e-bike for various riding situations.
Aventon Abound
The Best Electric Cargo Bike, 2023
The Aventon Abound stands out as one of the most impressive electric cargo bikes in the 2023 revolution in this category. Cargo e-bikes prioritize utility, providing a practical alternative for those seeking to reduce car dependency or for families wanting to explore more together. Reliability is crucial for riders who rely on these bikes to transport gear or passengers.
The Aventon Abound excels in its specifications and features, combining functionality with an attractive design in the cargo e-bike style. It features an impressive 750-watt rear hub motor equipped with a torque sensor, offering precise motor control based on the rider’s pedal effort.
The torque sensor not only provides better motor control but also enhances battery efficiency. Although the 720 Wh battery is not class-leading in terms of capacity, it optimizes mileage by leveraging the torque sensor’s efficiency.
One standout aspect of Abound is its comprehensive package. Unlike many cargo e-bikes that require additional accessories for full functionality, the Abound comes with more out of the box. It includes standard runner boards, a storage compartment, and a quick-adjust seatpost with a hint of suspension for the rider.
With excellent ride quality, thoughtful design, and a range of useful accessories, the Abound has rightfully earned its place among the best electric bikes of 2023, starting at $2,199. Its combination of affordability and features makes it a compelling choice for riders seeking a high-quality e-bike without breaking the bank.
Lectric XPedition
The Best Affordable Electric Cargo Bike, 2023
In our selection of the top overall e-bikes of 2023, Lectric’s first-ever cargo bike, the XPedition, left us with an unforgettable “WOW” moment due to its exceptional value.
The XPedition stands out with its impressive cargo capacity, boasting one of the highest weight ratings for a cargo rack at 300 lbs. with a total payload of 450 lbs. Lectric equipped the bike with a powerful 750-watt motor, specifically designed to conquer any hills you may encounter while hauling heavy loads. Additionally, the XPedition comes with desirable features such as hydraulic brakes, a custom stem for quick adjustment and folding, pre-slimed 20″ x 3″ tires, lights, fenders, and wheel guards—all included.
Now, here’s the mind-boggling part: high-quality cargo e-bikes typically sell in the $2,000 range. However, Lectric introduced the XPedition at an astonishingly affordable price of $1,399—more than $500 below that level—while offering all the aforementioned features. For an additional $300, you can opt for a dual battery setup, extending the range up to 120 miles, and still remain below that $2,000 threshold where most cargo e-bikes start.
But the “WOW” factor doesn’t end there. Many cargo e-bike riders require accessories for carrying kids or gear. With the dual-battery XPedition, you can add two XL cargo pannier bags, seat cushions, and grab bars, all without surpassing the typical $2000 price point. While the XPedition does have some minor flaws in cable management and an outdated LCD display, when you consider the wealth of features it offers, its solid ride quality, and the fact that you can get a fully loaded model for a price lower than most other cargo options, it’s evident why we’ve named it the best affordable e-bike of 2023.
QuietKat Apex
The Best All-Terrain/Hunting Electric Bike, 2023
The QuietKat Apex is an impressive all-terrain e-bike that combines the versatility of a fat bike with the power of a turbo unit. Designed for off-road adventures, it features a Bafang mid-drive motor for enhanced responsiveness and hill-climbing performance.
Equipped with high-quality components such as Tektro 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, an SRAM 9-speed drivetrain, and a 150mm-travel suspension fork, the QuietKat Apex ensures a reliable and comfortable ride. Its fat 26 x 4.5-inch tires make it well-suited for forest exploration.
QuietKat offers the Apex in three different sizes to accommodate a wide range of rider heights, recognizing the importance of a proper fit for optimal off-road performance.
The basic price of $3,999 makes the Apex an attractive choice for those seeking a high-performance electric bike with customizable features. QuietKat also provides various customization options, including motor upgrades and extended warranties, along with a diverse selection of accessories. With a payload capacity of 325 lbs and a 768 Wh battery, the QuietKat Apex is an excellent choice for hunters or anglers looking to transport gear and bring home their catch. Its ample battery range enables riders to venture deep into the wilderness, where the game is abundant.
Blix Sol Eclipse
The Best Cruiser Electric Bike, 2023
The Blix Sol Eclipse is a cruiser e-bike that prioritizes comfort and ease of riding while adding a boost of power. It takes the concept of a cruiser bike and makes it even more rider-friendly.
With its 750 watts hub motor, 614 Wh battery, and 7-speed drivetrain, the Blix Sol Eclipse ensures effortless rides on both hills and flat paths. Despite cruisers typically being associated with shorter rides, the e-bike’s speed and 45-mile range make longer journeys enjoyable under the sun.
With a starting price of $1,699, this e-bike delivers exceptional value for its impressive features and user-friendly design. The LCD display is well-designed, featuring a large and easily readable interface. The battery charge scale, resembling a ruler, provides a more precise indication compared to traditional bar displays. Mounting the display on the stem enhances readability. The backswept cruiser bar offers excellent comfort, and the twist shifter is preferred over other types. Unlike many e-bikes that cater to taller riders, the Blix Sol Eclipse has a low standover height of 17 inches and a shorter reach to the handlebar at 15.5 inches, making it an ideal choice for smaller riders who may not fit on other bikes.
As a Class 2 e-bike with a throttle and a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph, the Blix Sol Eclipse is equipped with Tektro mechanical disc brakes and 160mm rotors that effectively ensure control and safety. Given its impressive features and rider-friendly design, it’s no surprise that this is our top pick for the best electric cruiser bike of 2023.
Electric Bike Company Model S
The Best Electric Bike for Customization, 2023
The Electric Bike Company stands out in the e-bike market by offering customers an unprecedented level of customization for their desired ride. Unlike most e-bike manufacturers that limit choices to frame type, size, and color, this California-based company allows riders to create their dream e-bike with countless possibilities.
Starting with aesthetics, customers can select the color of the frame, fork, chainguard, fenders, battery case, rims, basket, and more. The range of color options is entirely up to the rider’s preference, even extending to custom-painted bike helmets.
However, it’s not just about appearance. The Electric Bike Company offers extensive hardware options as well. Riders can choose their preferred grips, wheel size, tires, fork, drivetrain, throttle, battery size, and more. They even have the option to add a security system.
While customization is available for most of the company’s models, the Model S stood out to us for its exceptional ride quality. It perfectly embodies the beach cruiser vibe, providing a smooth and comfortable experience reminiscent of riding along the boardwalk. Even riders who typically prefer eMTBs found joy in taking out the beach cruiser. It’s a fun ride that can be tailored to your exact preferences, which is why it earns our recognition as the best e-bike for customization. With a price tag of $2,399, this versatile e-bike offers an array of customization options, allowing riders to create their perfect cruising experience.
We hope this overview has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration for your own e-bike journey. Remember to prioritize safety, explore local regulations, and find the model that perfectly suits your style and requirements.