Best Electric Bike 2021: Top Picks For Commuting, Long Distance, And More


The best electric bikes make cycling more accessible as mountain biking or even just cycling to work become viable options for everyone.

While a top road bike is built for speed across the tarmac using your own power, an electric bike is designed to assist you're pedaling, thus reducing some of the physical demand.

If an electric bike sounds right for you, then we've put together this list based on specs, price, and reviews to help kick start your search in the best way possible.

From electric mountain bikes, like this PASELEC Bike, to something more portable, like this Sailnovo Electric Bicycle, we've got you covered right here.

Black Friday Deals NOW LIVE: See Our Top Fitness Picks Right Here!

Best Electric Bike

Best All-Round Electric Bike - ESKUTE Electric City Bike

Best electric bike ESKUTE product image of a black bike with a white ESKUTE logo on the side.
expand image
Image Credit: ESKUTE

Brand: ESKUTE | Wheel Size: 28" | Frame: Aluminium | Speeds: 7

As electric bikes go, there are probably not many as well-rounded as this ESKUTE Electric City Bike.

It features a 250w Bafang hub motor to help you tackle any hill with ease, and it should be smooth, quiet, and easy to repair if needed.

Moreover, it comes with a 36V battery which means the total energy capacity for this bike is 450Wh - ideal for long city or country rides where you may not get the chance to charge it.

In terms of the bike itself, you get disc brakes, a KMC chain, a Shimano 7-speed derailleur system, and even an LCD screen to provide you with basic information such as distance and speed to enhance your riding experience.

All in all, if you're finding it hard to decide between an electric bike an e-scooter, the ESKUTE Electric City Bike seems to put in a strong case on the e-bike side.

Best Electric Mountain Bike - PASELEC Electric Mountain Bike

Best electric bike PASELEC product image of a grey bike with a black PASELEC logo on the side.
expand image
Image Credit: PASELEC

Brand: PASELEC | Wheel Size: 27.5" | Frame: Aluminium | Speeds: 8

If you're looking for something to help you tackle challenging off-road trails, then this PASELEC Electric Mountain Bike might be your answer.

As mentioned in our list of the best mountain bikes, big wheels and full suspension are key to maximising your performance.

Thankfully, the PASELEC Electric Mountain Bike has both of these ticked, as well as a lightweight, aluminum frame and Zoom hydraulic disc brakes that should be both powerful and smooth when it comes to slowing down.

On the electric side, you get a 500W geared rear hub motor that has a top speed of 25mph, so will likely be more than suitable for assisting your pedaling across difficult terrain, and is one of the reasons why we think the PASELEC is a top pick.

Best Electric Bike For Commuting - Sailnovo Electric Bicycle

Best electric bike Sailnovo product image of a white-framed bike with black tyres and red-trimmed wheels.
expand image
Image Credit: Sailnovo

Brand: Sailnovo | Wheel Size: 14" | Frame: Aluminium | Speeds: Unspecified

A folding electric bike, like this Sailnovo, can be incredibly useful for traveling to work as they tend to be extremely portable and lightweight.

The smaller tires should help you weave in and out of busy traffic on your commute, and the 350W motor will likely help you get there quicker and easier than on a standard road bike.

Sailnovo boasts this bike has a range of 28 miles meaning, for city use, in particular, this compact, electric device should have enough charge to get you to and from work.

Ultimately, electric bikes are becoming more and more of the go-to mode of transport for city living, so it may be worth investing in a compact bike like this Sailnovo.

Best Electric Bike For Long Distances - KNAPP Generation 1

Best electric bike KNAPP product image of a black bike that looks similar to a small motorcycle.
expand image
Image Credit: KNAPP

Brand: KNAPP | Wheel Size: 20" | Frame: Unspecified | Speeds: 7

For longer distances, you'll no doubt want to be comfortable as you ride.

The KNAPP Generation 1 should achieve this thanks to its two-seater base, more akin to a motorcycle than a bicycle, and 87-mile range on a full battery from the 250W motor.

Moreover, it comes with an LCD display that shows you the battery life, speed, and mileage remaining which is ideal as you can use this information to plan your journey in advance.

KNAPP also boasts this bike has a powerful 1200-lumen LED headlight so, if you're planning on riding in the dark, the KNAPP Generation 1 should have you covered.

Best Electric Bike On A Budget - Jetson Bolt

Best electric bike Jetson product image of a black, compact, foldable bike.
expand image
Image Credit: Jetson

Brand: Jetson | Wheel Size: 14" | Frame: Unspecified | Speeds: 13

There are many reasons why you should consider the Jetson Bolt if you're looking for an electric bike, but the main selling point of this item is its relatively inexpensive price tag.

One of the ways Jetson has cleverly reduced the cost is by creating an app where you can connect with the bike and adjust its speed, LED lights, monitor battery life, and map your journey.

Like the Sailnovo, the Jetson Bolt is also foldable so it should be easy to store and transport if, for example, you plan on riding it to work.

All in all, with a max speed of 15.5mph, the Jetson Bolt should be the ideal budget option to consider for city life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Bikes

With an abundance of variations on the market, you probably have a few questions surrounding electric bikes, but don't worry because we're here to clear up some of the more common queries.

How Fast Can Electric Bikes Go?

This will vary depending on the bike, however, it is worth noting that, in the UK, electric bikes built for road use have to stop providing assistance at 15mph. In the US, the limit is 20mph.

There are some bikes out there that can go faster than this, like the PASELEC Electric Mountain Bike, but they tend to be used for more off-road journeys rather than city commutes.

Do I Need A License To Drive An Electric Bike On The Road?

If you’re over 14 in England, Scotland, and Wales, you can ride a 'standard' electric bike on the road without tax, insurance, or a license.

This is because an electric bike doesn’t have a throttle. Instead, the amount of power that the motor delivers is determined by how hard you are pedaling.

It's worth keeping in mind that any electric bike that doesn’t meet EAPC criteria is classified as a moped or motorcycle and will, therefore, require a license.

How Long Does A Charged Electric Bike Last?

Again, this will also differ from bike to bike and will vary depending on how you use it.

If you rely more on electrical assistance, then your bike won't last as long compared to when you predominately use your own power and force.

With that being said, some bikes, like the KNAPP Generation 1, boast great mileage from their batteries as they are more suited to longer distances.

Read More: Best Exercise Bike Available Right Now

This Article's Topics

Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!

RealKitDeals