Best Electric Bikes
A little bit of help from an electric motor is attracting more people to e-bikes and bicycling
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Electric bikes are more popular than ever, and chances are good that you’ve seen a few gliding around where you live. U.S. retail sales were $885 million in 2022, compared with $770 million in 2021—almost a 15 percent increase—according to NPD Group, a market research company. Although year-to-date retail bike sales are declining in 2023, as a whole, the market is still up a massive 200 percent vs. 2019.
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• Best Electric Bikes: Class 1, Class 2, Folding, Mountain
• How to Choose an Electric Bike
The ever-increasing popularity of e-bikes isn’t surprising. They make riding easier, and arguably more fun for many people, serving as a healthy recreational outlet and frugal means of transportation. With many people looking for the best electric bike for their needs and budget, Consumer Reports continues to test new models. Shoppers now have our expert guidance on a range of models, including our picks for the best electric bikes. CR’s e-bike ratings are based on each model’s range, comfort, and overall usability.
Photo: John Walsh/Consumer Reports Photo: John Walsh/Consumer Reports
Best Electric Bikes: Class 1
Best Electric Bikes: Class 2
Best Electric Bikes: Folding
Best Electric Bikes: Mountain
How to Choose an Electric Bike
Before you spring for an e-bike, there are a few things you should consider.
- Are e-bikes allowed where you live? City and state laws regulating electric bikes vary by locale, so it’s a good idea to check to see if they’re allowed where you want to ride, whether it’s on public roads, bicycle paths, or trails.
- Do you really want or need the added expense, complexity, and weight of an electric motor, rechargeable battery, and the electronics that control them? It can be a great convenience, but it does come at a cost.
- Which kind of e-bike is best for you? There are different types. Some models require the rider to pedal in order for the electric motor to kick in, while others have a throttle lever that operates the motor. You should also decide which style of bike—commuter, cruiser, road, mountain, folding—best suits your needs.
- There are three classes of e-bikes: Class 1, 2, and 3. Class 1 bikes require pedal effort to activate the electric motor, with e-assist topping out at 20 mph. Class 2 bikes also provide e-assist up to 20 mph, and they can power the bike using a hand-operated throttle lever up to 28 mph. Class 3 bikes may or may not have a throttle control, and electric power cuts off at 28 mph.
As with any bike, it’s a good idea to go to a local retailer so that you can ride each model you’re interested in. Each bike has a different feel, and you want to make sure the sizing and riding position work for you.
“Electric bikes tend to be more expensive than conventional bicycles, so most people will probably want a good all-arounder,” says Rich Handel, the engineer who leads CR’s e-bike testing program. “We especially liked the mid-drive models that apply electric power where there would normally only be pedals. 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. But for pure fun, it’s hard to beat a Class 2 electric bike. Without needing to shift gears, their throttle controls and acceleration ability make them exciting to ride.”
To read more about e-bike classifications, types of e-bikes, and how to buy an e-bike, see our full e-bike ratings and buying guide.
