10 Best Pedal Electric Bikes

Are you tired of traditional bikes and looking for a new way to get around while still getting some exercise? Look no further than the world of pedal electric bikes! These innovative machines combine the convenience and speed of an electric bike with the health benefits of pedaling.

Pedal-assist e-bikes, also called pedelecs, offer a ride similar to that of a traditional bike, making them a great pick for cycling enthusiasts. The difference? They feature an ‘assist’ mode that offers a power boost as you pedal. It’s essentially like biking but with an extra punch of power.

And they aren’t just fun, they’re also beneficial for your health. These advanced e-bikes often come with varying levels of assistance, allowing you to control the boost you get and how much effort you exert. This makes them an excellent choice for those who want a convenient commuting solution without sacrificing the health benefits of cycling.

But with so many models on the market, how do you know which one to choose? That’s where we come in. As an evaluation team for e-bikes, we’ve done the research and tested the top models to bring you our list of the 10 best pedal electric bikes. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or just taking a leisurely ride, there’s a perfect pedal electric bike for you. So let’s dive in and discover the best of the best!

How do we test these e-bikes?

As an evaluation team for pedal electric bikes, we understand the importance of thorough testing to ensure accurate and unbiased evaluations. That’s why we have developed a rigorous testing process to evaluate each bike’s performance in various conditions. We begin by testing the bikes in different terrains, including paved roads, gravel paths, and dirt trails. This allows us to assess their handling, stability, and durability. Additionally, we conduct speed tests to gauge their maximum speed and acceleration. We also pay close attention to battery life, charging time, and motor efficiency, as these factors are critical in determining the bike’s overall performance. However, testing these bikes has not always been easy. We have encountered challenges such as unexpected weather conditions, technical difficulties, and even accidents during testing. Despite these obstacles, we remain committed to providing accurate and detailed evaluations to help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing pedal electric bikes.

The best 10-pedal electric bike

Sailnovo Electric Bike

Price: $369.99

Pros:

1. Individualized design: With a sporty look, streamlined matte surface, and color block design, this bike is equipped with several features for comfortable and safe riding, including dual disc brakes, non-slip bump handlebars, LCD battery/speed indicator, foldable handlehead, adjustable saddle, and 14″ anti-shock tires.
2. Convenient: This bike is pre-assembled by 90%, making it quicker and easier to enjoy the new ride. Its foldable design allows for easy storage and portability. Additionally, it supports three different riding modes, including pure electric mode, electric assist mode, and normal bike mode, making it a versatile option for different types of riders.
3. Affordable: The bike is priced at $369.99, making it an affordable option compared to other electric bikes on the market.

Cons:

1. Suspension: The suspension system on this bike might be too stiff, causing a snappy speed wobble over small bumps, which could result in a strained back during long rides.
2. Speed: The bike has a maximum speed of 18.5mph, which may not be ideal for riders looking to keep up with traffic in busy cities.

Personal view:

This one is surely a cheap e-bike among all the listed bikes we tested! Our team finds this bike to be an efficient and affordable option for commuting on flat city roads.

As a 6’3″, 160lbs cyclist and member of our bike team, I can attest that the suspension on this model could benefit from improvements. It feels too stiff, with limited play, which could be addressed by adding a damper or using heavier grease in the steering bracket. This would help minimize the speed wobble experienced over smaller bumps (0.75-1.5 inches).

On a positive note, range anxiety is no longer a concern, though the trade-off is some discomfort on longer rides (up to 28 miles) due to the suspension. The battery life is impressive, with two notches remaining after minimal pedaling from a stop.

Update: After adding a seat suspension, I have successfully completed a 38-mile ride using pedal assist mode 2, without any back strain. Additionally, adjusting the internal settings allows the bike to reach speeds of 22.4mph (36kph), improving its performance in urban environments.

Overall, we think this bike is a great choice for those who value affordability, convenience, and versatility in their electric bike.

Schwinn Electric Pedal Bike

Price: $1,599.99

Pros:

1. Quick and easy assembly process: The assembly process was quick and painless, taking less than 25 minutes. The instruction manual was easy to follow, and the build quality of the bike was impressive. The battery and power cords flowed seamlessly with the shape of the bike, and none of the parts seemed clunky or restricting in any way.
2. Impressive battery life and endurance: The battery life of the Schwinn e-bike exceeded expectations, lasting for multiple bike rides without needing to be recharged. Each bike is equipped with a control pad that shows the amount of battery life ranging from 1 to 4 bars, and the battery remained at 4 bars despite multiple bike rides.
3. Fun and functional: The e-bike is fun to ride and provides the freedom to ride wherever and however you want. The strong pedal assist and throttle features provide a hassle-free option for more casual rides, and the pedal assist feature helps you maintain a consistent speed. The bike provides the boost needed to go up hills and inclines, making for a more enjoyable experience. The ride is smooth and consistent.
4. Adjustable seat and frame size: The bike has a 26” frame and fits most people. The seat is easily adjustable, providing a comfortable cushion for both shorter and taller riders.

Cons:

1. Inaccurate labeling: The bike was not categorized correctly as a Class II e-bike, which was a disappointment for the customer. The video clearly states that all Schwinn e-bikes are Class II, but the one received was actually a Class I e-bike. Check out the Class difference of E-bikes.
2. Lack of specific manual instructions: The manual sent with the bike was not specific to this model, causing some confusion during assembly and use.
3. Difficulty in returning: The bike is heavy, which makes it difficult to return. The customer was disappointed with the purchase but felt that returning it would be too challenging due to its weight.

Personal view:

Our bike team was thoroughly impressed with the efficient assembly process of this e-bike. The packaging was robust, ensuring the bike’s protection during transit. The provided instruction manual was clear and concise, outlining about 8 easy steps that took us under 25 minutes to complete – a delightful surprise. As we’ve experienced with previous Schwinn models, the build quality was top-notch.

We’ve taken several trips to our local park and around the neighborhood, and the battery life and endurance have exceeded our expectations. Equipped with a control pad displaying the battery life on a scale of 1 to 4 bars, we’ve observed that the battery remains at 4 bars even after multiple rides.

The pedal assist, available in Low-Med-High settings, maintains a consistent speed and delivers the necessary boost for tackling hills and inclines, ensuring an enjoyable ride. The overall performance is smooth and consistent.

With a versatile 26″ frame, this bike comfortably accommodates most riders. Our team believes that the Schwinn e-bike is a good product overall. The easy assembly process, impressive battery life, and fun and functional design make it an excellent choice for those in need of a boost while biking. However, inaccurate labeling and lack of specific manual instructions are areas that could be improved upon. Despite this, we still recommend the Schwinn e-bike to anyone looking for a quality e-bike that provides an enjoyable and effortless riding experience.

V8 Adult Electric Bike Pedal Snow Bike

Price: $1,395.00

Pros:

1. Classic Design: The retro motorcycle frame design of this electric bike is eye-catching and unique. It is a great choice for those who want a stylish and retro feel for their bike.
2. Powerful Motor: The 1000W high-speed motor allows for a maximum speed of 30 MPH, which is impressive for an electric bike. The 20″ x 4″ non-skid fat tires provide a safe and stable riding experience for daily commutes and weekend adventures.
3. Convenient Transportation: This electric bike offers a convenient and cost-effective way to commute, run errands, or simply get around town. It eliminates the hassle of traffic and parking problems, and saves money on transportation costs.

Cons:

1. Limited Range: While the removable battery can provide a range of 45 to 65 miles depending on the mode, this may not be enough for some riders who require longer distances.
2. Heavy Weight: The weight of the bike can be a challenge for some riders, especially those who need to carry it up and down stairs or load it into a vehicle.
3. High Cost: The price of this electric bike may be prohibitive for some customers who are on a budget.

Personal view:

We were impressed with the classic design of this electric bike, and appreciated the powerful motor that provided a fast and stable riding experience. The warranty and return policy gave us confidence in our purchase, and the removable battery made it convenient for charging. However, we did find the weight of the bike to be a little challenging, and wished that the range was longer. Overall, we would recommend this electric bike to those who are looking for a stylish and convenient way to get around town.

Electric Bike for Adults KAISDA

Price: $989.00

Pros:

1. Electric Bike for Adults KAISDA The 48V 16AH large-capacity battery is a great feature for those who need to charge the bike on the go. It can provide up to 24 miles per charge in pure electric mode or up to 37 miles in PAS mode, making it a great choice for those who want to travel long distances.
2. Intelligence Control System and 3 Working Modes: The bike comes in three modes, allowing the rider to choose how much assistance they need. The pedal-assist mode is great for those who want to get some exercise, while the electric mode is perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy the ride.
3. Bike Frame and Transmission System: The 6061-aluminum alloy bike frame is lightweight and coupled with a suspension front fork to absorb vibration effectively. The SHIMANO 7 speed transmission system ensures high quality and high speed.

Cons:

1. Size Limitations: The bike is not suitable for shorter or smaller frame people. The height requirement is around 5’10”.
2. Quality Control Issues: Some customers have reported cosmetic issues and rust on non-aluminum joints/bolts. Kaisda needs to improve its quality control.
3. User Manual: The user manual needs to be more detailed and informative, especially regarding the different modes and how they work.

Personal view:

Our team thinks this e-bike has a lot of pros that make it a great option for people who want a powerful and comfortable ride. The 70Nm motor is incredibly strong and allows for speeds up to 25mph, which is impressive. The removable lithium battery is also a nice feature, as it makes it easy to charge the bike no matter where you are. Additionally, the bike’s frame and transmission system are of high quality, making it a durable and reliable option for any adventure.

However, there are a few cons that our team has noticed. First, the bike is quite large, which might make it difficult for shorter people to ride. Second, the bike arrived with some cosmetic issues, such as rust on the non-aluminum joints and bolts. Finally, we had some trouble getting both the throttle and pedal assist to work at the same time, and the manual could be more comprehensive.

Our team thinks that this e-bike is a great option for people who want a powerful and comfortable ride, but it may not be the best fit for shorter riders. Additionally, we hope that Kaisda can improve its quality control processes to ensure that the bike arrives in perfect condition for every customer.

LECTRIC XP™ Pedal-Assist Electric Bike

Price: $799.99

Pros:

1. Traverse Diverse Terrain: One of the biggest advantages of this electric bike is its ability to ride smoothly on various surfaces like concrete, gravel, grass, and dirt. Its water-resistant electrical components make it durable and can even handle light rain and puddles with no problem.
2. Beginner-friendly: This e-bike is perfect for beginners due to its intuitive and accessible design. It requires no assembly and can be easily folded for convenient storage and transportation.
3. Reputable Brand: With over 200,000 electric bikes sold, the brand has established itself as a reliable and reputable player in the e-bike industry. Its US-based customer service team is passionate and ready to assist customers with anything they need.

Cons:

1. Limited Speed: The maximum speed of this electric bike is limited to 20mph, which may not be sufficient for some riders looking for more speed.
2. Limited Range: The range of this e-bike is limited to around 20 miles on a single charge, which may not be enough for longer rides.

Personal view:

Overall, we think this e-bike is a great option for beginners or those looking for a convenient and easy-to-use electric bike. Its ability to traverse various terrains and its water-resistant components make it durable and reliable. However, we would have preferred a higher maximum speed and longer range for more experienced riders. Nonetheless, the lightweight and compact design make it an excellent choice for commuting and recreational riding.

Heybike Cityscape Pedal Electric Bike

Price: $649.99

Pros:

1. Lightweight and easy to handle: The Heybike Cityscape electric bike is designed to be easy to use and maneuver, even in heavy traffic. With a step-through geometry frame and a wide swept-back handlebar, riders can enjoy a comfortable and stable ride.
2. Excellent riding experience: The bike is equipped with 26″ puncture-resistant tires, a Shimano 7-speed drivetrain, and dual shock absorbers, making for a smooth and comfortable ride. The dual disc brakes and lighting system ensure safety and peace of mind while riding.
3. Ready to go: The electric bike comes mostly pre-assembled, saving you the hassle of complicated assembly. The integrated rear rack can attach panniers, platforms, or baskets, allowing the bike to carry your cargo and next adventure. Plus, it even comes with a front basket.

Cons:

1. Assembly instructions can be incomplete: Some customers have reported that the assembly instructions are missing key pieces of information and pictures, making it challenging to assemble the bike.
2. Seat height may not be ideal for all riders: While the bike is advertised to fit riders from 5’4” to 6′ something, some customers have reported issues with the seat height. If you are on the shorter side, you may need to get a smaller frame to avoid wobbly, scary moments when coming to a stop.

Personal view:

The Heybike Cityscape electric bike offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, and we appreciate its long-range battery, powerful motor, and excellent riding experience. The bike’s lightweight and easy-to-handle design make it an ideal choice for commuting and leisurely rides. We do wish the assembly instructions were more complete and that the seat height was more accommodating for all riders. Nonetheless, the bike’s overall quality and reliability, coupled with the company’s excellent customer service, make it a great investment for anyone looking for an e-bike.

JOYSTAR Pedal Electric Bike

Price: $699.99

Pros:

1. Creative design: With its Step-Through geometry frame and wide swept-back handlebar, this electric bike is the true comfort cruiser ebike you’ve been searching for. It is designed to provide a comfortable and stylish riding experience for all types of riders.
2. Comfortable cycling experience: The JOYSTAR ebike comes with 3 inch wide puncture-resistant fat tires, a sturdy frame, and front suspension that can effectively absorb shocks and provide excellent grip during riding. This allows for a smooth ride no matter what the terrain is, making it a joy to ride.
3. Multiple working modes: The JOYSTAR ebike offers three modes – electric bicycle, assisted bicycle, and normal bicycle – giving riders the flexibility to choose the mode that best suits their needs. Whether you want to cruise effortlessly or pedal for exercise, this ebike has got you covered.

Cons:

1. Wet weather performance: The back fender of the JOYSTAR ebike does not provide adequate protection in wet weather, leaving the area between the backrest and the seat exposed to water and mud. Riders need to be cautious in wet conditions.
2. Tires need replacement: The stock tires on the JOYSTAR ebike may not be suitable for long-term use as they can easily blow out. Riders need to replace the tires with high-quality ones to avoid any incidents.
3. Lack of shocks: The JOYSTAR ebike does not have any shock absorbers, which can make the ride uncomfortable on bumpy terrain. Riders may feel every bump roughly, and riding over railroad tracks can be challenging.

Personal view:

What particularly amazed our team was the unique appearance of this pedal electric bicycle, which uses cool colors and is unforgettable at a glance. So the JOYSTAR ebike is a stylish and comfortable electric bike that offers a smooth riding experience. Its multiple working modes provide riders with the flexibility to choose the mode that best suits their needs. We appreciate the company’s commitment to customer service, which is evident in the fast responses and prompt resolution of issues. However, the lack of adequate protection in wet weather and the need to replace stock tires are minor concerns that need to be addressed. Overall, we recommend the JOYSTAR ebike for its power, comfort, and style, and we think it is an excellent choice for those looking for a leisurely ride or a comfortable commuting option.

ECOTRIC Cheetah Electric Pedal Bike 

Price: $699.00

Pros:

1. Upgraded Battery: The upgraded 36V 12.5AH lithium-ion battery offers a higher energy density and a longer service life of 400-600 cycles. The battery provides a range of up to 20 miles on a single charge, and it can be upgraded to increase the maximum speed according to the instructions.
2. No Risk Shopping: Each bike comes with an 18-month warranty against manufacturing defects in materials or workmanship on its frame, battery, motor, controller, and display. This provides peace of mind for buyers and shows the company’s commitment to quality.
3. All-Road Fat Tire: The 26 x 4.0 fat tire is designed for all-road conditions and provides excellent stability and balance for riders. It can handle various terrains, making it suitable for outdoor adventures.

Cons:

1. Lack of Suspension: The bike does not come with any suspension, which means that riders will feel every bump and vibration on the road. This can be uncomfortable for longer rides or rough terrains.
2. Underpowered for Heavier Riders: The bike may be underpowered for riders who are heavier, especially when going up hills or inclines. This can make the bike feel sluggish and slow, which is not ideal for those who want a fast and efficient ride.
3. Additional Expenses: The bike does not come with a rear rack, a headlight, or any suspension. This means that riders will have to spend extra money on these accessories to make the bike more enjoyable and comfortable to ride.

Personal view:

The ECOTRIC fat tire snow bike offers an excellent riding experience with its powerful motor and all-road fat tire. However, the lack of suspension can make the ride uncomfortable, especially on rough terrains. Additionally, the bike may be underpowered for heavier riders, which can be a drawback. We appreciate the company’s commitment to quality with their warranty, but the additional expenses for accessories may deter some buyers. So we recommend this bike for those who want a powerful and versatile ride, but be prepared to spend extra on accessories to make it more comfortable.

Yovital Folding Electric Bike

Price: $509.99

Pros:

1. High-Performance Parts: The Yovital Electric City Bike boasts of high-quality parts, including an aluminum alloy frame, double-walled rims, front suspension fork, professional 7-Speed gears, and front and rear mechanical disc brakes. These features make the bike more durable and reliable.
2. Large Capacity Removable Battery: The bike comes with a 36V/10AH battery that supports up to 65km/40miles (pedal-assist mode) or 40km/25miles (throttle power mode). The battery can be removed with the key and charged at home or the office, and it comes with a smart lithium battery charger that can fully charge the battery in 4-6 hours.
3. Upgraded Stronger 350W Motor: The bike has a 350W high-speed brushless motor that can reach speeds up to 20 mph, making it perfect for daily commutes, mountain cruises, or leisurely rides.
4. Easy Assemble: The bike arrives 85% pre-assembled, which makes the assembly process easier and faster. The instructions are clear and concise, and all the tools needed for assembly are included.

Cons:

1. Seat Comfort: While the suspension system does a great job of absorbing bumps and hollows on the road, the seat could be more comfortable. It would be great if the seat could be changed to memory foam, but this would require an additional expense.
2. Loud Ring Bell: The sound of the ring bell is quite loud and can be startling to pedestrians. It would be better if the sound of the ring bell could be more gentle.

Personal view:

1. Assemble: Our team agrees that the Yovital Electric City Bike is easy to assemble, and the instructions are clear and concise. The inclusion of all the necessary tools and the packaging of the parts in sealed plastic bags ensures that none of the parts are missing during shipping.
2. Battery: Our team is impressed by the bike’s battery efficiency, which only used up 40% of the battery for a 15-mile round trip with full power assist. The bike’s ability to carry a 65lbs fur baby and stroller without affecting its performance is a big plus.
3. Comfort: Our team agrees that the suspension system does a great job of absorbing bumps and hollows on the road, but the seat could be more comfortable. Overall, the bike’s comfort level is excellent, and it is suitable for long-distance rides.

So our team believes that the Yovital Electric City Bike is worth its price, given its high-performance parts, ease of assembly, and large capacity removable battery. It’s perfect for daily commutes, mountain cruises, or leisurely rides. The bike’s ability to travel long distances with ease and its user-friendly features make it a great investment.

Swagtron Electric Lady Cruiser Bike with Pedal-Assist

Price: $1,037.79

Pros:

1. Exceptional Performance – The 26” wheels and 2.1” high-volume e-cruiser tires deliver a luxuriously smooth ride. The 250W motor lets you go as fast as 15.3 mph for up to 26 miles and conquer 25-degree hills with ease.
2. Extreme Comfort – The inclusive design of this pedal-assist bike includes a low 20-inch step-through frame for easy mounting and dismounting. The wide swept-back handlebar helps you ride with an upright, relaxed posture.
3. Phenomenal Control – The Shimano SIS quick-shift gears make it easy to switch gears while tackling hilly roads. You can choose your riding style (throttle-only, pedal-assist or pedal-only) with this electric road bike.
4. Double Your Adventure – The high-efficiency battery is removable, letting you swap out the depleted battery with a second, fully charged battery (sold separately) without missing a beat.

Cons:

1. Useless Kickstand – The kickstand on this bike has been reported to be useless, which can be a nuisance when parking the bike.
2. Seat Position – The seat is situated too far forward, which can make it uncomfortable for some riders, especially those with shorter legs.

Personal view:

The EB10 electric bike seems to offer exceptional performance and comfort, with its smooth ride and inclusive design. The double battery feature is also a plus for those who need to extend their range. However, the reported battery charging issues, useless kickstand, and seat position may be a cause for concern for some users. It is important to carefully follow the instructions and watch the installation videos to avoid any issues with the assembly. So we think this bike is a good choice for those looking for a comfortable, efficient, and easy-to-use electric bike for commuting or leisure riding.

FAQ about pedal electric bike

What are the considerations when choosing a pedal electric bike

When choosing a pedal electric bike, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best one for your needs. Here are some of the key considerations to keep in mind:

Type of e-bike:

Consider the different types of pedal electric bikes available, such as city bikes, mountain bikes, folding bikes, and cargo bikes. Each type has its own unique features and advantages depending on your needs and preferences. You can also read our guide for the types of bikes.

Motor and battery:

Look for bikes with high-quality motors and batteries that provide enough power and range for your desired riding distance and terrain. Consider the motor placement and power output, as well as the battery life and charging time. Be careful for the first time battery charging, as it takes longer time for your first charge. Read our guide for e-bikes first time charge.

Size and weight:

Make sure the bike fits your body size and weight for maximum comfort and safety. Consider the weight of the bike as well, especially if you plan to transport it or carry it upstairs. Most of the bikes can be adjusted to fit your body size, but do read the size guide for the bike because lots of beginners don’t know how to pick the right size and end up with the wrong bikes, which, of course, gives them an awful biking experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of pedal electric bikes is constantly expanding, with new models and features being introduced every year. Our team of experts has carefully evaluated and tested numerous bikes to bring you this list of the top 10 best pedal electric bikes on the market. Whether you’re a commuter, weekend rider, or avid outdoor enthusiast, there’s an e-bike on this list to meet your needs. From speed and power to comfort and durability, these bikes have it all. We hope that our evaluation and review have provided you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision when choosing your next e-bike. Happy riding!