E-bikes for commuting
Electric-bike sales have soared in recent years, as a growing number of people are choosing e-bikes for everything from grocery shopping at the local supermarket to a weekend ride in the countryside.
The popularity of road and mountain e-bikes has driven much of the new demand. However, many commuters now realize the benefits of traveling to work with an e-bike as an alternative to driving a car, riding a traditional bicycle or even using public transportation.
Over 30 well-known companies make e-bikes, and commuter models are offered by many of them. With so many options, the selection process can be daunting, but here are some of the best commuter models to help make your decision easier.
Factors to consider when buying a commuter e-bike
A commuter e-bike is designed for urban travel. It’s built with a robust frame and often includes metal racks for carrying work-related items. The bike is usually equipped with wide tires for stability and to support a larger motor and battery. The ideal model is small and light enough to maneuver through the city traffic but fast enough to keep up with other vehicles.
Before purchasing your commuter e-bike, consider these factors to ensure your selection best fits your needs.
Commute length
Make sure you choose a bike with a large enough battery to get you to and from your destination on a single charge. Distance is not the only factor that impacts battery range. Other elements include the rider and cargo’s weight, frequent stops and starts, tire pressure, temperature, surface conditions and the motor.
Commute geography
Choose an e-bike with power and traction if your route includes hills and other challenging terrain.
Comfort
The right frame, seat height and handlebar positioning for your size are essential for a comfortable ride to work. For a bumpy route, several features can help make your trip smoother, including higher-volume tires, a suspension seat post, an adjustable front suspension fork or rear suspension.
Bike weight
If you need to carry your bike up to your apartment or down subway stairs, a lighter-framed model makes the commute easier and keeps you from injury.
Cargo
A sturdy rear rack and a front tray rack or basket can hold your bags and briefcase.
Inclement weather
While your commute route may be fixed, the weather is constantly changing. Look for an e-bike with fenders and a cover to keep you clean and dry. Integrated lights are best because they’re fixed to the bike frame and run off the battery, giving them an unlimited energy supply (if the battery is charged).
Safety
If your route to work includes hazardous traffic zones, take precautions to make it safe. Lights that are visible from all angles and reflective surfaces make you more noticeable to surrounding vehicles. Wear reflective gear and a helmet with lights to enhance your visibility.
Cost
Look for an e-bike made with high-quality components that meets your commuting needs at a reasonable price.
Best commuter e-bikes
Predictable handling
Macwheel Ranger 500 Electric Bike: available at Amazon
Our take: The cruiser-style step-through design with big, fast-rolling 700c wheels gives this bike a relaxed, comfortable ride and predictable handling in city traffic.
What we like: The 360W battery provides an excellent range. Fenders, head and taillights and a rear rack make it an ideal commuter e-bike in any type of weather. The five pedal assist modes make pedaling nearly effortless, and it even rides well under pedal-power only (no assist).
What we dislike: Not as powerful or fast as some of its competitors.
Regenerative braking
Elby Bike 9-Speed Electric Bike: available at Amazon
Our take: The quiet and smooth motor, big-volume Continental tires and intuitive controls give this commuter e-bike excellent ride quality.
What we like: The BionX display is easy to read and informative. You can use the screen to switch from electronic assistance to regenerative braking mode quickly. The Tektro Auriga hydraulic disc brakes are efficient and responsive.
What we dislike: The claimed range rating of 80 miles is overestimated.
Climbs slopes effortlessly
Macwheel 16-Inch Folding Commuter Electric Bike: available at Amazon
Our take: An affordable e-bike with more features than its competitors in the same price range.
What we like: A 250-watt brushless motor gives this bike a top speed of 15.5 mph. The 36-volt, 7.5-amp hour battery is seamlessly integrated into the straight frame tube. The horizontal design gives it a very streamlined, aerodynamic appearance. It includes an integrated front headlight, a single-speed gear, dual disc brakes, adjustable seat post and fenders on both wheels.
What we dislike: The battery is not removable.
Folds for easy storage
ANCHEER 20-Inch Folding Electric Commuter Bike: available at Amazon
Our take: The three power-assisted modes and the 250W powerful brushless electric motor propel the rider quickly to 15-17 mph, and the 36V 8Ah battery gives the e-bike a 30-mile range on a single charge.
What we like: Made with a lightweight aluminum alloy, the collapsible frame is designed for quick folding, carrying on public transportation and popping in the car trunk.
What we dislike: Although the 20-inch wheels roll smoothly, they’re not as smooth as other commuter e-bikes with larger 26-inch rims.
Classic appearance
NAKTO 26-Inch City Electric Bicycle: available at Amazon
Our take: A high-strength carbon steel frame painted in high-quality, car-grade paint gives this bike an elegant and classic appearance.
What we like: Safety is a priority with an HD LED headlight, powerful brakes, a locking kickstand and a motor safety cut-off. The spring-supported saddle system gives the rider a comfortable ride that will last up to 40 miles with pedal assist. The 250W brushless motor ensures a smooth and noise-free ride.
What we dislike: The heavier weight means a shorter range with no rider pedaling contribution.
Powerful motor
Speedrid Folding Electric Bike: available at Amazon
Our take: Equipped with a high-speed 500W brushless motor that provides impressive hill-climbing power and more than enough boost for your daily commute.
What we like: This fat-tire e-bike can be upgraded for off-roading with carbon steel front forks, a shock absorption system, mechanical front and rear disc brakes, double-layer aluminum alloy wheel rims and a 6-speed transmission system. The folding design boasts commuter-friendly features and speeds up to 22 mph for negotiating the worst traffic jams.
What we dislike: The battery range can be as low as 20 miles (up to 35 miles) depending on the rider’s weight, the gradient, outdoor temperature and the type of use. Jeffrey Harper is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
