Lifestyle
The Tech Wrangler: The Best Ebikes You Can Buy Today
Once considered something of a novelty, but believe it or not, electric bikes are here to stay. Ebikes offer the best of both worlds. You can either use the pedal like an ordinary bike or use the electric motor for a more convenient ride. The average cost of an ebike is about $4,000, and some models cost as much as $10,000. While the cheapest is under $1,000, it is still pricier than the most inexpensive ordinary bike.
The Tech Wrangler gives us a glimpse of the most practical way to buy the best ebike.
It is essential to know that ebikes have different types. Almost all of them provide Pedal Assist (PAS). The PAS feature lets the electric motor add a little extra muscle while you’re pedaling. So, you don’t exert too much effort as you would on a traditional bike. Some bikes also include a throttle mode that works similar to a motorcycle or electric scooter.
Bikes are categorized into three classes:
- Class 1 bikes are PAS-only and generally have a maximum speed of 20 mph.
- Class 2 bikes have PAS and throttle, with a top speed of 20 mph.
- Class bikes are for speed demons because they can accelerate to 28 mph with PAS.
Here are some of the best ebikes right now:
Ride1Up Roadster V2
The Ride1Up Roadster V2 is a perfect “starter” ebike. You might be struggling to find a less expensive model. But it is surprisingly a well-equipped bike in this price range. It’s a Class 3 bike that can reach speeds up to 24mph on level ground and about 20-30 miles on a charge. It also looks great. Some ebikes look dorky with a battery awkwardly fastened onto the down tube, but the Roadster V2 could easily pass for a traditional bike.
On the downside, the battery isn’t removable. While many bikes let you remove the battery and bring it indoors for charging, it is possible with the Roadster V2. And its pedal power because of the absence of throttle.
Speaking of pedaling, it is a single-gear bike, which means pedaling uphill will be rugged if the battery dies. So, always check the battery status and go home before running out of battery.
Still, one of the best ebikes you could get despite those disadvantages without spending a fortune.
Bluejay Sport
Bluejay is a female-owned brand gaining a reputation for making inexpensive but best-quality ebikes. It’s a Class 3 bike with a top speed of 28 mph, thanks to a sturdy 500-watt Bafang electric motor.
There’s no throttle, but that’s probably acceptable for most riders. Bluejay balances that with other features, such as the elegant leather-wrapped handlebars, built-in lights, and standard storage racks. All are included in the base price—no upgrade needed.
JackRabbit
Buy now from JackRabbit eBike at $1000
The JackRabbit is a compact ebike that weighs 24 pounds. If the battery dies, you can carry it around with you. It’s a tiny beast with a bit of a 26-inch wheelbase, and bikers rave about how much fun it is to ride around.
Sadly, this bike has no pedals. You tuck your feet onto a pair of fixed pegs and then push down on the throttle, which can accelerate you to about 20 mph.
The JackRabbit sacrifices some practicality for its innovative designs based on The Tech Wrangler’s honest review. No pedals equate to no PAS mode – it’s all throttle throughout your journey, which will run the battery quickly. When the battery dies, you can’t pedal it home, making it challenging for a long afternoon riding.
The Tech Wrangler is a bi-weekly column wherein Forbes Vetted Senior Editor Dave Johnson explores the best values in consumer technology.
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