Best Electric Bike for 2025

Bicycles have long served as an excellent mode of transport. With the ascent of electric bikes, or e-bikes, you gain the added advantages of speed and remarkable convenience. These motorized two-wheelers are steadily dominating bike shops, growing in popularity as a fantastic solution for commuting without breaking a sweat, all while offering an extensive array of styles to suit any preference. WithBlack Fridaydeals now available, it's the perfect moment to invest. You can finally acquire the e-bike you've been eyeing (or planning to gift) at a more attractive price point.

To assist you in making the best choice, CNET's editorial team rigorously tested a variety of commuter and all-terrain electric bikes from prominent brands including Aventon, Fuell, Himiway, Mod Easy, Segway, Velotric, and Vvolt. Our evaluation focused on practical, real-world scenarios, primarily city commuting, with some models also put through their paces on suburban routes and light off-road terrain. We meticulously assessed each bike’s handling, motor performance, range capabilities, crucial safety features, and overall value to provide you with the most dependable recommendations.

What We Updated:November 2025

This update sees several new additions to our top selections: theVelotric T1 ST Plus,Segway Xafari,Velotric Summit,Mod Easy 3 with Sidecar,Himiway Cobra Pro,Fuell Folld 1, andVvolt Centauri II. Concurrently, the Letric XP 3.0, Tenways CGO600 Pro, and Fiido X have been removed from our recommendations.

CNET's editors have proudly named theAventon Soltera 2.5as the best overall e-bike. The Soltera 2 distinguishes itself with an accessible price, a remarkably lightweight frame at just41 pounds, and a versatile seven-speed cassette. It further enhances the riding experience with iOS/Android app compatibility and a throttle for effortless assistance on inclines. However, for those with specific needs—such as a folding e-bike, one capable of hauling heavy cargo, or a model designed for kids and teens rather than adult commuters—a wealth of excellent alternatives exists. You'll find our comprehensive list of favorite electric commuter bikes detailed below.

Aventon Lineup: Versatility and Value

The entire Aventon range offers an impressive blend of affordability and practical versatility.

Aventon Abound

Priced at$1,799, theAboundis a robust cargo bike perfectly suited for transporting passengers or a week's worth of groceries.

Aventon Aventure 2

For$1,699, theAventure 2delivers a multifaceted fat-tire experience, making it an ideal choice for all-terrain riding across any season.

Aventon Soltera 2.5 (Best Overall)

TheSoltera 2.5functions more as an everyday e-bike, excelling in daily commutes. It features a seven-speed cassette and maintains a light weight of just41 pounds. Consistent with other Aventon models, the Soltera 2 boasts a sleek, detailed display, integrated signal lights for enhanced safety, iOS/Android app compatibility, and a throttle to provide welcome assistance when tackling hills.

Velotric T1 ST Plus: The Pedal-First Experience

If your preference leans towards an e-bike that retains the feel of a traditional pedal bicycle while offering judicious assistance when required, the$1,399 Velotric T1 ST Plusstands out as a strong contender. Weighing a mere39 pounds, it's light enough to comfortably carry up a few flights of stairs. It provides pedal assist up to28 mph, and notably, it lacks a throttle, which helps preserve that classic cycling sensation. An eight-speed derailleur ensures ample gear range, making it adept at handling city streets, bridges, and leisurely weekend paths without ever feeling limited.

While you'll still be actively pedaling and exerting effort, the bike's torque sensor and remarkably quiet motor expertly step in precisely when needed. Whether you're battling a headwind, ascending a prolonged hill, or simply aiming to ease the strain on a longer ride, the assist engages seamlessly and naturally, never feeling overpowering. This intelligent system effectively smooths out the more challenging segments of your journey, all while faithfully preserving the authentic feel of a true pedal bike.

Adding to its smart features, the T1 ST Plus connects withApple Health, enabling your ride data to automatically sync with your iPhone without any additional steps. Furthermore, much like the Velotric Summit—another acclaimed model on this list—it incorporatesApple Find Mysupport, offering a reliable mechanism to track your bike's location wherever you park it.

Segway Xafari: Tech-Forward Commuting

The$1,799 Segway Xafarimay not be the lightest e-bike available, but it compensates for its slightly larger build with an impressive suite of features rarely found bundled together. It comes withApple Find Myintegration, allowing you to instantly locate your bike should it ever go missing. You also benefit from proximity unlock via the app (AirLock Keyless), enabling you to simply approach and ride without fumbling for keys. Once locked, the rear wheel remains securely fastened, preventing unauthorized roll-offs.

From a performance perspective, the Xafari delivers exhilarating power. It accelerates from0 to 20 mph in just 5.2 seconds, driven by a750-watt motorthat generates80 newton-meters of torque, ensuring strong acceleration and ample push for hill climbing. Powering this robust system is a substantial936-watt-hour battery, providing a generous range for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Riders can seamlessly switch between pedal assist and throttle modes, with assist speeds reaching up to28 mph. The bike also integrates Segway’s advanced smart sensor suite, including itsSmart Cockpit, comprehensive app access and control, intelligent lighting, and built-in web-connected security—a technological package rarely seen at this price point.

For comfort, it boasts an80/70mm dual-suspension setup, which significantly smooths out uneven city pavement far more effectively than most commuter bikes. A clean, easy-to-read display keeps all your vital statistics front and center, while the overall design is both distinctive and highly practical. Charging is expedited thanks to afour-amp fast charger, and Segway supports the Xafari with a limited two-year warranty.

The Xafari masterfully combines comfort, speed, and innovative technology into a single, cohesive package, making it an ideal selection for commuters who demand more than just a basic e-bike.

Velotric Summit: The All-Terrain Explorer

Velotric offers a compelling lineup of electric bikes, but the$1,999 Summiteasily secures its place among my top recommendations. It is meticulously engineered to conquer nearly any terrain—be it bustling city streets, winding gravel paths, or moderate off-road trails—without ever feeling out of its element. To accommodate a broader spectrum of riders, it is available in two distinct frame sizes. Key features include a front suspension fork that adeptly absorbs bumps, hydraulic disc brakes for reliable and confident stopping power, and a smoothly shifting multi-gear drivetrain that makes both climbing and cruising feel effortless.

The Summit cleverly employs a combination of torque and cadence sensors, which allows the motor to respond more naturally and intuitively to your individual pedaling style. Its pedal assist modes are fully customizable, empowering you to fine-tune the level of assistance based on the terrain or your personal preference. You can reach speeds of up to28 mphthrough either pedal assist or throttle, ensuring the bike caters to whether you prefer to exert effort or simply glide along. And, akin to the T1 ST, it featuresApple Find Mysupport, providing a dependable method to track its whereabouts wherever you choose to leave it.

During a Velotric event, I was genuinely impressed by the depth of engineering and safety protocols behind the scenes. Their entire current e-bike lineup utilizesUL-certified batteries, which adhere to stringent safety standards and are safe for indoor storage. Furthermore, their batteries areIPX7 waterproof, meaning they are designed to withstand full submersion. To strikingly demonstrate this capability (though please never attempt this yourself), they actually submerged a battery in a fish tank, subsequently wiped it dry, installed it on a bike, and powered it up without a hitch.

Mod Easy 3 with Sidecar: Nostalgic Charm and Family Fun

The moment I encountered theMod Easy, a wave of nostalgia immediately washed over me. Its design exudes a timeless, vintage charm, especially when complemented by its optional sidecar. The battery is cleverly integrated into the top tube, shaped to resemble an old-school gas tank, and the rear rack comes equipped with a practical tote bag for conveniently carrying your essentials. The sidecar, aptly named “the boat,” is a robust, molded shell complete with a comfortable seat cushion and a seatbelt, capable of safely accommodating up to150 pounds—making it ideal for children or pets. The bike itself can achieve speeds of up to28 mphwith pedal assist.

I also had the opportunity to directly engage with their customer service, and what truly stood out was the refreshing experience of reaching an actual human when I called. Every representative I spoke with was polite, remarkably knowledgeable, and appeared to genuinely care, which is an increasingly rare occurrence today when many brands steer you towards online forms or lengthy email waits.

TheMod Easy 3is undeniably a head-turner—a fun, visually striking ride that effortlessly allows you to share the cycling experience with a loved one.

Himiway Cobra Pro: Power and Inclusivity

One feature I deeply appreciate about this particular bike is its powerful1,000-watt motorand its impressive capacity to support riders weighing up to400 pounds. Not many brands engineer with such a high degree of inclusivity in mind, and this commitment truly matters. Many individuals who have long wished to try an e-bike can finally find an option that genuinely caters to their needs. While it is certainly positioned on the higher end of the price spectrum, you are investing in serious power coupled with comprehensive front and rear suspension.

This emphasis on inclusivity resonates personally with me. During the pandemic, I gained weight, and it quickly became apparent how many e-bikes and scooters are designed primarily for smaller riders, typically capped at220 or 265 pounds. This capacity might be acceptable if you’re not carrying additional gear or a backpack, but it's simply not realistic for everyone.

TheCobra Prodoesn’t merely accommodate heavier riders; it still delivers exceptional performance. It offers an impressive60–80 mile range, fueled by a48-volt, 20-amp, 960-watt-hour Samsung/LG battery, and charges efficiently with a US standardthree-amp fast charger. You also benefit from a10-speed Shimano derailleurand colossal26x4.8-inch super fat tiresthat provide outstanding grip across virtually any surface. It reaches speeds of up to28 mphwith pedal assist and includes a convenient thumb throttle for effortless cruising.

It is constructed to comfortably fit a wide array of riders. The bike itself weighs a substantial88.6 poundswith the battery, but considering its robust power, high-quality components, and impressive off-road capability, this weight is entirely expected. Overall, it’s a rugged, go-anywhere machine built for riders who require a bit more from their e-bike and finally have an option that meets them precisely where they are.

Fuell Folld 1: Folding Fat-Tire Power

If you're constrained by limited storage space but still desire a bike capable of tackling more than just flat city streets, theFuell Folld 1is certainly worthy of consideration. This20-inch fat-tire folding e-bikeis specifically engineered for all-terrain riding and boasts ample power to excel in such environments. You’re provided with five levels of pedal assist, a reliableShimano Altus eight-speed drivetrain, and a throttle (available in the US only) for those moments when you simply want to sit back and cruise effortlessly.

The bike's frame is meticulously constructed from a magnesium alloy, contributing to its lightweight, durable, and sleek profile. Up front, you'll find aMozo Fatman fork with 80mm of travel, while the rear features aFastace ZXC01 shock with 125mm of travel, equipping the Folld 1 with genuine suspension capabilities for navigating rougher terrain. It rides on mag wheels, eliminating any concerns about truing spokes. The generously wide saddle further enhances comfort on extended rides.

The bike's vibrant color display ensures your essential statistics are clearly visible at a glance. For formidable stopping power, the Folld 1 employsTektro HD-E 350 hydraulic brakes with 180mm rotorson both the front and rear wheels, providing more than adequate strength for a bike of this size and power. A practical rear rack is also included for conveniently hauling groceries or various gear.

Powering this entire system is a removable48-volt, 720-watt-hour batterycleverly concealed within the frame, which can be charged using its standardtwo-amp charger. It takes approximatelyfour hours to reach 80% capacityand aroundsix hours for a complete charge. The750-watt motordelivers up to85 newton-meters of torque, offering a substantial range of30 to 70 miles, depending on the chosen assist level.

Vvolt Centauri II: The Smart Shifter

TheCentauri IIis an auto-shifting e-bike, but unlike many models where automatic shifting can feel awkward or obtrusive, this one executes it flawlessly. The torque-sensing mid-drive motor and the automatic three-speed hub work in concert to deliver a ride that feels quick, remarkably natural, and genuinely intuitive. It is, without a doubt, one of the finest self-shifting setups I have had the pleasure of testing.

TheAutoShift transmissionperforms its shifts quietly at speeds hovering around12 and 20 mph. Additionally, it features aGates CDX carbon belt drivein place of a conventional chain. This innovative design results in virtually zero maintenance, meaning no grease, no mess, and no chain slap. What you get instead is a smooth, silent drivetrain engineered to last significantly longer than a typical chain system.

Vvolt equips the Centauri II with a350-watt mid-drive motor (peaking at 650 watts), capable of producing an impressive120 newton-meters of torque, all supported by internal torque, cadence, and speed sensors. In practical terms, this means the bike responds instantly to your pedaling input, providing power precisely when you need it.

The frame boasts a clean, streamlined aesthetic, and the30mm front suspensionpleasantly surprised me. It effectively smooths out city streets without introducing the bulk or additional weight typically associated with a traditional mountain-bike fork. When paired with its plush tires, it delivers an excellent riding experience for both urban environments and light off-road trails.

You receive a490-watt-hour UL2271-tested removable battery, offering a real-world range of up to60 miles. Classified as a Class 3 e-bike, it is capable of reaching speeds of up to28 mphwith pedal assist. Its weight varies between50 to 56 pounds, depending on the frame size, which is comparatively light for a full-power mid-drive electric bicycle.

Vvolt also includes a thoughtful touch with itsBoost button: press it, and you instantly receive4 seconds of maximum motor assistwhile pedaling between5 and 20 mph—perfect for quick starts or powering through challenging sections. Overall, the Centauri II emphasizes low-maintenance operation, modern design, and an incredibly smooth ride. The culmination is a smart, stylish e-bike that eliminates the hassle of shifting, allowing you to simply savor the journey.

Engwe L20 2.0: The Enhanced Commuter

TheEngwe L20 2.0is an upgraded iteration of the L20 that CNET editor James Bricknell previously reviewed and highly praised. This update introduces several enhancements, notably improved folding capabilities and a more powerful1,000-watt motorfor smoother acceleration. However, a consequence of the new central fold design is a reduced weight limit, leading James to advise against using it with a baby seat, unlike his experience with the 1.0 version. Despite this, the L20 2.0 remains an excellent fat-tire bike that his wife utilizes daily for rides around their neighborhood.

Gotrax V14: Learning Balance with Power

CNET's James Bricknell's6-year-old daughter, who also serves as his testing partner, thoroughly enjoyed her time with theGotrax V14 balance bike. It significantly aided her in mastering proper balance, allowing her to zip around at an average speed of approximately11 mph. Daily, they ride it to catch her school bus and to local parks. The Gotrax is exceptionally sturdy and user-friendly, featuring excellent braking and a simple electric on/off switch that his daughter quickly mastered. While he would have preferred the bike to offer two speed settings—a low and a full—to help children better manage acceleration when they're first starting out, he still strongly recommends it for any parent who wishes to cycle alongside their child on an electric bike.

Woom Up: Premium E-Biking for Young Riders

The ideal bike for riding with young companions, eliminating travel fatigue. TheWoom Up e-bike, thoughtfully sized for either children or teenagers, boasts a premium design and offers three levels of pedal assist, reaching speeds up to12 mph. This bike features a user-friendly app, straightforward assembly, and delivers a smooth, comfortable riding experience. Despite the initial investment, its exceptional build quality and superior components are evident, suggesting this bike will likely retain significant resale value by the time your young rider outgrows it.

E-Bike Essentials: Frequently Asked Questions

E-Bike Classifications

Before delving into maximum speeds, it's crucial to understand the distinct e-bike classifications. There are three primary classes:

These classes are generally limited to1 horsepower (750 watts). It’s worth noting that some (in air quotes) "e-bikes" can achieve speeds of50 to 60 mph. However, these are fundamentally more akin to motorcycles equipped with pedals. They are not optimized as traditional bicycles for efficient pedaling from point A to B and do not legally fall into the Class 1-3 categories. Typically, only Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are permitted in areas where traditional bicycles are allowed.

Do You Need a License to Ride an E-Bike?

The concise answer is no. However, riders must adhere to the minimum age limit, which can vary by state. In New York, for instance, the minimum age is16.

E-Bike vs. Traditional Bike: Which is Better?

Frankly, it's quite enjoyable to own one of each. But if you're seeking a compelling reason to choose one over the other, an e-bike offers the versatility of being used as a traditional bicycle too. This means riders can still benefit from getting a workout while enjoying the added advantage of traveling further, even if the battery is depleted. Moreover, most individuals I speak with often feel more comfortable and confident on bicycles due to their greater prior experience riding them.

Do You Have to Pedal an E-Bike?

Some electric bikes may offer a throttle as an alternative to pedaling. However, the majority require you to pedal in order to engage the battery and motor for assistance.

Do E-Bikes Charge While You Pedal?

Most electric bikes do not incorporate pedal charging as a feature and therefore necessitate being plugged into an outlet to recharge their batteries.