With everyone trying to do their best to keep the planet clean and green, e-bikes have become quite the rage. And you don’t have to live in a Scandinavian country to get a good and affordable bike. If you want to switch to one of these, we’ll tell you how to pick one and then give you a few choices too. Let’s get started.

E-Bike Purchase: Factors to Consider

Here are four factors you will need to consider while buying an electric bike.

Motor

There are two types of motors. Ones called frame mounted are fitted in the center called bottom bracket space or in the hub which is in the wheels. Both have their pros and cons. The ones mounted on the frame can measure the strength of your pedaling. This gives you more assistance but they need more maintenance.

The ones in the hub have sensors that can detect your pedal input and give you assistance. They are lightweight and good for city roads. These are also cheaper which is probably why they are more popular.

Battery

In the past few years, the battery size has gone down quite drastically which is a big advantage. But the big ones can give you more power. So you choose based on your usage.

If you are a mountain biker, you can get one with a small battery and lightweight frame. If you are going to use it for commuting in the city, you might need some larger attachments.

You must also see if the battery is removable because it’s easier to charge that way and it is more secure when you park in new places.

With a battery, charging time and capacity are important factors. If you’re going the distance, make sure you get as much as possible from the battery before switching to pedal assistance.

Mode

This is a combination of different power settings. You can use them from low to high modes which switches the way the motor is used. You can have two to five settings depending on the bike of your choice.

It’s not about how many modes but how easily you can switch between them which means you need only one control interface. Also, see that it has smartphone access.

Range

Finally, the range is about how far it can go and for how long. Don’t take the manufacturer’s word for it. If you use full power, the battery will drain sooner. The same is true for difficult terrains and extra weight. So, look at this in correlation with the battery capacity and motor output power and of course how well you ride the bike.

The 14 Best Electric Bikes Under 1000

Here are the top 14 choices in the market. Let’s go shopping, shall we?

Lectric XP 2.0

This is a great solution whether you are looking for everyday transportation or an adventure. The Lectric XP 2.0 is an award-winning bike with some improvements over its previous version. It is small in size but both functional and fashionable. This bike has a great motor and a removable battery and is good for dirt roads and the city.

Features and Specs

• Total Weight: 63 pounds
• Motor: 500 watts
• Range: 45+ miles on single charge
• Comes fully assembled
• Has variable front oil suspension which gives it great shock absorption
• Has 3-inch tires which give it more agility
• Handlebars are wider which means you can add mirrors and phone holders
• IP-65 rated electrical components for greater water and dust resistance—so you can conquer the elements

Pros

• Great new paint job
• Fully assembled
• Front oil suspension
• Better shock absorption
• More agile

Cons

• Not a great looker
• Shipping might take some time

Rad Power Bikes RadMission

Here’s another fashionable choice. RadMission is slick and adventurous too. An affordable e-bike, this has a simple design but comes with a high-torque, rear-hub motor and a good battery range. This model is the cheapest of them all from this manufacturer but comes in a range of colors and frames types.

Features and Specs

• Motor: 500 watts, geared hub
• Range: 25–45+ miles
• Battery: 48V, 10.5 Ah lithium-ion
• Payload Capacity: 275 pounds
• Pedal Assist: 12-magnet, crank mounting and cadence sensing
• Frame: Aluminum
• LED display
• Has an integrated tail light

Pros

• Half-grip twist throttle
• Water-resistant connectors and wiring harness
• Auto-on lights with a seeing distance of 70 m
• Taillight has a brake light indicator
• Comes in many colors and frames

Cons

• Has less power than some other version in the same price range
• Smaller battery to keep it affordable
• Can’t carry passengers and luggage

Roadster V2: Ride1UP

This is the original roadster from the manufacturer. It is fast and simple. It has a powerful but quiet motor and the battery is completely hidden. This model has a belt drive and a smooth frame. The bike also has an LCD display and is great for flat urban terrain.

Features and Specs

• Class 3 electric bike
• Has pedal-assist up to 24 miles per hour
• Motor: 350 watts geared hub
• Torque: 40 nm
• Range: 20-30 miles depending on the rider’s weight, terrain, incline, level of assist and so on
• Frame: 6061 Aluminum alloy
• Battery: Integrated 36V battery

Pros

• Frame and components are built for urban roads
• Warranty against manufacturing defects
• The manufacturer offers a 30-day trial and free shipping
• Good customer service and technical support

Cons

• Does not have a kickstand
• Still uses V brakes
• Does not come with fenders

ENGWE X5

This bike is a good example of excellent technology because of its design and energy efficiency which is the goal with e-bikes. It is made of a magnetic steel design and the internal winding of the copper wires has increased its eco-friendliness to 92 percent.

Features and Specs

• Motor Rated Power: 250W
• Maximum Instantaneous Power: 400W
• Folded Dimensions: 29.5 x 13.8 x 21.3 inches
• Maximum Mileage: 20 miles (electric mode); 40 miles (assistant mode)
• Battery: 48V/10Ah
• Charging Time: 5-8 hours
• Frame Material: Iron
• Front Fork: High-strength carbon steel
• Tire Dimensions: 14 x 2.125 inches
• Load Capacity: 330 pounds
• Vehicle Weight: 63.5 pounds

Pros

• Makes very little noise
• Lightweight and foldable
• Absorbs shock very well
• LED display
• Internal copper wire winding

Cons

• Not ideal for riding in the rain
• Does not go too far (more than 7 miles) when it is too hot
• PAS and throttle cannot be used together

Ancheer 12-inch Folding Electric Bike

Here’s another folding e-bike which basically looks like a miniature item. It is small but gives good mileage and runs only on the motor that you can control with your smartphone. The frame is small and the wheels and handlebar fold downwards. It’s a good fun bike for a weekend.

Features and Specs

• Motor: 350 watts
• Range: 15 miles
• Speed: 15 mph
• Charge Time: 3 hours
• Max Capacity: 265 pounds
• Frame: Aluminum alloy with a double-layer aluminum alloy wheel
• Max Speed: 25 km/h
• Battery: 36V/6Ah
• Weight: 26.5 pounds
• Has disc brakes and a kickstand
• Has Bluetooth which can be used to control it with your smartphone app
• Comes with cruise control

Pros

• Waterproof design
• Easy to fold and unfold
• Very portable
• Has good anti-pressure ability

Cons

• Not a great choice for everyday commute
• Does not have pedals which means if you run out of charge you will be stranded
• Quality can be described as low

SWAGTRON Swagcycle EB5

This is a good choice for those who want to travel across campus or a few blocks to get to the office. The motor is strong but you also have the option to pedal. It has a decent range and speed. It’s a good way to commute and get some exercise if that’s what you are looking for.

Features and Specs

• Charging Time: 4-5 hrs
• Weight: 37 pounds
• Range Per Charge: 15.5 miles
• Comes fully assembled

Pros

• Foldable bike
• Has a battery indicator
• Adjustable and removable seat
• Easy to travel and store
• Lightweight and compact

Cons

• Pedal assist is not adjustable
• Pedaling is very difficult once the battery dies

Hyper E-Ride Electric Mountain Bike

This is a front suspension mountain bike that has an excellent front suspension fork. It gives you control and the battery will charge in about four hours and take you about 20 miles when fully charged. And after that, you can use the electric pedals for an hour. Whether it is mild trails or flat urban surfaces, this is a good one.

Features and Specs

• Frame: 6-inch aluminum
• Motor: 250 watt rear hub
• Battery: Integrated 36V/7.8 Ah flush mount
• Charge Time: 4 hours
• Top Speed: 20 mph
• Run Time: 1 hour
• Rider Max Weight : 275 pounds
• Brakes: Front and rear v-brakes

Pros

• Comes with a 6-speed grip shifter
• Has front suspension forks
• Comes with 48-spoke alloy rims and three-piece cranks
• Can take a good deal of weight

Cons

• Does not go as fast or far as others in this range
• Still uses v-brakes as opposed to disc brakes

Ancheer 27.5-inch Electric Mountain Bike

This bike is the newest of the offerings from this manufacturer. It is great for the trails thanks to the speed gearing and excellent pedal assistance. This model offers great strength and is lightweight which makes it easy to carry it around. Plus, it has good shock absorption too, which will come in handy on the hills.

Features and Specs

• Motor: 350 W high-speed and brushless
• Max Speed: Up to 15 mph
• Battery: 10.4 lithium-ion
• Has an upgraded LCD display that displays all five speeds, motor power ratio, battery level, mileage and light signal
• Upgraded 24-speed gear
• Water-resistant from all angles

Pros

• Range is decent at up to 25 miles per charge.
• Great deal of hill-climbing power and range variation
• Mechanical disc brakes on the front and rear
• Good for rainy days too

Cons

• Maximum speed is not very impressive

Ancheer 26-Inch Electric City Bike

This is an attractive hybrid bike with a removable battery. It also has space for luggage on the side and top in the back. It gives a decent speed, is anti-slip and wear resistant.

Features and Specs

• Frame: Aluminum alloy
• Brake: Front and rear disc brakes
• Fork: High strength aluminum fork
• Rims: Aluminum double-walled rims
• Wheels: 26 inches
• Vehicle Weight: About 50 pounds
• Load Capacity: 330 pounds
• Meter: LED 3-speed level meter
• Battery: 36V 12.5Ah, lithium-ion
• Maximum Speed: 15 mph
• Mileage: 35 miles in throttle mode and 45 miles in pedal-assist mode
• Charging Time: 6-8 hours
• Motor: 36V 250W high-speed brushless gear
• Comes in three working modes: e-bike, assisted bicycle, normal bike

Pros

• Gives great performance thanks to the wheels and cruiser tires
• The 6-speed gear shift system is a boon
• Has front and rear mechanical disc brakes which make it reliable in all weather conditions and terrain
• Low-step frame makes it very comfortable to mount and dismount
• Adjustable stem length gives good riding posture

Cons

• One customer complained that the company asked him to ship his bike to China at his own expense
• The bike is more expensive than many of the other bikes on this list

Ecotric 20-Inch Folding Electric Bike

This is a foldable bike from Ecotric. The upper tube, handlebars and the pedals can be folded which makes it extremely portable. It has a strong motor and a removable battery.

Features and Specs

• Motor: 500W rear
• Battery: 36V/12Ah lithium-ion
• Special Feature: Battery lock and power lock function
• Charge Time: 5-8 hours (fast charge)
• Lifespan: 400-600 charge cycles
• Mileage: 18-23 miles per charge
• Max Speed: 20 mph
• Fat Tires: 20 inches x 4.0 cover tire
• LED display
• Three PAS levels
• Four levels of battery display
• Seven-speed system
• Frame: Aluminum alloy
• Has mechanical disc brakes

Pros

• Brushless geared hub motor
• Strong power
• Cruise control support
• High efficiency
• Quieter, lighter, smoother
• Anti-skidding, adapts well to complex terrains be it snow or sand
• Has an ergonomic seat

Cons

• Does not have a rear light
• Takes a long time to charge even on fast charge mode

Macwheel: 27.5-Inch Electric Mountain Bike

This is a low-maintenance mountain bike with LED lights, electric horn and anti-puncture tires which might be the best thing for a bike of its kind. The motor gives you good speed and there is a boost option too.

Features and Specs

• Top Speed: 15.5 mph
• Mid-Drive Motor: 250 watts which is high torque
• Battery: 36V/12.5Ah lithium-ion
• Hydraulic Brakes: With motor cut-off
• Estimated Range: Up to 62 miles
• Height Range: 5’6”– 6’2”

Pros

• Works for many different kinds of riders
• Powerful brakes
• Strong battery

Cons

• Top speed is not too impressive

Heybike Cityscape Electric Bike 350W Electric City Cruiser

Here is another city cruiser and it lives up to its name too. It is a bike meant for comfort riding. It is a hybrid with a removable battery that has a long range.

Features and Specs

• Wheel Size: 26 inches
• Suspension Type: Front
• Special Feature: Digital display
• Number of Speeds: 7
• Frame Material: Carbon steel
• Battery: 36V/10 Ah
• Mileage: Up to 40 miles per charge with pedal assist
• Motor: 350 watts, rear-drive
• Top Speed: 19 mph
• Frame: Step-through geometry
• Tires: 26 inches
• Three Working Modes: Electric, pedal assist, bicycle
• Seven speeds
• Has a dual-shock absorber
• Disc brakes

Pros

• Provides reliable support
• Has a wide swept-back handlebar
• Comes with puncture-resistant tires
• Is fully assembled
• Good customer service

Cons

• Could not find any

VIVI Folding Electric Mountain Bicycle

This is a good choice for those who like to explore new trails. It is a fun bike combined with performance. It has a strong frame but the bike itself is lightweight and very responsive.

Features and Specs

• Wheel Size: 26 inches
• Specific Uses: Trail
• Suspension Type: Rear, front, dual
• Number of Speeds: 21
• Frame Material: Aluminum, carbon steel
• Motor: 350 watts
• Battery: 36V/8 Ah
• Charging Time: 4-6 hours
• Mileage: 44-50 miles in pedal-assist; 22-25 miles in throttle only
• Three Working Modes: e-bike, assisted pedaling, bicycling
• Designed to fit the mechanics of a human body
• Comes with dual-disc brakes
• Has a high strength steel suspension fork
• Easy to carry, fold and store
• Has adjustable seats and handlebars
• Battery is removable
• Has an LED 3-speed smart meter button
• Has a detachable waterproof line

Pros

• Has a shock-absorbing front fork and a premium shock absorber in the back
• Equipped with an energy-saving system
• Good customer service
• Comes 90 percent assembled

Cons

• Not the strongest motor
• Takes a lot of time to charge

Nakto 26-Inch Electric Bike

This e-bike has enough power to make everyday commutes possible. It is a good example of an e-bike that saves time and helps avoid traffic. It also comes with a bike lock and a free basket.

It has a good front fork and is designed to protect the wheels and the frame from deformation while giving you a comfortable ride. It has a standard battery that charges in a decent amount of time and is removable too. Plus, there is a warranty on the parts.

Features and Specs

• Bike Type: City bike
• Wheel Size: 26 inches
• Suspension Type: Rear
• Frame: Aluminum
• Brake Style: Disc
• Motor: 250 watts brushless
• Battery: 36V/10.5 Ah lithium-ion, removable
• Charge Time: 4-6 hours
• Top Speed: 16-28 mph
• Three Working Modes: e-bike, auxiliary bicycle, regular bicycle
• Has a good front fork with shock absorption
• The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty on motor, battery and other parts

Pros

• Good shock absorption
• Value for money
• Comes with a bike basket and a lock

Cons

• Not for inclined surfaces

The Bottom Line

The US still has a long way to go in terms of adapting to e-bikes. Whether you want one for recreation or everyday short commutes or exercise, this is an excellent mode of transportation. They are easy to ride, maintain and of course you now have affordable options too. Get started now.