Top 5 Best E-Bikes in 2025

Electric bikes have never been more popular, and by 2025, their popularity is only expected to grow. All it takes to see motorized bikes from brands like Brompton, MiRider, and Specialized is to step outside your front door. The top electric bikes take the focus off pedaling while enabling you to move around swiftly and safely.

In general, and occasionally significantly more so, electric bikes are more costly than push bikes. If you’re on a tighter budget, we do have a guide to the best inexpensive electric bikes. However, you could save money over time by avoiding traffic jams on your daily commute and saving money on gas and a car.

There are a few legal things to think about before purchasing an electric bike. A bike with a motor that doesn’t exceed 250W of power or 25 kmph is required in the UK and the EU. Things are simpler in the United States, where a motor with 750W or less will work perfectly.

With choices for off-road, cargo, and commuting, our top guide to electric bikes has something for everyone! Though we would suggest the WAU Bike if you want the most range, the Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 remains our top choice overall, surpassing Specialized’s more recent 5.0 model.

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Last update on 2025-02-16 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

Top 5 Best E-Bikes in 2025

1.Aventon Soltera 2

Simplicity often leads to the best ride. Such is the case with Aventon’s Soltera.2, an update to the original Soltera I reviewed for Tom’s Guide. Like its predecessor, there’s nothing too fancy about the Soltera.2, not even the price tag. It’s all meant to be utilitarian, simple, easy to use, and as grab-and-go as possible.

If you’re a commuter looking for a simple, inexpensive bike to get you to and from work, the Soltera.2 is an admirable choice, and is our new top pick among the best budget electric bikes. While the motor could use a bit more kick, it’s good enough for most riders except those who need a significant amount of assist on steep or sustained hills.

With the exception of the thicker down tube where the battery is integrated, the Soltera.2’s construction keeps the classic bicycle silhouette. For city riders, its 700c wheels and 38mm tires offer a good balance of speed and traction.

There was a lot of eco-friendly packaging in the box my test bike came in. Most of it was recyclable, which is noteworthy because a lot of bikes still come in zip-tied plastic packaging.

The bike was simple to assemble after it was taken out of the box. Modifying the Shimano drivetrain and the mechanical disc brakes is the most difficult aspect. You might want to let the local bike shop handle this if you’re not familiar with basic bicycle maintenance techniques.

According to Aventon, the bike has an IPX4 rating and is water-resistant. Although you probably wouldn’t want to expose it to continuous moisture, you can leave this outside in a light rain.

Being a Cass II ebike, it has a maximum assist speed of 20 mph and is equipped with both pedal and throttle assist. But you can unlock it with the Aventon app to turn it into a Class III e-bike, which can go up to 25 mph.

The bike’s rear wheel incorporates the hub motor. Your pedaling effort is detected by a torque sensor, which then amplifies the source. Simply press the throttle if you require more. If you live in an area where throttles are prohibited, you can simply unplug the throttle.

Aventon’s integrated rear lights with turn signals and a braking flash are noteworthy. Pressing the brake levers causes the brake lights to turn on automatically. The buttons on the handlebars are used to control the turn signals. To deactivate the signal, simply press the button once more after turning.

The simplicity of the Soltera.2 is remarkable. It would be accurate to refer to it as a “plain bike,” which may come across as offensive. But in all honesty, the Soltera.2 is a good choice if you’re searching for a bike that will do the job well without having too many bells and whistles.

To put it another way, it fulfills all of the needs of a lone commuter without concealing any shortcomings behind superfluous bells and whistles. It’s affordable, easy to use, and quite agile.

2.Engwe L20 2.0

For those seeking a more accessible mounting experience, the Engwe L20 is a step-through bike that is ideal. As a result, it is quite comparable to the M20 without the top tube. It is more challenging to install a second battery if you want to because that portion of the frame is missing.

There is no denying this e-bike’s weight at 34 kg (75 lb). The battery’s placement beneath the seat gives the bike a decent amount of balance, which is its only redeeming feature. There are no worries about it disintegrating or failing to withstand normal wear and tear because of the excellent build quality.

Since few people actually ride e-bikes in everyday situations, the claimed range of 140 km (87 miles) is unlikely to ever be reached. First of all, even the best e-bikes will have a shorter range due to wind resistance and the high levels of friction caused by various road surfaces. Second, the battery life of this e-bike will be severely harmed if you ride it with the highest pedal assist setting most of the time.

The L20 becomes a much more practical cruiser with the addition of the front basket and rear rack. Although you can strap anything you want onto this e-bike, purchasing one of Engwe’s basket or rack bags will guarantee a perfect fit. It can manage any situation below the maximum weight levels with ease.

The step-through aluminum frame is the central component of the Engwe L20’s design. Almost anyone can ride this bike because the top tube can be removed. Therefore, this bike frame is ideal for those who are shorter or cannot raise their leg over a bike with a standard frame. Being unaffected by either of those factors, I simply appreciated how simple it was to put on and take off!

The tires on the P275 Pro, one of Engwe’s more recent bikes, are significantly thinner than those on the L20. These tires, which are enormous, are classic Engwe. You’ll have all the weight and grip at 20 x 4 inches.There are a lot of cables related to electronics, which detracts from the overall design. Many of the cables are visible, particularly at the front, even though they pass through the down tube from front to back. Although the cables from the front light, gears, brakes, and display are coiled together, this practically makes them bulkier.

By lifting the seat lever and turning the seat 90 degrees, you can remove the 48V, 13Ah battery that is neatly tucked behind the seat post. Even though having to adjust the seat each time the battery needs to be removed is a little annoying, this has been really well engineered and operates effectively.

The L20 is a real beast. With a weight of 34 kg, this e-bike is not for the faint of heart. Because it requires some strength to move, it might be harmful to the market Engwe is attempting to reach with the step-through design. Some of this additional bulk is caused by the heavy front basket and rear rack as well as the strong metal mud guards.

Both lights are powered by an onboard battery, and the rear light can even be used as a brake light, which is incredibly safe. There are suspension on the front fork and springs under the seat to help with navigating uneven terrain.

3.Lectric XP 3.0

The Lectric XP 3.0 is a good option if you want comfort without sacrificing power. Although it isn’t quite as enjoyable to ride as the Ride1Up Portula, it is comparable. With the correct settings, it can easily handle hill starts and fast commutes.

Though it was difficult to get the bike to actually reach the 20 mph maximum assist speed, we discovered that the ride was extremely responsive, which did take some getting used to. However, as soon as you start pedaling again after avoiding any swooping corners, the motor kicks back in.

The seat was too big and ended up getting in the way, even when folded, but the bike was still comfortable, even for long rides. The folding mechanism was intuitive, but the hinge was on the stiff side, making it difficult to engage with cold hands in winter.

With accessory packs like the Comfort kit, which comes with a larger seat, you can upgrade the base model. The Lectric XP 3.0 is a quick, durable, and comfortable choice for transportation throughout the city as well as to and from the office, even without the extras.

The XP 3.0 from Lectric is part of an expanding line of folding e-bikes with fat tires and small wheels. This combination provides plenty of stability and bump absorption while maintaining the bike’s compact size.

For city commuters who must contend with uneven roads and limited storage space once they arrive at the office, these bikes are perfect. The XP 3.0 folds up fairly small and has enough power to get you there.

However, it’s still an e-bike, so it weighs a fair amount. If you’ll be toting this upstairs, it may not be ideal for you. If you’re looking for a versatile bike that won’t take up a ton of space in your apartment, and you need options for cargo or even a passenger, the XP 3.0 ticks a lot of those boxes. But, you should read the rest of our Lectric XP 3.0 review before you decide if this is the best electric folding bike for you.

The aluminum frame of the XP 3.0 is supported by 20-inch wheels. Because the tires are three inches wide, you can run lower tire pressures for increased comfort and grip.

Although Lectric does not specify how much travel the front suspension fork receives on its website, it is an additional comfort feature. Lectric has a large, roomy, and comfortable saddle in addition to a suspension seatpost.

The rear rack is integrated into the frame of the XP 3.0. The build package is completed with front and rear fenders and lights. The XP 3.0 is notable for having hydraulic disc brakes, which is an improvement for a bike this price.

Simply flip the release handle and pull inward to fold the bike at the center. To make the package as small as possible, the handlebars are folded downward using a second release lever on the long stem. Unfortunately, there is no mechanism to hold the two halves together in XP 3.0.

4.Gotrax V14 Electric Balance Bike

The Gotrax V14 Electric Balance Bike is a remarkable twist on the traditional balance bike concept, designed specifically for young riders ready to take their first steps into the world of two-wheeled fun. With its lightweight yet robust frame, the V14 promises both durability and ease of handling, making it an excellent choice for children learning to balance and maneuver. The bike’s design is thoughtfully engineered to support a smooth transition from a pedal-free balance bike to more advanced cycling, ensuring that safety and confidence are always at the forefront.

From a design perspective, the Gotrax V14 stands out with its modern, minimalist aesthetic and high-quality construction. The frame is built from resilient materials that can withstand the inevitable bumps and scrapes of youthful adventures. Adjustable components like the seat and handlebars ensure a custom fit as your child grows, promoting proper posture and control during every ride. The bike’s compact size and low center of gravity further enhance stability, reducing the risk of falls and helping kids to build their balance skills gradually.

Performance-wise, the V14 offers a subtle introduction to electric mobility without overwhelming young riders. Its gentle electric assist provides a controlled boost, allowing children to experience a bit of extra speed while still maintaining full control over their movements. This moderated power output is perfect for building confidence on two wheels, as it strikes a balance between excitement and safety. Additionally, the battery is designed to deliver consistent performance, offering ample playtime whether your child is cruising around the neighborhood or practicing their balancing skills at the park.

Safety remains a top priority with the Gotrax V14 Electric Balance Bike. The intuitive throttle control is simple enough for young users to operate, and the integrated braking system is responsive and reliable, ensuring that stops are quick and secure. The bike’s overall design minimizes risk factors, combining a low riding position with a stable frame that keeps the rider firmly grounded. Parents can feel reassured knowing that every aspect of the bike, from its construction to its power delivery, has been carefully considered to promote a safe riding experience.

In summary, the Gotrax V14 Electric Balance Bike offers an impressive blend of innovative design, reliable performance, and uncompromising safety. It serves as an ideal stepping stone for children transitioning from balance bikes to more advanced cycling, encouraging independence and motor skill development in a controlled and enjoyable environment. With its durable build, thoughtful features, and kid-friendly electric assist, the V14 stands out as a smart investment for any parent looking to introduce their child to the joys of riding.

5.Tenways CGO600 Pro

One of the greatest e-bikes I’ve ever ridden is the Tenways CGO600 Pro. Nearly every component of the bike functions and looks fantastic. Cables from front to back are concealed in the frame, and the battery is nestled inside the down tube. Because of all of this, it’s very hard to tell if you’re riding an e-bike.

The main attraction is the magnetic torque sensor, which effortlessly offers support when needed. The entire experience is incredibly pleasurable because there is no delay at all between pedaling and the motor starting up. I have previously owned e-bikes with motors that start up very slowly and unpredictably, making them a nightmare to ride.

The carbon belt drive is long-lasting and low-maintenance. An advertised life of 19,000 miles for the belt means it’ll take a long time to require replacement. Not having any grease to deal with not only makes maintenance a breeze but also removes the risk of getting it on your clothes.

The CGO600 Pro is perfectly positioned as a city commuter. The medium-to-thin tires eat up the miles and handling around traffic is light and easy. The price is comparable with most of its competitors for this e-bike type and, given its fantastic performance, it’s one of the best commuter bikes on the market at the moment.

The CGO600 Pro is going to be ideal for you if you’re searching for an e-bike that doesn’t look like an e-bike. This is because the cables are concealed in the frame, the battery is tucked neatly into the down tube, and the frame has a more conventional shape. The fact that this is an e-bike is not readily apparent unless you examine it closely.

There are four distinct colors available. Although I could have chosen Pebble Grey, I believe Avocado Green and Sky Blue paint are far superior. The aluminum frame is precisely balanced in terms of wheel sizes and tube thicknesses. I especially like how the upper tube tapers out as it travels from the seat tube to the headset.

One of the standout design features is the carbon belt drive, which is superior in many ways to a more traditional chain. We’ll cover more about its benefits in the performance section of this review but it’s worth saying here that it certainly looks the part and there’s a removable section in the chain stay if it does need to be replaced.

The CGO600 Pro, with magnetic torque sensor, provides one of the most seamless riding experiences I’ve ever had. The magnetic, rather than cadence-based, technology, almost eliminates any sense of lag between pedaling and the motor kicking in. I’ve experienced e-bike motors that take several seconds to kick in, which is far from ideal when you’re needing to pull away quickly from a stationary position. Thankfully, Tenways has absolutely nailed this implementation.

The single-speed drivetrain makes it super easy to get moving and stay moving, a reality that contributes significantly to the enjoyment of the ride. Tenways has managed to engineer a gear ratio that is absolutely spot on for flat roads and is easy enough to keep things moving when going up hills. The addition of the powered motor makes this a powerful combination.

The bike, as a whole, is wonderfully quiet. This is to be expected with carbon belts and it’s certainly the case with the CGO600 Pro. There is limited noise coming from the motor so you can still properly enjoy nature’s surroundings as you’re pedalling along.

Electric bike FAQ

How fast can an electric bike go?

We must review e-bike classifications before we can discuss top speeds. Three classes are offered.

Class 1 e-bikes have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph and only use a motor to assist the rider when pedaling.
Class 2 has a throttle that allows the rider to move around without pedaling, but it still maintains the same pedal-assist top speed as class 1.

Class 3 can be either pedal-assist only or pedal-assist with throttle-assistance, with a maximum assist speed of 28 mph.
The maximum power for these classes is 1 horsepower (750 watts). However, some e-bikes can reach speeds of 50 to 60 mph (air quotes). However, they resemble motorcycles with pedals more. They are not as well-optimized as conventional We must review e-bike classifications before we can discuss top speeds. Three classes are offered.Class 1 e-bikes have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph and only use a motor to assist the rider when pedaling.
Class 2 has a throttle that allows the rider to move around without pedaling, but it still maintains the same pedal-assist top speed as class 1.

Do I need a permit or license to operate an e-bike?

The short answer is no. But riders must meet the minimum age limit (which can vary) in their state. In New York, that is 16.

Should I buy an electric bike or an electric scooter?

It’s frankly pretty fun to have one of each. But if you need a reason to pick one over the other, an e-bike can also be used as a traditional bike so riders benefit from getting a workout along with the fact you can travel further, even on a dead battery. In addition, most people I talk to feel better on bicycles because they’ve had more experience riding them.