2024 has been a bumpy ride for the e-bike industry. Large brands like VanMoof have gone under, while cheap folding electric bikes, cruiser electric bikes, and affordable e-bikes flood major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.
As a consumer, simply asking "what's the best electric bike" isn't enough - you need to ensure the brand will be around to support your purchase. With dozens of manufacturers, it's difficult to separate quality from fly-by-night operations.
That's where Electric Bike Report comes in. We've been reviewing e-bikes for over a decade, making us the industry's most veteran source. In the last year alone, we've tested over 130 models from every major player. That doesn't include our hands-on time with new launches at shows like EuroBike.
Our expert guidance is needed now more than ever. 2024's turmoil means doing your research before investing in a new commuter e-bike, high-performance commuter, or all-terrain electric bike. Read our findings to choose a brand committed to the long haul, and a bike that delivers on performance, customization options, and total e-bike battery range. Steer clear of get-rich-quick schemers - your money's only well-spent on a truly best electric bike.
Our Picks for the Top Electric Bikes of 2024
We've thoroughly tested the latest and greatest e-bikes to bring you our recommendations for the top models. As the leading experts on all things electric two-wheelers, we subjected each bike to rigorous hill climbs, brake tests and range evaluations.
Below you'll find our top picks categorized by use-case, ensuring there's an electric bike here for every type of rider. Get all the details on these award-winning e-bikes, and let us know if you have any other questions - we've analyzed every component and can provide insider insights.
Fat Tire Beast: Aventon Aventure 2 - Conquer any terrain with ultra-wide fat tires and torquey pedal-assist.
Ultimate Commuter: Rad Power Bikes Radster Road - Sleek and affordable with integrated lights and grips for commuting bliss.
Best Folding Option: Lectric XP 3.0 - Our favorite foldable lets you stow it anywhere with a quality build.
Senior-Friendly Pick: Aventon Pace 500.3 ST - Step-through frame and low stand-over make riding easy on older riders.
Best Cargo Hauler: Lectric XPedition - Carry all your gear with built-in rear rack and powerhouse motor.
All-Terrain Adventure: QuietKat Apex Pro - Conquer rugged trails with dual batteries and powerful motors.
Let us know if you need any recommendations for your style of riding! We stand behind all our tested and proven electric bike selections.
The People's Champ: Aventon Aventure 2 Fat Bike Remains King
Since taking the crown as our favorite fat e-bike back in 2021, the upgraded Aventon Aventure 2 continues to raise the bar for affordable electric bikes. Packing a hearty 750W motor and torque sensor for zippy rides, this beast blends high-specs and refinements usually reserved for pricier models.
Beyond the typical fat tire electric package, Aventon loaded the Aventure 2 with touches you won't find elsewhere under $2K. Buttery hydraulic brakes, bright integrated turn signals and a full-color LCD give it a premium feel. And its removable battery seamlessly hides away, unlike the bulky add-ons found in most budget friendly options.
The result? A surprisingly nimble bike that's an absolute hoot to throw around rough terrain. Our test crew was blown away by its zippy performance up hills. It's also remained a dependable workhorse for lugging camera gear on long film shoots.
While Aventon didn't create the fat e-bike category, they took an already fun format and crammed it full of handy tweaks that elevate the experience. The Aventure 2 proves you don't need to spend big bucks to get an e-bike capable of doing it all - commute, play, haul stuff and more.
Two thumbs way up from our team. This people's champ is still the electric fat bike to beat around $2K.
Lectric XP 3.0: The People's Champion of Affordable E-Bikes
While it may not have the highest specs or flashiest customization options, the Lectric XP 3.0 has undeniably captured the hearts of electric bike enthusiasts everywhere. Priced at just $1,000, this folding e-bike continues to be one of the most popular and best-selling affordable e-bikes on the market.
With a 500W geared high-performance commuter motor, front suspension fork, and a 48V 10.4Ah battery that provides a generous e-bike battery range, the XP 3.0 delivers surpassing value for the money. Recent upgrades like hydraulic disk brakes and improved contact points have only made this capable folding electric bike even more comfortable and enjoyable to ride.
But perhaps the XP 3.0's greatest strength is its sheer practicality and versatility. As a well-priced utility electric bike that effortlessly folds up small, it's ideal for everyday commutes, weekend joyrides, or throwing in the trunk for day trips outside the city. And with a generous 150lb rear rack rated for heavy electric bike accessories or groceries, it's ready to handle whatever cargo you need to bring along.
Those looking for swappable batteries, integrated headlights, or high-tech displays will find more options available at higher price points. But for many casual riders and newcomers to the world of electric two-wheelers, the budget commuter Lectric XP 3.0 has everything they need to cruise effortlessly through their daily routine or weekend adventures - without breaking the bank.
- A reinforced steel frame built to withstand rugged all-terrain electric bike use
- Larger 20x4 inch fat tires ideal for rough trails, gravel paths or sandy beaches
- Revised ergonomic controls that are more comfortable for all-day riding
- Hydraulic disc brakes on both wheels for confident stopping power
In a market flooded with premium folding e-bikes, the Lectric XP 3.0 has stealthily become the people's champion. As the most affordable way to join the electric revolution, it proves that an e-bike doesn't need flashy specs or high price to deliver smiles.
The Verdict
While electric bicycles come in countless varieties, some new models stand out as particularly poised to get people buzzing in the new year. Whether you seek a powerful commuter, portable folder, or rugged off-roader, these 14 electric bikes have us the most excited to hit the open road.
At the top of many riders' lists is the Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0. With its lightweight 625Wh battery integrated into the frame, this class 3 high-performance commuter promises a huge e-bike battery range of up to 90 miles per charge. Revised ergonomics and a new walk/roll mode make it easier than ever to cruise through busy streets in comfort.
For those who value versatility above all else, look no further than the Tern GSD S00. As both a full-featured cargo e-bike and nimble trail companion right out of the box, it comes stocked with integrated rear rack, powerful 500W motor and swappable battery pods for limitless adventures.
If the endless possibility of the outdoors calls to you, the Aventon Aventure is primed for action. Its rugged frame, hefty tires and torque sensor make light of any all-terrain challenge, while the folding frame still lets you stash it easily when duty calls.
Of course, pure thrill-seekers will have their eyes set firmly on the Ariel Rider Grizzly. With dual 1,000W motors bursting with torque, this powerhouse promises to destroy trails at speeds and grades most ebikes only dream of.
Do any of these top our readers' lists? Let us know your pick for the most exciting electric bike of 2024 in the comments below! And be sure to check back in the new year when we roll out full reviews of these highly anticipated models.