The three classes
Every US e-bike is one of three classes. You'll see it on each card.
Class 1Pedal assist, up to 20 mphThe motor helps only while you pedal. The easiest place to start.
Class 2Pedal assist plus throttle, up to 20 mphA throttle gets you moving without pedaling. Handy from a stop or with a load.
Class 3Pedal assist, up to 28 mphThe fastest legal class. No throttle in California, and not allowed on bike-only off-road trails.
The three types on this list
Standard · $400 offCity and commuterLight, upright and easy to handle. Right for most riders who don't haul a lot.
Cargo · $900 offBuilt to carryRoom for kids, groceries or tools, with stronger motors. Bigger and heavier.
Adaptive · $900 offFor mobility needsTrikes, recumbents, tandems and options for wheelchair users. Wider than most bikes.
What's on the spec sheet
- Motor
- Hub motors sit in the wheel and feel like a tailwind. Mid-drive motors sit at the pedals and feel more natural on hills.
- Torque (Nm)
- Pulling power. More torque helps with hills and heavy loads.
- Battery (Wh)
- More watt-hours means more miles, but a heavier bike. A full charge takes 1 to 5 hours.
- Charging safely
- Use the charger that came with the bike, plugged straight into the wall. Don't leave it charging for days.
- Max load
- The most weight the bike can carry, including you.
Ask yourself first
- Am I replacing a daily car trip?
- Will I take it on a bus or train?
- How far will I ride each day?
- What will I carry: a laptop, kids, groceries, tools?
- Who will handle maintenance?
- Would a step-through frame or a third wheel help?
Then compare on
- Power: enough for your hills and loads.
- Fit: frame size, seat and handlebars. Test ride if you can.
- Weight: one you can lift and move yourself.
- Range: your normal day, with room to spare.
- Accessories: racks, fenders, lights, phone mount.
- Service: a local shop you trust for repairs.