What Are the Best E-Bikes for Shorter Women ?

Written by: Rémy Rossi | April 8, 2025 | Time to read 7 min

Tracking down the right electric bike can be a challenge for shorter female cyclists. Standard frame sizes typically cater to taller riders, which means women can struggle to find a bike that delivers optimal performance and comfort.

The main priority when searching for an electric bike as a shorter female cyclist is bike fit. It’s an important factor to get right for all cyclists, but can be especially challenging in the e-Bike space. Bike brands typically have a smaller selection of e-Bike models to choose from and some don’t even offer frame size options, embracing that fraught one-size-fits-all philosophy.

The universal fit approach is typically reserved for lower-end brands or cruisers, but even top brands like Aventon and Rad Power only offer two frame sizes on most of their models: Regular and Large. That said, the Regular sizes are rated to accommodate shorter riders down to 4’10” or 4’11”.

The presence of batteries and motors on electric bikes also means that it’s more difficult for the bike engineers and designers to create a compact frame for shorter cyclists, but it’s far from impossible. Shorter riders may be more sensitive to the extra weight or weight distribution of e-Bikes than other riders. I’d also recommend choosing a step-thru frame to facilitate hopping on and off the bike more easily.

Explore the best electric bike model for your needs to ensure maximum comfort, stability, and performance:

The Pedego Interceptor is a smart choice for shorter female cyclists looking for a hybrid e-Bike. The step-through frame allows for easy mounting and dismounting and the swept-back handlebars encourage confident, controlled handling. The Interceptor is available in many styles and designs— and I’ve seen models suitable for riders down to 4’8”.

The 500W rear hub motor pushes the bike along, powered by the 720Wh neatly integrated under the rear rack—  that setup does make the Interceptor rear-heavy, though. The Class 2 e-Bike has a throttle for pedal-free power, hydraulic disc brakes, and a Shimano Acera drivetrain. Big on comfort, the Pedego Interceptor is a solid choice for smaller riders.

The Cube Town Hybrid One is excellent for shorter women who want a sleek, easy-to-handle e-Bike for city commuting. The upright ride position ensures maximum comfort, while the step-thru frame and low standover height allow you to comfortably place your feet on the ground when coming to a stop at traffic lights or intersections. The Small frame size is ideal for riders between 4’10” and 5’5”.

The Cube model features a high-performance Bosch motor, which is fully integrated into the frame for optimal weight distribution. The 250W motor pairs and 400Wh battery provide enough power for extended commutes, even in hilly areas. You can rely on a stable ride with the bike’s 700c wheels, Schwalbe Big Ben tires, and dependable hydraulic disc brakes.

Looks aren’t everything, but this model gains major points in that area. I’m a big fan of the sleek, thin tubing that’s rare on beefed-up e-Bikes these days, along with the smart battery placement behind the seat tube. Go ahead and judge this book by its cover— your vanity won’t disappoint!

If you are a short woman searching for a reliable e-Bike, the Gazelle Ultimate T10 Low Step is a standout option. At 51 lbs., it’s easy to handle and maneuver, even if you need to take the bike on trains or trams. The Bosch Performance Line 250W motor generates up to 65Nm of torque, enabling you to tackle hills without breaking a sweat. The generous 500 Wh battery means you can enjoy longer journeys without having battery anxiety.  

The Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 1 is a hybrid e-Bike with electric mountain bike flair. The mid-step frame fits smaller cyclists well and is designed for versatile and adventurous riding. It has a powerful Bosch Performance Line Speed motor and a high-capacity 500Wh battery, offering ample assistance for tackling challenging terrain and steep hills. I must admit that I have a soft spot for this hard-hitting e-Bike that oozes coolness and ruggedness, complete with a suspension seat post!

With its strong frame and quality components, the Tesoro Neo X is built to deliver a reliable and enjoyable cycling experience. The Class 3 e-Bike has a maximum speed of 28 mph— the smaller frame sizes are an excellent choice for smaller riders who want to explore both on and off the beaten path.

The Momentum Vida E+ Low-Step is an easy-going city commuter’s dream. Designed with a low-step frame design and smaller 26” wheels, making it especially accommodating for women with a smaller build. Its design promotes an upright riding posture and boasts stable geometry, a fantastic feature for those new to the e-Bike scene.

One of its standout features is the internal geared hub, ensuring seamless gear changes for a buttery-smooth ride and low maintenance. With the Shimano Nexus 7-speed drivetrain, you can effortlessly switch between gears on flat roads or rugged terrains. Toggle between six support modes to tailor your ride, assisting up to 20 mph.

The Brompton Bolt H6L reimagines city commuting for riders of all sizes. Designed for the hustle and bustle of cities, this lightweight e-Bike, weighing just 40 lbs., folds down small to make storage and transport a breeze. Folding e-Bikes can be a good choice for shorter riders because of the bike’s already compact size— in contrast, taller riders may have trouble feeling comfortable on some folding e-Bikes.

Equipped with a 250W front hub motor, it assists up to 20 mph, ensuring you have the necessary boost when needed. This is complemented by the Smart Pedal Assist that intuitively kicks in for smoother rides.

The design prioritizes durability along with its reinforced e-Bike-specific steel fork. There are Schwalbe Marathon Racer tires with puncture resistance and a reflective sidewall for safety. Rim brakes keep things light and compact, and there’s a 3-speed drivetrain along with added features like mudguards— the Brompton Bolt is a stylish and practical e-Bike for smaller women on the move.

My mom’s preferred electric bike, the Specialized Turbo Como is a top choice for recreational riding, commuting, and a great fit for shorter women. With its step-through frame design, riders can easily mount and dismount, while the upright riding position ensures maximum comfort. The Turbo Como features a powerful motor and a long-lasting battery, perfect for navigating city streets and enjoying leisurely rides. This e-Bike offers both style and functionality, making it an excellent selection for urban exploration.

If you want an electric bike specifically built for women, Liv has got you covered. The sister brand of Giant offers a wide range of mountain and hybrid bikes suited for riders of all heights, including shorter women. Frame geometry, sizing, and contact points are all adapted specifically to the needs of female cyclists so you can enjoy the best ride yet.

An electric cargo bike is also an interesting option for shorter riders. While these cargo-hauling models are bigger and longer than your standard e-Bike, they are built to be stable and easy to mount, often with step-thru frames and a low standover height. And I know plenty of moms who love to transport their kids on the back of their cargo bike!

Yuba specializes in cargo models and has got the geometry and practical features down to a science. The sturdy construction and ample cargo space ensure that you can handle your daily errands or family adventures with ease.