Our 2024 guide to the best value electric bikes
How do you find your way around all these electric-assist bicycles? From city bikes to touring bikes, it's near-impossible to choose ! We've researched the 2024 electric bike market for you, covering everything from motor power to the quality of the materials, the size of the frame, and the options on each bike.
The electric bike market in 2024: innovation and selectivity criteria
Why choose an electric bike in 2024?
These two-wheeled machines are best for long rides. Compared with a conventional bicycle, an electric bike will enable you to cover more miles with minimal effort.
Another advantage of the newest electric bikes of 2024: motor and battery performance! While the early days of e-Bikes left a lot to be desired in terms of range, today's electric bikes offer better assistance management over the long term.
Finally, by producing only 24 to 48 grams of CO2 per mile, compared with 208 to 448 for a car, according to a study by Ekwateur, the electric bike remains a more responsible option than motorized vehicles.
Essential criteria for a good electric bike
Why choose an electric bike in 2024?
Before you buy your electric bike, there are a few things you should consider. Among the technical features to consider are :
- how you intend to use your electric bike
- the type of battery installed on your electric bicycle
- Your EAB's brakes (hydraulic disc brakes, mechanical brakes with pads or hydraulic brakes with pads)
- your electric bike's motor
- the frame of your electric bike
Comparison of the best value electric bikes
Top 5 electric bikes for under 1,500 dollars
The Decathlon Elops LD 500 E, a bike for the city
With its high frame, sleek design, and rock-solid endurance, the Elops LD 500 E tops this ranking thanks to its attractive price ($1719) and the quality of its materials. The key word for this model? Fast!
With its 504 Wh battery, this electric bike has a low-assist range of 71 miles and high-performance hydraulic disc brakes for added safety.
The Moma Bike E-MTB 29, an electric MTB at the best price
How can we talk about the best electric bikes of 2024 without mentioning the Moma Bike E-MTB 29? Equipped with a 624 Wh battery and 250 W motor, this fun and rowdy MTB has a range of almost 75 m!
Its Shimano Altus transmission allows you to navigate between 24-speed modes, giving this model rock-solid versatility enhanced by hydraulic disc brakes.
The Nakamura Classic LTD, an electric city bike for under $1,000
It's the cheapest model in this ranking but doesn't sacrifice quality! With a base price of $999.99, the Nakamura Classic LTD is renowned for its smooth pedaling, 250-watt rear motor, and range of up to 37 m.
This electric bike is perfect for urban environments and daily commutes. It features a modern design, a rear cargo rack, and an upright riding position.
The Nakamura E-Summit 740, an e-Bike for sporty types
Tips to reduce the total cost of your electric bike. Other tricks can help you reduce the cost of your electric bike, such as :
- buying your e-Bike second-hand
- purchase of a refurbished electric bike
Electric bike selection criteria
Autonomy and battery: what you need to know
Are you planning to use your bike for mountain roads, long rides, or commuting? Depending on your answer, you'll need to choose the right battery for your e-Bike. Electric bike batteries vary in power depending on the model.
Comfort and ergonomics: details that count
The material, weight, and other components of an e-Bike’s frame should be considered when making a purchase. Since you'll be covering many miles, you should choose a model that matches your physical capabilities, as electric bikes are relatively heavy.
Safety and regulations for electric bikes
Legality and risks of unbridling an electric bike. Because they are motorized, every electrically-assisted bicycle on the market must be approved and limited to 28 mph.
Traffic rules and mandatory equipment. Approved e-Bikes must undergo regular inspections and be fitted with safety systems. They must also comply with the same traffic regulations as conventional bicycles and be used on road or bike paths where allowed.
Types of electric bikes and their use
- Moustache Lundi 26
- Decathlon Elops 120 E
- O2Feel Vog City Up 4.1
- Swing City from Riese & Müller
- Nakamura Classic LTD
Best models for country and off-road use
As for e-MTBs, which are better suited to rough terrain and unmaintained roads, several electric bikes stand out from the crowd. Some of the best are:
- Nakamura Crossover LTD (VTC)
- Moustache Samedi 27 Xroad 2 (VTC)
- MTB electric enduro Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro 625 (MTB)
- STILUS E-ALL MOUNTAIN Ochre (MTB)
- Rockrider E-ST 900 from Decathlon (MTB)
Check it out our selection of the best mountain bike for under 2000$.
Connected electric bikes: benefits and options
Do you like to get around by bike and love new technology? You're going to love connected electric bikes! Equipped with screens linked to your phone, these smart bikes let you closely track your e-Bike performance.
Focus on Gravel and MTB electric
Are you a thrill-seeker? If you're looking for a bike to tackle mountain trails or desert doubletrack, you should consider an electric assist mountain bike or gravel e-Bike. Gravel bikes combine the off-road capability of mountain bikes with the speed of road bikes, and adding an electric motor makes them even better.
Maintenance and additional costs of an electric bike
Electricity cost of an electric bike
Riding an electric bike will save you money compared to driving a car! To find out the electricity cost of your equipment, multiply the price per kWh of electricity by the Wh capacity of your e-Bike’s battery. According to Alterna Energie's calculations, a recharge today costs between 6 and 14 cents.
Maintenance and durability: what to expect
After every ride, remember to check the condition of your tires, the operation of your brakes, and the lubrication of your chain. Also, have your bike serviced by an authorized professional at least once a year.
Try before you buy: tips and tricks
An electric-assist bike needs to be tested before you buy it! Don't hesitate to try out several models before making a purchase. Hop on every bike and ensure the seat can adjust to fit you, then test ride it to see if the motor works. While you’re at it, ensure the brakes work and check the ride comfort.
Conclusion
You've got plenty of options for finding a high-performance, affordable electric bike! These models promise you unrivaled value for money and an awesome riding experience, whether you use your e-Bike to tackle the city or to ride meandering country roads.