Electric Road Bikes
Electric road bikes are optimized for road cycling, designed with speed and efficiency in mind. Road e-Bikes feature a lightweight frame, drop handlebars, and narrow tires, making them just as aerodynamic as non-motorized models. If you are in the market for a high-quality road e-Bike, Upway has an extensive selection of refurbished performance road bikes from a range of trusted brands.
Features of an Electric Road Bike
Whether you need an electric road bike for a leisurely weekend ride, fast-paced group ride, or a longer adventure, there are several features to look for, including:
Lightweight frame
The frame is typically made from materials like carbon fiber or aluminum, which helps reduce weight and allows handling to be as agile as possible, making these bikes ideal for road cycling and long-distance rides. The highest-spec models boast a carbon fiber frame. The Trek Domane+ SLR road bike, for example, features 800 Series OCLV Carbon frame material to shave grams and improve performance.
Narrow tires
E-road bike tires are designed for smooth surfaces like asphalt and paved routes, so they have a less aggressive tread than electric mountain bikes or most city e-Bikes, for example. Road tires typically measure between 25mm and 30mm wide. The tires are often kept at a higher pressure than other e-Bikes for lower rolling resistance and greater efficiency. Gravel e-Bikes, however, run wider tires with heavier tread for traction on looser riding surfaces, with clearance for tires measuring up to 50mm wide.
Pedal-assist system
The pedal-assist system on a road bike is typically designed for longer distances rather than off-road adventures and offers a more natural and comfortable ride than traditional e-Bikes. Nearly all road e-Bikes only provide pedal assistance levels— without a throttle mode— that stay closer to the feel of normal cycling, only with a boost.
Battery and motor
The battery and motors on electric road bikes are usually smaller, lighter, and less powerful than those on e-MTBs or cargo e-Bikes. Whether it’s a Bosch or Fazua motor, they’re tuned for efficiency, and the battery range is moderate. Some have a removable battery if you wish not to ride with the electric assist system engaged.
Road models often have a mid-drive motor, which provides power directly to the bike’s chain, allowing the rider to use the bike's gears more efficiently. However, some premium models use a rear geared hub motor— such as the Ebikemotion motor or Mahle— that is an ultra-compact electric motor in the wheel and preserves the bike’s sleek profile.
Hydraulic disc brakes
These allow for more precise stopping power compared to mechanical disc brakes or older rim brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes provide additional control, especially considering the added speed and weight of electric bikes.
Integrated lights and displays
These convenient features ensure riders are highly visible to other vehicles on the road, even in low-light conditions. Some displays are even built into the frame for a streamlined aesthetic and marginal aero gains.
Electric Road Bikes vs. Other Types of Electric Bikes
Electric road bikes differ from other types of electric bikes, such as electric mountain bikes or folding e-Bikes, in their design and intended use. Electric road bikes are designed specifically for paved roads and offer a streamlined, lightweight frame for maximum speed and efficiency. They typically have narrower tires, lighter frames, and drop handlebars for an aerodynamic riding position.
Compared to other types of e-Bikes, electric road bikes are preferable for those who prioritize speed and performance over comfort and versatility. Road e-bikes can travel longer distances on a single charge and reach higher speeds than other kinds of e-Bikes. They are also ideal for those who want to commute or exercise on paved roads without worrying about the challenges of off-road or urban cycling.
Uses for Electric Road Bikes
An electric road bike is a versatile and practical mode of transportation that serves various purposes. A road e-Bike can be an efficient and eco-friendly way for commuters to travel to work, cutting down on both time and transportation costs.
Road electric bikes allow fitness enthusiasts to easily tackle challenging terrain and steep inclines for longer and more intense workouts. For those looking for a fun and eco-conscious way to explore the outdoors, an electric road bike provides an exciting and sustainable alternative to traditional bikes or cars.
Our Selection of Electric Road Bikes
At Upway, we carry top-quality electric road bikes with various features and functionalities to meet your needs. We offer popular e-Bike brands and models like the Santa Cruz Skitch, Specialized Turbo Creo, and Bianchi E-Impulso.
In general, our models have a battery capacity between 300W and 500W and motor torque between 50 Nm and 70 Nm, giving you plenty of power to go longer distances. You can find road e-Bikes with top speeds of 20 mph to 28 mph, priced between $2,000 and $7,000, so you can find the e-Bike that fits your budget.
Get Your Certified Pre-Owned Road E-Bike at Upway
We offer a wide selection of name-brand e-Bikes at up to 60% off what you’d pay for a new model. Our road e-Bikes come with a 1-year guarantee and undergo a rigorous 50-point inspection process to ensure quality and safety. Browse our incredible selection of pre-owned road e-Bikes today to find an electric bike with the design and functionality that’s right for you.