10 Best Electric Bikes of 2023 Tested by GearLab

While this is undoubtedly one of our favorite electric bikes on the trail, there are a few areas where the Levo was not the top performer. The SRAM Code R hydraulic disc brakes on this bike are far from our favorite, and the non-e-bike specific Fox 36 Rhythm fork also leaves a bit to be desired. The only information immediately available to the rider are the LEDs on the frame’s top tube showing the current support setting and remaining battery life. If you value having lots of information available at a glance, more expensive versions of the Levo come with a digital display, or you can purchase one as a separate accessory.

However, we wouldn’t let either of these drawbacks deter you from the Turbo Levo Comp, and we recommend it to anyone looking for a refined and highly adjustable electric mountain bike. If you want to save a few thousand dollars, check out the Commencal Meta Power TR Ride, which didn’t score as high but has huffy trail runner great downhill performance and only slightly less range. Larger motors generally produce more torque, accelerate faster, and easily support higher speeds. Hub-drive motors are located in the center of one of the wheels (typically the rear wheel) and transfer power directly to the wheel where it is mounted.

Many brands also offer additional accessories like baskets and kids’ seats designed specifically to fit their models of bikes so you can customize your ride. Most bikes these days have a removable battery, which makes charging as simple as carrying the battery to the nearest outlet rather than having to haul the entire bike over. Class 2 e-bikes also have a top motor speed of 20mph (although it is possible to ride them faster if your legs are strong enough). Like class 1, they also have a pedal assist option with different levels of power, depending on your preference. E-bikes that fall into the class 2 category are usually allowed in bike lanes and multi-use paths, but there are exceptions in certain states. While the Revv 1 impressed us in almost every way, the headlight mounted directly to the frame compromised its night riding abilities.

Though it folds into a compact package, it’s quite heavy at 62.5 lbs, so lifting it into a trunk or carrying it up a flight of stairs can be difficult. All that said, this value-oriented foldable model is a great option for anyone short on storage or seeking a compact e-bike. Striking a delicate balance in the cargo bike market, the Specialized Haul ST manages to be useful without being overly imposing. Its small footprint makes for easy storage and agile handling, while its burly frame and solid spec ready it for heavy-duty service. The frame design is very similar, with the same 18-speed configuration, but the Hyper Shocker is a men’s mountain bike, whereas the Huffy Trail Runner is a women’s mountain bike. The multicolor saddle is designed for comfort, plus the alloy quick-release binder clip makes it easy to adjust or remove at any time.

In 1949, Huffman Manufacturing produced its first children’s bike and basically invented training wheels, adopting the tricycle technology that dated from the 1860s. The brand became Huffy in 1953 and it would go on to develop other cycling breakthroughs, including some certifiably kooky ideas such as the Radio Bike, which was actually a radio with a bicycle built around it. Regularly, Huffy pioneered new models of bicycles, though it was often similar bikes made by competitors that became better known.

Not surprisingly, a little leg power from the rider can add many miles to a bike’s range. Batteries are measured in Watt-hours, and the higher the Wh number, the more power storage and longer the range, but this also means increased weight and size, making for a heavier bike. They have a more relaxed and upright riding position and are made for long and slow outings down the neighborhood bike path or on the side street that leads to the beach.

These are more affordable, easier to maintain, and do not add as much wear and tear to bike components. However, their single-gear ratio makes them less efficient, and it’s more difficult to change or repair tires. Mid-drive motors are located in huffy nighthawk the bike’s center, usually around the pedal crank, and deliver power to the wheel through the chain. They’re usually pricier but also more refined, using the bike’s gears to maximize efficiency, and they better balance the weight of the motor.

These typically have a very user-friendly interface and have the option for a step-through frame design to make mounting and dismounting easier for most people. They may not be as powerful or speedy as some other models, but they provide a boost to your pedaling efforts and are fun and comfortable to ride. While almost always available as aftermarket accessories, included perks like a headlight, tail light, fenders, and cargo racks are always nice.