Do you have a passion for cycling, but not-so-secretly wish you had more power and speed when you ride? I’ve got the perfect solution for you- it’s time to upgrade your ride by moving on to the future of cycling, electric bicycles.
They’re better, faster, stronger, and more efficient than regular pedal bikes. And the best part? Getting one doesn’t have to cost you a lot- a little under than $1000 can get you a great quality, high performing ebike that matches your need for speed and power.
Want to find out more? Take a look at this:
The best electric bikes under $1000 ranked:
After much research and testing, I’ve found the 12 best electric bikes under $1000 that can give you just what you need in terms of performance, convenience, and efficiency:
My top pick is one of the most high performance electric mountain bikes I’ve found, which is made by Ancheer. With 21 speed gears and transition systems to let you choose the perfect speed that meets your needs, and with a top speed of 20mph, this one stellar electric powered mountain bike.
The 500W or 250W brushless motor can get you to the road safe speed of 15mph or higher, and the battery is a removable 12.5Ah or 8Ah lithium ion battery that gives you a mileage of 15 to 30 miles, after which, you can simply change batteries to continue riding while charging the dismounted battery.
With this bike, you can choose from three default modes, or combine two modes for a more fitting cycling experience. The ebike’s high quality parts include standard 26” wheels, a sturdy and lightweight carbon steel frame, a durable aluminum alloy handlebar that’s adjustable (along with the seat), and good power front and rear disc brakes.
The bike is also equipped with a horn and LED headlamp for a safe day and nighttime ride.
Pros
Cons
This bike claims to be able to handle various road conditions, what with its powerful 250W brushless motor and large capacity battery, coupled with 7 different speed transition systems and 5 electric modes, all to help you reach high speeds and long distances on the perfect speed and riding mode that works for you.
The ebike is made of an aluminum alloy frame and is fitted with an integrated battery pack, but the 36V lithium ion battery itself is removable, meaning, it’s always safe and protected from the elements while still being easy to remove. And, it comes in 10Ah and 12.5Ah options to give you an impressive mile range of 37 to 50 miles.
While the speed capacity of this bike is quite average at 15.5mph, it’s by far the most long range electric bikes I was able to find.
It also comes with an adjustable saddle and handlebar, and powerful dual disc brakes, as well as a battery lock, and a bright LED headlight.
Pros
Cons
Another versatile electric bicycle for riding in various terrains and conditions is Sohoo’s city mountain ebike. It’s built with standard 26” wheels on a high strength carbon steel frame engineered with front comfort mechanical shock absorption.
This ebike runs on a 350W high speed brushless motor that can smoothly travel up to a road speed of 20mph, powered by a removable 36V 10Ah lithium battery with a good mile range of 25 to 30 miles.
Afterwards, you can conveniently recharge using the smart battery charger that can fully charge your battery within 4 to 6 hours. The bike also features a 7 speed Shimano transmission system, as well as variable speed throttle and pedal assistance. Of course, you can combine modes to find the right gear and speed that works for you.
You’ll also get super efficient front and rear V brakes, as well as a horn and bright LED headlamp for fun and safe evening rides.
Pros
Cons
As with any good mountain bike, one of the Kemanner electric bike’s highlights is the standard 26” spoke aluminum alloy wheels, which are slip and wear resistant, so you can safely ride on mountains and rough roads, even when it rains or snows.
The bike frame is also made of aluminum alloy, therefore making it lightweight and rustproof. It’s equipped with a 21-speed Shimano professional transition system, supplemented by 3 riding modes which can be controlled using the 3 speed smart meter button, all powered by a 250W Germany motor technology that can make you reach speeds of up to 15 to 21mph.
Its large capacity 36V 8Ah lithium battery gives you a nice mile range of 15 to 31 miles, depending on whether you use the ebike mode or the assisted mode. And, it comes with a smart battery charger for fast charging at 4 to 6 hours. Plus, the ebike’s interface can be connected to a USB or a smartphone!
Pros
Cons
Looking for an electric mountain bike that is safe, stable, versatile, and has a long mile range? Well, here’s a great option, which lets you cover up to 50 miles at a maximum speed of 30mph.
This electric bike runs on a 350W brushless motor and intelligent controller that uses up power more efficiently than most other ebikes. In fact, it recharges the long lasting and removable 48V 10.4Ah lithium ion battery as you ride, especially when you’re going downhill!
The battery is hidden for your safety, and is connected to an E-PAS recharge system for efficiency. The bike features 7 speed Shimano gear shifts coupled with M370 Derailleurs guarantee a smooth and accurate shifting, plus front and rear mechanical disc brakes for a short, smooth, and effective stopping power.
It’s built of an aluminum alloy frame that is just the right weight for you to effectively push your limits in traversing various terrains, and road and weather conditions, from rough hills, hidden trails, and high traffic roads, come rain or shine.
Plus, you’ll get a waterproof LCD display equipped with a backlit LED. isn’t that nice?
Pros
Cons
If you’re looking for a folding electric bike that is lightweight and performs well, Fiido’s ebikes are a great option. It’s made of an aluminum alloy frame that is high strength, lightweight, and rustproof, so you can cycle with ease, and then fold and store your bicycle without a hassle.
This bike comes in regular, gearshift, and detachable battery options, in sleek gray and white. Whichever one you choose, you’ll get three riding modes, from pure pedal to pure electric powered, so you can either conserve your battery, or reach speeds of up to 15.5mph.
It’s designed with a high magnification 250W or 350W brushless rear hub motor protected by a shock absorber, for better road access and improved comfort while staying safe on the road. And, it’s powered by a 36V or 48V lithium ion battery, depending on whether you get the bike with a built-in or detachable battery.
The ebike features dual mechanical disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels, so you get a stable and effective braking power each time. Plus, it comes with an instrument display to keep you informed at all times, and an LED headlight so you can ride safely at night.
Pros
Cons
This electric bike by Swagtron may be small and compact, but it’s designed with an adjustable seat and handlebar, so you can still ride at the most suitable height.
The tiny 14” tires are air filled and are attached with quick disconnect power lines, so you can get good traction and perform easy maintenance, while the light but sturdy aluminum frame can carry heavy loads of up to 264lb, and be folded three times for easy storage and handling. Planning on bringing it into a cramped subway? Not a problem!
Its 36V lithium ion battery will get you as far as 15.5 miles on a single charge, and the 250W hub motor can help you traverse rough terrains and overcome steep slopes in 83% less effort when you use the full throttle mode.
Other features include brakes that are equipped with autoguard to give you an effective stopping power, and a bluetooth bike lock and a cargo rack that you can purchase separately.
Pros
Cons
8. Cliensy folding electric bike
Most collapsible ebikes I found were tiny and compact bikes for everyday riding, but not this one. Cliensy’s folding electric bike is made for the true outdoors, with its standard 26” wheels, 3 cycling modes, and an impressive 21 speed shifters that can overcome any terrain. So, whether you want to ride in the city or in the mountains, this is an ebike that’s built for everyone.
The speed gears, coupled with the front and rear disc brakes, give you unparalleled control over your cycling experience, so you can ride faster and longer. It runs on a 350W stable motor with a relative top speed of 19 mph, powered by a 36V 8Ah lithium battery with a good mile range of 31 miles.
You’ll also get a smart lithium charger so you can fully power up within 4 to 5 hours. As with other folding ebikes, this one is built with a lightweight frame made of carbon steel for easy and convenient handling and storage.
Pros
Cons
9. TrekPower folding electric bike
Another lightweight and compact electric bike is TrekPower’s ebike. It features a lightweight aluminum alloy frame that folds three times so you can carry and store it easily even in the smallest of storage spaces.
The wheels are small at 16 inches, but they have good anti-pressure ability since they are made of a double layer aluminum alloy. They are also fitted with quick disconnect power lines for better traction and easier maintenance.
It’s run by a 250W high speed motor that offers a top speed of 15mph, and is powered by a 36V 10Ah lithium battery which gives you a decent 15 to 20 mile range on a single charge. You get 3 riding modes with adjustable settings and combinations, from throttle, speed, and pedal assist levels.
The dual disc braking system composed of a front drum brake and a rear disc brake ensures a full stopping power every time for maximum safety, while the seat and handlebar are fully adjustable to give you the perfect height and fit for your comfort and performance.
Also included are a horn and LED headlamp, and the ebike itself comes in four color options- black, white, red, and yellow.
Pros
Cons
10. Emdaot folding electric bike
Among the many folding electric bikes I’ve found is Emdaot’s folding ebike, which is affordable enough while still promising good quality to handle regular and continued use, perfect for those who want an everyday commute to work.
This runs on a 250W brushless gear motor gives you a speed of 15mph, which you can spice up and adjust to your liking with its 7 speed gears and 3 default working modes. Meanwhile, the 36V lithium ion battery has a large capacity and is removable for easy charging and replacement.
Its lightweight aluminum alloy frame is collapsible, so you can fold and store it easily even in cramped spaces. The carbon steel fork is engineered with comfort shock absorption, and the double layer aluminum alloy wheels can get you through typical road conditions.
The speed, throttle, and pedal assist can be controlled on the attached LED smart meter button, and you can start and stop quickly and safely using the high quality front and rear disc brakes.
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Cons
11. Nakto cargo electric bicycle
I present to you one of the most affordable options in this list- without sacrificing quality, of course. This ebike is made with a high strength carbon steel frame equipped with shock absorption for a smooth and comfortable ride on sturdy and durable 26” wheels.
The bike is powered by a high speed 250W brushless gear motor that can reach up to 18 to 25mph, depending on which of the 6 speed gears and 2 working modes you use. You can also combine modes, such as by choosing a variable speed throttle or adjusting the pedal assist.
The 36V 10Ah lithium battery is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about cycling when it rains or snows, and the battery is removable, too, for easy charging and replacing- not that you’ll need to do that often, since the battery is large capacity. The best part? It gives you a range of 22 to 35 miles!
Finally, this ebike is designed with a combination brake (a front V brake and a rear expansion brake) for maximum safety and stopping power. It also comes with a horn and LED headlamp for evening rides.
Pros
Cons
Last but not the least is a heavy duty ebike that can handle all sorts of terrains and road conditions. It’s claim to fame? The 4-inch fat anti-skid tires that are perfect for uneven terrains, from sandy beaches in the summer to thick snows in the winter.
A high performance 500W brushless rear motor powers the ebike to speeds of up to 20mph, along with a 36V 12Ah lithium battery that’s removable and comes with a smart charger, battery lock, and power lock, for your safety and convenience.
You can also take your pick from 7 speed gears, as well as combine riding and pedal assist modes to give you the most optimum speed and performance. It’s got both mechanical and outage disc braking systems for a better and more effective stopping power.
The bike itself is made of an alloy frame, with an ergonomic handlebar and an adjustable seat, and comes in black, orange, and blue. It’s a little heavy at 58lb, but it simply means it can carry more weight, at a maximum load capacity of 260lb.
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Best Electric Bikes Under $1000 Buyers Guide
There are many different kinds of electric bicycles that work wonders in getting you to your destination with more speed, power, and fun. From mountain bikes, road bikes, cruisers, hybrid bikes, folding bikes, and more, you won’t run out of choices.
But, that can also be the problem- with all these options, how do you pick one? How do you know which bike is the best for you, and will match your needs perfectly?
Don’t worry, I’m here to help. Here is a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about electric bikes, so you can make an informed decision in choosing the right electric bicycle for you.
Why you need an electric bicycle
First of all, why should you opt for an electric bike, rather than an ordinary pedal bike? After all, the electricity requirement alone will be an added expense on your monthly budget. Plus, you’ll have extra parts that will need maintenance and upkeep, like the motor hub and battery.
Well, I assure you, it’s more than worth it. For one thing, an electric bike gives you the full experience of riding a normal bike, but without the struggle and exhaustion from working your muscles too hard- even when you’re riding on rough terrains or going uphill!
You can also get to your destination much faster, with the same amount of effort. And, it’ll be much easier to keep up with the demanding and stressful stop and start traffic. Plus, you can carry heavier loads with ease, whether it be cargo or a passenger, like your kid, for example.
Classes of electric bikes
As I’ve mentioned earlier, there are several types of electric bikes. In fact, in this aspect, you can think of them just like regular bikes. So, you have mountain and road bikes, and lots of special function bikes such as cargos and cruisers.
The more informative way of distinguishing ebikes, however, is by class- a.k.a their level of motor assistance. Kind of like cars. There are three different classes of electric bikes based on their motor power and pedal assistance:
Class 1 ebikes are ones where you have to pedal for the motor to help you out, and afterwards stops once you hit 20mph. These bikes are the most affordable, and you can ride them pretty much everywhere, from city streets, bike paths, and even some mountain bike trails.
Class 2 ebikes provide, just like class 1, pedal assistance up to 20mph, but also offer a full throttle powered mode, so you can move without exerting any effort. These bikes are typically allowed in the same areas as class 1 bikes.
Class 3 ebikes, meanwhile, only give you pedal assistance, but up to 28mph, meaning, you can reach higher speeds, but you’ll still need to put in a bit of effort pedalling. These are the fastest and most powerful ebikes out there, and also the most expensive. In some way, it’s almost like riding a motorbike. The downside is, these are not allowed on most bike paths and trails.
Performance and riding range of the best electric bike under $1000
Now, let’s talk about how fast and how far an electric bicycle can go, which are determined by the bike’s motor and battery, respectively.
Motor power
For example, a powerful motor can reach higher speeds, carry heavier loads, and traverse difficult terrains. However, it comes with a price- all that power burns up the battery, meaning, you’ll need to recharge sooner.
Essentially, performance (motor power) and riding range (battery capacity) are inversely proportional.
Battery
Of course, you can just opt for an ebike that has a big battery with a high capacity to handle your powerful motor without cutting your trip short. You can also bring your charger along, buy multiple chargers, or use a fast charger.
Another option is to go for ebikes that are able to mount two batteries at once, or bring an extra battery to replace your drained one as needed. For this one, however, you’ll do much better with bikes whose batteries are mounted externally so they can be replaced easily. The downside is, an exposed battery is more prone to damage.
So, pick your battles. What’s more important for you? Covering longer distances, or reaching your destination faster?
Motor placement
Did you know that where the motor is located on your bike affects a couple of things, such as ease of riding, and weight management?
Typically, electric bike motors are mounted at either the front or rear wheel, or the bottom bracket. Here’s how the placement affects your riding:
Hub drive motor
For hub drive motors, you’ll want to opt for this if you’re looking for extra pedal power, since a rear wheel motor “pushes” you along, while a front wheel motor feels like driving a front wheel drive car. The downside is, since the motor is mounted on the wheel, changing tires is more difficult.
Mid drive motor
On the other hand, mid drive motors feel more like normal pedal bikes when you ride them, and the weight is much more balanced, since the motor is at the bottom center of the bike. This is why it’s popular and many cyclists prefer it. It’s just a little harder to maintain and repair, since you might have to take apart the bike to access the motor.
One thing you have to consider when it comes to the ebike’s motor is its torque, which affects the bike’s capacity to handle rough terrains, steep climbs, and heavy loads. The maximum torque you’ll find for ebikes ranges from 40 to 80 Nm.
Other features
Electric bicycles are designed with several other features and components to maximize performance, convenience, and ease of riding experience. I’ve listed here the most common features of electric bikes that you need to take into account:
Pedal assistance
In terms of pedal assistance, you’ll find that most ebikes come with 3 to 4 pedal assist levels, with the lowest level enabling you to conserve your battery power, and the highest level giving you the highest speed and torque.
Ebikes that claim to be high performance should have a pedal assist that feels smooth and responsive. Ultimately, however, what’s important is you find a bike that works best for your needs. So, if you want to ride your ebike mostly for leisure, then speed is not your priority.
Bike frame
Another important thing is the bike’s main frame, which determines its weight and durability. Most ebike frames are made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, although you’ll find lots of steel and carbon fiber frames as well. A lightweight bike, whether it’s an ordinary pedal bike or an electric bike, is easier to ride, feels more nimble when cycling, and is less exhausting to use.
Connectivity
There are ebikes that let you control some functions through the display screen, and some can even be connected to your Android or iOS device via WiFi or bluetooth, so you can keep better track of your bike performance and condition. You may also be able to enable GPS, and unlock your bike’s integrated lock.
Others
Other features and components include racks to store and carry cargo, lighting to let you safely bike at night, and essential bike parts like tires, brakes, shifters, and drivetrains, which should all be durable and made of high quality materials.
Size and fit
Finally, your bicycle, whether it’s pedal or electric, should fit you like a glove, meaning, you should be able to mount and ride it smoothly without feeling cramped or barely reaching the pedals and handlebars.
This is largely determined by the size of the bike frame and the wheels. Remember, the bike size influences how your body is positioned on the bike, and whether your muscles can be worked properly without straining yourself and causing injury. Don’t get a bike that’s too small, big, or heavy for you.
Important note:
Since an electric bike runs on motor power, they are covered by state laws and regulations. It’s a must that you check your city and state ordinances on what bikes you can use and where you can ride them, as well as licensing requirements and age limits, before you purchase an ebike. Check also electric bicycle laws.
Final verdict: the best electric bike under $1000 is…
I admit, this was a difficult decision, as I came across quite a few electric bikes that simply blew my mind. But after much consideration, the best of the best is:
Ancheer professional electric mountain bike
It’s a high performing mountain ebike equipped with 21 speed gears and 3 default riding modes, running on a high speed 500W brushless motor, and powered by a large capacity lithium ion battery. With this ebike, you can cover up to 30 miles at a top speed of 20mph, even on the most treacherous terrains and harshest climates.
That’s it! I hope I was able to help you in finding the best electric bike under $1000 that perfectly matches your needs and requirements. If you have any questions, let me know in the comments!