4 best e-bikes for daily commuting

E-bikes, or electric bicycles, are a great way to get around. They go faster than a regular bicycle with less physical output, and can help curb regular gas expenses. If you're looking to save money on your daily commute to work or school, e-bikes not only provide a cost-effective way to get to your destination, but they also can help the environment and your fitness goals. 

Here, we break down the benefits of e-bikes, what to look for when purchasing one, and top-rated models to check out. 

Electric bike benefits 

From cutting on fuel costs to getting out in nature, here are some top benefits of commuting via an electric bike. 

Saves time

If you ride public transit, walk, or currently ride a regular bicycle to get to work, an e-bike can often save you time. E-bikes typically can go 20-28 miles per hour with pedal assist. Rather than relying on the bus or train schedule, you can pick and choose when to head out.

Save on fuel costs

With gas prices on the rise, riding an e-bike to your destination can save you money. While it might not seem like a huge amount, if you ride to work one or two days a week for a month instead of driving or taking an Uber, the cost-savings will compound. E-bikes run on a rechargeable battery that is easy to use, so you won’t have to pay much for it to run. (But you’ll have to charge it, so factor the costs of electricity in.)

According to John Seedborg, Head of Product at e-bike brand HOVSCO, “Bikes come with no traffic or parking headaches, are easy on the joints and give seniors more freedom to ride. There are also tax credits and incentives for purchasing an e-bike at the federal, state, county, and local level, as well as non-profits.”

Spend more time outdoors

You’ll be able to enjoy the scenery and appreciate nature as you navigate to work. Not sitting in traffic has its perks. It can help alleviate stress, lower high blood pressure, and improve mental health.  (Apps like AllTrails+ can help you navigate local bike paths and beyond.)

Exercise 

No, it’s not as strenuous as riding a manual bicycle, but even with the pedal-assist function on e-bikes, you are still pedaling. The repetitive motion of pedaling helps to strengthen your leg muscles and improve cardiovascular fitness.

No sweat

With any type of exercise such as running, riding a manual bike, or rollerblading to work or school, sweating might be an issue. With an e-bike, you’ll most likely not find this to be a problem. If anything, as you ride, the breeze will help you keep cool.

Good for the environment

Because e-bikes rely on batteries, there’s no fuel emitted into the air, which is better for the planet. 

How to choose the right e-bike 

Ready to invest in an e-bike? Here are the things you’ll want to look for.

Cost

E-bike prices range from $400 to more than $10,000, depending on what you’re looking for. The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) states that the average price for an electric commuter bike falls between $2,000 and $3,000. 

Type of bike 

Depending on the manufacturer, there are typically four types of bikes: hybrid, road, mountain, and folding bikes. Hybrid bikes are multifunctional, meaning they're suitable for both road riding and rough terrain. Road bikes make excellent options for commuting because they are lightweight and fast. Mountain bikes, as they are called, are great for climbs and serious terrain. Folding bikes, which are ideal for apartment dwellers and city commuters, can be reduced to a compact form for easy storage.

Class

E-bikes fall into three classes:

1. Class 1 bikes only initiate electric speed when the rider pedals and reaches up to 20 mph at maximum speed. They are great for flat and easy rides.
2. Class 2 e-bikes offer a throttle option, which propel riders without them needing to pedal. The maximum speed for this class is also 20 mph.
3. Class 3 is the most advanced and reaches a maximum speed of 28 mph, which is not only great for commuting, but also navigating rough terrain, climbs, and long rides.

Battery life

How long you can go without charging your e-bike is important. Bike manufacturers list the number of miles or hours you can ride with a single charge. Bikes with more powerful motors will have less range, requiring more frequent charging because of the force they exert.

Maintenance and insurance

Prior to purchasing your e-bike, find out if there’s a bike shop near you that can service the bike. E-bikes require regular care and maintenance. If you don’t have a garage or building to store your bike, consider getting insurance in case something happens to it. 

Best e-bikes for commuting 

HOVSCO HovCart 20-Inch Step-Thru Electric Fat Bike 

The HOVSCO HovCart is the ultimate commuter cargo bike. This bike’s large tires allow for an easy ride through hard terrain. The bike has a large back seat rack, which can accommodate a basket that can carry up to 450 pounds. In addition to cargo, the back can be converted to a seat for transporting a child. Baskets and additional seating can be purchased through the company’s website. 

Designated as a Class 2 bike, it can be upgraded to a Class 3, with a speed up to 28 mph, by connecting to HOVSCO’s app. The high-powered 750-watt gear motor and 85Nm torque sensor allows riders to move through hilly climbs with ease by choosing the throttle or pedal assist modes. Conveniently, the HovCart has a 60-mile range on a single charge.

It’s suitable for riders 5 feet 4 inches up to 6 feet 5 inches, with its adjustable seat height. HOVSCO offers free shipping throughout the United States, except for Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Returns are accepted within 15 days of receipt. There’s a two-year warranty on all bikes.

Pros

• The HovCart has the option of upgrading to a Class 3 e-bike with the HOVSCO app, making for a faster ride.
• The bike arrives 85% assembled and offers customers free shipping in 48 states across the U.S.
• The back platform allows users to carry additional items or convert it to a safe child seat. 

Cons

• Priced at $1,999, it may be out of range for budget-conscious riders. 
• You’ll need to purchase accessories such as a basket and seat cushions from the company to ensure proper fit on the bike rack.

HOVSCO HovBeta Step-Through 

HOVSCO HovBeta Step-Through is the ultimate commuter bike because it’s foldable and easy to store. This bike has a powerful 750-watt motor with 4-inch fat tires and can go up to 28 mph after connecting to HOVSCO’s app. At Class 2, the bike functions with a pedal-assist and the motor offers up to 20 mph of assistance. With its sophisticated design, 85Nm torque sensor for easy uphill riding, and long-lasting battery life, the HovBeta is a practical bike. 

Pros

• Lightweight, foldable, and easy to store, without sacrificing the effective 750-watt motor.
• The four-inch fat tires provide stability and efficiency while moving through rough terrain.
• HOVSCO’s app allows riders to track their mileage and speed. 
• The bike arrives 85% assembled and offers customers free shipping in 48 states across the U.S.
• Option to increase to Class 3 with speed up to 28 mph
• Ordering on Amazon’s website ensures fast delivery.

Cons

• If you’re using this e-bike primarily for navigating city roads or pavement, you might not need the fat tires, which are excellent for plowing through gravel, sand, and other challenging obstacles.

Lectric XPedition Cargo eBike 

Founded in 2019 by friends Levi Conlow and Robby Deziel, Lectric bikes began as a passion for offering affordable e-bikes to consumers. The Lectric XPedition Cargo eBike launched in early 2023. 

Perfect for commuters who are carting around packages, the back rack can hold up to 300 pounds and glide up hills and inclines with ease. The rear-hub motor provides 750 watts of power, and the battery covers up to 75 miles on a single charge. For an upgrade, the dual-battery option ($1699) handles up to 150 miles.

The bike is currently available in one color way (fog gray). Shipped as a Class 2 with speeds up to 20 mph, it can be adjusted to a Class 3, with speeds up to 28 mph. 

Lectric’s website notes that all sales final after the bike has shipped. Under extenuating circumstances, you may call them and see if there are other options. The company offers a one-year warranty with an option to purchase an additional year for $89.

Pros

• Option to increase to Class 3 with speeds up to 28 mph.
• This is one of the most cost-effective e-bikes around. 
• There’s the option to purchase the dual-battery for $300 more.

Cons

• All sales are final.
• Because they are a relatively newer company, there is not much history to refer to in terms of wear and tear. 
• There’s only one color offering.

Charge Bikes Comfort 2 Step-Thru Electric Bike 

Charge has been making bikes since 2004 and launched their highly-anticipated e-bikes in 2020. The Comfort 2 Step-Thru comes from the makers of iconic Schwinn bikes and gives commuters a lightweight feel with a smooth ride. The 250W motor offers riders speeds up to 20 mph.

The pedal assist option has five modes for when you want a boost during your commute. One charge gives you up to 50 miles of riding distance. The rear rack allows for a child’s seat to be securely fastened and can carry up to 50 pounds. The bike is available in three colorways and is suitable for people from 4 feet 11 inches to 6 feet 3 inches.

You'll get free shipping for orders over $49 and the company currently only ships within the U.S. except for Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Returns must be made within 30 days of purchase. 

Pros: 

• This e-bike is lighter than most and offers ample stability with its thick tires.
• There are five pedal-assist options, which determine how fast you want to go.
• The rear cargo rack is great for holding a car seat or transporting groceries or books.

Cons: 

• The price point is steep compared to the HOVSCO HovCart which can hold up to 450 pounds on its rear rack.
• The Comport 2 Step-Thru only has a one-year warranty.