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Griffin Hales

Senior Writer | Edtior

Like most of you, I turned 16, got a driver’s license, and spent more time on four wheels than two. I got into e-bikes shortly before their boom years back in 2019. From my first ride - when I really saw what an electric motor could do for bikes - I was happily back on two wheels as often as possible! Since joining Electric Bike Report I’ve tested and ridden over 300 different e-bike models, logged thousands of miles of riding, and have had the privilege of riding and working with people from all over the industry. I’ve traveled to tradeshows and expos, corporate headquarters, and local bike shops talking with and learning from passionate people in all corners of the industry. My favorite part of working for EBR is being known as “the e-bike guy” by my neighbors, family, and friends and geeking out and talking about all the cool things in the e-bike world with them!

Get to Know Griffin Hales

Certifications

  • B.S. Business Administration; Emphasis in Marketing

Favorite Style of E-Bike

Fat Tire, Commuter/Touring, Moped/Moto

Favorite E-Bikes Reviewed

Aventon Aventure.2 ST, Evelo Atlas, Ride1UP Prodigy V2

Current Bikes You Ride/Own

Trek Rain 9.8, Ride1UP Prodigy V2, Aventon Pace 500.3, Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 IGH, Globe Haul ST

Favorite New E-bike Tested

Ride1Up Roadster V3

Hobbies

Watching trash TV with my wife (the secret to a strong marriage), doing anything and everything with my kids and dogs, playing basketball, watching the NBA and NFL, learning all I can about tech, learning to cook new recipes, and scoping out the best new food places.

Some links may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these.

Griffin Hales

Urtopia Carbon 1 Step-Thru Review | A Tech-Savvy, Lightweight Ride

Lightweight carbon fiber keeps this cruiser nimble, while integrated tech and security features make it one of the most modern e-bikes around.

Urtopia Carbon 1 Step-Thru Review

Who says e-bikes have to be heavy? At just 41 lbs, the Urtopia Carbon 1 Step-Thru is refreshingly easy to lift, carry, and ride. Urtopia has been carving out a niche as the go-to brand for carbon fiber frames without sky-high prices. Now they’re bringing the material’s lightweight, performance-oriented benefits into the city cruiser category.

This isn’t your grandparents’ cruiser (though they might still love it). The Carbon 1 ST is loaded with forward-thinking features like 4G connectivity for security (movement alarms, geo-fencing, GPS tracking) and ride enhancements (AI route planning). With an LED dot-matrix display, built-in speakers, and even voice control, it feels more like a connected smart device than a traditional bike.

But those headliners shouldn’t detract from the real standout: the ride itself is light, quiet, and surprisingly smooth for a non-suspension frame. It’s a pleasant e-bike experience that just happens to be loaded with tech. The step-thru design and generous handlebar sweep make it approachable, while its motor offers enough power for lively city cruising and an easy time on small to medium-sized hills (and even some steeper ones, too).

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a smaller rider hunting for a great fit, or simply someone who doesn’t want an e-bike that feels like a burden to lift, the Carbon 1 ST has a lot to offer. See all the testing results below to ensure it has everything you need.

[Read more…] about Urtopia Carbon 1 Step-Thru Review | A Tech-Savvy, Lightweight Ride

Evelo Galaxy Lux Review | Awesome Tech Makes Riding Easy

The Galaxy Lux is an example of how high-tech features can make a ride low-maintenance and easy to use.

Evelo Galaxy Lux Review

The Evelo Galaxy Lux is a purpose-built cruiser with a clear mission: make riding simple, accessible, and low-maintenance. It’s packed with high-tech components designed to reduce stress and upkeep, and it’s intentionally tailored for riders on the shorter to average side of the height spectrum.

At its heart is a 600W Bafang mid-drive motor paired with a Gates carbon belt drive and an Enviolo Trekking CVT (continuously variable transmission) that shifts automatically via Enviolo’s AutomatiQ system. Instead of a traditional chain and cassette, you get a sealed transmission with a 380% gear range that delivers seamless, incremental adjustments.

There’s no shifter, no clunky gear jumps, just sensors and software reading the terrain and your effort, then matching your cadence for a smooth, consistent ride. Operation is as easy as turning it on, choosing your pedal assist level, and rolling away. It’s a setup that works just as well for tech enthusiasts as it does for those getting back in the saddle after years away.

The ride itself leans toward effortless cruising rather than outright speed, but with up to 980W peak power and 105Nm of torque, it’s far from sluggish. The motor and drivetrain also offer some of the cleanest, lowest-maintenance performance you can get—no chain stretch, no rust, no greasy pant legs, and a sealed hub that can handle thousands of miles with virtually no upkeep necessary.

With a frame that fits riders from 4’10” to 5’10”, a super-low 15” standover height, 24” tires, and a total weight of just 57 lbs, it’s more accommodating to riders on the more diminutive side than most e-bikes.

Sounds nice, but what are the trade-offs? Premium tech comes with a premium price, and at this tier, you’d typically see more frame sizes and color options than, well, one. Still, Evelo helps balance that with one of the best warranties in the e-bike world: four years or 20,000 miles on major parts (two years on the battery). It’s a strong signal that these components aren’t just high-end—they’re built to last.

Read on to see how the Evelo Galaxy Lux performed in our testing.

[Read more…] about Evelo Galaxy Lux Review | Awesome Tech Makes Riding Easy

Leoguar Trailblazer Review | Is The Motor Magic?

A capable Trail-level eMTB powered by the punchy Motinova Magic T1 motor.

Leoguar Trailblazer Review

Leoguar may be a newer name in the e-bike world, but the brand brings decades of OEM experience to its first eMTB model under its own banner: the aptly named Trailblazer. This entry-level eMTB is aimed at newer to intermediate riders, with one frame size designed to fit shorter to average heights and modern XC/Trail geometry for a confident ride.

The build kit features plenty of trusted names: a RockShox suspension setup, Shimano drivetrain and brakes, and Maxxis tires. The motor, however, is less familiar in the U.S., but it’s one worth knowing. The Motinova Magic T1 has 750W of peak output and 100Nm of torque, giving it serious climbing ability once you learn its ideal cadence for full engagement. If you maintain a higher cadence, it’s good; with a bit of programming refinement, it could even be great.

Range testing from its 720Wh battery delivered impressive results, showing it’s ready for longer cross-country adventures. While it’s limited to one frame size and 27.5” wheels, the Trailblazer’s geometry, component choices, and motor performance make it a compelling option for riders looking for their first — or next — capable eMTB, without wanting to pay higher prices of legacy brands.

For a clearer picture of all the bike’s capabilities, see the testing data and spec breakdown in the full Leoguar Tralblazer review below.

***Use code EBR100 for $100 off the Leoguar Trailblazer when you click the button below***

[Read more…] about Leoguar Trailblazer Review | Is The Motor Magic?

Tern & UpWay Team Up, Canyon’s New Citylite: ON, FDNY Responds To Battery Repair Fires | TWR Ep 45

Also, a look at electric trikes that can drive in reverse, and do we expect new Lectric models soon?

Upgrades with tech are common. We’re mostly accustomed to getting a new phone every few years, and we know that sooner or later, laptops, smartwatches, or other tech will start to show their age, and we’ll need to upgrade to current technology. So what about e-bikes?

In this week’s e-bike news, Tern teams up with Upway to offer customers a trade-in program for those seeking upgrades to the latest e-bikes they offer.

Speaking of the latest, Canyon has introduced a new model, the Citylite: ON, which brings carbon fiber to city commuters in the European market.

The FDNY has more battery-related fires that it puts out. This time, thanks to an illegal battery repair business.

Finally, for this week’s questions, we examine e-trikes that can go in reverse and whether we can expect any updates to a top-selling cargo bike anytime soon.

[Read more…] about Tern & UpWay Team Up, Canyon’s New Citylite: ON, FDNY Responds To Battery Repair Fires | TWR Ep 45

Haoqi Mustang Review | An Affordable Full-Suspension Hybrid

The Haoqi Mustang is a budget-friendly full-suspension eMTB with a few hidden gems on the spec sheet for its price point, and good testing numbers.

Haoqi Mustang Review

The Haoqi Mustang is a bike that goes big in a few good ways, and then goes small in an even better one.

The Mustang delivers impressive power and features for the money. The headliner here is the Bafang mid-drive motor, which dishes out 500W of nominal power and a jaw-dropping 130Nm of torque. It’s also one of the rare mid-drives to include a throttle.

Beyond that, the Mustang sports the ever-coveted full suspension setup to soak up rougher terrain. Its frame geometry and suspension lean toward XC and light trail use, but it’s capable of splitting time between commuting and trail exploring (especially with a few urban-friendly accessories added at checkout).

So where does it “go small”? Despite its feature-rich build, the Mustang remains remarkably affordable in today’s e-bike market, with a price tag of around $2,000.

That price usually means compromises, but the Mustang surprises with more name-brand componentry than we’d expected to find: a 720Wh battery with Samsung cells, a 9-speed Shimano CUES derailleur, a Suntour suspension fork, and quality Gemma hydraulic brakes.

Testing performance was another pleasant surprise. The Mustang was one of the faster climbers we’ve tested in this category, and its range exceeded expectations, given the considerable power the motor produces.

The shortcomings are the usual ones for this price: the one-size-fits-all frame skews toward smaller riders, and while the motor’s power delivery is solid, it lacks fine-tuning options for rider customization, offering more appeal to those who prefer their e-bikes to be punchy.

Still, it’s impressive how far $2,000 can go. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly entry into the trail world or a more rugged, full-suspension commuter with trail-ready looks and feel, the Haoqi Mustang makes a compelling case.

For all the details, keep reading our full Haoqi Mustang review below.

[Read more…] about Haoqi Mustang Review | An Affordable Full-Suspension Hybrid

Ride1Up TrailRush vs Aventon Ramblas, JackRabbit’s Micro Haulers, Trek’s New Fuel+ & Domane+ ALR, | TWR Ep 44

Plus how to secure bikes on a long road trip, what to do about battery protection in extreme temps, and do we need OTAs?

There was a slew of new releases this week with a large variety of bike styles on display.

Let’s start with the smallest. Jackrabbit unveiled two new rides they’ve dubbed “Micro Haulers” which represent a size increase for offroading or bringing a passenger on the more diminutive-sized EV.

Trek announced upgrades to a new line of Fuel+ eMTBs with different travel options. It also announced an aluminum option joining the Doman+ ranks, and both these models will feature the new TQ-HPR60 motor.

Finally, Priority debuted a new commuter with impressive tech. The bike has a 750W motor paired to a Pinion 12-speed automatic shifting gearbox and Gates belt drive. It’s sophisticated tech that’s at a (relatively) more affordable price than we expected to see.

We also had several questions this week about some of the best value eMTBs, how we’d secure bikes when taking a longer road trip, and what to do about protecting batteries in hot or cold riding conditions.

[Read more…] about Ride1Up TrailRush vs Aventon Ramblas, JackRabbit’s Micro Haulers, Trek’s New Fuel+ & Domane+ ALR, | TWR Ep 44

Ride1Up TrailRush Review | Exceptional eMTB Value

With a Brose mid-drive, trail-ready geometry, and a nice air fork, the TrailRush proves you don’t need to overspend to get a capable XC eMTB.

Ride1Up TrailRush Review

I was in college when I first developed an interest in mountain biking. I asked some of my fellow students and my Econ professor—all avid mountain bikers—how much I should expect to spend on a reliable model that wouldn’t need any immediate upgrades. The consensus? If I wanted something from a reputable brand with solid, dependable specs, I was looking at around two grand for a good hardtail. And that was for an acoustic bike, not an electric one.

Fast forward to now, and you can understand why I was floored when I started reviewing the Ride1Up TrailRush. This brand’s hardtail XC eMTB—a bike that includes a motor and battery, mind you—comes in at just barely over two grand. Really? In this economy? How?

While I don’t have all the answers, let me walk you through my bewilderment. The TrailRush rides impressively well across XC and downcountry trails. Its Brose-equipped mid-drive motor delivers smooth, natural-feeling engagement, with 90Nm of torque that gives you an impressive leg up when climbing.

The hallmark of the motor isn’t in its otherworldly power, but rather in its seamless integration and natural feel while delivering a healthy dose of power. The bike also joins a growing number of eMTBs capable of reaching Class 3 speeds—perfect for zipping along on trails where it’s permitted. Handling is sharp and responsive, helped along by a strong component package that includes a Shimano Deore drivetrain and a RockShox Judy air fork for added comfort.

It corners with confidence and brakes effectively, thanks to a 4-piston hydraulic setup. While the geometry and suspension aren’t built for aggressive downhill runs, the TrailRush holds its own within its XC / Trail element.

So, what’s the catch? The motor performs well but has a bulkier look in an age where most drive systems are slimming down. And part of the low price comes from reduced overhead; there are only two frame sizes available, which may be limiting if you’re looking for a more tailored fit.

So, like most good deals, this one comes with a few trade-offs. But if the sizing works for you and you’re looking for an affordable way to dip your toe into the electrified XC world, the TrailRush offers a ton of potential, as you’ll see from the testing data down below.

[Read more…] about Ride1Up TrailRush Review | Exceptional eMTB Value

Amflow PL Carbon Pro Review | Can Reality Match Hype?

A lightweight full-power eMTB with spritely handling and the best climbing performance we’ve ever tested.

Aventon Aventure M Review

In my five years of testing electric bikes, few have arrived with as much hype as the Amflow PL Carbon Pro, which we received for review. Plenty of products make a splash and generate headlines for a moment, but it’s rare to see one that makes the entire industry stop and stare, and then remain a topic of conversation for nearly a year.

So what’s all the buzz about? This is a seriously well-designed bike, with class-leading power and an impressively lightweight build. At a glance, you might not even clock it as electric. It has a slim downtube which hides a surprisingly large 800Wh battery that powers a tiny motor capable of propelling the bike up and over just about anything.

Spoiler alert: it’s the best hill-climber we’ve tested, and it also delivers one of the longest ranges we’ve seen for a full power rig. Power and efficiency? Yes, please.

The component package is mostly top-tier—aside from the tires, perhaps—with upper-level Fox Factory 150/160mm suspension, wireless SRAM Eagle shifting, and Magura MT7 brakes that deliver strong modulation and excellent stopping power.

Its geometry strikes a smart middle ground that suits nearly all riding styles, short of full-on downhill. It rolls on dual 29” wheels out of the box, but a flip chip at the linkage lets you run a 27.5” rear wheel for extra playfulness.

Speaking of playfulness: the PL Carbon is helping redefine what a full-power trail bike can feel like. Our size large test bike weighed just 45 lbs, a number that’s flirting with SL eMTB territory, but it has twice the battery and way more power than most bikes in that class.

Much of that performance is courtesy of the Avinox motor system, which delivers the best power-to-weight ratio we’ve seen, weighing just 5.5 lbs with an output of 1,000 peak watts and 105Nm of torque. There’s even an optional Boost mode that bumps torque up to 120Nm and really ramps up acceleration. The result is a lightweight, poppy ride that launches off jumps with serious power behind it.

It’s not without flaws; the power is great, but you’ll want to spend some time tuning it, and we swapped the stock stem almost immediately. However, the PL Carbon Pro ultimately left a lasting impression.

Hype is common, while follow-through is rare. Yet this bike delivered with a genuinely terrific debut.

[Read more…] about Amflow PL Carbon Pro Review | Can Reality Match Hype?

Kitworks Gear Box and Tote Review | Modular Organization

The Gear Box and Tote are overbuilt to withstand just about anything a cyclist or mountain biker could throw at it, with a lot of modularity to fit your particular set of needs.

Kitworks Gear Box and Tote Review

The Kitworks Gear Box and Gear Tote are built tough—like really tough—to handle whatever a cyclist or mountain biker can throw their way. With a modular design, they adapt to your specific storage needs with surprising ease.

Life can get chaotic, but your gear organization doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re trying to tame the mess at home or keep things tidy on the go, the Kitworks Gear Box and Gear Tote help you spend less time hunting for gear and more time riding.

Okay, that may sound like an infomercial pitch, but seriously, the best storage system is one that makes intuitive sense to you. With adjustable compartments tailored to your gear, you’re more likely to stay organized and less likely to misplace your essentials.

What stood out the most during my time with the Kitworks Gear Box and Gear Tote was their sheer versatility. You can configure the storage with bags, straps, pouches, and movable dividers, ensuring your essentials don’t end up in one big jumbled sack. Everything has its place.

The Gear Box is undeniably heavy-duty. It’s made from high-grade materials and supports up to 250 lbs (confirmed by yours truly at 235 lbs). Despite its strength, it can collapse flat when not in use, saving valuable storage space. The exterior is water-resistant and UV-tough, making it a reliable companion in the elements.

The Gear Tote is a lightweight and more portable option. It’s more flexible and open at the top, but easier to see at a glance and grab things quickly.

Any downsides? As with most premium products, the upfront cost is higher, but it feels justified. You’re paying for long-term durability and a system that can evolve and adapt to your changing needs. If you’re of the “buy once, cry once” mindset, this could be a smart investment.

[Read more…] about Kitworks Gear Box and Tote Review | Modular Organization

Best Electric Bikes For Heavier Riders 2025 (Tested & Approved)

Best E-Bikes for Heavier Riders 2025

Take it from a guy who weighs 235 pounds: I’ve heard people talk about electric bikes as being “super fast,” or they say, “This flew up hills!” and…. I had no such experience on those bikes. What a bike does for a person weighing a buck sixty and what it does for somebody weighing eighty or a hundred more pounds will be different experiences.

People come in all sizes, and larger riders need to know which e-bikes in today’s market are worth their time and money. We’re excited to bring you our top picks for electric bikes that cater specifically to heavier riders.

Rest assured, each selection was meticulously chosen with the needs of heavier riders in mind. The motors are robust, ensuring a powerful ride, and the range is sufficient to accommodate heavier users without compromising performance. Also, we understand that style matters too, so we’ve included a variety of frame styles to suit different preferences.

Our recommendations are not just based on personal opinions, but on a comprehensive dataset and insights gathered from testing over 300 e-bikes. This wealth of information equips us to guide you toward the most suitable e-bikes for heavier riders, ensuring you make an informed choice.

*Electric Bike Report aims to help consumers find the right electric bike for their needs. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

Our Picks Best E-Bikes For Heavy and Tall Riders of 2025

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