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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.

An E-Bike That Charges in 15 Min, California’s E-Bike Law Enforcement, Tern’s GSD | TWR Ep 24

Plus Panaracer’s Colorful Gravel Tires, Tailgate Pads vs. Hitch Racks, Where are the Ride1Up Models Going? & More!

This week’s e-bike news headlines included Mountain bike pioneer Gary Fisher and his company, Morelle Bikes, are teasing a major tech announcement set to debut at the Sea Otter Classic in April—headlined by an e-bike that claims to fully charge in just 15 minutes. While details are scarce, if true, this breakthrough could have major implications for the industry.

We’re also diving into Orange County’s strict enforcement of newly passed e-bike laws, checking out the 3rd generation Tern GSD, and taking a look at Panaracer’s colorful Gravel King tires.

In our trailsytem highlights, we head to San Antonio, Texas, where the famous Riverwalk offers a scenic and bike-friendly way to explore the city. With museums, historical landmarks, art installations, shopping, and dining along the way, it’s a must-visit for cyclists. For those who prefer nature over cityscapes, the Riverwalk connects to the Medina River Greenway, providing 28 miles of rideable trails teeming with wildlife and local flora.

Meanwhile, in our weekly audience Q&A section, we discuss why range results will differ, tailgate pads vs. hitch racks, and what’s the deal with the disappearing Ride1Up models?

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This Week’s E-Bike News Headlines

Gary Fisher’s Company Morelle Bikes To Debut A 15-Minute Fast-Charging E-Bike At Sea Otter

Legendary bike innovator Gary Fisher is making waves again, this time in the e-bike world. Best known as one of the pioneers of mountain biking, Fisher parted ways with Trek in 2022 and has since teamed up with battery scientist Kevin Hays to develop a new commuter e-bike at their company Morelle Bikes.

While final specs haven’t been confirmed, the teased feature is its lightning-fast charging battery, reportedly capable of reaching full capacity in just 15 minutes. Hays, formerly the director of product development at Ionblox, brings expertise in next-generation battery technology. The new bike will utilize pouch-style lithium-ion batteries, which claim to offer 50% higher energy density and rapid charging.

Our take: What kind of battery tech is behind the Morelle? Is this an advancement in traditional lithium-ion chemistry, or could it be an early sign of solid-state battery integration in the e-bike market? Either way, Fisher’s return to bike innovation is one to watch. Morelle will debut the bike at the Sea Otter Classic next month—expect more details soon.

Orange County, California Will Begin Enforcing New E-Bike Regulations Starting In April

​Orange County, California, is set to implement stricter e-bike regulations starting in April. Some of these changes align with new state laws passed last fall, including:

  • Licensing and registration for high-powered e-bikes: E-bikes with motors exceeding 750 watts will now require licensing and registration, as they are no longer classified as e-bikes.
  • Stricter speed limit enforcement: Authorities will be cracking down on speed violations, particularly in areas shared by pedestrians and e-bikes.
  • Penalties for reckless riding: Riders engaging in unsafe behavior will face penalties, though specific consequences have yet to be detailed.

These changes aim to address rising safety concerns, as bike-related accidents in Orange County have reportedly increased by 500% since 2020, according to County Supervisor Katrina Foley.

Some cities are taking additional measures. Cypress, for instance, may ban Class 2 and 3 e-bikes from sidewalks—it recently issued 37 citations in a single day to riders violating new local laws. Meanwhile, the city of Orange has implemented sidewalk speed limits and other new regulations.

Our take: We’re all for common-sense safety measures, and many of these steps seem reasonable. That said, we still believe speed regulation should take priority over motor wattage—just like it does with cars.

Tern Released A New 3rd-Generation Model Of Its Gsd Cargo Bike

According to Tern’s Team Captain, Joshua Hon, “Pretty much every aspect of the bike has been redesigned to work better, from big improvements like handling when heavily loaded to small details like how much effort it takes to get the bike up on the kickstand or how seatpost levers are easier for small hands to operate. The new GSD is just better.”

  • Upgrades include:
    • Stronger, more reinforced frame: The GSD now features larger-diameter aluminum tubing for improved durability.
    • Improved stability: A longer wheelbase and lower center of gravity enhance handling, especially under load.
    • Higher weight capacity: The GSD can now handle a maximum gross vehicle weight of 463 lbs, tested to meet German DIN 79010 standards.
    • Upgraded Bosch Smart System: Includes GPS tracking, electronic locks, alarms, and ABS braking for enhanced security and control.
  • New accessories:
    • Folding footboards
    • Weather protection: sun shield and rain shield
    • Variants include an economical P10 with Shimano components and a premium R14 with Rohloff Speedhub and Gates belt drive

Pricing starts at $5,000, with availability in Europe and North America starting in May.

Our take: Awesome! We’ve loved the Tern bikes we’ve tested. They’re definitely a premium option, but you get what you pay for—and the ability to stand vertically for compact storage is just super cool!

You Asked, We Answered. Questions Covered In The Weekly Recharge

  • Why did we get different range results on the Aventon Aboud SR than someone’s personal experience?
  • Tailgate pad vs. hitch rack—which is the better e-bike hauling solution?
  • Ride1Up models are disappearing—should we be worried about the company?
  • Is the 2023 Turbo Levo still worth buying, or should you wait for the 2025 model?
  • Do folding bikes have travel bags?
  • What’s the best hitch rack for carrying four bikes, including a longtail cargo e-bike?

E-Bike Deals Found This Week

    • Tenways spring sale – up to $600 off select models
      • CGO600 Pro is $400 off to $1499
      • AGO X is $600 off to $1899
      • Buy two e-bikes and get an extra $200 off, plus you can get an extra $100 off if you sign up for their mailing list
    • Lectric’s Nothin’ But Net Sale
      • XP 3.0 purchases include a cargo package and cargo net
      • A great deal on the mid-level XPedition 2.0: “Fully Loaded” package includes frame bag, panniers, and the orbitor handrail attachment along with the seat pads and footboards that come with the bike
    • Retrospec’s Spring Warehouse Sale – $100 off a bunch of already affordable models
      • Chatham Rev+ beach cruiser and Valen Rev 2 moped are $1300
      • Chatham Rev 2 – stripped-down version is just $899
      • 20% off accessories when you sign up for their mailing list


Make sure to tune into the full episode to see the e-bike trail system highlight and rider of the week! Want to be featured in future episodes? Comment on any YouTube video or page of the website, or send to [email protected].

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Best Electric Bikes Under $1,000 | Nine Bargains to Jump On

When you’re on a budget, it can be tough to find the right balance between an affordable electric bike and a quality electric bike — but it’s not impossible. To help you sort out the affordable gems from the cheap lemons, the Electric Bike Report team has compiled our list of the best electric bikes under $1,000.

To be fair, it’s not easy to make a quality e-bike under $1,000 (even before inflation), so we’ve resigned ourselves to raising that price cap a little here and there to include some great deals. These bikes are priced near enough to that mark – or we’ve seen them on sale often enough – that we consider them worth a mention.

With a majority of budget e-bikes being sold online, it can be difficult to judge whether the bike you’re looking at is worth your money. Lucky for you, the experts here at Electric Bike Report have ridden hundreds of e-bikes. We are extremely familiar with all the bikes on this list, and we’re confident they’ll serve you well.

Please note that over the past 12+ months, the e-bike industry has been affected by numerous tariffs. The prices noted here were under (or around) $1,000 at the time of writing, but they may change at any point.

Our Best Electric Bikes Under $1,000:

*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.

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What E-Bikes Should Seniors Be Riding? And Rad Power Bikes Finds Its New CEO | TWR Ep 23

Plus Tenways CGO600 Pro-C Vs Ride1Up Roadster V3, Frame Flex, New Tariffs on Bike Chains & More!

This week in e-bike news, we discuss Rad Power Bikes’ new CEO, who brings extensive retail experience from other major brands. We also break down the latest tariffs, which are stacking up to a 70% total increase on some smaller components like chains. Plus, we take a look at Orbea’s new gravel e-bike, the Denna, which boasts impressive torque from the custom-tuned Shimano motor and a range of customization options.

For those feeling adventurous, we explore a coast-to-coast cycling route—an epic 4,200-mile journey (better start saving that PTO—it won’t be a quick trip!).

Finally, we dive into reader questions and comments, including a head-to-head comparison of the Tenways CGO600 Pro-C and Ride1Up Roadster V3, discussions on frame flex, and insights into the criteria behind our recent Best E-Bikes for Seniors video.

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This Week’s E-Bike News Headlines

Rad Power Bikes Appoints Kathi Lentzsch As Its New Ceo Following The Departure Of Phil Molyneux

Following the recently announced departure of Phil Molyneux, ​Rad Power Bikes has appointed Kathi Lentzsch as its new CEO. Lentzsch brings over three decades of leadership experience, including executive roles at Bartell Drugs, Pottery Barn, Pier 1 Imports, and Cost Plus World Market. Her background in transforming consumer-facing businesses aligns with Rad Power Bikes’ mission to innovate and prioritize rider satisfaction. This leadership change comes as the company transitions a direct-to-consumer model to a more balanced retail-focused approach, aiming to reach more riders and strengthen customer relationships. ​

Rad has endured some rough headlines in recent years. The company had a meteroic rise to the top, was once the sales leader in e-bikes, and received several rounds of financial investment totaling more than $329 million. Since then, the company has had numerous rounds of layoffs, canceled expansion attempts into the European market, and faced lawsuits.

Still, they have some of the best brand equity of any e-bike maker, a promising lineup of recently released models, and an ever-growing group of retailers, so there are reasons for optimism that the brand could rally under new leadership.

The All-New Orbea Denna: Gravel E-bike With Custom-Tuned Shimano Mid-Drive

Orbea has introduced the Denna, a mid-drive electric road bike optimized for gravel riding. Equipped with the RS Gen2 RC system—a customized version of Shimano’s EP platform—the Denna delivers up to 85 Nm of torque and offers two assist modes: Gravel and Gravel+, tailored for varying terrain conditions. Its OMR carbon frame accommodates tires up to 50c, enhancing versatility across different surfaces. A 420Wh battery supports significant elevation gains, with an optional 210Wh range extender available for extended rides. The Denna also features mounting points for fenders and dual water bottle cages, catering to long-distance adventures.

Compounding Tariffs Could Mean 70% Increases On Certain E-Bike Components

​The recent implementation of a 25% U.S. tariff on steel and aluminum imports affects various bicycle components, notably chains and certain cables. Importers of Chinese-made chains now face cumulative tariffs totaling 70%, combining previous and new duties. Additionally, some bike cables, particularly those without fittings, may be subject to these tariffs, though classifications remain ambiguous. These tariffs also extend to various hardware items utilized by bike shops and manufacturers.

You Asked, We Answered. Questions Covered In The Weekly Recharge

E-Bike Deals Found This Week

  • Aventon’s Spring Into Motion sale – up to $400 off
    • Pace 500.3 – $200 off, plus free battery
    • Soltera.2 – $200 off
    • Sinch 2 – $300 off

  • Specialized – Spring Savings – up to 30% off e-bikes and gear
    • Standard Turbo Levo – $1000 – $4500 off select models
    • Globe Haul ST – $550 off
    • Turbo Como 4.0- $750 off
    • Turbo Vado 4.0 – $750 off
    • Turvo Vado 3.0 $250 off

  • Rad Power Bikes Rad Deals – save up to $749
    • RadWagon 4 – $300 off
    • RadRunner series – $500 off all remaining models
    • Get any accessory up to $200 in value with the purchase of Radster Road, Radster Wagon, RadWagon 5, or RadExpand 5 Plus

  • Mokwheel Spring sale – $600 in savings
    • Accessory bundles valued at $699 for only $99 with purchase of any e-bike $699
    • Buy two bikes and get a free hitch rack, or add on cargo trailer ($499 value)


Make sure to tune into the full episode to see the e-bike trail system highlight and rider of the week! Want to be featured in future episodes? Comment on any YouTube video or page of the website, or send to [email protected].

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Best Bike Racks For Electric Bikes 2025 | Hitch, Truck, Car, RV and More!

There is a sneaky downside to e-bike ownership that flies under the radar. The truth is, not just any old bike rack will do when it comes to hauling your electric bike.

With an e-bike comes extra weight – most of them weigh between 40-80 lbs. You don’t want to bank on roof or trunk racks handling that kind of load. It runs the risk of being bad for your back, vehicle, and bike!

Even some hitch racks aren’t a surefire bet. Weight capacity is just the start; there are many other factors that make a good bike rack for e-bikes.

The good news is that there are several great rack options available these days that are purpose-built for e-bike users. The bad news? We’re starting to see too many options, and we all know how annoying the paralysis of choice can be.

Electric Bike Report is one of the oldest dedicated publications in the e-bike space when it comes to testing and reviews. All of that testing of hundreds of different electric bikes couldn’t have happened without trusty racks, and we’ve gone through a lot of them.

Our goal with this list of the best e-bike racks is to help you find the rack that will best fit your needs and your bikes. Each one has been thoroughly tested and proven to be worth recommending. Whether you have a car, truck, or even an RV, where there is a hitch, there is a way!

Oh, and if you haven’t settled on your e-bike yet, we’ve got you covered with the options for the best e-bikes around, too.

PRO TIP: We think these bike racks offer great weight ratings per bike. However, many e-bikes weigh at or above those limits. You can help make your rack/bike safer by removing excess weight that you could fit in the trunk of your car instead. Consider removing batteries, pannier bags, bike locks, etc.

*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.

The Best Bike Racks For E-Bikes, 2025

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Velotric Breeze 1 Review | Light Frame, Big Power & Pure Fun

The Velotric Breeze 1 blends the comfort of a lightweight cruiser with the agility of a city/commuter—all while packing a punch with its 750W motor. With smart tech features, solid performance, and a fun ride feel, it’s a well-rounded e-bike worth considering.

Velotric’s Breeze 1 is a brand-new lightweight city/cruiser e-bike that carries all the hallmarks of the brand’s product line—now in a sleeker, more maneuverable package compared to its other full-powered rides.

Velotric has built its reputation on comfort, stylish frames in multiple colors, and a willingness to integrate more tech into e-bikes. The Breeze checks all those boxes.

The bike features a step-thru frame with an easy-to-mount 15” standover height, which comes in two sizes, and includes an adjustable stem to accommodate riders of varying heights. The Dutch-style cruiser handlebar angles into the rider’s hands with a short reach, which makes for a tall and upright position for a relaxed and enjoyable ride—whether you’re cruising for leisure or commuting with purpose.

Visually, the Breeze stands out with a sleek, streamlined frame that sharply contrasts with the bulky, heavyweight look of many commuter and cruiser e-bikes. It’s available in five eye-catching colors that really pop— our Lavendar test bike (usually not my jam) was the type of thing I’d proudly display.

Beyond its aesthetics, the Breeze is packed with tech features. It offers the ability to swap between torque and cadence sensors, three different power profiles for the bike’s pedal assist settings, and thoughtful additions like cruise control for effortless riding and Apple Find My for added peace of mind when leaving it locked outside.

One of my favorite aspects of the Breeze is that it delivers a lightweight alternative to the already popular Velotric Discover 2 without sacrificing power. Unlike many brands that downsize the motor when creating lightweight alternatives of their bikes, Velotric kept the full 750W motor and only slightly reduced the torque. The result? A zippy, responsive ride with nimble handling that delivers a thrilling experience when you want it—while still being perfectly suited for a relaxed cruise.

The Breeze impressed in both feel and aesthetics, but how did it perform in our tests? Check out the data below and decide for yourself!

**Use code: EBRB101 for a $60 discount Velotric is giving our readers at checkout**

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Specialized Turbo Levo Gen 3 Review | Buy Now, or Wait For Next Version?

The next gen model will no doubt find ways to up the ante, but are the discounts of the previous gen the more compelling buy?

Specialized’s Turbo Levo has achieved something that’s no small feat. The Gen 3 model first debuted in 2021, yet even here in 2025, it remains one of the most sought-after eMTBs on the market.

The general consensus? It’s still one of the best e-bikes in the business.

Reaching the top is one thing—staying there is another. As Coach John Wooden once said, “When you’re at the top, you have to be careful, because the only way to go is down.” And yet, the Gen 3 is still more than holding its own. With the Gen 4’s debut possibly around the corner, we’re taking a different perspective on this Specialized Turbo Levo review. This time, we’re asking the questions:

  • 1. Should you snag the Gen 3 or hold out for what’s next?
  • 2. When a Gen 4 is launched, should you still consider the Gen 3 if it’s on sale?

To answer that, let’s look at what the bike still brings to the table. The Turbo Levo (across its many configurations—ours was the 2023 Comp Carbon) is a highly adjustable ride with a phenomenal frame, great suspension setup, and a motor that remains as impressive as anything we’ve pedaled. It’s a full-power eMTB with all-mountain capabilities.

Any of the big names in MTBs have solid geo on their bikes, but Specialized’s R&D is something you can feel. Every fraction of a degree and millimeter of tubing feels purposefully thought through, and it creates a ride that feels both stable and responsive. Whether you’re carving through corners or barreling through chunky downhill terrain, the Turbo Levo delivers.

Surprisingly, the bike feels poppy and playful, despite weighing around 50 lbs. The mullet setup adds to its lively, nimble nature, making it feel more agile than you’d expect from a full-power rig.

The custom Specialized 2.2 motor is among the most powerful on the market, but what sets it apart is how smooth and intuitive the power delivery feels. It builds speed naturally and tackles steep climbs with effortless and almost mind-reading control.

If we had one small knock, it would be the charging door, which first-time owners should take heed—its placement is likely to have at least one “oops!” moment. But beyond that minor gripe, this bike is a masterclass in execution—formidable for everyone from first-time e-MTBers to seasoned trail veterans.

And soon, if our prediction turns out to be true, it’ll also be one of the best bang-for-your-buck options out there.

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Aventon Soltera 2.5 Review | Precise Handling; Lightweight Feel

For a budget-priced bike, it doesn’t feel cheap in the slightest. Aventon’s city bike has a terrific feel on the road, and its lightweight design is easy to manage when out of the saddle.

In my early e-bike days, I was drawn to the powerhouses of the e-bike world. But with each passing year, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for lighter, more efficient rides that prioritize precise handling and a natural (yet still powerful) feel. If that sounds like your jam, let me tell you about the Aventon Soltera 2.5, which our team has spent several weeks testing.

This bike pulls off a lot for its price point. Bikes in the $1,000–$1,200 range, like the Soltera, are clearly designed to be value plays, but the Soltera doesn’t feel like a “budget” e-bike at all. Its motor has excellent engagement, syncing seamlessly with your pedal effort. While the motor power is admittedly more modest than some other e-bikes, that’s by design. This bike will boost your speed and take the edge off hills, but it still feels like you’re doing the riding—not just along for the ride.

The Soltera’s handling is arguably its standout feature. The stiff frame and narrow tires make it feel quick and agile on the road. It corners confidently, and with upgraded, more powerful brakes, it can stop on a dime when needed.

Aventon is one of the few e-bike brands that makes its own frames, and it shows. The clean lines, refined angles, and thoughtful cable management give the Soltera some serious aesthetic appeal that others lack at this price. The frame also feels well-balanced, something I didn’t expect with its shorter-than-average top tube. Ultimately, the overall design delivers a bike that’s not only fun to ride but also comfortable by city bike standards.

That said, there are a few limitations to note. The Soltera 2.5 comes in three frame sizes to help riders find their fit, but there’s no mid-step option, meaning it’s better suited for taller riders. You might also want to budget for a few add-ons to maximize its potential as a city commuter. Even so, this bike nails what most people want in a lightweight option: a natural, responsive ride with solid power—and one that won’t make you dread hauling it up a flight of stairs with a manageable amount of weight.

To dive into all the details and see how it performed in our testing, keep reading the full Soltera 2.5 review below.

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Burley Dash MIK HD Review | Kid-Tested, Dad-Approved

This solid and reliable child seat attaches better than ever

Cycling is a fantastic family activity, especially when you have the right accessories. The Burley Dash lineup of child seats offers a convenient way to bring your kids along for the ride. With multiple variations to suit different bike setups—whether that’s racks, frames, or, as in our case, the MIK HD (Heavy Duty) rack. This MIK-compatible design shines with its tool-free on/off functionality, making it incredibly user-friendly.

In our review of the Burley Dash MIK HD, we found it checks virtually all the boxes for a great child’s bike seat. It’s lightweight and nearly effortless to attach or remove from your bike, it’s also a breeze to clean—a must when the oft-sticky hands and dirt-stained pants of kids inevitably transfer over. Most importantly, the seat is safe and reliable, offering a snug, secure fit with adjustable features that accommodate little riders as they grow.

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