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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

Specialized Globe Haul ST Review | High-Bar for Hub Motors?

Specialized’s first hub motor e-bike is a homerun on performance, with enough ways to use it that anybody can enjoy it.

Specialized Globe Haul ST Review
Specialized is one of the biggest bike brands in the world, known for spearheading more innovations than most other brands combined. They were also the first of the major legacy brands to introduce an e-bike, showing their willingness to embrace the future. Watching the rise of direct-to-consumer e-bike brands, Specialized has proven its competitive edge once again by creating one of the best-performing e-bikes we’ve ever tested. To say our time reviewing Specialized’s Globe Haul ST left us impressed would be an understatement.

In our standardized series of e-bike tests, the Globe Haul ST excelled across the board. It wowed us with its hill-climbing ability, range, speed, and safety (braking)—all earning high marks. Beyond measurable metrics, the Globe Haul ST delivered a polished and refined experience that’s rare for a first-generation product. But then again, few gen-one models have access to the kind of R&D expertise that Specialized brings to the table.

As a Class 3 utility e-bike powered by a lively 700W hub motor (more on that later), the Globe Haul ST is built for versatility. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands at Costco, or simply riding for fun, this bike adapts seamlessly to your needs, making every ride is enjoyable.

You could really tell that Specialized drew on its deep understanding of geometry and frame design to create a one-size-fits-all e-bike that truly lives up to the promise. The bike fits riders from 4’5″ to 6’4″, the Globe Haul ST provides an impressive fit for nearly everyone. The 20×3.5” Carless Whisper tires add to its appeal by offering a low center of gravity and easy balance, making it a comfortable ride even for those who haven’t been on a bike in years.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how much the Globe Haul ST impressed our Electric Bike Report team. Continue reading for the full breakdown of what makes this e-bike so special.

[Read more…] about Specialized Globe Haul ST Review | High-Bar for Hub Motors?

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5 Review | Impressive Safety Tech

The fifth generation of this cargo e-bike continues refinement and usability. It may not be perfect, but at this price, it’s as appealing as any cargo e-bike like it.

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5 Review
Rad Power Bikes struck gold with the RadWagon 4, one of the most popular cargo e-bikes on the market. However, the design was due for an update—and the new RadWagon 5 delivers as a worthy successor. In this Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5 review, we’ll examine the changes and updates that make this model stand out.

The RadWagon 5 is a longtail cargo e-bike designed to handle big loads with ease. Its hub motor powers a long rear deck that can carry everything from a couple of kids to a week’s worth of groceries—or whatever your imagination allows. The bike features a 7-speed drivetrain and an easy-to-mount step-thru frame, making it accessible to a wide range of riders.

The RadWagon 5 offers excellent handling, thanks to a switch to a more common tire size, a slightly more compact wheelbase, and a BMX-style handlebar. These updates make it easier to balance, with a low center of gravity that inspires confidence even when loaded down with gear or passengers. The bike’s maneuverability holds up well, even at Class 3 speeds, making it a solid performer for urban rides and beyond.

Safety is clearly a priority with the RadWagon 5. Integrated head and taillights with turn signal functionality, hydraulic disc brakes, and new battery safety technology provide riders with confidence during daily commutes and peace of mind for long-term use. Rad’s innovative Safe Shield tech (explained in more detail below) is a standout feature, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see other brands adopt similar safety measures in the future.

While Rad has made impressive strides with the RadWagon 5, a couple of minor issues persist. The cable management could be tidier, and the 2-amp charger feels a bit slow compared to competitors. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they are areas where improvements could elevate the experience even further.

Despite a few small drawbacks, the good far outweighs the bad. Rad Power Bikes has made significant progress in affordable cargo e-bike design, and the RadWagon 5 is a testament to that. As you’ll see in our test results and data below, Rad has done an excellent job with this model—and it’s poised to continue its legacy as a favorite among cargo e-bike enthusiasts.


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Aventon Aventure 2 Review | The Bar-Setter of Fat Bikes

The original Aventure redefined affordable fat tire e-bikes. The Aventure 2 delivers an even better ride experience to what was already a top e-bike option.

Aventon Aventure 2 Review

When it debuted back in 2021, the Aventon Aventure set a new standard for what e-bikers could expect from a fat tire electric bike under $2000. Heck, you don’t even have to get category-specific; the Aventure largely reset the bar for what any sub-$2000 e-bike could achieve: a delightfully powerful motor, great handling, powerful hydraulic disc brakes, solid battery life, and sleek styling to boot. So with our Aventon Aventure 2 review, we find a bike that built upon its predecessor’s original achievements by dialing in precisely on the rider’s feel and experience.

That focus can be attributed to refining a lot of little details, and we’ll touch on each of those, but perhaps the single largest one can be summed up in two words: torque sensor.

As we saw just a few months ago on another Aventon e-bike we reviewed, the brand is making a concentrated effort to provide affordable e-bikes with a more natural pedal experience. The inclusion of a torque sensor on the Aventure 2 means riders will have more purpose to their pedal than ever before, while still benefiting from the fun experience that e-bike motors provide. Oh, and lets not forget how it yields more efficient battery life too.

The marriage of affordable e-bikes and torque sensors is one I’m very much eager to RSVP to.

The Aventure 2 doesn’t stop at the torque sensor though. There are a host of meaningful upgrades and feature add-ons that make this e-bike feel fresh and exciting. The fact that the costs haven’t changed much makes it all the better too.

There is plenty to unpack and explore, so let’s go ahead and dive in together to Electric Bike Report’s Aventon Aventure 2 review.

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Ride1UP Portola E-Bike Review | A Lot of Bike For Little $$$

A fun and useful folding e-bike packed with features at a price that’s hard to match.

Ride1UP Portola E-Bike Review
Our review of the Portola got off to a bit of a different start. This was a rare case where we got it prior to launch. So just having the specs to evaluate, we were impressed by what it was offering. Our initial estimate was it would cost between $1200-1300. We were off – by a lot! It starts around a thousand dollars.

In this Ride1UP Portola review, we’ll explore why this folding e-bike surprised us so much. Simply being inexpensive isn’t enough for a good review. We pass on plenty of cheap e-bikes that lack the quality and performance we expect. The Portola, however, is a rare exception—it delivers far more than you’d expect at this price.

Let’s start with the big picture. The Ride1UP Portola is a folding e-bike equipped with a 750W hub motor, hydraulic disc brakes, an 8-speed Shimano drivetrain, a suspension fork, lights, fenders, an integrated rear rack, and a kickstand. Buyers can choose between a 500Wh or a 643Wh battery, depending on their needs and budget. The battery is neatly integrated into the step-through frame, enhancing the bike’s sleek design.

Folding frames are often a make-or-break feature when choosing an e-bike. You’re either looking for a folding bike or you’re not—and that’s fair. However, the Ride1UP Portola offers such exceptional value that we recommend it to anyone seeking a great deal—not just those who want a folding e-bike. Its combination of features, performance, and affordability makes it a standout in its category.

There’s plenty to unpack with this e-bike, so let’s dive in.

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Rad Power Bikes RadKick (Belt Drive) Review | Simply Fun!

Rad’s sleek city commuter is a comfortable and zippy ride with low maintenance thanks to the belt drive.

Rad Power Bikes RadKick (Belt Drive) Review
The RadKick Belt Drive we’ve been reviewing for several weeks now is a fresh yet familiar addition to Rad’s lineup. It’s a sportier city commuter that picks up the legacy of the now-retired RadMission to give Rad Power Bikes a lightweight city bike option in its stable of e-bikes. It’s aimed squarely at urban commuters who want a lively, efficient, and straightforward ride.

It’s a quintessential Rad bike; it has a predictable feel that’s true to the bike’s styling with its agile and nimble touch on the roads, but the wider-than-most handlebar gives it a sure feel instead of a twitchy one. You can easily navigate around pedestrians and traffic, and with the lights, fenders, and rack, you have all you need for daily commutes.

The RadKick doesn’t overlean into the city bike attributes, though, and sacrifice approachability; it’s a city bike with characteristics that give it a broader appeal to more riders.

We loved the low step-over height of the step-through frame and the adjustable stem that allows you to be more upright or more forward-leaning and engaged. It’s overall pretty comfortable, especially with the help of the suspension fork. Our specific test model is a single-speed belt drive, so each ride felt actively involved. With no other gears to select and a more subtle motor experience, it felt like a more active ride than many other e-bikes.

The ‘subtle’ remark isn’t a knock to the bike either; the amount of motor power is purposeful and feels great. It’s slight yet effective—like adding a dash of cayenne to the pot of chili to give it just the right amount of “kick.” This bike is meant to be pedaled, and its torque sensor gave it an intuitive feel that enhanced our abilities making each ride fun.

The bike felt simple in the best sense of the word. It’s got a clean look to it, and it operates efficiently. Turn on the power, hit your desired assist level, and ride.

Outside of some of the usual concerns that plague any one-size-fits-all e-bike, Rad did an excellent job of making a user-friendly e-bike for those who want something lighter and more active with fair value.

[Read more…] about Rad Power Bikes RadKick (Belt Drive) Review | Simply Fun!

Aventon Ramblas Review | The New Entry-Level eMTB Standard?

A new eMTB that may reset expectations for how affordable an offroad e-bike can be.

Aventon Ramblas E-Bike Review 2025
The Ramblas marks Aventon’s debut in several areas: its first eMTB, its first mid-drive motor (developed in collaboration with Gobao), and its most expensive model to date. With these milestones in mind, I began my review of the Aventon Ramblas with high hopes and plenty to consider.

So, how did it perform on all these new fronts? Quite well, actually.

Starting below the $3k line, Aventon has packed a lot of value into the Ramblas. This well-equipped hardtail eMTB comes loaded with name-brand components that delivered strong performance during my tests. SRAM handles the drivetrain and braking, RockShox provides the suspension fork, and Maxxis takes care of the tires—all offering reliable performance, though with some limits in adjustability.

But the real star of the show is Aventon’s own custom-designed a100 mid-drive motor. With a base power of 250 watts (peaking at 750W) and a whopping 100Nm of torque, it’s a standout bit of tech. What I appreciated most was how controllable this power felt. Climbing intimidating hills—even the crazy steep ones that usually elicit a “nope!”—became far more manageable. That confidence is exactly why many riders turn to eMTBs in the first place.

Aventon paired the motor with a 706Wh battery that strikes a great balance between capacity and weight. At 50.6 lbs (bike and battery combined), the Ramblas feels agile while still offering excellent range. In our range tests, it delivered near top-tier performance, making it a great choice for long rides.

It’s not just about the components and motor, though. Aventon made sure to prioritize rider fit and comfort by offering the Ramblas in four aluminum frame sizes. The bike’s geometry is consistent with modern hardtail designs, which means it feels natural and balanced whether climbing uphill or bombing downhill. Aventon also played it smart by sticking to proven design principles for their first mountain bike, rather than attempting to reinvent the wheel.

What’s more, Aventon’s move into motor development, alongside its frame-building expertise, bodes well for long-term quality control and customer service.

The Ramblas is confidence-inspiring enough for me to recommend, which isn’t something I can say about every first-generation product. For a deeper dive into its performance, check out the testing and performance sections of our full Aventon Ramblas review.

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Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through Review | A Fun/Easy Ride

Popular Step-Through Fat Tire e-Bike Gets Even Better With Latest Fine Tuning and Small Details

Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through Review 2025
The Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through we’re reviewing is one of the most popular e-bikes on the road today. The original Aventure gained a loyal following thanks to its impressive combination of features that check off many riders’ wish lists: sharp handling, quick acceleration, high cruising speeds, powerful brakes, long-lasting battery life, easy operation, and a comfortable ride—all for under $2,000.

One of the biggest upgrades to this bike over its predecessor is the new torque sensor, which replaces the original cadence sensor. This upgrade not only improves motor engagement with pedaling but also enhances battery efficiency and hill-climbing capability. And that’s not all—Aventon has also added frame-integrated turn signals, a thoughtful safety feature that’s easy to appreciate.

The step-through design continues to be offered in two sizes—regular and large—making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Shorter riders and seniors will particularly love the ease of mounting without having to swing a leg over the frame’s top tube. But really, who wouldn’t enjoy a ride that’s so easy to hop onto?

If you’ve noticed more fat tire e-bikes cruising around your neighborhood and wondered what all the buzz is about, this review of the Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through will give you a clearer picture. We’ll explore the blend of fun and practicality that a well-designed fat tire e-bike can offer—and why we think the Aventure.2 Step-Through is one of the best on the market.

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Ride1UP Prodigy V2 LX Review | Premium Ride, Affordable Cost

Serious trekking potential! Thanks to new and meaningful improvements, the Prodigy V2 LX is Ride1UP’s best Prodigy yet.

Ride1UP Prodigy V2 LX E-Bike Review
Ride1UP has built a reputation for creating exceptional e-bikes that cater to a wide range of rider needs. They’ve consistently impressed us with their ability to deliver outstanding value, often including premium features at price points where you wouldn’t expect them. Our review of the Ride1UP Prodigy V2 LX confirms that this bike raises the bar even higher.

This e-bike is something of a paradox. At every turn, it feels like a premium e-bike—yet it’s surprisingly affordable. At first glance, it looks like a commuter bike. However, a closer inspection reveals that it’s also equipped for trekking and long-distance touring. With knobby tires and robust range capabilities, it’s ready to leave paved roads behind and explore the unknown.

The Prodigy V2 LX is amongst the most expensive e-bikes the brand has made to date, yet it’s a standout in terms of value. Compared to similar models, it’s at least $1,000—sometimes even $3,000—cheaper than its competitors.

There was great focus on the total ride experience. It starts with a 250W Brose mid-drive motor paired with a 504Wh battery, delivering excellent range and smooth, consistent power. The drivetrain features an Enviolo Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) hub, which ensures effortless gear transitions, whether you’re climbing hills, descending, or cruising.

Thanks to the Enviolo hub, Ride1UP could include a Gates carbon belt drive instead of a traditional chain. This upgrade offers several benefits: it’s quieter, requires less maintenance, and feels more intuitive to operate.

The Prodigy V2 LX comes loaded with features that elevate the rider’s experience. Stopping power is handled by 4-piston Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, providing confident control in all conditions. The bike also includes a full commuter package with integrated front and rear lights, fenders, a rear rack, and a kickstand.

One standout feature I really enjoyed was the air-spring suspension fork. The difference between an air fork and a coil-spring fork is like the difference between lemons and lemonade—it’s a significant upgrade in terms of ride quality and adjustability.

I’ve reviewed three variations of the Prodigy, and this latest version is the best yet. The Prodigy V2 LX might be the best-value e-bike Ride1UP has ever made. Note: I said best value, not least expensive. While there are more budget-friendly options in Ride1UP’s lineup, it’s hard to imagine a bike that delivers more in terms of performance, features, and quality at this price.

That’s a solid overview—but now it’s time to dig into the data from our testing.

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Ride1Up Roadster V3 Review | Light, Nimble, and Surprising

This Light And Sleek City E-Bike Exceeds Expectations At Nearly Every Turn.

Ride1Up Roadster V3 Review

Ride1Up made its name by delivering e-bikes with parts and performance a step or two above the average of bikes with similar price tags. Now, with the Roadster V3, Ride1Up has expanded the versatility of its city bike model while still equipping the ride with more premium parts than you’d expect, given its cost.

The Roadster V3 is a dream for active cyclists. It’s subtle and lightweight, tipping the scales at just 44 lbs. This e-bike’s main appeal is how it enhances your pedaling power without overshadowing your effort or taking over the ride entirely. It’s the ideal partner for riders who want a natural-feeling boost, not a complete takeover.

The bike’s handling is where it truly shines. Its nimble, purpose-driven performance makes city riding a breeze. The fully rigid frame provides a stiff, responsive ride, while the narrow handlebars allow for quick, precise maneuvers. Our test model also featured a 10-speed cassette, offering versatile gearing for speedy flats or challenging climbs.

In the past, one of my few criticisms of Ride1Up e-bikes was their limited sizing options. With the Roadster V3, that’s no longer an issue. This model comes in three frame sizes (including a mid-step option), two drivetrain configurations, and two color choices. For a direct-to-consumer (DTC) brand, this increased customization is a welcome change, making it easier for riders to find a comfortable fit without driving up costs.

Compared to the previous version, the Roadster V2, the upgrades are clear and meaningful. The motor is more powerful, the battery is now removable, and riders can opt for a single-speed belt drive if they prefer. The 10-speed drivetrain, however, offers incredible value for a Class 3-capable bike. The gravel-friendly tires add versatility, and with a simple Schrader valve swap, they can run tubeless.

While it’s not a flawless e-bike, the few minor issues I encountered were easy to address in minutes. For an affordably priced city e-bike, the Roadster V3 is another standout addition to Ride1Up’s lineup—a versatile, high-quality ride that’s hard to beat.

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Lectric XP 3.0 Review | Feature-Packed & Fun For Only $1K

Lectric XP 3.0 E-Bike Review
When Lectric announced that their most popular model was getting an upgrade, we couldn’t wait to dive into our Lectric XP 3.0 review. And why would we? The XP 2.0 has been a smash hit in the e-bike world for good reason. It folds smaller than a dorm fridge, costs less than your average vacation, and offers serious utility and fun.

While its practicality is undeniable, the real draw has always been its incredible value—and the XP 3.0 takes that value to the next level.

Ordinarily, I try to focus solely on the bike I’m reviewing and avoid too many comparisons. But this time, you’ll have to indulge me; nothing will better illustrate the value point better than a comparison. Lectric has packed so many substantial upgrades into the XP 3.0 that I kept coming back to one question: How is this bike the same price as the XP 2.0, when it offers so much more?

The XP 3.0 delivers across the board:

  • A motor with increased torque for better performance.
  • An expanded drivetrain for more versatile gearing.
  • A stronger rear rack with greater carrying capacity.
  • A new suspension fork with increased travel for added comfort.
  • Hydraulic disc brakes with larger rotors, upgrading from the mechanical brakes of its predecessor.
  • A better battery with improved range—and an optional long-range version for those who want even more.

See what I mean? It’s a lot more bike. But it’s use further expanded too. One of the standout updates is the XP 3.0’s ability to carry a passenger, like a child. This makes it perfect for school drop-offs, sports practices, or playdates—all without needing to hop in a car. For anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint while spending more time outdoors, this feature is a game-changer.

Let’s dig into our in-depth review of the Lectric XP 3.0 and its many updates, but here’s the spoiler: no bike stretches your dollar further than the XP 3.0, and it rides better than ever. Whether you’re after utility, fun, or incredible value, the XP 3.0 proves why Lectric continues to dominate the value category in the e-bike world in a way that few others can replicate.

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