Electric Bike Reviews, News, & Testing

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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 Rail 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

Aventon Aventure M Review | Testing Numbers Don’t Lie!

The Aventure M blends off-road strength with commuter-ready features—and it’s Aventon’s most capable fat tire e-bike yet.

Aventon Aventure M Review

The Aventure M is a new evolution for one of the most well-known fat tire e-bikes. It takes a new spin on the fat tire experience, opening up new riding potential.

Aventon has equipped their fantastic A100 motor to the Aventure and also includes unique tech such as electronic and automatic shifting, and the ACU, which adds serious security layers to the bike.

The A100 comes from the brand’s eMTB, the Aventon Ramblas, but it feels like a natural pairing with the Aventure M’s mammoth-sized 26 x 4” fat tires. Along with the frame construction, this feels like a much more capable off-roader for XC journeys thanks to the powerful and precise feel of the motor’s engagement.

It’s still a bike that walks… rides?…in two worlds. Aventon equipped the ride with practical inclusions for city/suburban living with integrated turn signals and a 59-lb capacity rear rack (with other add-ons like front baskets available). Its ACU is also 4G enabled, meaning you can remotely lock and track your ride, and set up security layers like motion alarms and geo fencing.

The ride feels surprisingly comfortable, too. That’s thanks in part to the comfort and stability afforded by fat tires, but also a solid suspension fork and the included suspension seatpost.

The Aventure M could be a great option for somebody wanting a more active experience, or somebody needing one bike for their life but wants a more expanded exploring edge, but whatever its intended use, we walked away from the Aventure M review highly impressed, especially in light of the testing data. For all the details, see the testing sections below.

[Read more…] about Aventon Aventure M Review | Testing Numbers Don’t Lie!

Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Alloy Gen 4 Review | Full Power, Full Control

The more economical options in the Levo line still deliver serious power, a massive battery, and Specialized’s second-to-none frame design for all-mountain riding.

Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Alloy Gen 4 Review

Specialized’s Turbo Levo Gen 4 is the kind of sequel that doesn’t just continue a legacy, it reasserts it.

The previous model was already a fan favorite, renowned for its balanced geometry, smooth power delivery, and a ride feel that struck the sweet spot for nearly everyone, making it an all-around excellent choice for an all-mountain bike. After a few weeks reviewing the Specialized Turbo Levo Gen 4, I can confidently say it raises the ceiling yet again, building on what worked, while adding impressive tech and capability in the process.

At the heart of the update is the new Specialized 3.1 motor which packs 666W of peak power and 101Nm of torque. That’s elite-tier power, but what makes it shine is how seamlessly that power blends into the ride. The brand’s “where super meets natural” slogan doesn’t feel like a stretch; it’s a rather fitting summary.

The bike moves well on its mullet setup, the frame’s geo is meaningfully adjustable, and it’s equipped for long, hard days with an 840Wh battery tucked into the chunky downtube (which also houses SWAT internal storage for tools, snacks, and gear). The suspension setup retains the familiar 150/160mm travel but adds a twist with the new GENIE shock system, which further refines rear shock performance with improved progression and less bottom-out.

There’s a lot going on here, but it all ties together. The Turbo Levo Gen 4 feels like Specialized’s answer to the question: Can one eMTB truly do a bit of everything for riders of any skill level? Its versatility, power, and dialed-in ride will be able to satiate a lot of different appetites.

Of course, there are tradeoffs. The alloy version has some heft, and the oversized downtube won’t win any minimalist design awards, but for what it offers, those are pretty easy to live with.

So, whether you’re brand new to eMTBs or a seasoned trail rider chasing a top-tier experience without jumping to a carbon frame price point, the Turbo Levo Gen 4 makes a compelling case. It’s confident, capable, and surprisingly accessible for a bike that feels this close to supernatural.

[Read more…] about Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Alloy Gen 4 Review | Full Power, Full Control

Our Favorite E-Bike Finds At Electrify LA

Favorite E-Bike Finds At Electrify LA
If it had wheels and an electric motor, chances are it was on display in San Pedro, California, at Electrify LA. The EV industry—both big and small—came together to showcase the latest innovations, from pre-production concepts to established best-sellers. More than a few brands used the opportunity to debut new models, keeping the 2025 catalog fresh and exciting.

But it wasn’t just about e-bikes and electrified rides. Several companies brought supporting gear as well—from helmets to flat protection and even a slick, electric lift-assist hitch rack that turned heads.

After two days at the show, some trends in the small EV world stood out. Here’s a look at some of the coolest, quirkiest, and most compelling finds.

[Read more…] about Our Favorite E-Bike Finds At Electrify LA

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Max Review | Maxed Out

This feature-packed utility bike delivers power, handling, and style in spades. It’s great for riders who want more than just a jack-of-all-trades.

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Max Review

The RadRunner Max is what happens when you take a versatile utility platform and supercharge it—with a beefed-up motor and a slew of upgrades you’d expect from the premium option over its more affordable siblings, the RadRunner and RadRunner Plus.

Whether you’re cruising for fun, hauling cargo, or commuting daily, the RadRunner Max fits the bill. As one of the original “everyperson” e-bikes, it’s an ideal choice for newcomers still figuring out how they’ll use an e-bike long term, or somebody who’s just big on versatility.

The bike packs a punch with its powerful motor and refined control, thanks to a torque sensor that delivers smooth, natural power. It’s also loaded with advanced safety features, including rear radar that alerts you to approaching vehicles and their speed, as well as password protection, a key fob, and Apple Find My integration.

It’s the most robust in the Runner lineup, capable of carrying heavy loads with its reinforced frame. And with an extensive range of accessories—including the rare option to run a dual battery setup—it’s as versatile as it is burly.

Comfort hasn’t taken a back seat either. With wide tires, relaxed geometry, and a suspension fork to absorb road chatter, the RadRunner Max is easy to settle into for long or short rides.

While the feature set justifies the price, it’s not without tradeoffs. There’s only one color and frame size available, and limited adjustability may leave taller riders wanting more.

Still, when judged by what it delivers, rather than what it omits, the RadRunner Max stands out as the best version of an already well-regarded utility e-bike. Check out our full review below to see how it performed in real-world testing.

[Read more…] about Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Max Review | Maxed Out

NYC To Lower E-Bike Speeds, Specialized Globe Haul Recall, Vanmoof Launches New Rides | TWR Ep 35

Plus, can you carry folded e-bikes on a hitch rack, Canadian versions of US e-bikes, E-Bikes for somebody 6’5” & More!

It was a busy week in the world of e-bike news. New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced a plan to lower the city’s e-bike speed limit to 15 mph, citing safety concerns. In other safety-related news, Specialized issued a recall on more than 11,000 Globe Haul ST and LT models due to a faulty seatpost that could break during use. Meanwhile, VanMoof revealed its latest models: the S6 and the mid-step S6 Open.

John and Griffin also tackled a range of audience questions this week, including recommendations for tall riders, whether folding an e-bike to fit it on a basket-style hitch rack is a good idea, and how U.S. and Canadian e-bike regulations—and motors—differ.

To wrap things up, John takes us on a scenic ride along a 100-mile trail stretching through Oregon and California.

[Read more…] about NYC To Lower E-Bike Speeds, Specialized Globe Haul Recall, Vanmoof Launches New Rides | TWR Ep 35

Saris Edge Hitch Rack Review | E-Bike Carrying Made Easy?

The Edge has a high weight capacity, is easy to operate, and looks sharp. It’s a great all-around hitch rack that works well with many different bike types.

Saris Edge Hitch Rack Review

The Saris Edge checks many of the boxes riders want in a modern e-bike rack: simplicity, reliability, and heavy-duty, “no-sweat” construction to handle the extra weight that motors and batteries bring.

The Edge can largely be operated with one hand, making it easier to wrangle your bike while opening the rack and prepping it for transport. The front tire drops securely into place, and the spring-loaded hook arm quickly fastens over the tire, freeing you up to strap down the rear wheel against—or on top of—the chock.

Once your bikes are loaded, there’s little worry about them going anywhere. The Edge is built solidly and manages to look clean and modern rather than purely utilitarian—so it’s not an eyesore when resting on your hitch.

The rack fits a wide range of bikes, has plenty of space between each tray, and with generous wheelbase compatibility and support for various tire sizes that cover nearly all adult bikes. It can even accommodate some fendered models, as long as the fenders aren’t full-length. And since the rack makes no contact with the frame, it’s friendly for carbon, aluminum, or even bamboo frames (hey, ride what you ride).

What are the downsides? Not many. Most are simple tradeoffs. You get great spacing between bikes and plenty of clearance from your vehicle—but say goodbye to your backup camera in the process.

All in all, the Saris Edge is a solid, versatile rack that fits a wide range of vehicles and bike styles.

[Read more…] about Saris Edge Hitch Rack Review | E-Bike Carrying Made Easy?

Lectric XPeak 2.0 Review | The Fat Tire Value King?

The XPeak 2.0 has an impressive blend of performance and versatility; the value of the ride is hard to match.

Fat tire e-bikes are coveted for their power and versatility. Their wide tires make for comfortable riding on paved roads and add a bit of a wild side, as the chunkier tread pattern and broader surface area help you navigate rough or loose terrain without sliding around or losing control.

Lectric’s XPeak 2.0 delivers all the hallmarks of a good fat-tire bike but manages to put its own unique spin on the experience while also offering better features than you’d expect at its price point.

The motor experience is a standout. The XPeak 2.0 has plenty of power, but its unique delivery, thanks to the brand’s in-house torque sensor, is what truly sets it apart. Even a light turn of the cranks moves you along with ease, but the bike rewards harder pedaling with more power. It creates a relaxed, natural ride feel even at low power levels, making this 80+ pound bike surprisingly easy to maneuver.

Many of the 2.0’s upgrades improved its handling. The XPeak’s frame feels stiff and superbly confidence-inspiring, while its drivetrain, handlebars, and tires work together to help you climb hills, navigate turns, and ride comfortably. The brakes offer better value and performance than before, and nice quality-of-life improvements like a sharper aesthetic and a color display are much appreciated.

The XPeak 2.0 handles both paved and unpaved roads well, making it a reliable choice for daily commuting or exploring.

When you stack its spec sheet against the competition, anything that matches it spec-for-spec typically costs hundreds more, making the XPeak 2.0’s value hard to ignore.

Its shortcomings are typical for such an affordable ride: sizing covers most riders but is somewhat limited, and while other Lectric models offer color options, this one locks you into either white or black (depending on whether you choose the step-thru or high-step model).

Even so, these minor drawbacks don’t take away from what the XPeak 2.0 offers. It’s fun to ride, loaded with features, priced lower than most competitors, and performed great throughout our testing. For all the details, see the full testing breakdown below.

[Read more…] about Lectric XPeak 2.0 Review | The Fat Tire Value King?

Innovations at Bentonville Bike Fest, New Turbo Levo Alloy, Revel Bikes is Back | TWR Ep 33

Plus The Fat Tire E-Bike With The Best Torque Sensor, Sporty Rides For Bigger Riders, E-Bike Vs E-Moped & More!

This week’s e-bike news brings a wave of new releases and one welcome comeback story. At the Bentonville Bike Fest, several notable brands showed off their latest gear, but what stood out were the displays from newer and emerging companies. Many brought fresh innovations, whether in bikes, components, or supporting infrastructure.

Specialized has already launched the Gen 4 Turbo Levo lineup, but more budget-friendly aluminum models are now hitting the market. These retain many of the same internal components as their pricier carbon counterparts, offering riders a powerful, big-battery all-mountain rig at a significantly lower starting price.

And in a positive twist after a string of brand closures, Revel Bikes is making a return, now back in the hands of its original founder Adam Miller who plans on reshaping the team and returning the brand back to its roots.

[Read more…] about Innovations at Bentonville Bike Fest, New Turbo Levo Alloy, Revel Bikes is Back | TWR Ep 33

Electra Townie Go! First Take Review

The refreshed Townie Go! adds sleek styling, modern tech, and a throttle for the first time.

Electra Townie Go! First Take Review

The Electra Townie Go! just got a makeover, and it’s not just looking sharper—it’s smarter too. For the first time ever, this beloved cruiser adds throttle functionality, making it easier to start from a stop, recover if you left it in too high of a gear, or just take a break and let the motor do the work.

The modern updates go beyond the throttle. The new frame design is sleek and still prioritizes comfort, thanks to Electra’s Flat Foot Technology. The geometry allows riders to put their feet flat on the ground when stopped, while still getting proper leg extension while pedaling—a signature feature that delivers confidence and comfort.

The Townie Go! comes equipped with a 500W rear hub motor, a fully integrated 520Wh battery, and a wall-mounted charger that looks like it could juice up a Tesla (don’t try it—it won’t). Other standout features include a full-color display, a heavy-duty rear rack, and an integrated Quad Lock stem mount for your phone.

At $1,999, it’s priced more competitively than some past Townie models, making it a stronger rival to today’s crop of value-focused e-bike brands.

Himiway C3 Cargo E-Bike Spec Review

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Electra Townie Go! Motor & Battery: Cruiser Power with a Punch

By cruiser standards, the new Townie Go! packs serious pep. The 500W rear hub motor delivers 60Nm of torque—more than what you’ll find on many laid-back beach bikes. Electra leans into real-world performance with a torque sensor that reads how hard you’re pedaling and adjusts motor output accordingly. It’s a natural-feeling assist that’s beginner-friendly but still packs a punch.

The 520Wh battery is UL-certified and thoughtfully paired with the motor, delivering a claimed 50-mile range. That’s right in line with what we’d expect from this setup.

The new EasyMag charger is another highlight. The magnetic quick-connect makes charging simple and safe—it’ll detach harmlessly if tripped over. LED indicators let you check charging status at a glance, and the compact design makes it easy to toss in a bag if you need to charge on the go.

The Townie Go! comes in two versions: the standard model (20 mph top speed) and the Townie Go! S (28 mph). Note that the S version isn’t available in California due to recent throttle regulations.

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Trek EasyMag Charger

Additional Features & Accessories

Electra didn’t skimp on the rest of the build either. The full-color display gives riders real-time ride metrics. Hydraulic disc brakes provide solid stopping power, and integrated lighting includes both brake lights and turn signals—great for safety and visibility.

The included MIK HD rear rack can carry up to 60 pounds, making it compatible with kid seats, pet carriers, and cargo accessories.

A final standout: the integrated Quad Lock mount on the stem. Pair it with a compatible phone case to securely attach your device and access the Trek Central App for navigation, advanced metrics, and bike settings.

The bike has a nice mix of comfort, practicality, and fun from a looks standpoint, and time will tell soon when we get our test model in over the coming weeks how it’ll do performance-wise.

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Trek FX+1 First Take Review | A New Chapter for Trek

A throttle and a $2K price point? Trek just fired a shot across the bow of new-age e-bike brands. With a combination of crowd-pleasing features and serious name recognition, the FX+1 offers what people have been asking for from legacy brands.

Trek FX+1 First Take Review

Even one of the world’s biggest cycling brands still has new ground to break. Trek’s latest release, the FX+1, marks a first: the addition of a throttle. And at a launch price of $1,999, this is the kind of price we’re used to seeing on clearance—not on debut.

Throttle-enabled e-bikes aren’t new, but legacy brands have largely been slow to adopt the feature. So this move by Trek, especially at such a competitive price, feels like a clear message to newer brands like Aventon, Lectric, Ride1Up, and others that have filled this market demand in recent years.

Trek has kept what’s worked in the FX series: a lightweight aluminum frame, well-balanced geometry for a nimble ride, and a motor that’s setup to deliver a precise experience—not overpowering the ride. Now with a throttle, you get more flexibility for how you ride—whether it’s to help start from a stop, assist on hills, or just take a break and cruise.

Other highlights include a color display, integrated brake lights and turn signals, a detailed Trek Central app for advanced ride metrics and navigation, and a standout charging setup with a magnetic charger and wall-mountable unit featuring status LEDs—it looks more like an EV charger than a traditional bike plug.

The Trek FX+ 1 comes in both mid-step and high-step frames, 20 or 28 mph top speed variants (for California compliance), and a variety of colors depending on which frame you pick—the FX+1 brings a lot to the table. At this price, it’ll be interesting to see how it stacks up against the younger, value-focused brands.

Himiway C3 Cargo E-Bike Spec Review

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Trek FX+1 First Take Review

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Trek FX+1 Motor & Battery: Plenty of Power and Charging Tech That Excites

The FX+1 promises to be one of the most powerful models in the FX family to date. Its 500W Hyena rear hub motor delivers 60Nm of torque—higher output than both the FX+ 2 and FX+ 7. While the FX+2 focused on ultra-natural, lightweight assistance, and the FX+7 used a mid-drive setup (which makes direct comparisons tricky), the FX+1 looks poised to deliver a stronger, ‘easier’ ride.

The motor pairs with a torque sensor to provide a smoother, more intuitive experience. Rather than simply detecting pedaling like a cadence sensor, this setup adjusts power dynamically based on how hard you’re pushing on the pedals. So it’ll keep things fairly natural, but there seems to be an emphasis on approachability and the option to get extra power when needed (hence the throttle).

Powering the motor is a 520Wh integrated downtube battery. It’s not designed for easy removal (dealers can remove it, but it’s not user-friendly for daily charging off the bike), which is a bit of a letdown. Still, with a Trek-quoted range of up to 50 miles, it should hold up well for most commutes and casual rides.

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Trek EasyMag Charger

Trek is also introducing a new EasyMag charger. It uses a magnetic connector to reduce trip hazards and protect both rider and equipment—something anyone who’s ever tripped over a charging cable will appreciate. The charger can be wall-mounted and features a glowing LED ring that shows charge status at a glance. It gives off electric car vibes in all the best ways, but it’s still designed to be portable and easily detached from the wall mount.

Lastly, the Trek Central app ties the motor and battery systems together. You can tune motor output, estimate throttle and assist range, and even activate a long-term storage mode to help protect battery health during off-seasons.

Trek FX Plus 1 Display

Trek FX+ 1: The Rest of the Spec

This may be one of Trek’s most affordable e-bikes ever, but it still offers a robust spec sheet.

The drivetrain features a Shimano mixed setup with a 40t chainring and an 11-45t 8-speed cassette, offering a wide 410% gear range. That means solid climbing capability and enough speed without ghost pedaling—especially important considering the torque sensor.

Braking is handled by Rush 2-piston hydraulic disc brakes on 180mm rotors. Given the bike’s light 48 lb weight, some brands might have opted for mechanicals here, but we’re glad Trek didn’t. We’re strong advocates of hydraulic brakes on nearly all e-bikes, and their inclusion here is a win.

Lighting and visibility features are another strong point. A 180-lumen headlight with side-view channels improves visibility, and the seatpost-mounted taillight includes brake light and turn signal functions. There are also mounts for fenders and a rear rack, with compatibility for Trek’s bag and gear accessories.

The FX+1 includes a color display for quick access to metrics and power level adjustments. Tires are Trek’s Bontrager GR0 Comp in 650x50mm—essentially a hybrid gravel tire with a smooth center tread for efficiency and knobbier shoulders for grip on loose surfaces.

The setup would be passable for light gravel, but it’s clearly optimized for paved commuting and leisure rides.

Trek FX Plus 1 Throttle

Burning Questions We Want Answered

There’s plenty we’re excited to test. Our review unit is on the way, and we’ll be diving into performance soon and we’ll be eager to see how it handles.

Trek has subtly shifted its tone in marketing the FX+1. Historically, it emphasized natural-feeling rides despite motor assistance. This time, the language leans more into making rides easier. Will this feel noticeably more peppy? There’s enough muscle in the motor for it anyway. We’ll find out soon.

The FX+1 is also heavier than previous FX models. While we trust Trek’s geometry and ride feel, we’re curious to see how the added weight affects handling.

And then there’s the broader, long-term industry question: how will the competition react? A throttle and $2K MSRP aren’t new—but when they’re coming from a powerhouse like Trek, it’s a different ballgame.

Specialized made a similar move with the Globe Haul ST—offering a hub drive and optional throttle—but it leaned more into utility-focused styling and launched closer to $3K.

Trek making a classic bike frame and stepping into the $2K space—long dominated by brands that weren’t on most consumers’ maps 10 years ago—could mark a major shift. Will other legacy players follow? How will Aventon, Ride1Up, and Lectric respond?

We’ll be digging into all of this in our full FX+1 review. Got questions you want us to answer? Drop them in the comments, and we’ll tackle them in the full review coming soon.

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