Best Value E-Bikes | Ten Bang-For-Your-Buck E-Bike Options
Oct 07, 2025
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Affordability and value are often used interchangeably, but when purchasing a product like an e-bike, the distinction between the two is crucial. An affordable product may have a low price, but as indicated by the phrase “you get what you pay for,” it may not provide good value.
In this list of the Best Value Electric Bikes, we explain the importance of shopping smart before sharing our picks for the e-bikes we feel provide the most bang for your buck.
That’s the key here; the e-bikes that provide the best value are those that include the highest quality components, the most features, and/or the best performance for the dollar. They may not have the lowest prices, but they do equate to a good buy that you’d have a tough time beating elsewhere.
In many cases, the market is saturated with similar models from different brands – and options that may be cheaper but are of dubious quality. The following e-bikes are those that we’d consider buying for ourselves, as they offer the highest ratio of quality and performance for every dollar.
Our Best Value E-Bikes for 2025
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Lectric XP4 750
The XP4 continues Lectric’s long tradition of giving riders some of the best value in the industry. Not only has the latest version of the brand’s flagship folding e-bike improved upon its predecessor, it raised the bar (yet again) for what we expect at its price point.
Lectric offers the XP4 in two price tiers. The $999 base model is equipped with a respectable 500W motor, a 500 Wh battery, and an estimated range of up to 50 miles.
The upgraded $1299 model, however, is well worth the extra dough; its 750W motor climbs hills with ease, its 840 Wh battery has an advertised range of up to 85 miles (our testing showed a bit less), and it includes other bonuses, such as a suspension seatpost, a larger/brighter headlight, and more.
Both versions of the bike benefit from a torque sensor, which allows the motor’s output to adapt to the amount of pressure applied to the pedals. They also feature color displays, turn signals, welded cargo racks with 150 lbs of passenger-carrying capability, and a sturdy frame with comfortable geometry and predictable handling.
The bike’s folding frame and removable battery allow it to be stashed in tight quarters, like an RV storage compartment or the trunk of an SUV. The total package is a portable, practical, cost-friendly, and extremely fun way of getting around—whether that means commuting to work or school, taking a joyride down a multi-use trail, or exploring a new city while traveling.
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Pros- Value is the name of Lectric’s game. The XP4 750 offers performance and features we’d expect on a bike priced significantly higher.
- The upgraded 750W motor dominates hills. It’s also quiet and responsive, thanks to Lectric’s M24 technology and a torque sensor.
- It’s one of the most comfortable folding e-bikes we’ve tested, with relaxed, ergonomic geometry and both a suspension fork and seatpost.
- The frame and 3-inch-wide tires make for a sturdy, stable ride.
- It’s versatile in where it fits, where it can ride, and what it can carry. The folding frame, suspension, and high-capacity cargo rack allow for many possibilities.
Cons- The XP4’s battery can be removed to lighten the load, but its total weight of over 70 lbs makes it a stout bike.
Ride1Up Roadster V3
As we’ve come to expect from Ride1Up, the Roadster V3 is an excellent, lightweight city e-bike with more bang for the buck than we typically find at its price point. The bike is more powerful than most similar models we’ve tested with its 500W rear-hub motor, and it has a remarkably natural-feeling pedal assist system with a highly responsive feel.
Ride1Up specced the bike with excellent components, including a 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain, a hydraulic disc brake system from Tektro, and 27.5×1.5” gravel tires from Schwalbe. We liked the snappy shifting, responsive braking, and great traction resulting from these components. Additionally, the Roadster is versatile enough to tackle paved or unpaved surfaces.
At 44 lbs, the bike is light and nimble. It’s able to maneuver sharply and corner precisely thanks to its large wheels, grippy tires, and rigid fork. It’s also quick to accelerate and easy to lift! As such, it’s suitable for riders who use a car rack regularly or those who live in a second or third-story apartment.
Additionally, the bike features an expectedly small 36V, 360 Wh battery, giving it a tested range of up to 49 miles. Unlike many other city e-bikes, however, the Roadster V3’s battery is removable, allowing it to be charged on or off the bike.
We enjoyed the bike’s responsive and powerful feel as well as its sporty handling. More than anything, however, we liked the bike’s extremely affordable price!
Pros- The bike feels fun, responsive, and powerful with its combination of a 500W rear-hub motor and a torque sensor.
- It’s extremely nimble and quick to accelerate thanks to its low weight of 44 lbs.
- It’s loaded with great components, including a Shimano Deore drivetrain and Schwalbe G-One RS gravel tires.
- Ride1Up offers the Roadster V3 in three frame sizes! Many bikes at this price point are single-size.
- The bike’s 360-Wh battery is removable, allowing it to be charged without taking the whole bike inside.
Cons- We’d have preferred studded platform pedals instead of the potentially slippery grip tape.
Velotric Discover 2
Considering how many features and customizable settings the Velotric Discover 2 packs in, we were shocked by its sub-$2k price point; nearly everything about the bike is a step or two above what we usually expect based on its cost.
Starting with the basics, the Discover 2 is equipped with a 750W rear-hub motor with both a torque and a cadence sensor; users can switch between the two sensors to change the feel and behavior of the pedal assist system. The bike has a fully integrated 48V, 720-Wh battery, giving it excellent results in our real-world Range Test—over 85 miles—exceeding many of its peers.
Users can choose between a high, mid, or low-powered riding mode to suit their preferences and comfort; each mode has five assist levels to break things down further. Either through the display menu or the Velotric app, users can change the bike’s maximum speed (12 to 28 mph), alter the brake light behavior, and get over-the-air firmware updates.
Additionally, the Discover 2 includes turn signals, a MIK-HD cargo rack with a capacity of 66 lbs (most stop at 50), which is compatible with a variety of locking accessories, and a color display. It also features compatibility with Apple Find My™ technology for location tracking and a cruise control function that propels the rider without pedaling or holding the throttle.
On top of everything else, we were impressed by the overall comfort of the ride; the bike features a comfortable, ergonomic feel with a thick saddle and cruiser-style handlebars. Looks are subjective, but we also appreciated its sleek, clean design and our test bike’s glossy, automotive-quality “Cherry Crimson” paint job.
The Velotric Discover 2 delivers heaps of value, making it an excellent choice for riders seeking a well-outfitted commuter/cruiser hybrid.
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Pros- The Discover 2 can adapt to nearly any rider, with customizable sensor modes, power levels/riding modes, speeds, and more.
- Velotric knows how to make a comfortable e-bike; the Discover 2 felt great on long rides thanks to its cushy saddle and ergonomic rubber grips.
- It has lots of uncommon tech, including Apple Find My™ compatibility, a cruise control function, turn signals, etc.
- It’s capable of heavy loads with a cargo rack that can carry 66 lbs and a total payload capacity of 440 lbs.
- The bike’s battery is UL 2271 certified with an IPX7 rating, while the bike itself carries UL 2849 certification and an IPX6 rating.
Cons- While Boost mode delivered the power we expected, the Eco and Trail riding modes felt extremely similar. We’d prefer more differentiation in power.
Lectric XPress 750
As the upgraded model of Lectric’s highly affordable commuter e-bike, the XPress 750 packs a powerful 750W rear-hub motor and a respectable 48V, 672-Wh battery. It’s quick, quiet, and plenty capable of conquering steep hills! In fact, it’s one of the best-performing hill climbers we’ve reviewed compared to many of its peers.
The XPress features a torque sensor that gives it a highly responsive and natural feel. It ships as a Class 2 e-bike with throttle and pedal assist up to 20 mph, but it can easily switch between Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 settings to meet the speed and throttle requirements of most municipalities.
Lectric offers the XPress in both a high-step and step-thru (ST) frame. The high-step frame (pictured) features flat handlebars and the forward-leaning position typical of a commuter e-bike. The ST model offers a more upright riding position and curved, Dutch-style handlebars that we found highly comfortable and well-suited to casual rides.
We tested both frame options; both were comfortable and had great handling. We liked the custom TC eighty suspension fork with 80mm of travel; this softened the ride while maintaining stiffness for more precise steering that is not always present on entry-level e-bikes.
The bike includes many elements that make it an excellent value purchase, including the 750W motor and torque sensor, a color display, hydraulic disc brakes, and a relatively light frame with an agile feel. Those seeking an even more affordable option might consider the XPress 500, but we think the upgraded model is worth its slightly higher price.
With plenty of options for riders of all types to appreciate, the Lectric XPress is sure to impress.
Pros- The XPress 750 (and the 500) is specced incredibly well for its price point between $1k and $1500.
- The bike comes in two frame styles with different riding positions to suit different types of riders.
- The 750W hub motor is powerful and fast, with great acceleration and climbing power.
- A torque sensor combined with Lectric’s PWR+ programming makes this an active yet easy ride.
- Users can switch between Class 1, 2, and 3 modes using the bike’s display.
Cons- Integrated lights are great for low-light conditions, but we hoped the bike’s taillight would double as a brake light.
Rad Power Bikes RadKick (Belt)
Every e-bike model from Rad Power Bikes is thoughtfully designed and carefully crafted to prioritize function, comfort, and safety. The RadKick, a straightforward, lightweight commuter, offers some of the best value we have seen from this titan of the industry.
The RadKick’s beauty lies in its simplicity; it’s uncomplicated and easy to operate. The bike features a capable yet reserved 500W hub motor for an active pedaling experience. It’s offered in a 7-speed model with a chain drive, but we tested the single-speed model with a long-lasting and low-maintenance belt drive. With no need to shift, riding is stress-free.
The bike’s motor is paired with a torque sensor, allowing its power output to fluctuate in response to the effort applied to the pedals. Want more power for climbing hills and picking up speed? Like a non-electric bike, just pedal harder!
We liked the RadKick’s wide handlebars and predictable, controlled steering. It was also comfortable thanks to its suspension fork and adjustable stem; the former smooths out bumps in the road while the latter allows riders to tweak the bike’s fit and riding position. Another hallmark of all Rad bikes: the RadKick simply felt sturdy and well put together.
It’s also well-equipped for its purpose, with integrated lights, fenders, and a cargo rack. For safety, the bike’s fully integrated 360-Wh battery uses Rad’s Safe Shield technology, which surrounds its battery cells with resin to absorb heat and reduce the already unlikely event of a battery fire. The RadKick is also tested to meet UL 2271 and UL 2849 standards.
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Pros- The RadKick has a lively and agile feel that suits its style and commuter purpose extremely well.
- We liked the simplicity and responsiveness of the single-speed belt drive model. It’s active and fun!
- The bike exceeded our expectations in our Hill Test; it was one of the better-performing city bikes we’ve reviewed.
- The ride is comfortable and adaptable thanks to an adjustable stem and an effective suspension fork.
- Buyers can choose between the simple and low-maintenance belt drive option or the versatile 7-speed chain drive model.
Cons- We found the bike’s height range to be effective, but with a single frame size, it may be limiting for tall riders.
Lectric XPedition 2.0
Generally speaking, good value equates to great performance and features in proportion to price; this doesn’t always mean the lowest price. In the case of the Lectric XPedition 2.0, however, all three cases are true. This sleek, longtail cargo e-bike is one of the most affordable and well-equipped e-bikes of its kind!
The bike features a robust 750W hub motor paired with one of three battery options—single or dual 624-Wh power supplies or a long-range option with dual 840-Wh batteries for a total of up to 1,680 Wh of capacity. Lectric estimates between 60 and 170 miles of range depending on which tier is selected.
The XPedition 2.0 utilizes a torque sensor with Lectric’s PWR+ programming. This ensures that effective motor power is delivered regardless of the pressure applied to the pedals, but the system delivers more oomph when the rider pedals harder. We like this custom programming in general, but it feels great on a cargo bike where it’s desirable to move lots of weight easily.
All versions of the bike share a total payload capacity of 450 lbs with up to 300 lbs on the rear cargo rack. The base model includes passenger-friendly extras such as seat pads and footboards for the rack, while the top-tier model adds even more functionality with a suspension seatpost and an Orbitor handrail to keep young kids safe and contained.
These features are nigh unheard of at the XPedition 2.0’s price range of between $1399 and $1999, depending on the chosen battery spec. As if that weren’t enough, however, the bike also includes uncommon features such as turn signals, a color display, grippy quick-release pedals, and even an appealing Raindrop Blue color option!
Pros- The XPedition’s base price of $1399 makes it one of the most affordable cargo e-bikes on the market.
- Lectric offers three battery options with 624 Wh, 1,248 Wh, or 1,680 Wh of capacity at different price points.
- The 750W hub motor provides a responsive feel with lots of power for hauling kids or cargo.
- With 450 lbs of total capacity (300 lbs on the cargo rack), the XPedition has one of the highest payload ratings of any e-bike we’ve tested.
- It includes useful passenger and cargo accessories that usually need to be purchased separately. These include seat cushions, footboards, and a small storage bag.
Cons- We liked the Raindrop Blue color option, but the bike’s two available colors are limited.
Aventon Pace 4
The Pace 4 is Aventon’s newest city cruiser model, with a sleek frame, an extremely natural-feeling pedal assist system, and more security features and integrated tech than you can shake a stick at.
As a city cruiser, the Pace has a mid-weight frame, crisp and nimble steering, and a mostly-upright riding position that blends sportiness and comfort. Its 500W motor is paired with a torque sensor to provide power in response to your style, so you can ride faster with more effort or take it slow and easy with relaxed pedaling.
Like all of the brand’s latest models, the Pace 4 features Aventon’s frame-integrated ACU module, which enables 4G-based GPS tracking, an alarm system, speed adjustment, motor tuning features, over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates, and more.
Since the bike’s release, Aventon has added a number of features via OTA updates, including the brand’s Sensor Switch function, which allows users to use either torque- or cadence-sensing modes. It also added Cruise Control, a short-term, high-powered Boost Mode, and a hill-defying Hold mode when employing the bike’s motor-powered Walk Mode.
In short, it’s a cool, connected, and zippy cruiser that checks all the boxes for well-balanced cost and value.
Pros- The Pace 4 feels sporty but relaxed. We liked its mostly-upright riding position, suspension seatpost, and cruiser-style saddle, which made for a comfortable ride.
- The 500W motor feels peppy but not overpowered. The standard three assist levels felt natural and responsive, with customizable output through the Aventon app.
- Thanks to the onboard ACU module, the Pace 4 offers more security features than most bikes in its price range.
- It’s a Range Test champion! We exceeded Aventon’s advertised 65 mile range in the bike’s lowest assist level. Its high-power test was also impressive.
- Steering feels responsive and predictable, thanks to the bike’s BMX-style handlebars, rigid fork, and 27.5” wheels.
Cons- While we’ve heard from some riders that newer bikes include brake lights, our test bike was absent of the feature.
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Ride1UP Prodigy V2 LX
Offering perhaps some of the best value in the brand’s already reputable lineup is the Ride1Up Prodigy V2 LX. This trekking and commuting e-bike has some seriously fancy gadgets that we rarely see at this price point.
First on the list of highlights is the remarkably dialed-in 250W mid-drive motor from Brose. With a torque sensor, the motor can respond and adapt to the rider and the road, providing a remarkably natural-feeling ride. Pedaling the Prodigy feels like riding a “regular” bike—just faster and easier!
The bike’s motor is paired with a gearless Enviolo continuously variable transmission (CVT) with infinite flexibility to provide the right amount of resistance on the pedals. The Prodigy V2 LX uses a Gates carbon belt to drive the rear wheel, providing a clean, quiet, and long-lasting alternative to a chain.
We measured up to 65 miles of range from the bike’s 36V, 504-Wh battery! While we tested it above its lowest power setting, we previously achieved over 90 miles with the same battery/motor combo in Eco Mode on previous versions of the bike. This distance can cover the morning and evening commute for days or allow for extended weekend adventures.
Speaking of commuting, the Prodigy V2 LX comes ready for duty with lights, fenders, and a cargo rack. It also includes a suspension fork with 100 mm of travel and 27.5”x 2.25” tires for added comfort – but they allow the bike to go beyond paved surfaces and into more difficult terrain.
We were highly impressed by the quality of the ride and the potential for adventure – especially at this price.
Pros- Ride fast (or not, your choice) and climb hills easily with the Brose 250W mid-drive motor.
- We liked the Enviolo CVT’s range of adaptability. Changing the amount of resistance was smooth and simple.
- It can ride for hours on end with a great range from the 504 Wh battery!
- The Prodigy is ready for daily use as a commuter with integrated lights, fenders, and a cargo rack.
- The 27.5” x 2.25” tires and suspension fork provide a smooth and comfortable ride.
Cons- With only one frame size, smaller riders may need to consider the LS model.
Euphree Solar Sparrow
Lightweight, nimble, comfortable, easy to use, and fun; the Euphree Solar Sparrow delivers a great ride experience balanced with an approachable price. At the time of writing, the Sparrow is priced around $2k, making it one of Euphree’s most affordable models. In our opinion, it is well worth the investment, with its value most clearly visible in a handful of uncommon features.
If you’re not already familiar with the brand, Euphree has found a niche in the mid-tier market by making a modest number of polished and well-specced e-bikes. The Solar Sparrow features a low-profile frame with an automotive-quality finish, a suspension seatpost and monoshock for comfort, a low-maintenance single-speed belt drive, and an adjustable, upright riding position.
Another relatively uncommon feature is the Sparrow’s ability to switch between torque and cadence-sensing modes. When in torque mode, the bike’s peppy 500W motor delivers more punch when more force is put on the pedals. In cadence mode, it puts out a steady flow of power regardless of pedal pressure, making for a more relaxed experience.
We loved the Solar Sparrow’s balance of power and weight; the bike’s handling was quick and precise while its ride was smooth and comfortable. We also liked that the bike came equipped for commuting, with included fenders, lights, and an MIK-compatible cargo rack to increase its utility. It even includes a stem-integrated phone mount for convenience!
Bottom line: if you’re looking for an e-bike that goes big on features and comfort while also being simple to use, we think you’ll like what Euphree put together with the Solar Sparrow.
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Pros- The Solar Sparrow is super comfortable! It includes a lightweight monoshock and suspension seatpost to keep the ride smooth and fun.
- Riders can choose their preferred riding mode/style: torque mode for an active experience or cadence mode for an easygoing, casual ride.
- It’s low-maintenance and simple to operate. The Gates belt drive requires no shifting, no grease, and lasts at least twice as long as a chain.
- The bike weighs a manageable 60 lbs, making it more agile than many similar models with heavier frames.
- Euphree offers five flashy color options, making the Solar Sparrow great for those who want a bike with personality.
Cons- The single-speed drivetrain was somewhat limiting when riding in torque-sensing mode and Class 3 speeds.
Electra Townie Go! S
It’s rare to find an e-bike from a legacy brand priced around $2,000, let alone one with so much style and cool tech. The Townie Go! S, made by Trek’s subsidiary brand Electra, is a sleek, comfortable, and easy-pedaling cruiser with a souped-up charger and compatibility with the useful Trek Central app. In a first for the company, it also features a throttle!
The bike’s 500W hub motor dishes out plenty of strain-relieving power even in its lowest assist level. Paired with a torque sensor, it can give more oomph when you push harder or less power when you back off. The pedal assist system can also be tuned through the app, which also offers navigation, data tracking, and a variety of options to extend battery life.
Chargers are an essential part of owning an e-bike, and Trek upped their game with the Townie Go!’s 3-amp EasyMag charger. The unit can be wall-mounted, its magnetic lead self-orients when attaching it to the bike, and it includes a charge indicator that allows users to monitor the Townie’s charge level without turning the display on.
We appreciated the Townie’s high-tech features, but the basics are great, too! The bike’s relaxed geometry is intended to allow for efficient pedaling and comfortable stops that don’t require hopping off the saddle. The included quad-lock phone mount, cargo rack, chain guard, turn signals, and fenders make it well-suited for daily use as a leisure or commuter bike.
In our experience, the Townie Go! S is a relaxed, responsive, and value-packed e-bike from a reliable brand. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s one of the coolest-looking cruisers we’ve tested to date!
Pros- Pedaling is fun and easy, thanks to the responsive output of the Townie’s 500W hub motor. It also comes with a throttle for a more relaxed experience.
- It’s as comfortable as you’d expect for a cruiser, with a roomy cockpit, a pedal-forward design, ergonomic handlebars, and an accommodating saddle.
- The Trek Central app is more useful than most, with optional features to extend battery life, tune the motor, access turn-by-turn navigation, etc.
- The Townie Go! S comes with Trek’s EasyMag charger, with an easy-to-read charge indicator, a snappy magnetic attachment point, and the option to mount on a wall.
- It features all the basics and then some, with integrated lights, turn signals, fenders, a phone mount, a cargo rack, and more.
Cons- While the battery can be serviced or replaced when needed, it’s non-removable nature makes recharging a little less convenient.
How We Chose the Best Bikes for Value
After testing hundreds of e-bikes, we have gained an understanding of the features, components, etc., typically included at various price points within the market.
Plenty of great e-bikes can be had on the more affordable end of the spectrum, but we expect the quality of a bike’s components, its selection of features, and its overall performance to improve as its price increases. The e-bikes on this list exceeded our expectations based on price, though other factors contributed to their selection:
- Feature/Price Balance: In order to be a candidate for this list, each e-bike had to deliver an impressive experience for its price – whether by including uncommon features, demonstrating remarkable performance, or generally providing more than its competition within a similar price range.
- Variety: This list would mean little if it were packed full of folding e-bikes, especially considering that we already have a list of the best folders! It was important to find the best value e-bikes from among all styles of e-bikes to establish diversity and present an option for everyone.
- Test Performance: Satisfactory performance was the bare minimum of our requirements for this list, but many of the bikes on this list excelled in at least one area of our testing.
- Lasting Impressions: We do our best to separate our own personal judgment when choosing the best electric bikes, but we can’t deny that we also enjoy a good deal! The members of our team said, “I’d buy that!” at multiple points during our review process of each of these memorable e-bikes.
Summary: The Best Value Electric Bikes
In these uncertain times where inflation is rampant, it’s essential to establish your e-bike budget range and maximize your purchasing power.
We recommend comparing a wide variety of models to learn what features should be expected within your price range so you can understand when an e-bike goes above and beyond. Our e-bike reviews can help you with that!
Whether you’re interested in a fat tire e-bike to get you to work every weekday and go exploring on the weekends or a comfortable cruiser for relaxed evening rides, we hope that this list helps you find the best e-bike for your wallet AND for your overall enjoyment!
If this is your first dive into the world of e-bikes and you want to learn more about them, head over to our buyer’s guide to learn the basics. If you’re interested in more of the best electric bikes, please check out some of our other categories below!
Have a bike that you think would be a good contender for our best page? Let us know in the comment section below. At the very least, we always want to know what our readers are riding.
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Leave a Reply to John S. Bozick Cancel reply
I wish reviews would include the bike weights.
So many Seniors are buying ebikes only to find they are too heavy to lift into the racks! Not to mention the need for a heavy duty rack to carry a 65+lb bike.
Check out the full reviews for each bike, we include weight information in every bike’s specs/components section.