When discussing the two types of e-bike motors, the best mid-drive e-bikes and hub-drive e-bikes give riders a surprisingly different riding experience. With one, you only need to work as much as you want. With the other, you’re involved.
It’s a little more complicated than this, but I think it’s automatic vs. stick shift.
Most mid-drive motors use a torque sensor to judge when to turn the motor on and off. They also add an additional layer to the experience. By detecting how much pressure is on the pedals, they allow the motor to change how much it helps you pedal.
From the moment a rider pushes down on a pedal, the motor springs to life. Power addition and subtraction come in proportion to the rider’s effort. Furthermore, the proportion of power applied is determined by which PAS level the rider has selected.
While the experience of riding a mid-drive e-bike is natural and seamless, it also means that the rider is going to have to work harder to go faster. A Class 3 mid-drive e-bike, for example, won’t go 28 mph without the rider making some real effort.
We’ve tested a myriad of e-bikes with mid-drive motors and have selected a handful of options that we consider to be the best. Whether you want a relaxed city cruiser or a tough and active trekking bike, look no further for the best mid-drive electric bikes!
The Best Mid-Drive Electric Bikes for 2025
- Ride1UP Prodigy V2
- Aventon Ramblas
- Trek Allant+ 8s
- Aventon Aventure M
- Tenways AGO X
- Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2 6.0 EQ Carbon
- Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 IGH
- Vvolt Centauri II
- Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Alloy Gen 4
- Trek FX+ 7S
- Tern Quick Haul Long D9
- Trek Marlin+ 8
- Borealis Keystone
*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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