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Cikada Touring E-Bike Review | In It For The Long Haul?

The Touring is a comfortable, responsive hybrid commuter/cargo carrier that’s well suited for a wide range of uses.

Cikada Touring E-Bike Review

E-bikes are often relatively specialized, meaning that they are engineered to fulfill a specific role related to their style or category. This focused design commonly results in bikes that can perform one or two tasks exceptionally well while also having some glaring weaknesses in other areas.

For example, an electric mountain bike (eMTB) might offer extreme agility, traction, and shock absorption for rocky trails, while suffering some loss of energy efficiency when riding on paved surfaces. In another case, folding e-bikes often sacrifice some comfort and steering control for increased portability and compactness.

The Cikada Touring E-Bike occupies a relatively unique middle ground between a commuter e-bike and a cargo hauler. As its name might suggest, it’s intended for comfortable, long-distance rides on streets and paved paths.

As such, it’s more versatile than most e-bikes of a single style. The Touring’s design makes it suitable for getting to the office, grabbing dinner or groceries on the way home, and loading up for a long day of sightseeing and adventuring on the weekend.

The bike’s biggest strengths are its 350W mid-drive motor, sizable 720 Wh battery, and extended rear cargo rack. The torque-sensing motor delivers power naturally in response to the rider’s effort while the battery fuels the mid-drive on long rides. The rack offers a long platform that can be equipped with a handful of accessories and can carry up to 77 lbs.

The Touring impressed us with its overall comfort, responsive pedal assist system (PAS), and range capabilities, but as with any e-bike, it’s not perfect. Keep reading to find out how the bike performed in our real world tests, how it compares to similar models we’ve tested, and what areas have room for improvement.

[Read more…] about Cikada Touring E-Bike Review | In It For The Long Haul?

Rad Opposes CPSC Battery Warning, Aventon Plans European Debut, New Upway/Aventon Trade-In Program | TWR Ep 59

Plus New Salsa Confluence Gravel E-Bikes, Onewheel’s Self-Balancing Wheelie Motorbike, Griffin & John’s Personal E-Bikes, & More!

More big stories in this week’s e-bike news!

The CPSC released a warning regarding the safety of some of Rad Power Bikes’ older batteries. Rad responded with a statement defending its products and explaining that a recall could force its closure.

California-based e-bike brand Aventon announces a 2026 expansion into the European market. It plans to release a new line of e-bikes to meet tighter EU regulations; we have some details on Aventon’s new custom mid-drive motor.

The refurbished e-bike seller Upway has partnered with Aventon on a new trade-in program. Riders trading in their old e-bikes on new Aventon models can receive a bonus when visiting one of the program’s locations before Christmas!

Keep reading below for more details on these stories. If you’d prefer to watch or listen to the news, see (or hear) our weekly news and entertainment show using the links above.

[Read more…] about Rad Opposes CPSC Battery Warning, Aventon Plans European Debut, New Upway/Aventon Trade-In Program | TWR Ep 59

Jupiter Bike Defiant Review | An Out of This World Folding Bike?

A straightforward, relatively lightweight folding e-bike with a peppy motor and a comfy ride.

Jupiter Defiant Review

In recent years, we’ve seen many folding e-bikes in the US market creep up in weight, sometimes exceeding 70 lbs. In rare cases, they’ve even tipped the scales at 80+ lbs, making them as hefty as many full size e-bikes on the heavy end of the spectrum.

Considering that their hinged frames are often marketed as making folding e-bikes easier to transport and smaller to store, this relatively high weight might seem counterintuitive.

That’s why we were pleased to note that the Defiant, a folding e-bike from the Tampa-based brand Jupiter Bike, weighed in under 60 lbs. This comparatively low weight drops to around 52 lbs once the battery is removed. With or without the power pack, it’s one of the more portable folding e-bikes we’ve tested in recent years.

You might expect a lighter-weight folding bike to sacrifice power, but the Defiant is equipped to go toe-to-toe with many of its heavier peers. The bike features a powerful 750W rear-hub motor with a cadence sensor. With a maximum pedal-assisted speed of 20 mph, it pedals easily and can make short work of hills.

Another thing that sets the Defiant apart from many other folding e-bikes is that it rolls on 4-inch knobby fat tires. While similar models often feature similar tread to provide grip on loose unpaved terrain, few bikes feature such wide tires. This means the Defiant’s ride feels extra stable—and the added cushion helps smooth any bumps you might encounter.

Clearly, the bike goes against the grain in some areas, suggesting that it lives up to its bold, rebellious name. But how does the Defiant compare to similar bikes we’ve tested in terms of performance? See our full review below to find out!


*Note: Use Code: EBREPORT10 to save 10%

[Read more…] about Jupiter Bike Defiant Review | An Out of This World Folding Bike?

Best Electric Bikes for Women | Top 15 Options We’ve Tested

Best Electric Bikes for Women 2025

Many products in this world don’t need to be gender-specific: TVs. Computers. Baseball caps. However, many other items need to be made to fit the specific proportions of one gender or the other: Clothes. Multivitamins. And, yes, bikes and e-bikes.

Within each gender, there is a wild variation in sizes and even proportions, but themes and trends do emerge. As a (very) general rule, for a given height, women have longer legs than men, as well as shorter torsos and arms. Also, on average, women are shorter than men.

Unfortunately, the vast majority of bicycles and e-bikes are bought by (and therefore, designed for) men. Given the anatomical differences explained above, many e-bikes claiming to be “one-size-fits-all” may allow women to properly set their saddle height while leaving them feeling uncomfortably stretched out or forward leaning.

We’ve selected a collection of e-bikes that cover a variety of uses, ranging from cruisers and commuters to special-use e-bikes such as eMTBs and even a road/gravel e-bike. Almost all of these e-bikes feature step-thru frames to make them easy to mount and dismount, while a few fit with more traditional expectations of woman-centric design.

To be clear, none of the e-bikes on this list were specifically made for women, but we have selected e-bikes with geometry that is suitable for both genders. This is more a reflection of our decision to focus on e-bikes priced in the $1,000-$3,000 range than what is available.

You’ll likely find a greater number of suitable options if you’re willing to spend more on an e-bike, but we opted to focus mostly on e-bike models that exist outside the premium tier. Our hands-on testing proved that the options listed below performed extremely well without requiring you to spend an arm and a leg.

This time of year, there are tons of great deals on e-bikes for women. See our Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals page to find one that works for you!

Our Best E-Bikes For Women for 2025

*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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The Best E-Bike Repair Stands, 2025

The Best Repair Stands for E-Bikes 2025
The rear-mounted kickstand has long been a helpful feature for riders. It makes parking easy, helps with simple tasks like washing your e-bike, and keeps the pedals free to rotate when you apply chain lube. For anything beyond basic upkeep though, such as adjusting gears or bleeding brakes, a proper repair stand becomes essential. And with more riders searching for the best e-bike repair stand, there are now several strong options to consider.

Not long ago, repair stands that could safely support an e-bike were rare. Most models were designed for lightweight road or mountain bikes that barely hit 30 pounds. In the past few years, however, top toolmakers have started producing stands sturdy enough to handle the extra weight and size of modern electric bikes. In this guide to the best e-bike repair stands, we break down the features that matter most, explain what to look for, and highlight our favorite models for home and shop use.

We’ve gone for a healthy mix here. We’re covering the top of the line premium bike stands that can fix just about anything, to the ultra-affordable with a bit less range, but loads of savings.

Let’s dive in.

Best E-Bike Repair Stands, 2025

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[Read more…] about The Best E-Bike Repair Stands, 2025

Litelock X1 & X3 Anti-Angle Grinder U-Locks Review

Two of the toughest locks on the market with certifications to prove it. These locks are about as heavy-duty as it gets, with some optionality between them based on how much weight you want to carry.

Litelok x series review

Bike theft stats are the kind of data I don’t enjoy digging into. The last national tally reported roughly 150,000 bikes stolen in the U.S. in one year, totaling around $148 million in losses, but that’s only what gets reported. Some studies into the matter estimate the real number of stolen bikes is several times higher. It’s a bleak reminder that a good lock isn’t optional; it’s the barrier between you and becoming part of an unfortunate statistic.

The Litelok X1 and X3 are true heavyweights amongst bike lock options. These two have developed a reputation for doing what few locks can: standing up to angle grinders, which is the go-to tool most modern thieves rely on. Both models carry Sold Secure’s top-tier Cycle Diamond rating, earned through independent, destructive testing by the Master Locksmiths Association in the UK. They’ve racked up awards, industry buzz, and plenty of real-world validation. After spending time with them, I’d say that praise is well deserved.

“Anti–angle grinder” is a bold claim for any lock, and it’s important to be realistic. No product is unbreakable. But the X-series Liteloks dramatically raise the level of effort, noise, and time required to make a cut. According to Litelok’s testing, the X1 stands up to grinder attacks about five times longer than leading U-locks, while the larger, heavier X3 pushes that to around twenty times, thanks to additional layers of their proprietary Barronium® composite.

Both locks check the boxes you want for solid security: tough to cut, soft outside to spare your bike’s frame, and they have attachments to secure it to your bike to bring it along easily.

We’ve been pretty happy with using them, and can happily report we haven’t lost a locked-up bike yet. Other than a little heft to the lock itself, it seems virtually downside-free if it’s within your budget.

For all our insights, see the details for the X1 and X3 below.

X1 Pricing

X3 Pricing

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Pros
  • Quality construction: a soft, frame-friendly exterior paired with an interior that genuinely makes thieves think twice.
  • The X1 strikes a great balance between protection and portability; it’s practical for daily use and easier to carry.
  • The X3 is heavy, but it’s the kind of lock you trust for long, unattended parking—including overnight—thanks to its extreme grinder resistance and the noise it’ll generate trying to cut through it.
  • The optional Tactical Mounts make frame compatibility simple; they secure the lock cleanly along top tubes, down tubes, or seatposts.
  • Strong overall value. They’re not cheap, but compared to replacing an e-bike, the protection-to-price ratio is solid.
Cons
  • Weight. Both locks add noticeable bulk to a bike or bag.

Litelock X1 & X3 Specs & Features

X1

  • Materials: Barronium core, Eco-Rubber outer layer
  • Weight: 3.7 lbs
  • Dimensions: 5.6 x10.4”
  • Warranty: 3-year warranty covering mechanical or operational faults
  • Includes: two keys, soft storage pouch.
  • Compatible with: Tactical Mount Frame attachment
  • Other features: self-healing silicone keyhole cover, Sold-Secure Diamond rating

X3

  • Materials: Barronium core, Eco-Rubber outer layer
  • Weight: 4.6 lbs
  • Dimensions: 5.7 x10.9”
  • Warranty: 7-year warranty covering mechanical or operational faults
  • Includes: two ABLOY Sentry keys, soft storage pouch.
  • Compatible with: Tactical Mount Frame attachment
  • Other features: self-healing silicone keyhole cover, Sold-Secure Diamond rating
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Litelock X1 & X3 Review – Construction

The most obvious difference between the X1 and X3 comes down to thickness. Both cover roughly the same amount of real estate on your bike, but the X3 is substantially heavier thanks to its extra layers of protection.

Externally, both locks are wrapped in a soft rubber coating that keeps your frame safe from scuffs, something I always appreciate on a heavy-duty lock. Litelok also adds reflective accents for visibility, with the X1 getting more prominent striping and even an arctic camo option if you want something a little flashier than the standard black or white.

I appreciate the keyhole cover. It just helps keep dirt and gunk out of the lock which can be an annoyance if it gets junky.

Inside is where things get serious. Litelok’s proprietary Barronium® is a fused composite armor made from multiple layers of hardened ceramic and metal. When a grinder hits it, the material basically fights back, transferring the tool’s own energy into rapid disc wear. Add a hardened steel core, and you end up with a lock that takes multiple discs to cut through on a single side. Because these locks don’t rotate, a thief would have to do it twice to fully remove the lock. Good luck with that.

The X3 adds another layer of defense with an ABLOY locking core. I’m not a locksmith, so I can’t personally evaluate its pick resistance, but ABLOY is widely regarded as one of the toughest systems to defeat, and I’m all for stacking security wherever possible.

If you prefer mounting the lock to your bike instead of tossing it in a bag, Litelok’s Tactical Mount is the way to go. It’s a glass-reinforced polymer cradle that protects your paint and fits most frame triangles as long as you have between 75mm and 200mm of space to work with. In my testing, it held both locks securely along the top tube, down tube, or seatpost. If you’re buying an X1 or X3, I’d absolutely recommend picking up the mount as well.

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Litelock X1 & X3 Review – What It’s Like Using The Locks

Day-to-day use with either lock is pleasantly straightforward. Line up your frame with a sturdy anchor point, close the shackle, and you’re done. No quirks or extra steps.

Using the Tactical Mount is just as simple. The twist mechanism is intuitive: rotate the lock to release it from the cradle, unlock it, and the shackle comes free. Installing the mount takes a few minutes but doesn’t require any special tools beyond a 5mm hex key that comes with it and some scissors. You attach the included clips, line up the protective strips, trim them to size with scissors, secure everything with the screws, thread the excess strap through the keepers, then slot the lock in at a 90-degree angle and twist it into place. Once mounted, it stays impressively stable despite the lock’s weight.

There is one practical limitation for e-bike riders: fit. Many e-bikes have oversized downtubes housing their batteries, and those can be too bulky for the Tactical Mount to wrap around. Step-through frames with short seat tubes may also lack a viable mounting spot. Tight front triangles are another consideration, though Litelok does offer printable sizing templates for the X1 and mount on its website, which helps you verify fit before committing.

If the lock doesn’t fit your frame, the included soft carrying pouch is a nice fallback. It’s gentle on whatever else you’re carrying; it’ll play nice inside a backpack full of gear or a pannier with groceries, and it keeps the lock from knocking into other items.

Overall, assuming your frame allows it, the daily user experience is simple, secure, and pleasantly hassle-free.

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Litelock X1 & X3 Review – Verdict

I wish I could say there’s a way to make bike theft disappear entirely, but since that’s not the world we live in, the next best solution is stacking the odds heavily in your favor. That starts with a lock that doesn’t just look tough to dissuade would-be thieves, but actually slows down the professional ones in the real world.

Both the Litelok X1 and X3 models do exactly that. They’re solidly built, thoughtfully engineered, and give riders a clear choice: the X1 for lighter portability, or the X3 for maximum grinder resistance when you need ultimate peace of mind. Whichever direction you go, you’re getting a level of protection that genuinely makes it easier to walk away from your bike with confidence.

E-bikes aren’t cheap. Our recommended models generally start around $1,000, and many climb well beyond that. Some include tracking or onboard security features, but even the smartest systems shouldn’t replace the first line of defense: a rock-solid physical lock.

The X1 and X3 are among the most robust locks I’ve used, and they’ve been virtually hassle-free throughout testing. For anyone serious about protecting their e-bike, they’re absolutely worth a look.

X1 Pricing

X3 Pricing

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Urtopia’s Owners Buy Pedego, Trek’s Brake Recall, D.C. E-Bike Speeds Reduced | TWR Ep 58

Plus Black Friday Deals, Meepo V3 Max Longboard, E-Bike Comparisons, & More!

This week in e-bike news, we cover the acquisition of a veteran brand by the owners of an up-and-comer. We also discuss an important recall and lower speed limits on some e-bikes in Washington D.C.

The headlining story is Pedego’s purchase; the brick-and-mortar retailer has been acquired by the same group that owns Hong-Kong-based e-bike maker Urtopia. Pedego’s CEO hopes the partnership will allow it to expand its physical presence to pandemic-era highs and beyond.

Trek announces a recall on roughly 68,000 bikes with faulty coaster brakes. An online tool can help identify whether your bike is affected—see below.

Additionally, bike share companies Lime and Veo have agreed to lower the speeds of their rental fleets in the nation’s capital. The goal of this decision is to increase public safety and encourage responsible e-bike use.

For more information on these stories, continue reading below. Otherwise, for more news, entertainment, and e-bike info, check out the video or audio versions of our weekly podcast above!

[Read more…] about Urtopia’s Owners Buy Pedego, Trek’s Brake Recall, D.C. E-Bike Speeds Reduced | TWR Ep 58

Can Rad Power Bikes Be Saved? + Scott’s Fastlane E-Road Bike, Upway Plans Expansion | TWR Ep 57

Plus Updates on Super73’s MZFT, Aventon Pace 4 vs Velotric Breeze 1 Comparison, Mokwheel Basalt 1.0 vs 2.0, & More!

In this week’s e-bike news, another major US-based e-bike brand announced its possible shutdown in January if its leadership is unable to source additional funding. Could this mean the end for Rad Power Bikes?

One of the most eye-catching new releases we’ve seen from the past week is Scott’s Fastlane electric road bike. With a carbon fiber frame and fork, a stealthy TQ mid-drive, and a fully internal battery, it’s tough to tell this model is even an e-bike!

Additionally, the e-bike refurbisher Upway has acquired a new round of funding to expand its operations and presence. The company plans to establish new brick and mortar refurbishment centers in Denver and other cities.

See or listen to our weekly news and entertainment show above for more information. Alternatively, keep reading below for more details on these news stories and some early black friday deals!

[Read more…] about Can Rad Power Bikes Be Saved? + Scott’s Fastlane E-Road Bike, Upway Plans Expansion | TWR Ep 57

AIMA Santa Monica Review | Contemporary California Cruising

This hybrid cruiser/commuter e-bike blends responsive pedal assist with a comfortable ride and a robust, user-friendly feature package.

AIMA Santa Monica Review

Here at Electric Bike Report, we’re lucky to have a community of smart, trustworthy, and experienced readers and viewers. That’s why we listen when you speak up!

For years, the AIMA Santa Monica has been one of the most requested e-bikes our audience has asked us to review. After such a long time, we were excited to finally get the bike in for testing, and at first glance, it was clear why the bike was so popular.

As a cruiser/commuter hybrid, the Santa Monica is well-equipped for both functionality and comfort. It features an accessible step-thru frame, an accommodating saddle, and swept-back handlebars that keep the rider upright. It also includes wide, stable tires, integrated lights and turn signals, a suspension fork, and an MIK-compatible cargo rack.

The bike was also highly impressive in practice; as with every model we’ve reviewed, we conducted extensive performance tests, but even a short test ride was enough to reveal the Santa Monica’s lively, responsive feel. Its powerful motor delivered assistance smoothly and quietly, making short work of hills and adapting its output to match our pedal effort.

Looks are certainly subjective, but we couldn’t help but dig the Santa Monica’s classic yet refined aesthetic. Our test bike’s glossy cornflower blue color reminded us of an automobile’s paint job, while its brown faux leather saddle/grips and tan-wall tires added a retro vibe to the whole package.

The bike ultimately delivered in looks, ride feel, and on-paper specs, but how did its performance compare with similar cruiser and commuter-style e-bikes we’ve tested? See our full review below to find out!

[Read more…] about AIMA Santa Monica Review | Contemporary California Cruising

Fiido Nomads Review | Your Cycling Endurance Booster

A more realistic bike riding experience. A solid and versatile platform with fitness and endurance benefits for those simply looking to take longer rides than they’re able to on non-motorized ones.

Fiido Nomads Review

Many e-bikes advertise raw speed and brute power, but what often gets overlooked is how well they can extend a cyclist’s own effort. The Fiido Nomads leans into that strength. Instead of trying to feel like a motorbike, it provides a ride experience that’s closer to your current acoustic bike, just easier, fresher, and longer lasting, and making hills far less daunting of a task.

With its modest 250W motor, lower top speed, and efficient use of battery power, the Nomads emphasizes endurance over pure adrenaline. Riders who want to push their cardiovascular efforts a little further, or cover ground they couldn’t before, will find it an appealing option. Add in hybrid tires for mixed terrain, a 120mm suspension fork, and a wide 9-speed gear range, and you get a bike built for comfort across a variety of settings.

Fiido also takes its trekking potential seriously: the Nomads can run up to three batteries (two rack-mounted spares, plus the main frame unit) without sacrificing cargo space. That flexibility, paired with multiple frame sizes and an adjustable stem, makes it a surprisingly adaptable and affordable endurance-focused e-bike. While a U.S.-specific version with higher speeds would unlock broader audience appeal, the Nomads still shines as a natural-feeling, go-farther machine for commuters, trekkers, and casual cyclists alike.

[Read more…] about Fiido Nomads Review | Your Cycling Endurance Booster

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