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Ride1Up CF Racer 1 Review | Carbon Fiber For How Much!?

This lightweight carbon fiber gravel/road e-bike features great specs, responsive handling, and an unbeatable price!

With its carbon fiber frame and drop bars, Ride1UP has effectively raised the bar (pun intended) with the CF Racer 1. This entry-level gravel/road e-bike comes at a price point that had us picking our jaws up off the floor. In this CF Racer 1 review, we cover all the details of the bike’s real-world performance.

The CF Racer’s smooth carbon fiber frame is central to its ride feel; it weighs a grand total of… drum roll please… 29 lbs! With such lightweight construction, we found that it felt nimble, airy, and energetic. It was also incredibly easy to lift and load onto a bike rack.

A comparable e-bike from other prominent e-bike brands is likely to run upwards of $1,000 more than the CF Racer 1’s price point between $2,000 and $2,500. In many cases, this cost would still only equate to a traditional alloy frame with significant differences in handling, feel, and range.

The bike’s low cost and design do come with a few trade offs including limited sizing options and adjustability. Additionally, while we dig the cleanliness of its appearance, internally routed cables have the potential to increase maintenance costs when servicing the CF Racer at a bike shop.

Here at Electric Bike Report, we perform a series of standardized tests to evaluate motor power, battery efficiency, braking performance, etc. We continue our discussion in the context of the CF Racer 1’s test results in the full review below.

Trek Marlin+ 8 Review | Electrifying A Popular MTB

A Bosch motor, air-spring suspension fork and 12-speed drivetrain make this no ordinary entry-level eMTB.

Part of Trek’s mission statement reads, “We…change the world by getting more people on bikes.” Electrifying an affordable hardtail mountain bike is undoubtedly a step toward achieving that goal.

If the name Marlin sounds familiar, it’s because it’s one of Trek’s most popular hardtail mountain bike lines. The “+” designation signifies Trek’s electrified models, and with the Marlin+ 8, Trek combines its well-loved aluminum frame with a Bosch Active Line Plus motor powered by a CompactTube 400 battery. The bike also features a full RockShox Recon Silver RL fork, a Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain, and 4-piston Shimano hydraulic disc brakes—all carefully chosen to balance affordability with performance.

While many e-bikes we review come in just one size or offer step-over and step-thru options with similar reach dimensions, Trek has taken a different approach. The Marlin+ 8 is available in five sizes, a welcome detail for riders outside the average height range. Whether you’re a more petite rider or on the taller side, there’s likely a Marlin+ 8 that fits you perfectly. Our large frame test bike felt like it was made for me.

Trek clearly understands what riders want in an eMTB. Despite aiming to keep this bike more affordable, they didn’t skimp on features. Tubeless-ready tires and rims, along with a dropper post, and solid suspension fork show that this bike isn’t just about appearances—it delivers where it counts.

At the core of the Trek Marlin+ 8 is its Bosch motor, which shines in both subtle and high-demand scenarios. Whether you need a noticeable boost or seamless integration with your pedaling, the motor excels. Its intuitive “set it and forget it” functionality is a standout feature.

There’s a lot to unpack with this e-bike. Let’s dive into how the Marlin+ 8 performed in our battery of tests.

Ride1Up Revv 1 DRT Review | If The Road Ends, The Ride Won’t

The looks are killer, but the bike isn’t just style; off-road fun abounds on this speedy dirt bike-inspired ride.

The Ride1Up Revv 1 DRT was everything I didn’t know I wanted from the brand’s moto-styled speedster.

My previous experiences reviewing the HT and helping test the FS models already convinced me the Revv 1 was a great bike. Both were fun, fast, comfortable and just looked badass!

Now, enter the DRT with the best specs of any Revv1 model. Its enhanced suspension and duo-sport tires sent me further off the beaten path than I’d attempted on any previous Revv1. I immediately found myself enjoying the ride in a whole new light. If you want fun times on paved surfaces or in the dirt, the Revv 1 DRT is an excellent place to look.

I’ll state the (hopefully) obvious: It’s not a dirt bike. But if you want a versatile e-bike that allows you to commute on bike paths, enjoy some double-track, and even hit a smaller dirt jump or two, then the DRT can deliver.

The DRT packs all the hallmarks of a moped-style e-bike. It has a powerful motor, sufficient counterbalance with 4-piston hydraulic brakes, and a large battery for longer ride times.

But all of that is just the tip of the iceberg, and there is plenty more worth discussing. See how it did in our testing down below for all the details.

Rad Power Bikes RadTrike Review | Stable; Affordable

A stable, affordable e-trike for those who are in need of three wheels instead of two

Rad Power Bikes is well-established as a leading e-bike brand having made and refined a large stable of affordable e-bike models over the past several years. But with our Rad Power Bikes RadTrike review, we have something entirely fresh to evaluate from the e-bike giant; creating an electric trike means Rad will be forging ahead on a new frontier for them on the greater e-mobility landscape.

So the question has to be asked, why make the RadTrike? Sure, electric bikes and trikes share handlebars, pedals, tires, motors, batteries, and more, but they have as many differences as they do similarities. There is a pretty large contrast in the way you ride and operate either one which requires experienced e-bike engineers to start from square one when going to develop a trike. So again, why did Rad Power Bikes do it?

“[The RadTrike] is something that the world hasn’t had but really needs. A low, stable, comfortable, and accessibly-priced micromobility product that can be pedaled,” chairman and founder Mike Radenbaugh told us during a review Q&A phone call.

If done right, an e-trike such as the RadTrike has the potential to make e-micromobility more available to all – especially those who aren’t comfortable on two wheels by providing the stability of three.

The RadTrike was built with people who have mobility or balance limitations in mind. Trikes have long been a favorite of seniors thanks to the platform being simpler to mount, and by their nature, they favor slower speeds that are easier to manage.

E-trikes are also highly useful as an alternative means of getting around thanks to higher payload capacities, basket attachments for storing all sorts of gear, and the stability three wheels provide to load and haul it all. E-trikes can be small but mighty, sort of like a “small pickup truck” as Radenbaugh went on to say.

In the world of e-bikes consumers have no shortage of options, but it’s fair to say that the models offered in e-trikes are fewer and further between, and oftentimes finding a quality one means higher prices. The RadTrike is aiming to be one of a small number of less expensive, quality electric trike options that could truly be relied upon in a daily capacity.

Clearly, the RadTrike is a worthwhile endeavor on many levels, but was the brand able to deliver a quality trike that would feel safe, useful, fun, and perform well? We spent the last three weeks riding and reviewing the Rad Power Bikes RadTrike to find out.

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 Review | The Iconic Cargo Ride

Now more affordable than ever, the faithful Rad workhorse offers great value for all your cargo needs.

The RadWagon 4 by Rad Power Bikes is a versatile cargo and commuter electric bike tailored for urban use. With a peak motor output of 750 watts, a 672 Wh battery, and a variety of available attachments, the RadWagon 4 is an impressively adaptable e-bike that could be an ideal solution for those looking to replace or reduce their reliance on a car. It’s a standout model, offering a different function and design compared to other Rad Power Bikes we’ve reviewed.

During our testing and review at Electric Bike Report, six team members collectively rode over 100 miles on the RadWagon 4. Without exception, every rider was pleasantly surprised by how much fun this e-bike is to ride.

At approximately 77 lbs, we initially expected a bike that would be difficult to handle and possibly underpowered. However, we discovered the opposite. The bike’s handling was excellent, even when loaded to its impressive 350-lb payload capacity with passengers and cargo. It tackled hills effortlessly, and the lower step-over height combined with the telescoping seat post made it accessible to riders of varying heights—from 5’4” to 6’5”.

Bottom line: If you’re in the market for a powerful, affordable e-bike capable of carrying cargo, passengers, and just about everything else, the RadWagon 4 by Rad Power Bikes is worth serious consideration.

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 3 Plus Review | Thoroughly Tested

The “Be What You Want It To Be” E-Bike

In this review of Rad Power Bikes’ RadRunner 3 Plus, we’ll explore how this model has evolved from its predecessors to become one of the best all-purpose e-bikes on the market. With e-bike popularity reaching new heights, more riders are looking for a versatile option that can handle everything from errands and school drop-offs to commuting and weekend fun. Multi-purpose e-bikes are in high demand, and the RadRunner 3 Plus rises to meet that need beautifully.

This is a Class 2 electric bike, capable of reaching speeds up to 20 mph with either pedal assist or throttle. Like its RadRunner siblings, it features a 750-watt rear hub motor and 20” x 3.3” tires. While all RadRunner models share a step-thru frame design, the RadRunner 3 Plus introduces a new and improved frame that enhances handling and increases its total carrying capacity to 350 lbs, making it a superior choice for hauling cargo compared to earlier models. It rode nice and stiff across my many many miles of testing.

Rad Power Bikes claims the motor has been modified to accelerate 10% faster on hills than the RadRunner Plus and to engage more effectively with the rider’s pedaling. The updated styling also sets the RadRunner 3 Plus apart, with a modernized look that includes a semi-integrated battery mounted on the bottom tube and aesthetics similar to Rad’s City and Rover models.

Rad also packs tons of accessory combinations. You can outfit the Runner 3 in a myriad of ways – I particularly liked the hard-shell paniers we were able to try out. They were useful for hauling camera gear – weather be darned!

Keep reading to learn more about the unique features that make this bike stand out, including real-world performance results in our RadRunner 3 Plus review.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ride1Up CF Racer 1 Review | Carbon Fiber For How Much!?

This lightweight carbon fiber gravel/road e-bike features great specs, responsive handling, and an unbeatable price!

Trek Marlin+ 8 Review | Electrifying A Popular MTB

A Bosch motor, air-spring suspension fork and 12-speed drivetrain make this no ordinary entry-level eMTB.

Ride1Up Revv 1 DRT Review | If The Road Ends, The Ride Won’t

The looks are killer, but the bike isn’t just style; off-road fun abounds on this speedy dirt bike-inspired ride.

Rad Power Bikes RadTrike Review | Stable; Affordable

A stable, affordable e-trike for those who are in need of three wheels instead of two

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 Review | The Iconic Cargo Ride

Now more affordable than ever, the faithful Rad workhorse offers great value for all your cargo needs.

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 3 Plus Review | Thoroughly Tested

The “Be What You Want It To Be” E-Bike

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.

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.

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.

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.

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This lightweight carbon fiber gravel/road e-bike features great specs, responsive handling, and an unbeatable price!

A Bosch motor, air-spring suspension fork and 12-speed drivetrain make this no ordinary entry-level eMTB.

The looks are killer, but the bike isn’t just style; off-road fun abounds on this speedy dirt bike-inspired ride.

A stable, affordable e-trike for those who are in need of three wheels instead of two

Now more affordable than ever, the faithful Rad workhorse offers great value for all your cargo needs.

The “Be What You Want It To Be” E-Bike

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

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.

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.

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

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