Electric Bike Report | Electric Bike, Ebikes, Electric Bicycles, E Bike, Reviews

Electric Bike Reviews, News, and Information; plus e-bike riding and maintenance tips!

x
Menu
Sponsor

Some links may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these.

Electric Bike Accessories

Best Car Racks For Electric Bikes – 2022

Hollywood Racks SportRider Review

*Electric Bike Report aims to help consumers find the right electric bike car rack for their needs. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

So, you’ve found an electric bike that you love and you’re ready to explore with it; now it’s time to look at finding the best e-bike car rack for your situation.

The market for car bike racks is not lacking in options, but it is important to find one that can handle the extra weight and bulk that comes with e-bikes. Many bike racks were built with carrying traditional bikes in mind, which seldomly ever meant accommodating more than 50 lbs worth of bike. That can pose a problem for many e-bikes, which often tip the scales at 50 lbs or more. Heck, we have plenty at Electric Bike Report HQ that weigh over 70 lbs.

Beyond weight, there are many other important variables you’ll want to consider depending on the style of e-bike you own. Did you buy an electric fat bike? Make sure your bike rack can secure those massive tires. Did you invest in a cargo e-bike that can tote you and the kids? Make sure you look at a rack that’s long enough to fit that.

Always carefully consider your e-bike’s unique features when shopping for an e-bike car rack, but perhaps the most important electric-specific feature is a rack’s carrying capacity.

There likely will never be one car rack that does it all, but there are several car racks for electric bikes that will likely work best for your style of bike and where you plan on taking it. Listed below are our picks for the best car racks for carrying e-bikes.

Oh, and if you haven’t settled on your e-bike yet, we’ve got you covered with the options for the best electric bikes too.

The Best Bike Racks For E-Bikes, 2022

Sponsor

[Read more…] about Best Car Racks For Electric Bikes – 2022

Hollywood Racks Destination E Bike Rack Review 2022

Hollywood Racks Destination E Bike Rack Review 2022
There’s a truism about bike racks like the Hollywood Destination E bike rack we’re reviewing that they need to be able to carry more different bikes than what the purchaser owns. There’s no telling when there will be a need to pick up a friend on the way to the ride location or to rescue someone who has run into a bigger mechanical than they can fix on the ride. The Hollywood Racks Destination E hitch rack is a rack with more range than most. In a world full of one-size-doesn’t-actually-fit-all, this is a hitch rack that can accommodate everything from a 70-lb. cargo e-bike down to a BMX bike, not to mention any e-bike with tires up to 4.5-in. wide.

While the versatility of this bike rack is what was the star of the show for us, it scores well in the affordable and reliable boxes as well – making it worthy of a look for any e-biker in the market.

In our review of the Hollywood Racks Destination E, we will take a look at what makes this hitch rack such a great value.

Sponsor
Sponsor
Pro’s
  • 70-lb. max bike weight covers the majority of e-bikes on the market
  • Fits bikes with wheels from 20-in. to 29 in. without adapters, making it quick to set up
  • Max bike wheelbase length of 50 in. is long enough to accommodate even some cargo bikes
  • Locking threaded hitch pin and frame clamps are include to secure bikes to rack and rack to vehicle to prevent theft
  • Clamps to any diameter seatpost; no adapter needed to secure step-thru frame designs
  • Includes 46-in.-long loading ramp
Con’s
  • Requires a 2-in. hitch mount, and not all vehicles can accept a 2-in. hitch

One of the issues that comes up with hitch racks that feature a frame holder—as opposed to a rack that clamps the wheels and not the frame—is that some of them need adapters for BMX bikes or step-thru frames. We appreciate how the Hollywood Racks Destination E needs no adapters, no matter how large or small the frame is and whether it uses a step-thru design or not.

Hollywood Racks Destination E Bike Rack Review 2022 - securing e-bikes

The Hollywood Racks Destination E comes with an e-bike ramp that folds away inside the rack when not in use.

Hollywood Racks Destination E Bike Rack Review 2022 - folded flat against the vehicle

The Hollywood Racks Destination E rack folds up flat against the back of the vehicle.

Hollywood Racks Destination E Bike Rack Review 2022- securing clamps

The clamping knobs are adjustable and lockable to make sure you can get a secure hold of the bike on the rack.

Hollywood Racks Destination E Bike Rack Review 2022 - forward tilt to access vehicle rear hatch / trunk

Accessing a vehicle’s rear hatch is simple thanks to the forward tilt feature..

The two bike trays are positioned 11 in. apart, which is a bit more than even some of the best e-bike car racks we see. The extra space helps reduce the amount of repositioning necessary to fit two e-bikes on the rack. Also, the pivot point for the rack sits between the two trays so when two bikes are loaded tilting them out to open the trunk or rear hatch requires less muscle than when the pivot is positioned behind both trays. This extra spacing is especially helpful when rolling bikes up the 46-in.-long integrated ramp.

Security is always an issue with any bike rack and one benefit of the frame clamps on the Destination E is that the clamps lock; there’s no need to pass a cable through the frames.

When not in use, the rack folds flat against the back of your vehicle to occupy less space behind you.

The only real downside that we could think up with this rack was that it requires a 2″ hitch which not everybody will have. While that narrows the field a bit in terms of who should consider this rack, those who do have a large enough hitch will appreciate the cost, effectiveness, and versatility on the Destination E.

When driving around with your e-bikes in tow there isn’t any alarming amount of sway that catches your eyes from the rearview mirror. The anti-wobble tech isn’t top-tier, but it doesn’t take more than a couple of drives to develop confidence that your bikes will stay secured. We tested it out with two e-bikes right up to the 70 lbs. per tray limit and we were satisfied with how it held up. You can keep your eyes glued to the road ahead instead of the bikes behind.

Anyone seeking a versatile and affordable hitch rack need look no further than the Hollywood Racks Destination E.

Sponsor

Sponsor

Hollywood Racks SportRider Bike Rack Review 2022

Hollywood Racks SportRider Bike Rack Review 2022
As e-bikes with more power and greater carrying capacity have hit the market, transporting these rides has grown more difficult. As weight goes up, the number of hitch racks that can support e-bikes weighing upwards of 65, 70 or even 75 lbs. shrinks. Fortunately, the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider we’re reviewing is a goliath of a rack that can not only handle weight, but it can deal with long cargo bikes as well. In our Hollywood Racks Sport Rider review we will take a look at what makes this an e-bike hitch rack that few others can match.

The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider’s biggest recommendations are its abilities. It can carry an e-bike that weighs up to 80 lbs. and is up to 60 inches long. That captures the great majority of all e-bikes on the market. This rack is so capable that for anyone considering an e-bike that this e-bike hitch rack can’t handle would do well to ask themselves why they are considering that e-bike.

This is easily one of the more versatile bike racks that the team at EBR as reviewed. It’s is a straightforward, no-nonsense bike hauler that has all the essential features you’d hope for, while also being more affordable than most bike racks on the market right now.

[Read more…] about Hollywood Racks SportRider Bike Rack Review 2022

Wahoo KICKR Smart Trainer Review 2022

Wahoo Kickr Bike Written Review

Like the U.S. Postal Service, neither rain, snow, sleet or a demanding 9-to-5 work schedule can stand between you and your training with the Wahoo KICKR smart trainer.

In this Wahoo KICKR smart trainer review, we dive into the specs and features of this top-of-the-line home trainer and talk a little about my real world experience integrating this training tool into my regimine ahead of the 2022 mountain bike season.

Wahoo’s KICKR has long dominated the direct drive home trainer market and has been heralded as the gold standard tool for those who wish to make their outside bike an inside bike. Controlled by a smart device via bluetooth, the Wahoo KICKR pairs with the virtual cycling app of your choice — among the most popular are Wahoo’s SYSTM app, Zwift, TrainerRoad and many others — and automatically adjusts resistance based on whether your going uphill, downhill or are partaking in a structured workout. This makes for an incredibly realistic indoor riding experience that’s engaging, fun and incredibly effective for those looking to gain fitness in a short amount of time.

I used the KICKR to fit structured interval training around my 9-5 duties at Electric Bike Report and saw considerable results. It’s now my favorite training tool, and one I’d recommend to anyone who wants to ride well but doesn’t have a ton of time.


[Read more…] about Wahoo KICKR Smart Trainer Review 2022

Burley D’Lite X Review 2022

Burley D'Lite Bike Trailer Review

Burley D’Lite X Review: Overview

Burley has been around since the ‘70s making bike trailers. Why is that worth noting? Because 40+ years of experience means they’ve been around the block a few times and learned quite a lot.

The Burley D’Lite X we reviewed is the culmination of all those years of experience resulting in a premium bike trailer/stroller combo that has thought through just about every detail.

The standard features that come on this trailer offer great comfort and versatility. The optional accessories available make it so this might be the only stroller you ever need too.

While the D’Lite X is great for getting around on your bike with your little ones in tow, its versatility extends to even being a great cargo hauler as well.

You definitely pay a premium for this experience, so the price tag won’t be for everybody. But for those looking at the best of the bike trailer world there is plenty to discover and love after reading through our Burley D’Lite X bike trailer review.

[Read more…] about Burley D’Lite X Review 2022

Fox Mainframe MIPS Helmet Review

Fox Mainframe MIPS Helmet Review

The Fox Mainframe MIPS helmet is a fairly priced, eye-catching mountain bike helmet that includes MIPS technology, optimized venting and extended impact coverage all while still being under $100 USD. In this Fox Mainframe MIPS review we’ll get into the fit and form of the budget-priced helmet from one of the most recognizable names in the cycling industry.

The Mainframe has fast become one of the Electric Bike Report team’s go-to helmets for e-bike reviewing, and in total we’ve racked up close to 150 miles wearing the Mainframe. Thankfully, we haven’t had to put its impact protection to the test (yet), but it’s arguably one of the most affordable MIPS-equipped lids on the market.

Fox Mainframe MIPS Helmet Review - side angle

At less than $100, the Fox Mainframe is one of the cheapest MIPS-equipped lids on the market.

[Read more…] about Fox Mainframe MIPS Helmet Review

Burley Honey Bee Review 2022

Burley Honeybee Bike Trailer Review

Burley Honey Bee Review: Overview

Whether you have a deep passion for cycling or just enjoy a casual weekend cruise, sharing that experience with your kids compounds the joy you get from riding a bike. That’s why I looked forward to this Burley Honey Bee review as it gave me opportunities for quality time with my own child — as this trailer would for any parent who uses it.

Boasting a mixture of versatility, portability, and construction quality, the Burley Honey Bee competes in the ultra-competitive “budget” class of bike trailers (although on the high-end of that spectrum). Translation: Haul it behind your bike, detach it for walks in the park and feel at ease knowing it’s safe for your kids and should be able to withstand the harshest of punishments bike trailers typically experience – the kids themselves.

Overall the Burley Honey Bee trailer Electric Bike Report reviewed taught us one thing in particular: This trailer is a great option to look at for those wanting a simple, yet versatile bike trailer that performs as expected on each ride.

So is this the bike trailer for you? Head further below and we’ll dive into all the details you need to know.

[Read more…] about Burley Honey Bee Review 2022

The Coolest New E-Bikes We Saw at Sea Otter Classic 2022

The arrival of the Sea Otter Classic each year means it’s new bike time, as many major brands use the annual mass gathering of racers, enthusiasts and industry folk as a great opportunity for a high-visibility bike release.

This year proved no different, and the event’s massive expo area was crammed with new releases (and even a few new brands) showing off the latest and greatest offerings in their lineups. We saw several new and newly-refreshed eMTBs and a not necessarily brand new (but new to us) electric commuter bike with one of the most interesting suspension designs we’ve ever seen.

This isn’t an exhaustive list of the new e-bikes rolled out at Sea Otter this year, but these are the bikes that caught the Electric Bike Report team’s eye the most .

[Read more…] about The Coolest New E-Bikes We Saw at Sea Otter Classic 2022

The Coolest Electric Cargo Bikes at Sea Otter Classic 2022

Electric bikes are great for lots of things, but perhaps where they shine the most (aside from zipping effortlessly up hills) is in their ability to haul heavy loads.

Be it people, groceries or even the components of a rolling small business, electric cargo bikes have become critical tools for those who wish to pedal lots of weight from one place to the next. Whatever they’re being used for, they’ve become wickedly popular.

At this year’s Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, California, electric cargo bikes had a notably increased presence in the event’s expo area. There weren’t tons of them on show, but the fact they were being featured at all at the traditionally racing and high-performance oriented event made us perk up.

Electric Bike Report scoured the expo area for the coolest electric cargo bikes we could find, here’s what we came up with:

[Read more…] about The Coolest Electric Cargo Bikes at Sea Otter Classic 2022

Sea Otter Classic 2022: E-Bike Accessories You Should Buy Right Now

Electric bikes are a gateway drug. The e-bike purchase itself is easy to plan and budget for, but it’s all the little items — the gloves, the lights, the bags — that get you.

Suddenly, before you know it, your garage will likely be flush with not just the e-bike you saved for, but with a host of other unplanned purchases you quickly realized you didn’t just simply want, you needed. If you’ve managed to fight the urge to buy a bunch of accessories alongside your bike, I commend you and highly suggest you move on from this post, because the 2022 Sea Otter Classic was chock-full of drool worthy items.

There are an innumerable number of cool trinkets on show at this year’s Sea Otter, including a big armful of items being designed specifically for the special use case of e-bikes. We saw saddles that push the limits of design and materials, super secure locks that yell when they’re tampered with and can be unlocked with your phone, we even saw specially-designed chain lube (because yes, e-bikes even need special maintenance).

Here’s our picks of some of the most exciting e-bike specific accessories that the Electric Bike Report staff saw on show this year.

[Read more…] about Sea Otter Classic 2022: E-Bike Accessories You Should Buy Right Now