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So, you’re in the market for a new motorized bicycle? You’ve come to the right spot. If you thought we were only into motorcycles and dirt bikes around here, you’d be wrong. We love anything on two wheels! In fact, for most of us the motorcycle obsession started with a bicycle on training wheels. Today, we take a look at some of the best options on the market and discuss the important questions you need to answer before buying.
What are the advantages of owning a motorized bicycle?
The advantages are numerous here, especially if you live in an urban area. Commuting on a bicycle can reduce your costs related to gasoline, parking, annual state registration, insurance, and time spent in traffic – just to name a few. You will be doing your part to reduce emissions and improve local air quality. In addition, a good electric bike will give you the option of throwing in a workout at your leisure – but more on that later.
What are the different types of motorized bicycles?
- Gas or electric: This is a relatively easy question to address and should quickly weed out a lot of models you may be considering. In short, if you are dead set on buying a gas powered bike, consider going all-in on a scooter or small displacement motorcycle like a cheap pit bike. With a gas powered bike, you immediately lose the majority of the benefits inherent in purchasing a motorized bicycle to begin with. Gas powered bikes are loud, smelly, far less environmentally friendly, and are banned from use in many areas where e-bikes are allowed to go (think of the gas and oil being hauled around). Electric bikes combine all the benefits of saving money, getting exercise, and saving the environment into the perfect package.
- Throttle control vs. Pedelec: Bikes equipped with a throttle control give you the ability to apply power through the twist of a throttle handle or a button close to the hand (picture an ATV’s throttle button). On the other hand, pedelec or “pedal assist” bikes provide backup power while the rider pedals. Most people prefer the pedelec setup since it provides the best of both worlds: exercise and ease of mobility. While you’ll still burn the calories, the bike’s motor will provide the backup power to achieve higher speeds and tackle hills with ease!
- Hub vs. Mid-Drive Motor: When shopping for a new motorized bicycle, you will find them broken down into these two distinct variations. Just as it sounds, a hub motor is built into either the front or rear hub of the bicycle, whereas a mid-drive motor is built into the middle of the bike’s frame, allowing it to integrate with the crank and peddles. Setups utilizing the mid-drive motor will benefit from a much more even weight distribution which lends itself to noticeably better handling characteristics.
- Battery Size and Mount Location: While a larger battery typically means a longer range (run time), it also means more weight. On something already as small and nimble as a mountain bike’s frame, just a few extra pounds can really make a difference in the bikes feel and performance – especially if it’s mounted awkwardly. Try to find the right mix between size and range. You want a range of at least 20 to 35 miles, and a battery that weighs no more than 8 pounds. For optimum agility and performance, the battery should be mounted on the down tube. Alternatively, some batteries are rack mounted. While this shouldn’t be a deal breaker, just know that you’ll notice the fact that this puts the weight higher and further over the back wheel.
- All-terrain vs. Cruiser: Admittedly, not all e-bikes will fall cleanly into one of these two categories. But this should help narrow the field down somewhat into two general categories. E-bikes of the cruiser type tend to feature lower, seemingly sweeping then frames with thin street tires. They are optimal for the urban commuter riding strictly on paved surfaces. You can identify an all-terrain model by its thicker, more sturdy frame and larger knobby tires. These bikes are equipped to handle both street and mild trail riding.
What is the best motorized bicycle for your money?
The DJ Mountain Bike 750W street/mountain hybrid.
This bike made our top-list due to its perfect blend of street and all-terrain styling. It is perfect for the city commuter who also wants to be able to venture out on the trails over the weekend. While the tires aren’t overly aggressive, the Mozo front fork suspension setup is enough to tackle a moderate off-road adventure. The down-tube mounted lithium 48V battery from LG powers a rear-hub mounted Bafang brushless 750W motor . The battery is removable for ease and convenience in charging, and locks back in place for security. On a full charge, this bike offers a range between 25-37 miles, and the bike weighs just a hair over 57 pounds.
- CERTIFICATION: DJ Bikes proudly being the first bike shop passing the highest safety and quality standard recognized by industries and consumers in both the US and Canada. The bike frame, motor, battery pack, and charger all meet respective standards.
- STRONG POWER: 750W extending to 1000W peak power motor and battery empowers you getting any up long, steep hills.
- EXCELLENT PRICE: Direct to customers. All parts and accessories are included in the offer. Save gas and parking for a quick payback.
- HIGH QUALITY & WARRANTY: Stainless aluminum frame, LG battery, Bafang motor, Tun Gun suspension fork, Shimano gear and Tektro brakes as mainstream components. Manufacturer warranty applied.
- CANADIAN BRAND: DJ Bikes is a proud and warm Canadian brand. You will get excellent service and support that you need.
Women’s EVRYjourney Alloy Beach Cruiser by sixthreezero.
Don’t let the name deceive you. This bike is an all-around excellent cruiser, not just for the beach! With such great success on their standard beach cruiser, sixthreezero decided to bring both a 250W and a 500W motorized option to market. For a couple hundred more dollars, the 500 watt rear hub mounted motor carries a range of up to 40 miles, and can reach upwards of 28 mph in pedal assist mode. We love the fact that the cruiser features high quality front and rear disc brakes as well.
- Step-through aluminum city frame 7-speed hybrid touring, urban commuting, and cruiser bike with matching full fenders, and 26" wheels
- Shimano 7-speed External Derailleur with front and rear handbrakes Alloys for wide range of riding from leisure to long distance commutes
- Brown synthetic leather comfy saddle and grips with classic stitching; 2"" semi-slick tires provide excellent roll, and a cushioned, stable ride
- Low swooping frame makes for easy step-thru entry on and off the bike; puts rider in an upright, heads-up position
- The foot-forward seat and pedal position Alloys riders of varying heights to stop and put feet flat on the ground while staying in the saddle
ECOTRIC 500W 26″ Electric Mountain Bike.
The first thing that jumps out about this bike to most people is the beautiful ruggedness of it. It seems to almost perfectly blend the look of a modern metro cruising bicycle with that of a totally potent off-road adventure bike. With a maximum speed of approximately 20 miles per hour and seven different Shimano gears, the Ecotric 500W is a super strong competitor in today’s electric mountain bike market. This bike features a rear hub mounted motor and is powered by an easily removable 36 volt lithium battery. Despite its rugged appearance, the Ecotric weighs in at only 58 pounds, so it shouldn’t be a burden to load or transport. We love the S900 LED display panel, which provides a beautiful display that keeps the rider alert and informed at all times.
