Table of Contents >> Show >> Hide
- How We Picked the Best Electric Bikes for 2023
- Quick Comparison: The Top Electric Bikes of 2023
- The 10 Best Electric Bikes for 2023
- 1) Aventon Level.2 Best Value Commuter E-Bike
- 2) Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Best Premium Daily Driver
- 3) Trek Allant+ 7 Best Fast, Confident Class 3 Commuter
- 4) Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus Best Fat-Tire Comfort Cruiser
- 5) Lectric XP 3.0 Best Folding Electric Bike for the Money
- 6) Ride1Up 700 Series Best Do-It-All Value E-Bike
- 7) Ride1Up Roadster V2 (Gravel) Best “Stealth” Minimalist E-Bike
- 8) Propella 7S Best Lightweight, Simple City E-Bike
- 9) Tern GSD S10 Best Cargo E-Bike (True Car Replacement Energy)
- 10) Specialized Turbo Levo (Comp/Variants) Best Electric Mountain Bike for Trails
- Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Electric Bike (So You Don’t Regret It Later)
- Choose the Right E-Bike Class (Class 1, Class 2, Class 3)
- Hub Motor vs. Mid-Drive: Which Is Better?
- Torque Sensor vs. Cadence Sensor (A Big Deal for Ride Feel)
- Battery Range (Realistic Expectations)
- Battery Safety and Charging Habits
- Fit, Comfort, and Practical Accessories
- Service and Support: The Hidden Feature
- FAQ: Electric Bike Questions People Actually Ask
- Real-World Experiences: What Life With a 2023 E-Bike Feels Like (About )
- Conclusion
Electric bikes had a big “main character” year in 2023. Prices finally started acting normal again, commuter models got smarter
(hello, torque sensors), and cargo e-bikes kept proving a shocking truth: your car is mostly just an expensive grocery basket.
Whether you wanted a fast Class 3 commuter, a foldable apartment-friendly ride, or a trail-capable e-MTB, 2023 delivered options
that felt less like gadgets and more like… actual bicycles. With a helpful boost.
Below are the 10 best electric bikes for 2023, based on a synthesis of U.S.-based bike media testing notes, long-running e-bike review
sites, and manufacturer specs (Consumer Reports, Bicycling, WIRED, Electric Bike Report, ElectricBikeReview.com, Trek, Specialized,
Aventon, Lectric, Tern, UL safety guidance, NYC DOT guidance, and CPSC consumer safety education, among others). No hype. No robot templates.
Just practical picks, honest tradeoffs, and the kind of details that actually matter when you’re spending real money.
How We Picked the Best Electric Bikes for 2023
“Best” is personal. The best e-bike for a hilly commute is not the best e-bike for a third-floor walk-up. So instead of chasing one
mythical unicorn bike, we chose winners across the most common real-life needs.
- Ride feel: Torque-sensor bikes and well-tuned mid-drives tend to feel more natural than basic cadence-only assist.
- Use case fit: Commuting, folding/storage, hauling cargo, and trail riding each require different geometry and components.
- Practical range: We focused on realistic expectations, not “downhill with a tailwind while whispering encouragement to the battery.”
- Braking & control: Hydraulic disc brakes, stable handling, and sensible tires matter more than braggy top-speed numbers.
- Ownership reality: Serviceability, parts availability, warranty support, and battery safety standards are big deals.
Quick Comparison: The Top Electric Bikes of 2023
Here’s a fast snapshot before we dive into the full e-bike reviews. Price ranges are typical U.S. MSRP ballparks in 2023 and can vary
by trim, sales, and updated model years.
| Pick | Best For | Typical Class | Typical Price Range (2023) | Why It Made the List |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aventon Level.2 | Everyday commuting value | Class 2 / 3 (config-dependent) | $1,700–$2,000 | Torque sensor + commuter kit at a sane price |
| Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 | Premium daily transportation | Class 3 | $3,500–$4,500 | Refined mid-drive feel, shop support, strong integration |
| Trek Allant+ 7 | Fast, polished commuting | Class 3 | $3,500–$4,500 | Bosch system + stable, confident urban handling |
| Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus | Comfort + all-terrain cruising | Class 2 | $1,600–$2,100 | Fat tires + approachable adventure vibe |
| Lectric XP 3.0 | Folding value | Class 2 | $1,000–$1,300 | Huge popularity, compact storage, strong bang-for-buck |
| Ride1Up 700 Series | Do-it-all direct-to-consumer value | Class 3 (config-dependent) | $1,500–$2,000 | Powerful hub + commuter-ready build for the money |
| Ride1Up Roadster V2 (Gravel) | Lightweight “stealth” commuting | Class 3 (assist-limited) | $1,200–$1,600 | Belt drive + low-maintenance minimalism |
| Propella 7S | Simple, light urban riding | Class 1 | $1,200–$1,500 | Light feel + sensible power for city trips |
| Tern GSD S10 | Car replacement cargo hauling | Class 1 (typical) | $5,000–$7,000+ | Compact cargo genius + Bosch cargo system |
| Specialized Turbo Levo (Comp/variants) | Trail riding and climbing | Class 1 (trail-typical) | $5,500–$8,000+ | Benchmark e-MTB performance and control |
The 10 Best Electric Bikes for 2023
1) Aventon Level.2 Best Value Commuter E-Bike
If your goal is a reliable commuter electric bike that feels more “bike” than “on/off scooter,” the Level.2 hit a sweet spot in 2023.
The headline upgrade is the torque sensor, which makes assist respond to how hard you’re pedaling. Translation: starts feel smoother,
hills feel more natural, and you’re less likely to do that awkward “ghost pedaling” thing at intersections.
Why it stands out
- Commuter-ready out of the box: rack, fenders, and lights mean you can actually use it for errands.
- Balanced comfort: upright geometry plus a suspension fork helps on potholes and rough city streets.
- Strong value: features that used to be “premium-only” showed up at a friendlier price tier.
Potential dealbreakers
- Weight: like many commuter e-bikes, it’s not a joy to carry upstairs.
- Storage: a rack-equipped commuter takes up more space than a minimalist city bike.
Best for: daily commuting, mixed errands, riders who want a natural pedal-assist feel without premium pricing.
2) Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Best Premium Daily Driver
The Turbo Vado line has long been a “buy once, cry once, ride forever” kind of option. In 2023, the Vado 4.0 remained a top pick for
riders who want a refined, powerful commuter e-bike with strong dealer support. The mid-drive system delivers a smooth, predictable push,
especially when starting or climbing.
Why it stands out
- Mid-drive feel: excellent for hills, stop-and-go riding, and consistent power delivery.
- Commuter integration: lights, fenders, and practical accessories are often part of the package.
- Service network: local bike shops can be a huge advantage for maintenance and warranty support.
Potential dealbreakers
- Price: premium bikes cost premium money. Your wallet may request a moment of silence.
- Overkill risk: if your commute is flat and short, you may not need this much sophistication.
Best for: serious commuters, frequent riders, and anyone who values shop support and a polished ride.
3) Trek Allant+ 7 Best Fast, Confident Class 3 Commuter
Some commuters want “assist.” Others want “assist, but make it brisk.” The Allant+ 7 is built around Bosch’s ecosystem and is designed
to feel stable at speed, which matters when you’re mixing with traffic or covering longer distances.
Why it stands out
- Bosch system: widely supported, consistent performance, and solid integration options.
- Urban stability: confident handling helps on busy streets and faster commutes.
- Commuter polish: a “finished” feellike it was designed for transportation, not weekend novelty.
Potential dealbreakers
- Cost: you’re paying for premium components and ecosystem support.
- Speed responsibility: Class 3 riding demands attention, control, and smart route choices.
Best for: longer commutes, riders who want a high-quality Class 3 e-bike, and people who hate arriving sweaty.
4) Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus Best Fat-Tire Comfort Cruiser
The RadRover 6 Plus became a common recommendation because it’s approachable, comfortable, and happy to roll over sketchy pavement.
The fat tires add cushion and confidence, and the overall vibe leans “joyride that accidentally turns into errands.”
Why it stands out
- Fat tires: smoother ride on broken streets, gravel paths, and uneven surfaces.
- Friendly handling: stable and confidence-boosting for newer e-bike riders.
- Versatility: fun for recreation, practical enough for commuting.
Potential dealbreakers
- Bulky footprint: fat tires + big frame can be a storage challenge.
- Not lightweight: this is not your “carry it up three flights like a baguette” bike.
Best for: comfort-focused riders, mixed terrain cruising, and anyone who wants an “adventure commuter” feel.
5) Lectric XP 3.0 Best Folding Electric Bike for the Money
The Lectric XP line didn’t become wildly popular by accident. In 2023, the XP 3.0 stood out for delivering a lot of utility at a price that
didn’t require selling a kidney (or even a used one). It folds for storage, offers a throttle option (Class 2 behavior), and comes in a setup
that can handle rougher streets than tiny-wheel folders usually like.
Why it stands out
- Folding convenience: easier to store in apartments, small garages, or car trunks.
- Value focus: features and accessories that feel generous at the price point.
- Practical everyday use: racks and add-ons make it a real errand runner.
Potential dealbreakers
- Heavy for a folder: “folding” doesn’t always mean “easy to carry.”
- Ride feel: smaller wheels can feel twitchier than full-size bikes at higher speeds.
Best for: tight storage, mixed commuting, budget buyers, and people who need a compact e-bike with real-world utility.
6) Ride1Up 700 Series Best Do-It-All Value E-Bike
The 700 Series earned its reputation by stacking practical commuter features onto a powerful hub-motor platform while keeping price-to-performance
very competitive. Think of it as the “I want a serious commuter e-bike, but I also want to keep my budget from filing a formal complaint” pick.
Why it stands out
- Strong motor + commuter kit: good hill help with racks, fenders, and lights commonly included.
- Great value: you get a lot of bike for the money.
- All-arounder personality: commuting, errands, weekend ridesit covers a lot of ground.
Potential dealbreakers
- Direct-to-consumer tradeoff: assembly and support can be different than buying from a local shop.
- Weight: still a full-size e-bike with full-size heft.
Best for: riders who want one e-bike for commuting, errands, and fun without overspending.
7) Ride1Up Roadster V2 (Gravel) Best “Stealth” Minimalist E-Bike
Not everyone wants a bike that screams, “I AM ELECTRIC. NOTICE ME.” The Roadster V2 goes for a cleaner, lighter, more traditional silhouette.
A belt drive reduces maintenance and keeps things quiet. It’s a smart choice for riders who want a subtle boost rather than a full-on moped vibe.
Why it stands out
- Low maintenance: belt drive means less grime, fewer tune-ups, and fewer chain marks on your pants.
- Cleaner look: blends in like a normal bike (theft deterrence by “boring,” a surprisingly elite strategy).
- Good for flatter commutes: the assist feels like a steady tailwind.
Potential dealbreakers
- Less cargo-ready: minimalist design often means fewer built-in carrying features.
- Hill limitations: single-speed setups can be less forgiving in steep terrain.
Best for: urban riders, flatter commutes, minimalists, and anyone who hates bike maintenance with a passion.
8) Propella 7S Best Lightweight, Simple City E-Bike
If you want a light electric bicycle that’s easy to handle and doesn’t feel like you’re wrestling a refrigerator, Propella’s 7S stood out
as a simple, commuter-friendly option in 2023. It aims for a “helpful boost” rather than “rocket ship,” which is exactly what many riders want.
Why it stands out
- Lightweight feel: easier to maneuver, park, and live with.
- City-friendly design: built for commuting and errands, not extreme off-road missions.
- Budget-aware: approachable pricing for a “real” e-bike experience.
Potential dealbreakers
- Less power than heavy-duty models: it’s not designed to haul massive loads up steep hills daily.
- Accessory needs: you may want to add lights or cargo options depending on your setup.
Best for: city commuters, riders who carry their bike occasionally, and people who want simple, smooth pedal-assist.
9) Tern GSD S10 Best Cargo E-Bike (True Car Replacement Energy)
The Tern GSD has been a gold-standard cargo e-bike because it solves the cargo-bike problem: “Where do I put this giant thing?”
The GSD is compact for what it can carry, stable under load, and built with an accessory ecosystem that turns it into a school-drop-off machine,
grocery hauler, or small-business workhorse.
Why it stands out
- Serious carrying capability: designed for heavy loads with stable handling.
- Premium cargo motor system: tuned for hauling, not just cruising.
- Accessory ecosystem: kid seats, panniers, rails, and more let you tailor it to your life.
Potential dealbreakers
- Price: you’re paying for engineering, safety, and durability.
- Still heavy: it’s compact, but it’s not a featherweight.
Best for: families, daily errands, replacing short car trips, and riders who haul cargo regularly.
10) Specialized Turbo Levo (Comp/Variants) Best Electric Mountain Bike for Trails
E-MTBs are where e-bikes stop being “transportation” and start being “I just climbed that without crying.” In 2023, the Turbo Levo lineup stayed
a benchmark for trail performance: confident handling, strong climbing assistance, and a chassis that still rewards skill on descents.
It’s for riders who want more laps, more climbs, and more time on the fun parts of the trail.
Why it stands out
- Trail-first design: geometry and suspension built for real mountain biking, not just dirt-road cruising.
- Power that’s controllable: predictable assistance helps on technical climbs.
- High-end ride quality: stability and confidence at speed when trails get rough.
Potential dealbreakers
- Expensive category: good e-MTBs cost real money.
- Access rules vary: trail legality depends on local regulations and land manager policies.
Best for: riders who want a top-tier electric mountain bike for climbs, descents, and longer trail days.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Electric Bike (So You Don’t Regret It Later)
Choose the Right E-Bike Class (Class 1, Class 2, Class 3)
In the U.S., e-bikes are commonly grouped into three classes. The important part isn’t the labelit’s where you can ride and how the bike behaves.
- Class 1: pedal-assist only, assistance stops at 20 mph. Often the most widely accepted on bike paths and trails.
- Class 2: pedal-assist plus a throttle, typically limited to 20 mph. Great for stop-and-go, but access can be more restricted in some areas.
- Class 3: pedal-assist up to 28 mph (usually no throttle, depending on local rules). Excellent for commutingrequires more rider attention and smart route choices.
Always check local laws (and trail rules) because access can vary by state, city, and land management agency. Also: faster isn’t automatically better.
A calm 20 mph commute can be safer, smoother, and more enjoyable than a chaotic 28 mph sprint.
Hub Motor vs. Mid-Drive: Which Is Better?
Hub motors are often more affordable and simpler, commonly found on value commuter e-bikes and folding models. They can feel powerful,
especially with a throttle, but may be less “natural” in how they deliver assistance.
Mid-drive motors usually feel more refined because they work through the bike’s drivetrain. They tend to climb better, reward steady pedaling,
and often show up on premium commuter bikes and e-MTBs. The tradeoff is cost.
Torque Sensor vs. Cadence Sensor (A Big Deal for Ride Feel)
If you care about how an e-bike feels, this is huge:
- Torque sensors: respond to how hard you pedal, making acceleration and hills feel smooth and intuitive.
- Cadence sensors: respond to whether you’re pedaling, often delivering assist in a more on/off way.
In 2023, more budget-friendly e-bikes started offering torque sensors, which helped narrow the gap between “value” and “premium” ride experiences.
Battery Range (Realistic Expectations)
Range depends on rider weight, hills, wind, tire pressure, assist level, and how often you stop and start. A practical mindset is:
buy for your worst day, not your best day. If your commute is 10 miles each way, plan for charging flexibility and avoid depending on
“perfect conditions” range claims.
Battery Safety and Charging Habits
Look for reputable brands and certified battery systems when possible (for example, safety certifications such as UL-related standards for e-bike electrical systems
and batteries). Use the manufacturer’s charger, avoid unknown third-party batteries, and store/charge in a safe spot away from heat and clutter.
Safe batteries are boringand boring is exactly what you want from something that lives in your home.
Fit, Comfort, and Practical Accessories
The best e-bike is the one you’ll actually ride. Comfort matters. If you’re commuting, built-in lights, fenders, and a rack turn a “nice bike” into
a “useful bike.” Step-through frames can be easier for everyday clothing and frequent stops. And yes, a good helmet is still the best performance upgrade.
Service and Support: The Hidden Feature
Buying from a local shop can mean easier maintenance and faster help when something goes wrong. Direct-to-consumer bikes can be amazing value, but plan for
assembly, tuning, and supportespecially if you’re new to bikes.
FAQ: Electric Bike Questions People Actually Ask
How far can an e-bike go on one charge?
Many riders see anywhere from 15–60 miles depending on assist level, terrain, and battery size. If you ride fast, climb hills, or use lots of throttle,
expect less. If you pedal steadily at moderate assist, expect more.
Are e-bikes still good exercise?
Yes. Pedal-assist helps you ride farther and more often. Many people end up riding more days per week because e-bikes make trips feel doable, even when
you’re tired, it’s hot, or you’re facing hills.
Do I need a license or insurance?
In many U.S. areas, e-bikes are treated more like bicycles than motor vehicles, but rules varyespecially for Class 3. Check your local regulations,
and always follow helmet and age requirements in your area.
What’s the most important accessory?
A high-quality lock and a properly fitted helmet are the top two. If you commute at dawn/dusk, add bright lights and reflective elements. E-bikes are
fun, but cars still do not have feelings, so assume they might not notice you.
Real-World Experiences: What Life With a 2023 E-Bike Feels Like (About )
Here’s the part most spec sheets don’t tell you: the “best electric bike” is often the one that quietly changes your habits. Not in a dramatic,
montage-with-inspiring-music waymore like, “Huh, I just didn’t use my car today… again.”
A typical commuter week on a 2023-era e-bike starts with a small revelation: your morning trip suddenly has fewer excuses. You don’t need to be in peak
athletic form. You don’t need perfect weather. You don’t even need to be fully awake (though it helps). With moderate pedal-assist, you roll out without
arriving sweaty, and that alone can make commuting feel like a reasonable life choice instead of an extreme sport.
The second revelation is how quickly you become picky about routes. You start avoiding roads that feel unsafe, and you “discover” side streets you’ve ignored
for years. You learn which bike lanes are smooth, which ones are basically pothole museums, and which intersections require the defensive awareness of a
chess grandmaster. You also realize that 20 mph feels plenty fast when you’re next to pedestrians and drivewaysspeed is fun, but control is what makes it
repeatable.
Midweek is when the errands happen. A commuter e-bike with a rack and panniers turns a “quick grocery run” into a genuinely satisfying mission. You learn how
much fits in two bags (a lot), and you develop a weird pride in carrying dinner home on two wheels. Cargo e-bikes take that feeling and crank it up: suddenly,
hauling a backpack, a gym bag, and a bag of groceries is no big deal. Some riders even replace school drop-offs with a cargo setup, turning “traffic stress” into
“morning ride with conversation,” which is an upgrade no app subscription can sell you.
Then there’s chargingless exciting than riding, but more important than people admit. In real life, you charge when it’s convenient, not when the manual says
you “should.” Most riders end up creating a simple habit: plug in after the commute, unplug when it’s full, and store the bike somewhere you can actually reach.
If your e-bike lives behind three boxes and a pile of mystery cords, you’ll ride less. E-bikes thrive on frictionless routines.
Finally, by the weekend, you notice the unexpected perk: you ride for fun again. The assist makes hills less intimidating, longer paths more accessible, and “maybe
I’ll go explore” a normal thought. That’s the real magic of 2023’s best e-bike designsthey didn’t just chase more power. They made riding easier to start, easier
to sustain, and easier to fit into everyday life. And once it’s part of your week, your car starts wondering why it’s being ignored. (It will survive.)
