Electric bikes are excellent for everyone from new cyclists to experienced enthusiasts. They are great for recreational rides and for commuting with the extra range and added power making e-bikes a feasible and affordable alternative to a car. To help in your search for a great value electric bike, we’ve rounded up the best e-bikes available in Australia.
Cell Ultimo E2.0 Classic Urban City E-Bike
The Ultimo E2.0 is ideal for commuting and recreational riding. It is comfortable and rides just like a regular bike. It has a classic frame design, a quiet motor and features a rear rack with elasticated straps for carrying bags.
The battery is positioned in the rear rack and is both lockable and removable. This e-bike offers a long battery life and has a full diagnostics unit that helps keep the battery maintained for longer. This bike offers 9 speeds with an easy gear system to give the rider excellent range.
There is an intuitive display the provides all the relevant information as well as a USB charge port for charging your phone on the go. There is also an Entity Ride smartphone app where you can find additional ride information and maps. For safety and convenience, the tyres have reflected sidewalls and the bike lights are integrated.
What We Like:
- Long battery life
- 9 speeds
- All in one display with USB charger
What We Don’t Like:
- Paintwork can scratch easily
Valk 36V Folding Electric Bicycle
This is one of the best electric bikes for commuting. It features quick-release levers that mean this bike can be folded in 20 seconds for maximum portability and convenience.
Powered by a 36V 8Ah battery and a 250W high-torque motor this bike offers a range of up to 40km in pedal-assist mode. It has a Shimano 6 speed shifter for smooth gear changes and the max assisted speed is 25km per hour.
You can effortlessly adjust the seat and handlebar heights to suit you. This folding bike has urban tyre tread, LED lights and front and rear disc brakes to efficiently and safely handle all situations. There is also plenty of storage for your belongings including a saddle bag and bag rack strap.
What We Like:
- Folds away easily using quick-release levers
- Ideal for commuting
- Lots of storage
What We Don’t Like:
- Short frame
NCM Milano 38V Trekking E-Bike
![NCM Milano Trekking E-Bike, City-Bike, 250W, 48V 13Ah 624Wh Battery [Black 26]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51UQs5P4BRL.jpg)
If you’re looking for the best electric bike for adventures, take a look at the NCM Milano. This bike features a long-range battery that can last up to 75 miles in eco mode. The battery also has a USB port so you can charge your smart devices when on the go.
The 250W rear-drive motor boasts power-endurance abilities and long-distance pedal assistance. The large tyres, suspension fork and ergonomic grips make sure each ride is smooth and comfortable. The handlebar is also adjustable so you can set it to suit you.
The Das-Kit LCD display tells you everything you need to know about your trip and also allows you to adjust the battery power output as needed. This is a functional, safe and stylish bike that includes front and rear lights.
What We Like:
- Perfect for long-distance cycling
- Battery features a USB port
- Ergonomic
What We Don’t Like:
- LCD screen is simplistic
Fortis 20″ 36V 10Ah Foldable Electric Bike
This foldable electric bike is durable, reliable and efficient. It allows you to effortlessly climb hills and cycle for longer with its 36V battery and 250W brushless motor. The range of this bike is up to 40km on a single charge.
The Shimano 6-speed gears offer smooth shifting and the electric pedal assist can be turned on and off as needed. The handlebar and seat heights are adjustable to suit everyone. There is a useful backlit LCD display on the handlebar with an easy-to-read power level indicator.
This ebike has a steel frame and lightweight alloy wheels. It has a front and rear disc brake for controlled stopping and peace of mind. This bike takes seconds to fold so you can take it on public transport, put it into a car boot or store it away with ease.
What We Like:
- Easy to fold
- Low price
- Turn pedal assist on and off effortlessly
What We Don’t Like:
- Heavy weight (27kg)
Leitner Libelle 20″ Step-Thru Folding Ebike
The Leitner Libelle folding ebike has a low-step frame and a compact design perfect for saving space. This model is suitable for people 5’2″ and taller. You can select between 5 levels of pedal assistance and a top speed of 25km/h.
This bike has an integrated bike computer with a speedometer and odometer. The battery offers a range of 20-50km in pedal-assist mode. The bike comes with a number of accessories including mudguards, a chainguard, bike stand, bell and rear rack. The Samsung battery is removable so you can charge it easily and prevent theft.
The tyres are puncture resistant and have a reflective sidewall striping for added visibility. The front & rear lights are included with the ebike along with a tool-kit for quick and straightforward assembly. The bike is foldable and even the pedals fold to make sure it can fit into tight spaces.
What We Like:
- Low step frame
- Puncture-resistant tyres
- Sturdy and reliable
What We Don’t Like:
- Requires assembly
Polygon Path E5 Shimano Steps E5000 E-Bike
This electric bike from Polygon is lightweight, high-quality and comfortable to ride. It has a quick charging time, with 2.5 hours of charging offering 80% charge. This e-bike weighs only 19.9kg thanks to the light aluminium frame and carbon fork.
This bike uses the Shimano Steps E5000 System which is compact, virtually silent and provides support to make every cycle an enjoyable one. The extended range of the Li-Ion 504 Wh battery lasts up to 185km so you have the freedom to ride for as long as you want.
The Schwalbe Super Moto-X tyres are wide, anti-puncture and feature sidewall protection. They offer great balance and stability suitable for all riding abilities. The wireless cycle computer offers 4 cycle modes and you can customize the functions to suit you using the smartphone app.
What We Like:
- Lightweight
- Excellent battery life
- Comfortable
What We Don’t Like:
- High price
Aseako Alto Electric Bike
The Aseako Alto ebike is a stylish, functional and comfortable option for all. It has a semi-step thru frame that makes it easier to get on and off the bike and the handlebars are positioned slightly more upright. This bike is great for everything from the daily commute to enjoying a relaxed, scenic cycle.
The front suspension makes this a great road bike and the mudguards have you protected from those wet and muddy rides. The mid-drive motor works with the gears to provide better performance and improved hill climbing ability. The range is up to 60km per charge and there are 3 levels of power assistance available.
The Alto has a twist throttle that can get the bike moving from a standing start up to 6km/h. The bike has front and back disc brakes with an electric motor cut-off function for added safety. If you are going on an off-road adventure, the Alto can keep up with other high speed mountain bikes thanks to the off-road mode that disables the speed limiter.
What We Like:
- Versatile option to suit all terrains
- Off-road mode
- Stylish
What We Don’t Like:
- Changing gears could be smoother and easier
Electric Bike Buyer’s Guide
Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular across the country. With all the different types of electric bikes available, it can be confusing knowing which is best. This buyer’s guide looks at all of the factors and features to consider when looking for the best electric bike for you.
Type of Electric Bike
When searching for the best e bike for you, consider where you will primarily be riding the bike and what your preferred style is, this will help narrow down the choice. Here are the most commonly available electric bikes:
- Classic Electric Bike – this is one of the best electric bikes for everyday use. They are comfortable to ride and are best for tarmac, pavements and light off-road use. This is a popular choice for commuters as well as for leisurely cycles around the neighbourhood.
- Road Bike – an electric road bike is an efficient, more aerodynamic option that focusses on endurance. They are similar to classic bikes but usually have wider tyres. These are best suited to recreational cycling on paved roads.
- Folding Bike – if you are commuting and need to take your e bike onto public transport or are in need of an electric bike that can be easily stored a folding bike is the best option.
- Electric Mountain Bike – an electric mountain bike is the best choice for off-roading. The best electric mountain bike features include a front and back suspension and large tyres to handle bumpy rides and rough terrain.
- Cargo Bike – a cargo bike is great for commuters and businesses that need to transport goods as it has racks, baskets or flatbeds ideal for carrying loads.
- Low Step Bike – this is usually a classic style bike but with a step-thru frame which makes it easier to get on and off the bike.
Regulations
Electric bikes need to follow standards and regulations, these vary from place to place. Due to the regulations, these bikes have power and speed limits:
- Pedal cycles with a throttle or electric auxiliary hub driven motor can have a motor output of up to 200W and certified power-assisted pedal (pedelec) bikes can have a motor output of up to 250W.
- The speeds are limited to 25kph meaning the electrical assistance will decrease if you go over this speed and you’ll have to pedal the bike to continue at high speeds.
These regulations are on all electric bikes so even if you choose an option with a very powerful motor it will be restricted despite being able to go faster. These regulations and standards are in place for the safety of all road users.
Range
Each electric bike comes with an integrated battery. Its size impacts the range of the bike (how far you can cycle with power assistance). As a general rule of thumb, the larger the battery system is the further you can travel or the more assistance you can have on each ride.
The range estimates given by brands are often based on low power levels on flat terrains so if you will be using the bike in hilly areas or on higher assistance levels you can expect the range to be reduced.
Range Guideline
This is a rough guideline of how the lithium ion battery capacity translates into bicycle range. E bikes that are used at lower speed and support settings can expect larger ranges so please use this as an estimate only.
- 10Ah = 35-45km range
- 12Ah = 50-65km range
- 14Ah = 65-85km range
- 17Ah = 85+km
Battery Charging Time
E bikes typically come with one battery pack, this needs to be plugged in and charged when depleted. The set usually comes with a charger that simply plugs into a wall outlet. To fully charge one of these batteries usually takes 3-5 hours. The best electric bikes have batteries that will last around 3 – 5 years before needing replacing. Replacement batteries don’t come cheap so choosing a high-quality option that will stand the test of time is important.
Motor Type
The motor type and position impacts the performance of the electric bike. Ebikes have either a hub motor or a mid frame motor.
Hub Motor
This motor is common, affordable and can be position on the front or back of the bike. They can generate the same amount of power as mid-drive motors but with less effort and don’t cause chain wear. The downside is uneven weight distribution which is particularly noticeable if you choose a mountain bike for offroading.
- Front hub motor – this can help balance the weight of the bike more evenly. It also makes it easier to fix tube punctures and replace the back tyre when needed (flat back tyres are more common than flat front tyres). However, having a motor positioned at the front of the bike can cause damage to the front fork over time.
- Rear hub motor – this position benefits from a stronger frame mounting and provides better traction. This is particularly good for mountain biking. These bikes are also more manoeuvrable than those with front motors. However, it is quite common for wheel spokes to break due to the prolonged stress and pressure of the motor.
Mid Frame Motor
A mid-frame motor is usually smaller and lighter than a front or rear motor of the same power. A mid-frame motor can be incorporated into the bike frame itself which can make it less obvious that the bike is actually an e bike. The downside to these electric bikes is that they are prone to snapping the bike’s chain and usually need an upgraded bicycle chain to work efficiently. Bicycles with a mid frame motor are great for experienced riders.
High Torque or Low Torque?
A basic guide is that high torque motors are best for hilly areas and is well suited to handling larger/ heavier pieces of luggage. Keep in mind that as the bike’s power and capacity increases as does its weight.
Tyres
The best tyres are puncture-resistant ones. As electric bikes are quite heavy it can be a struggle for people to change the tyres if they go flat. Making sure the tyres are durable and can withstand daily use helps create a more enjoyable experience.
Assistance Levels
Generally, electric bikes will have 3-5 assistance levels. This usually starts from eco mode which is the lowest mode and best for flat terrains. Eco mode will generally add between 25-80% of power on top of your own pedal strokes.
Weight
Electric bikes are heavy because of the added equipment. However, some are heavier than others so keep an eye on the weight when comparing options. Some electric bikes can be over 30kg while others are around 20kg. The weight of the bike is particularly important if you need to regularly pick it up or carry it (e.g. carry it upstairs to get to your apartment or office each day).
Brakes
Mechanical disc brakes require more maintenance than hydraulic disc brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes are more efficient but are also more expensive. Due to this, it is more common to see mechanical brakes unless you are looking specifically at specialized, high-speed electric bikes.
Other Accessories to Consider
- Bike lights
- Reflective tubing
- Chainguard
- Mudguards
- Luggage rack or basket
