Did you know electric bikes have different classes? Class 2 electric bikes have a top speed of 20mph and can reach that speed with pedal assist or with a throttle. This is the most common electric bike class, and for good reason; these e-bikes are versatile, allowing you to get more exercise or relax on the throttle at will. You can also ride Class 2 e-bikes in the most places, as many trails (and even some entire cities) ban the use of other more powerful PEVs.
Keep in mind, the top speed of 20mph only applies to the electrical system; if you're feeling motivated (and want some exercise) you can pedal power your Class 2 cycle as fast as your heart desires!
It's hard to find an e-bike weighing less than 40 pounds, but the Argon tips the scales at just 37 pounds (allegedly). This is a road/gravel style e-bike, rocking a smooth and maintenance-free carbon belt instead of the usual chain & derailleur setup. It's quite responsive thanks to the torque sensor, with a throttle to help when needed as this minimalist ride only has one gear.
The Michael Blast brand is all about style and the latest generation of the Outsider is no exception; this is one e-bike that will have passers-by checking you out and commenting on your sweet ride! This is a minibike style which means it's small and nimble, but unfortunately, it's also uncomfortable to pedal for tall humans. Of course, that's what the throttle is for, and with a high capacity battery (not to mention an optional dual battery setup) it's got plenty of range even when only using the throttle. While style may be front-and-center here Michael Blast still builds a quality product underneath; these are the same folks behind Surface604 and their expertise in the industry is immediately obvious.
This "blast" from the past will make you feel like you're a kid riding your BMX again... except now you can cruise around at 20mph without breaking a sweat! The Soda Bike is fairly small as e-bikes go, prioritizing nimble quickness over comfort, though it will definitely be WAY more comfortable than your old BMX bike was thanks to the beefy fat tires and front suspension fork. This is a Class 2 with both pedal assist and a throttle, and a 624 watt-hour battery for plenty of range.
The FT2 is quite sleek for a trike, with an approachable step-thru frame and highly adjustable stem. Both a rear rack and a front basket are included and they're quite sturdy, making the FT2 a capable cargo hauler, complete with fenders and lights for riding in any conditions. The speed limit is adjustable as high as 28mph, but since this is a trike we recommend keeping it down at 20mph... but hey, if you're feeling like a speed demon at least the hydraulic brakes will be able to bring this beast to a halt quickly.
Have you ever looked at an electric bike and thought "I just wish I could ride that in my living room?" Well, now you can! The MorphRover has an innovative rear stand that transforms it into an exercise cycling machine that you can put in your living room or just about anywhere else. There's a companion smartphone app for different exercise programs, but the coolest part is that riding the MorphRover in exercise mode actually recharges your battery, making this the greenest e-bike ever! Cool new features aside, the MorphRover is also a sturdily-built fat tire electric bike, with quality components and some basic accessories in the form of lights and fenders.
If you're in the market for an electric minibike and on a budget, the M20X from Macfox could be the e-bike for you! It's not as sleek looking as many competing products, with a less powerful electrical system, but it's sturdily built and the fat tires plus suspension fork will let you ride on any terrain. Like all minibikes this one is not comfortable to pedal - especially if you're tall - so be prepared to rely on the electrical system, and don't get caught out on an empty battery!