Best e

By Carolin Lehmann, Leah Groth

June 5, 2023 / 1:58 PM / Essentials

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Gas prices are high. While it's not possible for everyone to make do without a car, many people are choosing to leave their gas-guzzling cars at home and hop on an electric bike instead. But don't expect a motorcycle. E-bikes are similar to traditional bikes, mountain bikes and electric scooters. However, these zippy two-wheelers incorporate a battery that charges while you pedal or can be charged beforehand, providing an extra power boost when you need it. Want to change the way you commute around your city? Read on for the best e-bikes of 2023.

Top products in this article:

Bird A-frame electric bike, $700 (reduced from $1,000)

RadRover 6 Plus, $1,399

Totem electric bike, $570 (reduced from $600)

Buying an e-bike might feel more complicated than purchasing a regular bike. When choosing the best electric bike for you, it's important to note that there are three types of e-bikes: Class 1, limited to a top speed of 20 mph, with an electric motor that engages only when the rider is pedaling; Class 2, also with a top speed of 20 mph, but equipped with throttles that can operate even when the rider is not pedaling; and Class 3, which are throttle-optional e-bikes capable of reaching speeds up to 28 miles per hour.

Choosing the best electric bike for you also depends on your budget. E-bikes range in price from as little as $400 to over $10,000. Pricier models may boast a better battery life and often weigh less than cheaper models. They can also have a more powerful motor.

The e-bikes below have a four-star rating or higher. We selected a variety of bikes for all heights and budgets.

Whether you're seeking a commuter bike or simply desire a fun recreational vehicle, you should consider buying an electric bike with a pedal assist mode. CBS Essentials rounded up some of the best e-bikes of 2023 for a variety of riders ahead.

Shop e-bikes from Amazon, Walmart and more below. Ditch your traditional bike, mountain bike or rentable electric scooter for these e-bikes that offer pedal assist to get you where you're going.

This electric road bike is from Bird -- as in, the electric scooter brand. It has a manual throttle for an instant e-boost, a backlit handlebar dash display (that displays speed, distance, pedal-assistance mode, battery life and more) and a 500-watt motor. One charge will go up to 50 miles, and its maximum speed is 20 mph. This electric bike features an anti-theft alarm.

Bird A-frame electric bike, $700 (reduced from $1,000)

This electric road bike is the No. 1 bestseller on Amazon. It's more affordable than the bike above, but only has a 350-watt motor. Its battery life can take you up to 40 miles, and it offers 21 speeds in pedal-assist mode. Adjust its stem for your height.

"The motor works wonderfully in all assist modes, and the bike is surprisingly light and responsive feeling when pedaling without any motor assist," an Amazon reviewer says.

Totem e-bike, $570 (reduced from $600)

Sticking to a budget? This electric road bike is one of the most affordable options you can find. With a 350-watt electric motor and a top speed of 20 mph, this e-bike can take you up to 40 miles in pedal-assist mode on a single charge. It has a backlit LCD display and a lightweight frame. It's made for people that are between 5'4" and 6'4".

"If you want something high-end then this isn't it. But this is just as good as most of the electric bikes on Amazon, but for far less," an Amazon reviewer says.

Jasion EB5 e-bike, $400 (reduced from $750)

This electric bike from Amazon is intended for those who are 4'11" to 5'9". It has a 350-watt electric motor, a top speed of 20 mph and can take you up to 37 miles on a single charge. It also has an LED display.

"For the price, this is pretty hard to beat," an Amazon reviewer says. "One very nice thing about Miclon is the customer service and the ability to buy extra parts like batteries. I have noticed quite a few of these budget sellers don't make it easy at all to replace things or take care of issues."

Miclon Cybertrack 100 e-bike, $400 after coupon (reduced from $700)

Rad Power Bikes, a Seattle-based brand specializing in e-bikes since 2007, has gained a significant following over the past decade and a half. The brand's loyal fanbase includes celebrities such as Justin Bieber, Robert Downey Jr. and Prince Harry.

This latest incarnation of the flagship fat tire model, the RadRover 6 Plus series, offers serious value for the everyday rider. Features include a custom geared hub motor, high-performance hydraulic disc brakes for stopping power and a semi-integrated battery that easily pops in and out for charging purposes. It also boasts auto-activated headlights, an easy-to-use digital interface, five-level pedal assistance and offers 25 to 45 miles per charge. This commuter bike is available in both traditional and step-through frames. This bike is only available in one size.

RadRover 6 Plus, $1,399

Did you know that Radio Flyer, the same brand famous for making those red wagons, sells e-bikes? There's the Flyer M880, which is a midtail fat tire e-bike and the Flyer L885. The Flyer L885 is a longtail option better suited for hauling kids and cargo. Both options offer five levels of pedal assist with a throttle-only option, a 500-watt motor and up to 50 miles of riding time. The midtail accommodates one additional passenger and up to 300 pounds, while the longtail, with room for a total of three passengers, can hold 400.

Another great perk of these family-friendly bikes with a powerful motor? An abundance of optional accessories. Choose from rear and front baskets, cargo and kid carriers, extended range batteries and even a Thule children's bike seat designed specifically for use with Flyer e-bikes. Choose from various colors (red, white and blue) and sizes (small, medium and large). Once ordered, bikes usually ship within two days.

Flyer M880, $1,799

Flyer L885, $1,999

The first electric gravel bike from Alchemy, the eRonin, might be a major splurge, but consider it the Rolls Royce of e-bikes. Specifically designed for gravel riding, the lightweight carbon gravel electric bike weighs under 30 pounds -- significantly less than many other e-bikes.

Each commuter bike is custom crafted in Colorado, with an order-to-delivery time of several months. The brand also works with you to design your perfect bike, from color and size to motor type. Just shoot Alchemy a call for more info on the bike's speed and riding time.

Alchemy e-Ronin, $6,499 and up

Carolin Lehmann is an expert in health, fitness, furniture, apparel, gift guides and books for CBS Essentials. She's always testing new products to recommend. Some of her current favorites include Stanley cups, Alo Yoga workout sets and the Cuzen matcha maker.

First published on June 5, 2023 / 1:58 PM