Electric bikes are fun and eco-friendly! They elevate the experience of using a traditional bike. They are equipped with an electric motor, making them easy to use. Whether it is in uphill climbs or smooth surfaces, an electric bike will offer a good riding experience!
If there is one thing that many people dislike about electric bikes, it would be the price. Most of the options available are expensive. Nonetheless, if you do your research, you can find some decent budget-friendly options.
If you are looking for the best electric bikes under $1000, keep on reading and we’ll look at the top options to consider.
Table of Contents
12 Best Electric Bikes under $1000 Review
ANCHEER 2019 Pro Electric Mountain Bike
One of the highlights of this top option for the best e bikes for the money is the use of high-quality material. The frame is made of 100% aluminum alloy. The front fork, on the other hand, is made of high-strength carbon steel. These materials can easily withstand the test of time.
Looking at the technical details of this electric bike, it has a mileage range or 15 to 30 miles. Meanwhile, the maximum speed is 15 miles per hour.
The bike sources its power from the 36V, 8AH lithium-ion battery. When the battery is fully charged, it can run 25 to 50 kilometers. There is also an Easy Charge Port System, which will make it effortless to charge the battery.
As shared by some users, this inexpensive electric bicycle comes with an underwhelming gearing system. This can be quite a disappointment for some, but this is common in many electric bikes within the same price range.
It has front and rear disc brakes to provide exceptional stopping power. This is a crucial feature for your safety.
For versatility, it is equipped with a 21-speed shifter. This makes it suitable for a variety of terrains, ensuring the bike’s peak performance all the time.
As an added safety feature, it has built-in lights. The LED will illuminate your path in dark environments. There is also a horn.
Lastly, it comes with a one-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Pros:
- High-quality construction
- Easy to assemble
- Great for beginners
Cons:
- Gear shifting can be better
NAKTO Electric Bike City Electric Bikes for Adults 6-Speed
One of the highlights of this option for the best commuter ebike is the collapsible frame. This makes it portable and space-efficient. It quickly folds and won’t require a lot in terms of its storage.
Aside from being collapsible, the frame is also well-loved by many because of the material. It is made of high-strength carbon steel, which is known for its durability.
The bike is equipped with a removable lithium-ion battery. The 36-volt 10AH battery is also compact and lightweight, so it won’t be obtrusive. The battery can deliver a maximum speed of 20mph. In one full charge, the battery will let you ride the electric bike for 25 to 50 kilometers.
To deliver the best value for the money, there are three working modes. You can choose from EV, Cycle, or Power Mode. You can travel without the need to pedal.
To control the bike, it has a three-speed control button. Choose the speed most appropriate for the terrain conditions.
To deliver exceptional stopping power, it has front V and rear expansion brakes. It quickly stops the double-layer aluminum allow wheel. To make it safer, the electric bike also has a horn and headlamp.
Like most of the options in this guide, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.
Pros:
- Collapsible frame
- Excellent speed
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Fender durability can be questionable
Merax 26” Aluminum Electric Mountain Bike 7 Speed
One of the favorites for the best e bikes under 1000, it comes with a 26-inch aluminum alloy 6061 frame. It has been through 210,000 vibration tests, which is an indication of its durable construction. The aluminum is precipitation-hardened, which also allows it to resist corrosion.
It is also excellent if you are looking for ease of assembly. The bike comes 85% pre-assembled. You will need to complete the rest of the assembly on your own, but the good thing is that it won’t require a lot of time and effort on your end.
If you want the best value electric bicycle that you can use for nighttime riding, you have another good reason to choose this model. It has a horn, headlight, and reflector.
The source of the power of the bike is its 36V 8.8Ah battery. The battery is strategically positioned for easy access. It takes around five to six hours to fully charge its battery. On average, you can travel anywhere from 22 to 28 miles in one full charge and at an average speed of 32km/h.
The LED digital panel is one more thing that we love in this electric bike. There is a + and – button, which will allow you to change the pedal assist level.
Lastly, the bike has a Shimano 7-gear shifter. It provides the bike with smooth and responsive pedaling action.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Excellent gearing system
- High-speed motor
Cons:
- Can be quite heavy for some users
NAKTO 26″ 250W Cargo Electric Bicycle Sporting Shimano 6 Speed Gear
This is one of the cheapest electric bikes in the market, yet it can deliver an incredibly great performance.
Despite being affordable, it is made using high-quality materials, making it durable. The frame is made of high-strength carbon steel. The same material is used for its fork.
If you are looking for a bike that you can use for long-distance rides, you have another good reason to pick this model. It has incredible shock absorption, minimizing the vibration that you can feel. You will also love the adjustable saddle that you can easily customize depending on your height.
It has a removable large-capacity battery, which is also waterproof. The lithium battery can provide the power that is enough for a distance of up to 28 miles at a speed of 18 to 25mph.
Gearing and braking will be effortless with the use of this electric bike. It has rear expansion and V brakes for great stopping power. Meanwhile, with the 6-speed gearing system, you can choose which one is most suitable depending on the terrain conditions.
This electric bike is also perfect for night riding as it comes with a headlight. The horn is also a good add-on feature for your safety.
Pros:
- Has a throttle mode
- Rugged construction
- Comfortable even for long rides
Cons:
- Can be quite heavy
SwagCycle EB-5 Pro Lightweight and Aluminum Folding E-bike
Another top option for the best electric bike under 1500, one thing that we love the most in this product is its folding design. This makes it portable and space-efficient. Once folded, you can easily fit it in the trunk of your car. It is also easy to carry since it is lightweight.
The bike comes with a triple-fold design, which significantly reduces its size. As for the weight, it is only 16.7 pounds.
The bike comes with 14-inch wheels that are capable of tackling even rough terrains. It is made of air-filled rubber that isn’t demanding when it comes to care and maintenance. The tires also deliver excellent traction.
Another notable feature of this electric bike is Auto-Guard Technology. It allows the motor to disengage automatically when you hit the brake. It provides immediate stopping power to keep you safe.
This option for the best folding electric bike under 1000 has the pedal-to-go feature, which is their version of the pedal assist. It engages the motor once you start pedaling. When you stop, it takes a little over a second for the motor to also stop. It could take quite a while before you get used to this.
The bike has 250 watts of power when you use this under electric mode. In a single charge, the battery can run up to 15.5 miles. If you want some exercise, you can also pedal it like a traditional bike.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Comfortable
- Powerful motor
Cons:
- Lacks levels for multiple pedal-assist
Vilano Proton Electric Folding Mountain Bike 26-Inch Mag Wheels
Powerful and affordable – these are two of the things that you will love in this top-rated option for the best cheap bike. It comes with a 250-watt brushless direct hub motor. It is also powerful because of the 36-volt Samsung Lithium-Ion battery. It is in an internal housing, which makes it more difficult to determine that you are riding an e-bike. The battery can run continuously for 15 to 30 miles.
The bike is equipped with a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain and EVO Twist Grip Shifter. These will help you to tackle even uphill climbs without much difficulty. You can choose from seven-speed levels depending on individual requirements.
For safety, it comes with mechanical disc brakes. There is also a headlight, which will give you peace of mind when you are riding at night.
For your comfort, you will also love how it comes with an 85mm suspension fork. This will be great in terms of shock absorption. Even in long-distance rides, you won’t feel much of the vibration.
We also love how space-efficient this economical electric bike is, which we can attribute to its folding design.
Pros:
- Comes with an easy to fold frame
- Multi-level pedal assist mode
- Excellent suspension fork
Cons:
- Can be quite heavy
Nakto 250W Shimano 6-Speed Gear Electric Bicycle
Despite being affordable, this electric bike offers durability because of the materials used. The front fork and the frame are both made of high-strength carbon steel. These materials also offer excellent shock absorption, which will keep you comfortable even on rough terrains.
It also has a couple of safety features that will give you peace of mind. It has a horn and headlight, which are great when riding at night. The V brake and rear expansion brake, on the other hand, will provide incredible stopping power.
As one of the top picks for the best cheap electric bicycle, it is capable of riding a variety of terrains. Thanks to its 6-speed Shimano transmission system, you can effortlessly choose a speed that is suitable for your ride condition.
Meanwhile, with the 36V 10AH battery, you can expect long-lasting power. When the battery is full, the approximate runtime is 22 to 28 miles in every charge at a speed limit of 18 to 25 mph.
Right out of the box, you don’t need to exert a lot of effort into its assembly. When the bike is shipped, it is already 95% pre-assembled.
Lastly, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty for this bike.
Pros:
- Comes with a built-in basket
- High-quality braking system
- Long-lasting battery
Cons:
- Seat can loosen
Columba Folding Electric Bike Color 26-inch
As you search for the best electric bike under 500, this model from Columbia is another option that should be on your radar. It has remarkable features despite being affordable.
Among others, one of the notable features is the folding mechanism, making it perfect if you are looking for portability. This reduces its size significantly so you can bring it anywhere. This also means that it won’t require generous storage space.
It is common for folding bikes to have 20-inch wheels. This model is different because it comes with 26-inch wheels. Because of this, it is capable of supporting even taller and heavier users. The tires also have an alloy rim, which is great for durability.
The frame, on the other hand, is made of steel. This is quite heavier than other common materials. Despite this, the bike is also easy to maneuver and control.
It also has a Shimano 18-speed derailleur. You will have more choices when it comes to choosing the speed appropriate for a specific riding environment.
Pros:
- Removable handle stem
- Easy to control
- Comes with an alloy kickstand
Cons:
- Plastic brake handles
ANCHEER Folding Electric Bicycle/E-Bike/Scooter 350W E-bike
ANCHEER is one brand that is often given words of praises in the market for the best inexpensive electric bike. This model features a lightweight metal frame. It is portable and space-efficient. The frame can support a user weight of up to 265 pounds.
Riding on a rainy day? No need to worry! The bike comes with an IPX5 waterproof rating, making sure that the battery stays protected from the rain.
Speaking of the battery, it is 36V, 350W, and UL-certified. The lithium battery takes only an average of three hours to fully charge.
The cruise control button is one feature that will make it easy to use. There is no need to twist and throttle. Instead, when you activate the cruise control feature, the bike automatically maintains the desired speed.
This bike won’t disappoint if you are looking for impressive stopping power. This is possible because of the front and rear disc brakes. The mechanical brake progressively stops and is effective even when the ground is slippery.
The handlebar, meanwhile, comes with a bright display that will let you monitor the battery level and the speed of the electric bike.
Pros:
- Powerful motor
- Comes with an app-assisting system
- Lightweight
Cons:
- May struggle in steep hills
ECOTRIC 20″ New Fat Tire Folding Electric Bike Beach Snow Bicycle
The fat tires make it different from the other options for cheap electric bikes for sale that are included in our recommendations. With the all-terrain tires, it handles all ground conditions. You can expect it to demonstrate exceptional traction, even when the surface is slippery.
Aside from the tires, we can also attribute the safety of this e-bike to the front and rear disc brakes. They will stop the bike immediately after engaging the brakes.
The 500-watt brushless gear motor is another impressive feature. This motor derives its power from the 36V 12AH lithium battery. It is sealed, which protects the battery from external conditions that can ruin its performance. The battery is also versatile since you can charge it whether it is on or off the bike. It takes six to eight hours to fully charge the bike. There are red and green lights to indicate the status of the battery.
To add, the electric bike is equipped with a Shimano 7-speed external gear. However, one thing that is significantly missing in this bike is a suspension fork, which makes it poor in terms of shock absorption. This can compromise your comfort.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Fast-charging battery
- All-terrain tires
Cons:
- LED controller can be problematic
Aceshin 26” Electric Mountain Bike with Removable Large Capacity Lithium-Ion Battery
When looking for inexpensive e bikes, make sure to have this on your list. Despite being affordable, you will love how it has decent power, which is more than enough for the requirements of most riders.
The bike is powered by a 36V, 8AH Samsung battery. Based on the technical specifications from the manufacturer, the battery can run up to 15.5 miles when used in e-bike mode. On the other hand, in assisted mode, it can run up to 31 miles.
You don’t need to worry about your comfort since this e-bike comes with an ergonomic design. It has an adjustable seat that you can customize based on what you find most comfortable for your height.
If you are looking for versatility, you will also love this bike. You can use it in three modes – e-bike, assisted bike, and normal bike.
The 21-speed transmission system is one more thing that makes it versatile. This will allow you to choose an appropriate speed depending on the terrain conditions. It also has front and rear disc brakes, which will provide exceptional stopping power.
Pros:
- Large-capacity battery
- Durable frame
- Ergonomic design
Cons:
- Front wheel nut can get stuck
ECOTRIC Fat Tire Electric Bike Beach Snow Bicycle
This is similar to the Ecotric electric bike mentioned earlier, but the main difference is the size of the wheels. This is bigger as it comes with a 26-inch fat tire while the earlier mentioned model is only 20 inches. The tire is large and strong enough to provide exceptional traction even on rough terrains. The absence of a suspension fork, however, can make it quite uncomfortable.
One of the main features of the bike is the S900 LED panel. The display shows everything you need to know to monitor the bike, including its speed and battery level.
The power of the electric bike comes from the 36V/12Ah removable battery. You can take off the battery from the bike and it is housed in an ABS plastic box to protect it from rain.
This electric bike weighs 58 pounds, which makes it heavier compared to most of the options mentioned above. It is because of the bigger tires. It can support a user weight of up to 260 pounds.
Pros:
- Powerful all-terrain tires
- Easy to handle
- Impressive braking system
Cons:
- Can be uncomfortable on rough roads
How to Choose Best EBikes under $1000
With too many options for the best low cost electric bike, you might end up being overwhelmed. To help you narrow down the possibilities, go beyond the cost of ebike and consider the factors briefly mentioned below.
Type of Electric Bike
When looking for the best electric bike in the world, consider which type is most suitable for your needs, including the riding conditions. The following are the most common types available.
Electric Mountain Bike
This is the best option for trail and off-road riding. It is also an excellent choice if you are looking for a cheap electric bicycle for sale. Most options for the best electric mountain bike are hardtails. This means that they do not have rear fork suspension, which can compromise comfort.
Electric Cruiser Bike
Style and comfort are two of the best things about this type of e-bike. They have wide seats and a high handlebar. They also have large balloon tires, although, it is smaller than what you will find in a fat-tire e-bike.
Electric Road/Commuter Bike
Hybrids, racing, and gravel bikes all fall under this category. They share similar characteristics, including a forward-leaning geometry, narrow saddle, narrow tires, lightweight frame, and lack of suspension.
Electric Cargo Bike
These are the mini-vans of e-bikes. They are designed to haul as much weight as possible. Choose this bike if you often carry a lot of things with you. It often comes with a stretched frame, which will provide the space you need for the cargo.
Electric Folding Bike
This is the best choice if you are looking for portability and space-efficiency. Because of their folding design, you can easily bring them anywhere. They can fit in the trunk of your car. They are also ideal if you have a small garage or if you live in a tiny apartment.
Electric Fat Bike
The most prominent characteristic of fat bikes is that they have large tires. They are better in rough terrains. It has exceptional performance in off-road conditions, as well as sand and snow. However, they are often heavier compared to the types mentioned above.
Material
A low cost electric bike does not need to have inferior materials. It is important to consider the material used because of its direct impact on the durability and performance of the bike.
Frame
The goal is to find a lightweight frame. Based on the models mentioned above, the most common options include steel, aluminum alloy, and carbon.
Wheels
Like the frame, choose wheels that are lightweight while still providing excellent traction. It should be made of materials that can withstand even rough terrains.
Speaking of the wheels, their size can vary from 16 to 26 inches. Consider the weight and height of the user when choosing the right wheel size.
Battery
This is the bike’s source of power, which makes it a crucial indicator of overall performance. Lithium-ion is the most common option. The battery should come with a waterproof case to protect it from external elements that can speed up wear. Consider how long it takes to fully charge the battery and how long before it drains.
Voltage and amp-hours are two of the most important battery specs you should be looking at. The voltage is similar to the horsepower of a car’s engine. The amp-hour rating, on the other hand, refers to the battery’s storage capacity. The higher these numbers are, the more powerful the battery is.
Electric Bike Modes
If you want a versatile option for cheap electric bicycles, consider the available models. The best ones have three modes. You must be able to use it like a regular bike. There should also be an option for pedal-assist mode, which means that the motor will help the pedal to run. Under the fully-electric mode, on the other hand, the motor does all the work and there’s no need for you to pedal.
Safety
Look at the different features that will be indicative of the safety of the e-bike. For instance, consider the braking mechanism. It should have an impressive stopping power that automatically activates once you engage the brakes. It will also be nice to have a horn and a headlight, especially when you often ride at night.
Comfort
It can be frustrating if the bike is uncomfortable, especially during long rides. Look at the seat. It should have a thick cushion and needs to be wide enough for your size. It should also have an adjustable height. An ergonomic handlebar is also a must-have. You will also benefit from having an impressive suspension, which will be effective in shock absorption.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a green and cost-effective form of transportation, an electric bike is the way to go! Consider our suggestions above for the good electric bikes under $1000. They are affordable but don’t compromise performance. Despite being easy on the wallet, they are powerful enough to meet the needs of most riders.