The world is witnessing a new trend in the automobile industry. The surge for making the commute more eco-friendly has put forward various electric vehicles that deliver features at par with their fuel-dependent counterparts. And one such eco-friendly vehicle is an electric bike, and if your budget is around $3000, we have some recommendations for the best electric bikes under $3000.
Table of Contents
- What is an electric bike?
- Why should you buy an electric bike?
- Electric Bikes Buyer’s Guide
- 1. Mountain e-bikes
- 2. Off-road electric bikes
- 3. E-bikes for city riding
- The best electric mountain bikes are:
- The best electric fat off-road bikes are:
- The best electric bikes for city rides are:
- Electric Bikes FAQ
- 1. Are electric bikes for inclines?
- 2. Which is the best e-bike for touring?
- 3. Will an e-bike run without the battery?
- 4. Do we need to pedal electric bikes?
- 5. Can you replace the battery?
- 6. Do electric bikes offer value for your money?
- Related posts:
If you are looking for a normal bike for your kid, check out our bikes guide for boys of ages between 9 and 15 here: https://www.bestof.info/best-bikes-for-boys/ or our bikes guide for boys of ages between 5 and 8 here: https://www.bestof.info/best-bikes-for-young-boys/
What is an electric bike?
Electric bikes look similar to traditional bikes but have a motor, a controller, and a battery pack fused into the design. Many people take the term “electric bike” in association with electric motorcycles or scooters, but they are similar to your same old typical bicycles, however, with electrical components.
Why should you buy an electric bike?
As we mentioned earlier, electric bikes or e-bikes emit no harmful pollution and is very easy to ride. E-bikes offer excellent versatility and can adjust to any terrain, and features like pedal-assist and gears make your ride even more effortless and convenient.
For instance, if you like riding along treacherous mountain terrains, then opting for an electric mountain bike rather than a regular bicycle will help you get through the course without breaking much sweat. Likewise, there are e-bikes for off-road and city rides that take your riding experience to a whole new level.
Overall, it is a smart choice over traditional bicycles and worth your money.
But how do you decide which one to buy? Well, we’ve come up with a buyer’s guide to help you decide better.
Electric Bikes Buyer’s Guide
There are several things to consider before you lock into your riding-partner. Different people buy e-bikes for different purposes and terrains. For instance, an e-bike meant for city riding may not perform well on off-road patches, and vice-versa.
You can find a lot of choices out there, but for this guide, we have chosen only three categories: Mountain e-bikes, off-road electric bikes, and e-bikes for city rides. Below are some of the points you need to consider before making your purchase.
1. Mountain e-bikes
As the name suggests, mountain e-bikes have so much to face while on a trip that you might want to consider a bike that can handle those hard-hitting jumps effortlessly. If you are looking for a mountain e-bike, you might want to look out for an e-bike with these crucial features.
- A lightweight yet sturdy frame (Aluminum or carbon fiber)
- Powerful motor (250W to 500W)
- Excellent suspension setup
- Excellent braking systems (dual disc brakes or hydraulic brakes)
- Long battery life
- Rugged tires for superior grip on the surface
- Other essentials such as headlights and smart meters
2. Off-road electric bikes
Off-road electric bikes bear similarities with mountain bikes, and you need to look out for similar features while choosing your off-road e-bike. One thing you might want to consider is a powerful motor that you would probably need while handling off-road courses.
An off-road course may sometime land you into muddy lanes where you would want to get out with your bike and not with your legs carrying the bike. These kinds of situations demand extra power, and hence it’s worth going for a superior motor.
3. E-bikes for city riding
E-bikes for city riding are the most common platform, and there are plenty of options in this category. These everyday bikes deliver well in comfort and experience and make your riding hassle-free. These are some of the features that you should for before making a purchase.
- It should offer a comfortable seating position
- Excellent battery life is a must
- It should have a powerful motor
- It should provide an excellent range in terms of distance
- Seats should be comfortable and well-cushioned
- Should have better torque for better pick up
- It should feature excellent maneuverability
To help you decide better, we have rounded-up ten electric bikes that offer fun, effortless, and convenient riding experience.
The best electric mountain bikes are:
- HXL Electric Bike 26” Electric Mountain Bike
- Emojo Bikes Cougar Electric Bike
- VTSP Electric Mountain Bike with Carbon Fiber Frame
1. HXL Electric Mountain Bike
This electric bike from HXL will tick all the boxes if you are an avid mountain ride enthusiast. The foldable bike is easy to carry and will fit comfortably in your car’s luggage space.
Mountains can be unpredictable, and you may come across jumps and rough surfaces more often than you can imagine. But thanks to the HXL electric bike’s four-bar linkage system, you will enjoy a comfortable ride as it boasts of an excellent suspension system that soaks out all the bumps.
It also has a large lithium-ion battery that helps you to enjoy your riding experience for long, and the presence of three working modes ensures that you don’t miss any fun and adventure. The pure electric mode allows you to enjoy your ride without pedaling, which lets you relax and make you feel connected with your surroundings in the mountains.
You also get pedal-assist, which helps you to attain a more customizable riding experience and a normal mode for people who like cycling the traditional way. Whatever you do, this mountain bike will give you thrills all along your way, and offer you a comfortable and safe ride.
This electric bike is one of the best if you are looking for an excellent mountain riding experience. The presence of a powerful battery works well with most backpackers, as the electric bike can cover long distances in one single charge.
The HXL’s motor comes to life quickly, and you will love the power you get after that happens. The traditional bicycle design also plays a crucial part in making your experience more realistic and adventurous.
Features that we like:
- Foldable aluminum frame
- 27-speed shift mechanism
- Energy-saving headlights
- Excellent climbing angle (30 degrees)
- Lightweight design
- Superior braking and suspension system
2. Lightweight Electric Mountain E-Bike
This e-bike is an excellent choice for those who want more adventure while riding downhill. The Emojo Cougar will convert your favorite trail into an unforgettable experience, and the best of all, you won’t have to break much sweat while carving tight corners along your path.
The Cougar features an enhanced hydraulic Tektro rear and front disc brakes that inspires confidence while riding downhill, as you can engage the breaks with minimal efforts. The suspension setup is excellent on this electric bike, which provides remarkable stability on your favorite trail or a road.
The Cougar has a sturdy and lightweight frame, and thanks to its aluminum alloy design, you get a sturdy structure that will last for long. You also get excellent crank feedback and chain response from the 500W DC brushless motor, which comes with a 27 speed Shimano tourney system.
If you face any steeper incline on your trail, the Cougar will make this task effortless with its advanced pedal and throttle assist settings, which becomes handy in these types of advanced or steep paths.
The three pedal assist settings will turn your riding experience into an incredible adventure as the full power mode unleashes 25 miles per hour speed on full throttle. And the fact that all these come with well-protected waterproof covers makes this e-bike an irresistible offer.
The Cougar offers a perfect balance between adventure and comfort. Though it is more suited for downhill or mountain trails, its excellent battery performance can allure even daily commuters.
Overall, it is an excellent choice for campers and explorers.
Features that we like:
- 48v 10.4ah Lithium Battery
- USB charging port
- Waterproof compartments
- Adjustable DNM Air Shock(rear)
- Adjustable front shocks
- Aluminum alloy frame
- Excellent charging time of 4 – 6 hours
- 30 miles range on full charge(depending on how you ride)
- 500W Brushless motor
3. VTSP Electric Mountain Bike with Carbon Fiber Frame
Coming from a manufacturer that is known to produce quality bikes, the VTSP electric mountain bike leaves no exceptions. The Air Fork suspension offers excellent stability while riding on rough roads, and mountain riders will find it extremely engaging as it is lighter and observes shocks efficiently.
The T700 Dongli carbon fiber frame also ensures that you get a sturdy body and offers excellent maneuverability. Armed with a powerful 36v 250w magnesium alloy brushless motor provides enough power to tackle uneven incline along your trail, and you can achieve excellent speed with pedal assist.
The most incredible aspect of this electric bike is its removable battery, which means you can charge it anywhere in your house without taking the whole frame near the power outlet. The MTB tire is also a welcome addition for riders as it provides excellent stability to your bike on every road condition.
The Shimano315 hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent braking power to the bike, which results in a stable and safe riding experience. You also get a superb charging time of 1 – 4 hours, which will help you get going in no time.
Overall, it is an excellent electric bike that offers full value for your money.
Why should you buy the VTSP electric mountain bike? Well, we have tried this product extensively both in off-road and city roads, and it provided excellent results well in both the conditions. The comfortable seating position, incredible ride quality, and the superb charging time make this e-bike a complete package.
The three power modes also work exceptionally well and further enhance your riding experience.
Features that we like:
- Excellent torque controller
- 9-speeds control system
- Excellent 35km speed per hour
- High-quality carbon fiber frame
- Lightweight design
- Excellent charging time
- Powerful motor
- Removable battery
The best electric fat off-road bikes are:
- Extrbici XF690 Electric Folding Bicycle Fat Bike
- Extrbici XF800 Fat Tire Electric Bike
- SHIJING 36V Fat Tire Electric Bike
- Cyrusher XF690 Folding Electric Bike
1. Extrbici XF690 Electric Folding Bicycle Fat Bike
If you are looking for an electric fat bike that offers a significant amount of flexibility, then opting for the Extrbici XF690 is your best bet. Mountain trails often consist of rigorous patches and uneven jumps, though many mountain e-bikes address this issue, most fail to provide a comfortable seat. However, this problem does not exist in this e-bike as you get a dual-suspension seat, which is soft and ergonomically designed.
The bike is incredible for off-road enthusiasts but is an excellent commuter as well. With speeds up to 50km per hour and 70NM torque, this bike will handle even the most demanding jobs with ease. The HLT100 rear suspension setup offers excellent flexibility and doesn’t allow the vibrations from the bumps to pass onto your body, which again is a good thing if your routine includes off-road riding.
The height of the bike is excellent as well and suitable for even taller riders. Though it looks and feels like a traditional bike, the performance is nowhere near it, as you hardly break a sweat riding it even from a standstill position. However, you can always use the normal mode and ride it as a typical bicycle to save battery.
You also have a smart display unit that shows you all the crucial information you might want while riding. The 3.7” large LCD screen offers excellent viewing angles even under direct sunlight. The screen provides information such as speed, distance, and keeps you aware of your battery juice.
There is no doubt that the Extrbici XF690 is an all-round package that delivers excellent riding performance. The fact that you get a sturdy body and a comfortable seating position and a comfortable seat make this electric bike hard to resist. Besides, Fat tire bikes are excellent for all road conditions and hence worth your money.
Features that we like:
- Comfortable seat
- Flexible rear suspension
- Puncture-resistant tires
- 48V 1000W powerful motor
- 170mm wheel
- Large 3.7” LCD screen
- Excellent torque
- Sturdy frame
2. Extrbici XF800 Fat Tire Electric Bike
E-bikes are transforming the ways we ride our bikes nowadays. The Extrbici XF800 will not only excite regular riders but even people who are suffering from arthritis. And why we say so? Well, it takes riding with comfort to a whole new level as you will enjoy your ride without stressing too much on your body.
The height of this electric bike is very ergonomic and suitable for most riders. The riding posture is excellent as well as you won’t feel strain even after riding the whole day. The large and fat tires also help in gripping the surface, allowing a comfortable and stable ride.
The e-bike is not all about comfort only, as it houses a powerful motor that can generate power at will, and you will be able to climb any incline or ride through muddy roads with ease. You can toggle between the three modes with ease and will be able to achieve a maximum speed of 50miles per hour in the pedal-assisted setting.
Fat tires can tackle different surfaces with ease. Whether it a sandy beach, on wet grounds, or even icy trails, the tires will offer excellent grip and stability to the rider. They are puncture-resistant as well, meaning that you won’t have to worry about being stranded in the middle of nowhere.
The battery takes 3 to 6 hours to charge, which comes in an IP65 waterproof design and powers your bike to a maximum of 60km distance in full charge depending on riding modes. One convenient feature of the battery pack is that it can charge your mobile devices on the go.
In our tests, the bike performed well in all aspects, and we have no complaints about it. The bike maintained a smooth riding experience throughout the trip, and the USB port charger was a handy feature that kept all our mobile devices up and running.
Overall, it offers complete value for your money and a highly recommended e-bike for anyone looking for comfort and thrill.
Features that we like:
- 750W powerful motor
- Sturdy aluminum alloy frame
- Smart bike computer
- Excellent LCD screen(speed, power, and distance)
- Excellent suspension setup
- Speed controller
- Excellent battery life
- Reverse charging option
3. SHIJING 36V Fat Tire Electric Bike
If you are looking for an e-bike that can make your ride on snow effortless, then the Shijing 36v electric bike is worth your attention. The bike’s design is ergonomic, and you will have a fun time riding it. The fat tires offer extreme stability in slippery icy conditions, which means you can spend hours and hours with your electric bike riding on the snow laced trails.
You will love its aluminum alloy frame that is very durable and can withstand jumps and bumps for years. The placement of the light and horn switch is convenient, and you can easily reach it with your thumb without any effort. The small power display is large enough for viewing even under direct sunlight, which displays crucial information such as battery and speed.
You also get a bright LED light that comes handy while riding in the dark. The large battery pack ensures that your headlight goes on for hours and hours, which is essential when you are riding through a mountain trail at night. And as the e-bike contains LED lights, it consumes less battery, which is again an advantage for backpackers and campers.
Your trails may become rough and bumpy, but your Shijing e-bike’s seat will never be as it features a high-elastic sponge seat that provides a comfortable riding experience. The most alluring feature of this electric bike is its anti-theft battery lock, which ensures that your battery stays intact if someone tries to ruin your riding adventure.
Why should you buy the Shijing E-bike? The product we reviewed performed exceptionally well, and we couldn’t find any cons in it. The non-slip pedals provided confidence while riding downhill, and the aluminum alloy dental plate kept the chains just in the place where we liked it.
Overall, it is a beast if you want a seamless riding experience.
Features that we like:
- Excellent wheel size
- Lithium battery
- Aluminum alloy frame material
- Up to 150 kg load capacity
- Disc brake
4. Cyrusher XF690 Folding Electric Bike
One of the most well-known manufacturers in electric bikes is Cyrusher, and the XF690 takes it to a whole new level. The ergonomic design offers a natural feeling of riding a traditional bike, but with lots of functionalities to improve your overall experience.
We loved the seamless integration it had with every component of the e-bike, and the smart bike computer displayed all the crucial information in a large screen conveniently placed in the center. You get information about speed, battery level, trip meter, and a PAS level that makes it more convenient for the riders while riding the bike.
The 48V 12.8AH lithium battery comes from the brand LG and offers a long riding range to the riders. The battery is lightweight and seamlessly integrates with the overall design of the bike. The charging time is excellent, and you can get it up and running in just 4 to 6 hours.
It’s all raw power when we take about Cyrusher e-bikes, and the XF690 also gets a powerful brushless 750W motor. This high-power motor generates excellent torque, which helps you achieve 42km/h speeds within just 10 seconds. With so much torque in-store, you will not face difficulty in climbing inclines or mountain trails.
The XF690 is more than just an electric bike. It is a complete package that allows you to enjoy your riding to its fullest. The tires perform exceptionally well on off-road and mountain trails, which inspires confidence while dealing with uneven bumps and rough corners.
Overall, it is fun to ride the bike, and the spring suspension system makes it a comfortable e-bike as well.
Features that we like:
- Excellent grip on any road conditions
- 750W motor
- Long battery life
- Hydraulic oil disc brakes
- Alloy suspension front fork
- 21 speeds
- Conveniently placed multi-function buttons
The best electric bikes for city rides are:
- T4B Michael Blast Vacay Retro High Frame eBike
- MICHAEL BLAST T4B GREASER RETRO STYLE Electric BIKE
- Schwinn Voyageur Electric Bike
1. T4B Michael Blast Vacay Retro High Frame eBike
If you are looking for an electric bike that has some retro charm to it, then the T4B Michael Blast Vacay Retro e-bike can be an ideal pick. The Vacay undoubtedly stands out in the crowd and will turn heads wherever you take it.
The Vacay is not about design only. It is an electric bike that infuses retro styling with some excellent modern features. The 500W motor offers outstanding power, and you will be able to achieve speeds of up to 35 km/h depending on the conditions.
Touring will be a delightful experience in this e-bike as the battery pack offers an incredible range of 40 to 60 km on a single charge, which means you can ride all day around. The battery is removable and requires only 5 hours to charge fully, which comes well-hidden in a leather holster and adds to the overall appeal of the bike.
The main highlight of this electric bike is its retro design. It looks good and also gives you a relaxing riding posture. The cruiser-style seat offers excellent comfort, and you will have no worries riding for extended periods.
The large 26” wheels also help in maintaining stability and comfort for the rider. The ample amount of torque on offer gets you going from the moment go, which means you can pick speed faster on the road. And if you find yourself riding at night, the large lamp will ensure that you see every bit of the way.
Why should you buy the T4B Michael Blast Vacay Retro e-bike? Retro designs have allured many people, and if that comes with modern features, it becomes an incredible deal. The Vacay is an exact story, and many riders will appreciate riding it.
Overall, it is an electric bike that offers excellent riding experience in a retro package.
Features that we like:
- Retro frame
- Comfortable dual spring-loaded seat
- Large headlamp
- The relaxing cruiser-style riding position
- Large wheels
- Removable battery
- Quick charge
- 500W powerful motor
2. MICHAEL BLAST T4B GREASER RETRO STYLE Electric BIKE
Another retro bike that is going to steal the show on the streets is the Greaser by Michael Blast. But, unlike the Vacay that featured a cruiser design, the Greaser is more themed as a cafe racer. The short handlebar and aggressive seating position make it easy to maneuver in city traffic.
It also sports many modern features in its kitty. The powerful motor comes with pedal assists that can attain speeds up to 35 km/h with a simple twist of the throttle. The battery also complements the rider and allows you to cover up to 60 km on a single charge.
The LCD screen computer on the left side of the handle is at a very convenient place. The computer displays crucial information, such as the trip meter, assist mode, and the distance available. You can also find your total distance traveled and your average speed from the LCD screen.
The designers of this e-bike smartly hid the battery and the controller in the mid-section of the frame in one classy unit. This design element ensures that there is no compromise on the retro feels that the manufacturer wants people to appreciate.
The Greaser is a classic beauty. No matter where and how you ride it, it offers sheer pleasure and fun for the riders. The short handlebar ensures that getting out of the traffic will be a breeze, and the long-wheelbase helps you to feel more comfortable and stable while riding.
Overall, it is a must-try product for retro lovers that want a modern e-bike.
Features that we like:
- Café racer design
- Comfortable seat
- Only four hour charge time
- Fat tire
- Convenient LCD computer
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Samsung lithium Ion battery
- Twist throttle
3. Schwinn Voyageur Electric Bike
The Voyageur electric bike is an excellent option for cyclists who want a simple ride with modern features. The frame of this e-bike resembles more like a traditional bike but has some exciting features that will take your cycling experience to a whole new level.
The Schwinn lightweight aluminum frame is very durable and inspires confidence while riding the e-bike. The upright riding position is also a welcome addition in this e-bike as it allows the rider a comfortable riding experience for extended hours. The battery compartment also sits low, which in turn provides additional stability to the frame.
The main highlight of the Voyageur is its adjustable suspension forks. This feature allows riders to set the suspension according to the riding condition. You can tune the coil-sprung suspension to different levels, which in turn add versatility to your riding experience, as you can set it for both smooth and rigid road conditions.
Whether you are riding on a wet or sandy surface, the disc brakes deliver superior braking power. You will have confidence riding in any conditions and be able to make precision stops with a slight movement of your fingers. The 8-speed drivetrain is also highly efficient and achieves speeds effortlessly.
One thing that e-bike owners always check is the battery life, and trust us, this bike will not disappoint you on that front. The battery provides enough juice to power the e-bike to up to 65 miles on a full charge, and the display screen that sits in the center of the handlebar lets you know when it’s the time to search for a power outlet.
Many city riders don’t want fancy looks to their e-bikes, but what they want is an excellent commuting ride. The Voyageur is the ideal product that fits all these expectations and delivers a simple yet modern way of commuting without much effort.
Overall, it is a perfect fit for those people who drive through city traffic.
Features that we like:
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- LCD screen
- 8-speed drivetrain
- Up to 65 miles per charge
- Tektro mechanical disc brakes
- Adjustable suspension forks
- Comfortable seat
Electric Bikes FAQ
1. Are electric bikes for inclines?
Yes, electric bikes can scale inclines with ease. As most of the e-bikes come with powerful motors, they can go up a hill quite comfortably. However, for best results, you might have to stick with an electric mountain bike.
2. Which is the best e-bike for touring?
You can pick any e-bike from this list, but we recommend the Vacay from Michael Blast as your perfect option. The comfortable cruiser-style design makes it the perfect e-bike for touring, plus you get a large capacity battery as well.
3. Will an e-bike run without the battery?
Yes, it does run without the battery. E-bikes run on the same ideology as any other traditional bikes, and you can pedal them just like typical bicycles. The only difference that they have is electrical components.
4. Do we need to pedal electric bikes?
Many of you might be having this question, and it fits into the context as well. The name e-bike may sometimes be confusing, and as many electric bikes also have throttle input, it makes it more complicated. Now for the answer, well, yes, you will have to pedal, but the pedaling is more fun, unlike your traditional bicycle.
The pedals are crucial for an e-bike as they help extend the battery range and motor life. Besides, e-bikes also are here to make you healthy.
5. Can you replace the battery?
Yes, you can replace the battery with ease. Many e-bikes come with instruction manuals, which explain in detail every process, and battery replacement is one of them. Some bikes feature a removable battery pack, which makes it even more convenient to replace the battery. However, we recommend you consult with professionals before replacing your battery.
6. Do electric bikes offer value for your money?
Electric bikes offer simplicity and ease of use. Whether you are an avid mountain rider or a daily commuter, an electric bike will take your riding experience to a whole new level.
The idea of reaching your destination without breaking much sweat is the most convenient factor of owning an e-bike. And if you are a nature lover and don’t want to contribute to pollution, an electric bike is an irresistible choice and undoubtedly worth your money.