Thanks to the built-in electric motors of e-bikes, they’re usually easier to use, faster, better for your budget and the environment than cars and motorcycles, and more powerful for hill climbing and long commutes than the traditional ones. However, the added motor itself makes this type of bicycle more expensive in general. That’s why we’re here to show you the best electric bikes under $1000.
What makes electric bikes functional is their batteries you can recharge. Lighter batteries can already go as fast as 16 to 20 miles per hour; what more with bigger, heavier ones? You’ll see later on our list how fast some e-bikes can go.
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Best Electric Bikes Under $1000 Review
A lot of countries are already resorting to this kind of modern bike for commuting. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and check out some of the most high-quality e-bikes under $1000.
SwagCycle EB-5 Pro Lightweight and Aluminum Folding Ebike
Already pre-assembled, the SwagCycle EB-5 Pro Folding Ebike is surprisingly easy to set up despite having an electrical component. You don’t have to deal with tricky installations and the need to buy foreign parts anymore.
Both teenagers and adults can enjoy this bike. Its height can be adjusted to accommodate short and tall riders. What you need to do is to simply make some adjustments on the seat and the handlebar. Once you get it right, your position on the seat will remain steady and comfy throughout the ride.
Now that we’ve mentioned that this bike is usable no matter your height, what about its weight capacity? Even though it can be folded three times, the frame can still support 264 pounds at most. That’s very impressive, considering how easy it is to store this bike in really tight spaces when folded.
Meanwhile, the wheels measure 14 inches. They’re protected by low-maintenance rubber tires, which is definitely convenient. The tires also have excellent grip for better performance and a higher level of safety.
Even when you ride this bike at its maximum speed, it can reach 15.5 miles as long as it’s fully charged. Don’t worry; the charging time is only four to five hours so you don’t have to wait long. Just make sure to prevent using the power assist nonstop. You have to pedal from time to time.
Pros:
- Pre-assembled
- Adjustable height
- High weight capacity
- Low-maintenance
- High mileage
Cons:
- Flat tire in just a few days
- Too heavy for some riders
- Pedal assist activated out of the blue
- Can be too difficult to fold
- Significantly lower mileage in less than a year
ANCHEER 350/500W 26/27.5” Adults Electric Bicycle/Electric Mountain Bike
A good e-bike should have a powerful motor. With the 350-watt brushless motor of the ANCHEER 350/500W Electric Mountain Bike, you can move extremely fast especially when you have to go to work early. That performance remains consistent even if you commute every single day.
The higher speed you can achieve with this bike, specifically with 20 miles per hour as the maximum, is also useful for a more exciting time on the mountains and trails. You can reach your destination in no time so you can maximize your time there.
Together with the 350-watt motor, the battery of this bike will boost your experience on the road or the mountains. It’s bigger than the standard size, which is 10.4 ampere hours, to be exact. It’s also lithium-ion to last longer, possibly taking you 30 miles at most if it’s fully charged.
Perfectly representing the modern technology used for this bike, the user interface includes a big liquid-crystal display screen to show the five speeds you can set, the Motor Power Ratio, battery level, mileage, and light signal. A five-speed e-bike is quite rare since other options in stores only have three modes for the speed setting.
Speaking of speed, it also depends on the transmission system of this bike. Its 24-speed gears are designed for hill climbing and all-terrain riding. It’s definitely better than 21-speed in many ways.
This electric bike is known for its safety features and convenience, too. Its disc brakes in the front and back are mechanical to ensure power on wet surfaces.
For convenience, this bike is already 85 percent assembled. You can do the setup on your own whether you’re a DIY pro or not.
Pros:
- Powerful
- Consistent acceleration and speed on any terrain
- Hi-tech control features
- Safe to use even on wet ground
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- Flimsy spokes
- Broken components straight out of the package
ANCHEER 500W/250W Adult Electric Mountain Bike
Compared to the previous option, the ANCHEER 500W/250W Electric Mountain Bike has a more powerful motor. It functions with 500 watts of power with the same brushless motor design.
The battery of this bike is also bigger, specifically 12.5 amp hours. For every full charge, it can reach 40 miles instead of just 30.
Of course, comfort is guaranteed, too. You can adjust the length of the stem or the angle of the handlebar. These are just subtle changes, but they can make a difference in how comfortable you are on the seat.
As expected from the brand, this electric bike can be used immediately since it’s 85 percent assembled. Just follow the instructions carefully for the remaining parts that need to be set up.
Pros:
- More powerful
- Higher mileage
- Adjustable components for comfort
- Pre-assembled
- Convenient assembly
Cons:
- Inefficient motor
- Malfunctioning light indicator
- Faulty horn
- Difficult to pedal
- Hard seat
Kemanner 26 inch Electric Mountain Bike
With different riding modes, the Kemanner Electric Mountain Bike can make you more comfortable while traveling. It has these major settings: the e-bike and the pedal assist.
Both riding modes are supported by a lithium battery with eight amp hours. The e-bike mode can go 15.5 miles while the assisted mode can go further up to 31 miles. Once the battery is out, it can be recharged for only four to six hours.
Looking deeper into its system, this electric bike has mechanical brakes. Meanwhile, its transmission system relies on the 21-speed Shimano drivetrain.
And, although 250 watts isn’t as powerful as what the two previous products have, this bike has a German motor that can reach 15 to 21 miles per hour. That’s enough to climb hills with less effort.
As for the frame, it’s made of aluminum alloy with a rust-resistant coating. No wonder it feels lightweight and strong at the same time. As a plus, the fork attached to the frame to reduce vibrations is composed of high-carbon steel.
The wheels are also aluminum alloy. They work well with the thick nonslip tires. Both features will help you ride this bike on light snow and rain.
Pros:
- Versatile
- High mileage
- Fast recharging
- Speedy enough for hill climbing
- Sturdy
Cons:
- Overly tight screws
- Can be hard to assemble
ANCHEER Folding Electric Mountain Bike
The metal frame of the ANCHEER Folding Electric Mountain Bike may look too solid for your taste, but it’s actually lightweight and can even be folded. That’s because it’s made of aluminum. It’s the perfect bike for you if you’re living in an apartment or a home with limited space.
If you’re planning to try more challenging terrain with this bike, you’ll surely appreciate its shock absorption properties. The mechanical brakes will also keep you safe.
In case of emergencies, this product comes with extra batteries. Its lithium-ion batteries are removable for convenience and effective for faster, longer rides. Each one can go 15 to 30 miles at 15 miles per hour. This can stop you from being stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Pros:
- Solid yet lightweight structure
- Can be folded
- Ideal for apartment dwellers
- Superior impact absorption
- Useful for emergencies
Cons:
- Technical issues with the e-bike mode
- Breakable pedals
- Difficult to set up
NAKTO 20″/26″ 250W Foldaway/City Electric Bike
When folded, the NAKTO Foldaway Electric Bike is unbelievably compact. Unlike some e-bikes, the folding mechanism is also easier to use. You can fold and expand the frame quickly with a single clamp.
Highly recommended for the urban setting, this electric bike goes super-fast on asphalt, concrete, bricked, and stone-covered surfaces. It’s great for people running errands and exploring new places not just because of its speed but also for saving your energy to do more stuff during the day.
Meanwhile, you’ll have the freedom to use this product as a normal bike. You can either pedal the whole time or activate the pedal assist. This is a multipurpose bike, so it’s value for money.
For other details, the maximum speed of this bike is 23 miles per hour. In addition, the mileage for every fully charged battery is 19 to 25 miles if you’re using pedal assist. Recharging the battery will only take three to four hours.
Pros:
- Very compact when folded
- Easy to fold
- Designed for city use
- Multipurpose
- Can be easily transported
Cons:
- Fender can be deformed by impact
- Breakable frame
- Throttle not functioning in just a few months
- Pedals can’t be installed due to damaged threading
- Compact but surprisingly heavy
Nakto 26″ Electric Bike 6 Speed
Looking sleek and cool, the dark frame of the Nakto Electric Bike isn’t just for show; its design mainly aims for durability. The frame’s material is carbon steel, a metal with extremely high strength. The fork also contains the same material to effectively absorb impact.
This electric bike has an interesting set of brakes. Instead of the usual disc type, it uses a V-brake in the front and an expansion brake in the rear. V-brakes are also called direct- or linear-pull.
If you like riding after the sun sets, this e-bike comes with a bright headlamp and a horn. You’ll be safer on the road anytime, anywhere.
Regarding the mileage, expect 22 to 28 miles per charge. The 250-watt motor will also let you travel at 18 to 25 miles per hour.
And the best part? This product is already 95 percent assembled before you can even get your hands on it. What’s left is simply the installment of the handlebar and the front wheel.
Pros:
- Edgy style
- Strong structure
- Absorbs significant amounts of impact
- Unique brake system
- Better visibility at night
Cons:
- Uncontrollable pedal assist
- Not advised for workout or exercise because of the sudden bursts of pedal assistance
- Breakable pedals
- Moving headlight
- Faulty shifting
Tomasar Folding Electric Bike with 26 Inch Wheel
The charger of the Tomasar Folding Electric Bike is great for busy people for it can recharge batteries in just four hours, with six hours as the maximum duration. This bike can match your hectic schedule, keeping you fit despite hours of desk work. You can carry, transport, or store it almost anywhere since it has a folding aluminum frame. Aluminum is known for its lightness.
Controlling the two modes of this bike is very easy. To switch from electric mode to assisted mode and vice versa, just press the button with a big “M” on top.
Pros:
- Quick recharging
- Portable
- Folding design
- Allows different riding styles
- User-friendly control features
Cons:
- Less powerful motor and shorter battery life compared to other options
Swagtron EB-6 Bandit E-Bike 350W Motor, Power Assist
Just because electric bikes are more complicated than ordinary ones doesn’t mean kids should miss out on all the fun. With the Swagtron EB-6 Bandit E-Bike, young riders can enjoy the benefits of a motorized bicycle as well as the childhood excitement of riding a normal bike. Even better, this product has fat tires for an all-terrain experience with family and friends.
More about the fat tires, each one has a high volume because it’s four inches thick. The big rims measuring 20 inches also contribute to stability on rough terrain. The tires and the wheels can keep children safe on the seat as they enhance grip and minimize vibrations.
To improve safety, this electric bike has a freehub that can help the rider safely coast for a while without pedaling. More importantly, the dual disc brakes are easy to control.
Other features for all-terrain use are the seven-speed drivetrain and the 6061 aluminum frame. The gears ensure reliable shifting while the frame is very durable.
Pros:
- Designed for kids
- Fantastic all-terrain performance
- Packed with safety features
- Hassle-free control
- Multipurpose
Cons:
- Hard to install the wheels
- Tricky fitting of the tires
Speedrid 26/27.5 Electric Bike for Adults
While other e-bikes can be folded three times, the Speedrid 26/27.5 Electric Bike can only be folded in half. However, it’s only 26 inches, which is quite rare since it’s so small. You can store it almost anywhere or even bring it to wherever you go for it can fit most vehicles.
The features of this bike are designed in a simple way, hence its affordable price. It’s hi-tech, sure, but it doesn’t have to be too technical with this machine. It only highlights its double-walled aluminum wheels, dual shock absorption, 21-speed transmission, mechanical disc brakes, lithium-ion battery, and 250-watt motor.
For such a low price compared to other e-bikes, this product can be used in three ways: a traditional bike, an assisted one, and the electronic mode. Just control the LED meter button.
The three settings can make a huge difference in your day-to-day life, especially when you’re always traveling on busy streets. The assisted mode can help you cross the road efficiently so you can always catch green lights.
Pros:
- Folds twice only
- Extremely compact
- Advanced yet simple features
- Versatile
- Can make long commutes easier to handle
Cons:
- Heavier than other options
- May force you to have it assembled professionally because of its gears
- Uncomfortable seat
Nakto Electric Bicycle for Adults 250W Brushless Motor 6- Speed Gear
As expected from a Nakto product, this one is guaranteed to have passed the safety standard of the EN 15194. Included in the idea of safety is transparency, which is why you can see all the necessary details like the maximum speed and power on the frame of this Nakto electric bicycle. You’ll be easily reminded by its limitations, which contributes to safer rides.
For stress-free recharging, the removable battery comes with a quick-release mechanism. This bike also has a tilt saddle to make things easier when you have to recharge the battery.
There are four important features that make this electric bike travel for 25 to 35 miles per charge. It has a 250-watt motor, three modes, quick-change gears, and Revoshift gears. Turn off the e-bike and pedal-assist modes to use this product as a normal bike.
The Revoshift is known for its shifter that you can twist without removing your hands from the handlebar. This is helpful for seamless rides.
This e-bike isn’t just an all-terrain model; it’s also an all-weather type. That’s because it has mudguards on both ends, a full chain made of high-grade metal, and a front suspension. No matter where you go, you’ll stay comfortable on the anatomical saddle.
Meanwhile, this electric bike uses Kenda tires. Each tire has a harder tread yet softer knobs. It rolls smoothly despite its strong, durable grip for stopping. It also lasts longer because of its resistance to wear and tear.
Lastly, this product has a free tool kit so you can assemble it right away. In addition, it comes with instructions and a battery charger.
Pros:
- Has passed safety requirements
- Easy to recharge
- Easier shifting
- Made to endure all types of weather
- Promotes assembly right in the comforts of your own home
Cons:
- Inefficient throttle
- Nonstop pedal assist
BRIGHT GG Ebike with Removable 36V 10AH/48V 12AH Lithium Battery
With the 250-watt hub motor and the 10 amp-hour lithium-ion battery of the BRIGHT GG Ebike can go up to 40 miles as long as you know how to utilize the pedal assist, e-bike, and normal modes. Once the battery’s out, it will only take three to four hours.
For your safety, the front wheel relies on a V-brake while the rear uses an expansion brake. And, if you like to ride at night, this electric bike has a LED headlamp and a horn. Rest assured the headlamp is bright enough to be seen by passing motorists and the horn is very loud.
As for the frame, it’s composed of high-grade aluminum. It works well with the carbon steel fork since aluminum is lightweight. Other aluminum components include the double-walled wheels and the V-brake.
Carbon steel is heavier, but it’s effective for dampening vibrations. The whole structure of this bike can support weight up to 300 pounds.
Pros:
- High mileage
- Efficient recharging
- High visibility in low light
- Combines lightweight and heavy materials to ensure agility and sturdiness
- Can support heavier riders
Cons:
- Uncomfortable saddle
- Crooked fork
- Too fast in pedal-assist mode
How to Choose Good Electric Bikes Under 1000
Your e-bike’s form, battery, engine, control panel, brake, system, material, seat, and weight can make or break your experience. That’s why we’re about to explain the important factors you need to consider before buying an electric bike.
Budget
First things first, what can you expect if you resort to a $1,000 e-bike? How different is it from more expensive models? Here are the price ranges you need to know so you can compare various options:
$500
These electric bikes are categorized as the most affordable ones and are even known to be “disposable”. They’re generally made of cheap, unbranded components.
Some don’t even have pedals since they’re designed to be scooter-style machines. Their batteries are also low-quality most of the time and have a limited lifespan.
$1,000
The models in the $1,000 range are certainly a huge upgrade from disposable bikes but still classified as the budget type. Don’t expect too much from this price range since these bikes only exist to deliver the basics without making you spend thousands of dollars.
On the bright side, the mini e-bikes from this price range are quite solid and may last for years with proper care. You can’t expect that from $500 electric bikes.
$2,500
In this price range, expect the components of e-bikes to have a huge improvement in quality and durability at a reasonable price. Mid-range electric bikes have parts that come from entry-level brands in the industry and may last up to five years, depending on the maintenance process and schedule of their owners.
$5,000
Superior e-bikes fall in this category. The components of electric bikes in this price range are both from growing and well-established brands. Riders can easily feel the improved quality and performance with those parts once they start riding.
However, not all $5,000 e-bikes are of the highest quality as some brands tend to overcharge.
$10,000
First-class electric bikes come with a huge price, of course. In this price range, expect that all of the e-bike’s components are of the highest quality possible.
Downhill e-bikes easily fall in this classification. Most of their parts are internally wired. Some even use belt drives instead of chains while others offer electronic shifters which are in no way cheap.
Type
There are a lot of hybrid electric bikes in stores to meet the demands of this competitive industry. To learn more about them, we’re going to introduce basic variations as well as special designs you might prefer so we can focus on each purpose and set of features.
Road
E-road bikes are mostly designed for hobby riders. They’re typically constructed to be lighter, which makes them the most lightweight ones on this list, so they can be easily pedaled even without the pedal assist. They’re also great for uphill rides, which is important for riders who aren’t fans of strenuous hill climbing.
Commuter
Electric commuter bikes are the enhanced version of e-road bikes because they’re designed to be slightly heavier to improve durability for daily rides. They specifically have sturdy frame designs and wider wheels that can survive rough terrains. And, with the addition of the electric motor, you may choose to ride home without pedaling after a tiring day at work.
Mountain
Also known as e-MTBs, they’re considered to be the 4x4s of the biking world. Trekking, may it be uphill or downhill, and encountering tricky terrains are easier with the battery-assisted pedaling.
E-MTBs can be a hardtail or a full-suspension depending on your needs and preferences. Some of them are specifically designed for downhill rides, which is on the tougher and more expensive side of the spectrum.
Lastly, don’t limit the capabilities of e-MTBs on off-road trails. They’re also great and surprisingly stylish on the road.
Folding
These e-bikes have gained popularity because of their portability. Most of them are collapsible from the middle up to the handlebars and have removable wheels. Meanwhile, others can be folded to the point that they’re almost the same size as standard suitcases.
The problem with this type of electric bike, however, is that it’s installed with parts that are usually low-quality to avoid making it too expensive.
Also, just because it’s collapsible doesn’t mean it’s lightweight. A lot of folding e-bikes are quite heavy.
Fat Bike
Given that fat bikes are made to roll on nearly any surface, be it snowy or muddy terrains, the addition of a battery-powered motor is a huge plus. Most of them also don’t have a suspension because their thick, wide tires are enough to absorb the bumps.
The downside of ordinary fat bikes is that you’re going to feel the burn when riding uphill. However, with the assisted pedaling and throttle options, hill climbing will be easier.
Cruiser
If you’re looking for style and comfort in a bike, this might be the perfect one for you. Electric cruiser bikes mostly have wider tires, but not as wide as fat bikes, with higher-than-normal handlebars that are designed like big bikes or motorcycles as well as lavishly-designed seats.
But, electric cruisers are heavier compared to other e-bikes and less maneuverable. On a positive note, they’re great for long rides at the beach.
Cargo
As the name suggests, e-cargo bikes are bicycles that can carry cargo, be it food, a pet, or even a person. They’re designed solely for hauling, so don’t expect it to be sporty or stylish.
This two-wheeled hauler can have accessories like baskets, covered pods, racks, bags, child carriers, and the like. The accessories can be placed on all sides of the bike. And, the exciting part is that the electric version has pedal-assist or throttle options for times when you’re having a hard time pedaling.
Recumbent
Electric recumbent bikes have a chair installed instead of a bike seat for a more relaxed riding position. The downside of this, however, is that they have a lower profile on the road. They need to have some sort of signal like a flag so that the drivers can see them.
Tandem
E-tandem bicycles are made for couples who want to ride together on a single bike to reduce the effort in pedaling. They’re made with two sets of pedals as well as two seats.
Tricycle
Electric tricycles are made for riders with disabilities or people who have weak balance. The two types of e-trikes are the Delta with two wheels at the back and Tadpole with two wheels at the front.
Battery
This is the crucial part of e-bikes so pay attention to these factors:
Type
Lead batteries are cheap and mostly found in entry-level electric bikes. They’re heavy and temperature-sensitive. They also discharge quicker than any battery.
Meanwhile, nickel-metal hydride or Ni-Mh batteries are more lightweight than lead but also discharge faster. They should be discharged completely before recharging due to memory effect. Another problem with them is that they can be charged up to 500 times only.
About the most common type, lithium-ion or Li-Ion batteries are also more lightweight than lead. But, unlike Ni-Mh batteries, they don’t suffer from memory effect. They’re more expensive, but that’s just a small price to pay for they provide better performance and can last up to 1,200 recharges.
And last but not least, lithium polymer (Li-Po) batteries are a cut above the rest. Li-Po is the lightest of all the batteries with the same performance and doesn’t have memory effect, unlike Li-Ion. They can also be charged up to 1,500 times.
Fixed vs Removable
Adding a battery to a bike also means adding extra weight and price. Higher quality batteries like Li-Ion or Li-Po can automatically contribute to at least 30% of the total weight of an e-bike.
Choosing an electric bike with a removable battery means you can adjust the weight anytime you want. If you’d remove the battery while you’re still on the road, you can still use the pedals like an ordinary bike.
And, more importantly, you don’t need to place the whole bike near the outlet while recharging the battery.
Charging Time
Li-Po batteries, which have the latest design and technology use, can be fully charged in just three to four hours while Li-Ion batteries can take between three to seven hours. Most older versions take much longer.
Some electric bikes, however, offer another type of technology wherein you can charge the battery by simply braking or going downhill.
Capacity
This refers to the amount of electricity in a battery that can be generated in exactly one hour. The higher the amount, the lengthier the battery life is.
The energy or wattage of the battery can be determined by multiplying the capacity and voltage of the battery.
Voltage
The higher the voltage, the higher the power. For flat terrains and small hills, 24 volts are enough. And, for intense climbing, a 36-volt battery is recommended.
Placement
The placement of the batteries is merely based on aesthetics. Some are strategically placed under the saddle of an e-bike’s frame, depending on their weight, while others are placed on the back or front rack.
Engine
Another crucial component is the engine. Its torque determines the amount of force that can be generated by the motor. The greater the torque, the easier it is to climb steeper trails.
However, the user’s weight should also be considered because the heavier the rider, the more force is required. Additionally, in terms of the terrain, places like beaches and mountains where there’s a lot of sand and rocks require more torque.
Control Panel
The control panel is usually placed on the handlebars to instantly show your speed, distance traveled, odometer, battery life, and the assistance level. With some electric bikes, the engine can be started through the console by simply clicking a special button.
Brake
For your safety, always check the quality of the brakes. These are the two most common types of brakes:
Disc
There are also two types of disc brakes: mechanical and hydraulic. Mechanical relies on cables while hydraulic relies on brake fluid. Both have very effective stopping power, but mechanical brakes are more powerful.
Generally, disc brakes require less maintenance and are efficient even when wet. However, they’re prone to overheating.
Pad
This type of brake should be in optimal quality to be reliable. It has sufficient braking power, but it’s not recommended for riding downhill at high speeds.
System
To ensure excellent performance, think about the electric bike’s system. These designs are the standard ones:
Interconnected Gearing
Also known as hub shifting, this is a system wherein the gear changes inside the hub shell. The gear shifts can be changed using a single shifter, and the pedaling should be stopped for the switch.
This system consists only of one chainring and one sprocket. Its chain is constant and tight with no chance of derailments. Fewer moving parts mean less maintenance, and the system is entirely enclosed, protecting the chain from dust, mud, and dents.
However, when the need for maintenance arises, only an expert can change the chain or repair the system. Other disadvantages include fewer speed options and lower efficiency.
Derailleur
In a derailleur system, shifting is triggered by simply using the mechanism placed on the handlebar. Changing gears uphill can be difficult with a derailleur, but this system is cheaper, more responsive, and packed with multiple speed options.
Material
Let’s not forget about the frame. Which material is best?
Carbon
This is the most expensive type of frame because it’s the lightest one with the highest resistance to shock or impact. It’s also more flexible than other types of frames, which you’d either love or hate.
Steel
The cheaper and heavier type of frame, steel looks stylish thanks to the addition of alloy. It’s sturdy, flexible, and shock-resistant.
Unfortunately, steel frames are mostly reparable through welding only. Another downside is that they’re susceptible to rusting.
Aluminum
The lighter and cheaper alternative to steel, aluminum is the most common type of frame in this generation. It’s almost as sturdy and durable as steel but more rigid, offering less shock resistance.
Conclusion
All the products we’ve mentioned are some of the best options you can find in stores. However, we can’t get enough of the Swagtron EB-6 Bandit E-Bike because of its kid-friendly features. That can be a proof of how safe and convenient this electric bike is.
Lastly, when choosing an affordable e-bike, don’t forget to consider what type of hybrid bicycle it is. Think about your lifestyle to know for sure how the product will fit your daily needs. Other factors you should have in mind before purchase must include the battery, engine, controls, brakes, system, and frame material.