Even a few years ago you couldn't find many decent e-bikes under £1,000. But as technology advances, more and more bikes are released or reduced to this budget and the collapse of previously more premium technology is taking place.
However, there are still some trade-offs we have to accept at this price point, such as battery size, engine quality and the overall weight of the bike. If you're wondering what shedding a few extra pounds can do for you, why not check out our guide tothe best electric bikes under £2,000.
With e-bikes growing in popularity and manufacturing meeting the demands of expanding facilities, there is now more choice than ever when it comes to bikes under £1,000. This includes brands you've heard of, not just flashy looking stuff that doesn't seem to last more than a few months. As they usually have smaller batteries, there are manyfolding electric bikesin this price range, so if you're looking for a cheap electric bike, you've come to the right place.
The best electric bikes under £1,000
- Fiido D11 - the best briefcase under £1,000|Buy it now for £844.99 from Geekbuying
- Eskute Wayfarer - the best step-by-step bike under £1,000|Buy it now for £999 from Eskute
- B'Twin Elops 900e - the best urban e-bike under £1,000|Buy it now for £999 at Decathlon
- Mycle Compact - the best e-wallet for commuting under £1,000|Buy it now for £999 from Mycle
- B'Twin Tilt 500 Folding - best value briefcase under £1,000|Buy it now for £699.99 at Decathlon
- Halfords Assist - the best under £600|Buy it now for £494.10 from Halfords
- Carrera Subway E - the best all-in-one under £1,000|Buy it now for £989.10 from Halfords
- An electric bike conversion kit
1. Fiido D11 - £844.99 (best envelope under £1,000)
It might weigh 19kg, so it might not be the easiest to transport on trains or buses, but the Fiido D11 is one of the company's many value e-bikes. Our reviewer said the D11 felt more premium than some other models. It has a well designed single beam frame along with 20” wheels.
The bike folds in the middle of the frame, and to make it a little more tolerable than carrying 19kg, the seatpost battery is removable, reducing the weight to a much more manageable 13.5kg. The rear hub motor isn't super powerful, but it gets the job done on flatter ground.
For more details, read our review ofAfternoon D11.
2. Eskute Wayfarer - £999 (best stepper bike under £1,000)
The biggest compromise you'll find in a fairly attractive bike is size. One size certainly doesn't fit all, but Eskute has only created one frame size that they say will fit riders from 160cm to 200cm. (Our 189cm reviewer found it a little stretchy.)
The overall performance compares quite well considering the price, with a rear center motor and a 360Wh battery. It also comes with a grill, lights and mudguards so you can set it up right out of the box without worrying about accessories. It's also one of the few e-bikes in this price range to come with a suspension fork, although adding something will depend on the riding you do.
For more details, read our review ofEskute Wayfarer.
3. B'Twin Elops 900e - £999 (Best electric city bike under £1,000)
The B'Twin Elops 900e is a cEUty bike and at just under £1,000, it's reasonably priced for the specs. It is available in a diamond framework (as above) or as a step-by-step configuration to make it accessible to a wider audience.
Decathlon suggests a range of up to 70 km, which for many would equate to at least a few days of commuting or running. A seven-speed drivetrain helps make the inclines a little less scary, though the engine could do with a little better to help riders really tackle rough terrain.
For more details, read our review ofB'Twin Elops 900e.
4. Mycle Compact - £999 (best e-wallet for commuting under £1,000)
Moving on to the slightly higher spec Mycle Compact Plus, the company has just dropped prices across its range, including the plain old Compact, which has now dropped below £1,000. The difference between the two models (apart from the frame) is the addition of suspension forks and a bigger battery on the Plus - so if that matters it might be worth the extra £200.
The Compact, however, is as it says... compact. It folds up quickly using a mid-frame hinge system and has a 230Wh battery that Mycle suggests can deliver 30km of range. It weighs 17.5kg, so it's not the lightest e-envelope. Perhaps it's more of a car bike than one you're likely to take on public transport. It also comes with a rear rack and is compatible with a variety of Mycle accessories, so it would be perfect for compact portability.
For more details, read our review ofMycle Compact Plus.
5. Dobrável B'Twin Tilt 500 - £799.99 (best value envelope under £1,000)
With an estimated range of up to 35km, a handy folding mechanism and a decent rear hub motor, the B'Twin Tilt 500 folding e-bike is great value for under £800. train, as it weighs 18.6kg including battery and motor, but you get a strong aluminum frame and tough puncture-proof tyres.
You also get a six-speed Shimano drivetrain and a 52T chain ring. To make it even more useful as a commuter or runner, it is compatible with many Decathlon bike accessories, including a child trailer and a rear rack.
6. Halfords Assist – £599 (best under £600)
For those shopping on a fairly tight budget, you probably won't find much value for your money under £500. The closest decent bike we could find is Halfords Assist, which costs £599 and comes with a front center motor and an external battery located under the rear rack.
You get 20" wheels and a maximum range of about 20 miles. That's not much, but if you're only traveling a few miles each way, it might be enough for you.
7. Carrera Subway E - £989.10 (best all-rounder under £1,000)
A firm favorite at ebiketips, even if it's been around for a few years. At the time, our reviewer called it "probably the best all-rounder I've ever tried, currently available for under £1,000". Even when it's not on sale, it only beats that price by £1,099 - but if it's not on sale and you're interested, we've seen the price drop several times a year, so it's worth the wait.
The Subway E uses Suntour's HESC 50Nm rear hub motor, which offers torque sensing - a rarity at this price point. You'll also get a 374Wh battery that our reviewer found can exceed the claimed range of 40km. Overall, the Subway E is a great value proposition for commuting, leisure riding and everything in between.
For more details, read our review ofMetro Carrera E.
8. An electric bike conversion kit
Electric bikes are more expensive than non-assisted bikes because you're actually buying an entire regular bike and then a whole load of electric components on top of that. Here's the thing: you don't necessarily need to buy both together.
If you already have a bike that you love and are interested in at least a few changes, you might want to invest in an electric bike conversion kit. Half of them are included in our guide tothe best e-bike conversion kitsit costs less than £1,000, so this could give you a better e-bike at a lower cost.
How to choose between the best electric bikes under £1,000
What kind of frame will a sub £1,000 e-bike have?
With such a tight budget, you won't have that many options when it comes to frame type. There are unlikely to be sport mountain bikes, for example. Instead, you'll find plenty of city bikes and folding bikes. Folding bikes are ideal for multimodal commuting or those with less storage space, while city bikes are also ideal for commuting and running around town in a more relaxed riding position.
The most expensive e-bikes may have a carbon frame, and while steel e-bikes are less common, they do exist, but often cost upwards of a grand. Cheaper e-bikes (and their accessories) also tend to be heavier than more luxurious models. A hybrid or e-Mountain electric bike will likely weigh significantly more than 20kg, which is something to consider if you need to transport your bike in and out of your home/where you regularly store it.
Is it worth buying an electric bike?
Absolutely! Although which bike you buy will depend on what you will be using it for. A cheap electric bike like the ones listed above can be a good starting point for those on a very tight budget. As e-bike technology develops and e-bikes become more widely adopted, their price tends to drop.
Where a few years ago you'd see at least a couple of thousand pounds, now you can get some for under £1,000 as we mentioned above. If you want something a little more reliable and premium, there are plenty of options to choose from - read our general guide to itthe best electric bikesto see what's available in other categories and budgets.
Which company is the best to buy an electric bike from?
This depends on the bike you buy. If you're buying a direct-to-consumer bike from a brand like Canyon, you can only buy direct from them. If you're buying an e-bike that's distributed through stores and online retailers, it's best to buy from a reputable place that you can go back to if you run into any problems.
This is why so many people champion their local bike shops. You may not get the best price, but for a little extra you get local customer service and often a discount on the first service for your bike.
What kind of brakes do e-bikes under £1,000 have?
For maximum stopping power, hydraulic disc brakes are the golden ticket these days and are pretty much guaranteed on any electric or hybrid mountain bike costing over £2000. In our price range, you'll have to compromise. Some even have V-brakes. They're less complicated to set up than cantilever and a cheaper option than all-in-one caliper rim brakes.
Mechanical disc brakes are on many mountain bikes and hybrids in Decathlon's B'Twin and Rockrider lines, as well as the Carrera Subway E and Crossroad E, but on budget e-bikes, you'll mostly get rim braking. They are perfectly suited to most types of riding and have been the brake type of choice for years until recently. they are not as powerful as disc brakes, which can be noticeable on a heavier bike.
What type of motor is most common in cheaper e-bikes?
On e-bikes under £1,000, you're bound to find the motor either rear or front-centre (usually the rear). Mid-range motors are more expensive, with e-bikes starting at £1,500. The full-size motor you'll get is 250W of continuous power that cuts through at 25km/h, regardless of the price of your bike. The motor may not offer its assistance as smoothly as more expensive variants when pedaling, but you're still technically getting the same average amount of assistance as you would on e-bikes costing ten times as much.
How much battery range can I expect on an e-bike under £1,000?
With more expensive e-bikes going up to 100km before needing a charge these days, you're seeing around half that on e-bikes in this price range. For example, a 310 Wh battery will give you about two to three hours of pedaling at medium assist levels. though keep in mind that for street and city driving you won't need the assistance as much, so you could get a bit more use out of it. On the trails, you'll use this help a lot more. Therefore, larger batteries are desirable.
Can I expect a lot of accessories included in a sub £1,000 e-bike?
Some high-end e-bikes are equipped with built-in lights, fancy displays and storage options, but if you're spending £1,000 you probably won't have that many extras, if any. Some of our recommended purchases include grills, mudguards and lights, but these are more the exception than the rule.
Explore the complete archive of electric bike reviews at ebiketips.
FAQs
How much should a good ebike cost? ›
Prices for e-bikes range from less than $500 to thousands of dollars. For most consumers, the higher end of the scale will be about $6,000 to $7,000. According to the NCSL, the average price for an electric commuter bike is $2,000 to $3,000, compared with $1,000 for a conventional midrange commuter bicycle.
What is the difference between cheap and expensive e-bikes? ›An inexpensive bike is likely to have lower-quality components that are more likely to break or wear out over time. A more expensive e-bike will have higher-quality components that are less likely to break or wear out over time.
What's new in Ebikes 2023? ›...
Upcoming Electric Bikes in 2023.
| Model | Expected Price |
|---|---|
| Gogoro 2 Series | Rs. 1.50 Lakh |
| Honda Activa Electric | Rs. 1.10 Lakh |
| Hero Electric AE-47 E-Bike | Rs. 1.00 Lakh |
| Hero Electric AE-8 | Rs. 70,000 |
On average, ebikes last around 10 years. That number can be higher or lower depending on the type of bike and how you use it. If you are conscientious about caring for your ebike, it can last well over a decade. However, various parts like motors and chains will need to be periodically replaced even with proper care.
How many years does an eBike battery last? ›In perfect conditions, the battery in an electric bike can last up to 8 years. However, because lithium batteries slowly decline in capacity over time, a more realistic lifespan is between 3 to 5 years. For Blix batteries, you can expect a 25,000 mile (500-800 charging cycle) lifetime.
How do I choose my first e-bike? ›- Class. Electric bikes are divided into three classes. ...
- Type of Bike. Electric bikes are also categorized according to their overall design and suitability for different terrains. ...
- Weight. ...
- Mid-Drive or Hub Motor. ...
- Battery Life. ...
- Power. ...
- Add-Ons. ...
- Serviceability.
- TYPE 1 E-Bike: Pedal Assist, is an electric bicycle on which you must pedal in order to use the motor. ...
- TYPE 2 E-Bike: Throttle Only, is an e-bike equipped with a motor controlled by a throttle. ...
- TYPE 3 E-Bike: Pedal Assist 28mph.
With high demand, supply chain issues, and inflation prices went up. They're finally starting to come back down again, and not just for electric bikes, but also regular bikes. That's good news. Ride1Up, Aventon, and KBO Bikes have all recently announced lower prices for many of their models.
What are two pros and two cons of e-bikes? ›| Pros of ebikes | Cons of ebikes |
|---|---|
| Easier to ride | More expensive |
| Keeps you fit and healthy | Heavier |
| If the battery runs out, you can still ride | Heavy without motor support |
| You can sell a used ebike and still make money | More sought after and therefore more likely to be stolen |
Class 1: eBikes that are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. Class 2: eBikes that also have a maximum speed of 20 mph, but are throttle-assisted. Class 3: eBikes that are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph.
How far will an electric bike go without pedaling? ›
The distance an electric bike can go without pedaling depends on several factors, including the battery capacity, the power of the motor, and the terrain. On average, e-bikes with a fully charged battery can travel between 20 to 60 miles, depending on the level of assistance used.
Which is the bike of the year 2023? ›Bike of the Year (up to 350 cc): Royal Enfield Hunter 350
Taking into consideration all these aspects, the jury responded most favourably to the Royal Enfield Hunter 350.
It's well-made with excellent build quality, plenty of power and battery capacity, includes great components and comes with honest marketing. What more can you ask for at this price point? The Aventon Aventure would make an excellent e-bike option for anyone that needs a single e-bike to cover both work and play…
Why is there a shortage of ebikes? ›The e-bike industry is witnessing a time like no other. Turbulence in the supply chain is being felt by 85% of businesses in the cycling industry. This is because demand continues to outweigh supply and market oversaturation is leading to shortages in critical bike equipment.
Can an eBike battery last 10 years? ›How long does a battery last on an electric bike? Generally speaking, a high-quality eBike battery can last anywhere from 2 – 5 years.
What is the longest range on an eBike? ›The Flluid-2 is described as an “ultra-long-range powerhouse” with its two removable battery packs totaling 2 kWh of capacity. That doubles the battery capacity of the first-generation FUELL Flluid-1 and enables an impressive range of up to 225 mi (362 km) on a single charge.
How many miles should an electric bike last? ›Depending on the type and quality that you select, you are likely to get anywhere from 3000-5000 miles from a set. This will also vary from front to back tyre (the back typically wears out faster) because of the additional strain put on them.
Should I charge my ebike after every ride? ›You don't need to recharge after every ride. Topping off your battery sounds smart, but over time it will reduce capacity more quickly. If you get 50 miles of range from a charge and ride 10 miles a day, you only need to recharge every three to four days.
Is it bad to leave an ebike plugged in all the time? ›Tip No.
Don't just leave your electric bike battery on the charger for long periods of time — think several days or more. When you do, you can create a situation wherein the battery will discharge leaving it at perhaps 95 percent of capacity. The charger then goes to work, topping off the battery.
Even more important, storing a fully depleted battery may be disastrous because, as we mentioned above, a lithium-ion battery will slowly discharge over time even when you're not using it. If the voltage drops below a certain point this may cause irreparable cell damage, depending on the time it's left sitting.
What is the easiest e-bike to pedal? ›
Niner RLT e9 RDO Gravel Bike
However, if you're somewhere in between and don't have space for multiple bikes, the Niner RLT e9 RD0 is the only bike you'll need. Of those I've tested, the Niner is the easiest to ride like a traditional bicycle.
| Height | Inseam | Frame Size |
|---|---|---|
| 5'7″ – 5'11” | 29″ – 31″ | 17 to 19 inches |
| 5'11” – 6'2″ | 31″ – 33″ | 19 to 21 inches |
| 6'2″ – 6'4″ | 33″ – 35″ | 21 to 23 inches |
| 6'4″ and up | 35″ and up | 23 inches+ |
Class 1: Pedal-assist only; motor provides assistance all the way up to 20 mph. Class 2: Pedal-assist or throttle; motor provides assistance all the way up to 20 mph. Class 3: Pedal assist only; motor provides assistance all the way up to 28 mph.
What is the difference between e-bike and e mountain bike? ›Both are relative in speed, averaging between 20 and 40 miles per hour, depending on the components - including the motor and battery. Mountain bikes have more powerful integrated motors, as they are more often used for challenging terrains and uphill rides compared to conventional road e-bikes.
What is a hybrid electric bike? ›A hybrid electric bike is exactly what it sounds like – a combination of a e-road bike and a e-mountain bike. Hybrid bikes feature all the best bits to create a great all-rounder that's perfectly suited to sorts of terrain. Electric hybrid bikes really shine in the urban environment.
What features should an ebike have? ›- Motor placement. This is important for the performance of the bike. ...
- Pedal power assistance. In the UK, electric bikes can have a motor with a maximum of 250 watts of power. ...
- Battery range and charging. The battery typically lasts for 25 to 50 miles. ...
- Weight.
Average Costs
The average price to buy an electric bike is between $600 and $1,000. There are also many eBike models that are much more expensive than $1,000, with some costing as much as $8,000.
So, will bike prices drop? The price of top-end bikes is unlikely to drop in 2023, but we may see reductions in the mid-range.
What happens when eBike runs out? ›When an electric bike runs out of battery, you'll still be able to pedal it to get it moving again. However, you won't be able to utilize the electric power via pedal assist or throttle-only modes.
What are the negative effects of e-bikes? ›Each battery represents 30-40 percent of its lead content emitted to the environment in the production processes, resulting in about 3 kilograms of lead emitted per battery produced. When scaled up the 40 million electric bikes currently on the roads, this is an astonishing amount of lead emitted into the environment.
What is the disadvantages of e-bike? ›
They also work well for off-road riding. The powerful motor allows you to ride without pedaling if your bike comes with a throttle. The main drawback is that more powerful motors require larger and more expensive batteries. These e-bikes can often reach a top speed of 28 mph.
Why Ebikes are better than bikes? ›The biggest difference between electric bikes and regular bikes is that the former are easier to accelerate and require less effort to ride. The motor helps propel the rider forward and provides additional assistance on otherwise difficult terrain, most notably on those dreaded hills.
What is the difference between 500W and 750W electric bike? ›The key variance between a 500W and a 750W ebike motor is the quantity of power they can produce. Resistance is often controlled better and more competently by a 750W ebike motor than by a 500W ebike motor. Electric bikes with 500W motors, for example, operate admirably on level roads and moderately steep grades.
How many watts is a Class 1 ebike? ›They have an electric motor that only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling, and the motor stops assisting once the bike reaches 20 miles per hour. Class 1 e-bikes have a maximum power output of 750 watts, making them powerful enough to tackle steep hills but not too powerful to be a safety hazard on the road.
Do Class 2 ebikes need pedals? ›Like class 1 bikes, class 2 e-bikes have pedal assistance up to 20 mph and throttle-only mode, where the motor can work independently.
Can you ride an ebike in the rain? ›Yes, electric bikes can get wet. Although most e-bikes are water-resistant, which means riding or parking them in rain is perfectly fine.
Can you go uphill on an electric bike without pedaling? ›Whilst there are rules around riding your e-bike without any pedal power, you can of course ride without having to pedal as much. The motor means you can get a boost of power as you go uphill, or let the bike take the strain if you're feeling a bit tired.
How far will a 500 watt electric bike go? ›The battery of an electric bike 500w is of the Li-ion type which can be charged on or off the bike. If you use the e-bike without assistance, it can run for about an hour. However, on assist level 1 settings, you can use the battery for up to 100 kilometers per charge.
Which is the bike of the year? ›ABP Live Auto Awards 2022: Bike Of The Year – Bajaj Pulsar N160.
Is Aventon better than rad? ›Aventon's bikes are designed for durability and performance. Rad Power's bikes are designed for portability and ease of use. This means that Aventon's bikes might be a better choice if you're looking for a bike that can go off-road, while Rad Power's might be a better choice if you need a bike that's easy to transport.
How long does an Aventon ebike last? ›
With ranges up to 40 miles on a single charge and removable batteries for easy recharging at the office or home, you're sure to find the perfect electric bike with Aventon!
What is the strongest ebike? ›The 12000W Enduro e-Bike is regarded as fastest electric bike in the world. With a top speed of 62 mph (100 km/h), the Enduro holds the title as the fastest production e-bike. This is the result of using a ridiculously powerful 12000 W electric motor, supported by a high-capacity battery.
How many years do Ebikes last? ›On average, ebikes last around 10 years. That number can be higher or lower depending on the type of bike and how you use it. If you are conscientious about caring for your ebike, it can last well over a decade. However, various parts like motors and chains will need to be periodically replaced even with proper care.
Why are ebikes banned in China? ›Users of e-bikes, which are ubiquitous in many Chinese cities, have been penalised for ignoring traffic rules and threatening public safety by mounting kerbs and colliding with pedestrians.
Who is the biggest electric bike supplier? ›Giant Manufacturing is the world's largest e-bike company. What is the best electric bike company? Giant Manufacturing is the best electric bike company.
How much does an actual electrical eBike cost? ›An entry-level e-bike without any heaped features will cost you around $800-$1,000. If you are looking for a high-quality, serviceable electric bike, the starting price tag is between $1,500-$2,500. But it doesn't stop at this point: high-end e-bikes can reach up to $14,000 or even more!
How many miles will an eBike last? ›Depending on the type and quality that you select, you are likely to get anywhere from 3000-5000 miles from a set. This will also vary from front to back tyre (the back typically wears out faster) because of the additional strain put on them.
What should you look for when buying an eBike? ›If possible, buy from a reputable local store who know their bikes. Buy a recognised and established brand. Test ride as many electric bikes as you can. Honestly assess the type of riding you will be doing day to day (i.e. what's important to you?)
How fast will a 1000W eBike go? ›1000W Ebike can do as little as 22mph as top speed and as much as 45mph! There are different types of 1000w systems.
Do Ebikes charge as you pedal? ›Generally speaking, most electric bikes do not charge when you pedal. They need their batteries to be plugged into a power outlet to be powered. However, some models offer the possibility of charging while you pedal, although this is often very inefficient.
How much does an electric bike battery cost per mile? ›
In a similar project, ElectricBikeReport.com determined that it costs between 0.0625 cents and 0.245 cents per mile to operate an electric bike, depending on the time of day a rider charges their battery.
Do I need a 1000W eBike? ›For hilly regions, you will need a 700W eBike on a flat surface with a minimum of 1000W. Above that, if your terrain is very hilly, you may need a 1000W – 1500W eBike.
Is it bad to leave an eBike plugged in all the time? ›Tip No.
Don't just leave your electric bike battery on the charger for long periods of time — think several days or more. When you do, you can create a situation wherein the battery will discharge leaving it at perhaps 95 percent of capacity. The charger then goes to work, topping off the battery.
Yes, electric bikes can get wet. Although most e-bikes are water-resistant, which means riding or parking them in rain is perfectly fine.
What is the best size for an ebike? ›| Feet and Inches | Centimetres | Frame Size (in) |
|---|---|---|
| 4'0 - 5'0 ” | 122cm - 152cm | 20" (or lower) |
| 5'0” – 5'5” | 152cm - 165cm | 24" - 26" |
| 5'5” – 6'0” | 165cm - 183cm | 26" - 27" |
| 6'0” or taller | 183 cm or taller | 27" - 29" |
...
Conclusion.
| Pros of ebikes | Cons of ebikes |
|---|---|
| Easier to ride | More expensive |
| Keeps you fit and healthy | Heavier |
Class 3: Pedal Assist top speed 28 mph
When the e-bike reaches 28 mph, the motor assistance will be reduced until a speed of 28 mph or lower is maintained. Class 3 is a much more enjoyable way to experience the fastest e-bikes as it is closer to the speed a fit cyclist can achieve without motor assistance.
That is 36.3 miles per hour.
Is 52V faster than 48V? ›The Difference Between 48V and 52V Batteries
The difference between the two is power and performance: A 52V battery delivers better performance. A higher-voltage battery provides greater efficiency, with the battery using less electricity to provide the same or better power for the bike.
Best Wattage for an Electric Bike
Some riders would never consider anything other than the maximum Watt rating, whilst others would be more than happy with a 250W motor. For experienced cyclists, a 250W motor will deliver more than enough oomph.