We test the bikes by riding them around, to see how responsive their electric motors are when going up hills and getting started from a dead stop. We also gauge the comfort of the bikes over long miles, and note the ease with which we can use their various features, such as an accompanying smartphone app. Because electric bikes are so hot, there are hundreds of models available — but that also means that there are a lot of duds out there, too. That’s why we’ve tested a number of the top models across all types of electric bikes to give you the best recommendations for your needs. The RadExpand 5’s versatility is part of what makes it so great. It’s a capable commuter, thanks to lights, fenders and a rear rack, and with its wide tires, it gives a smooth ride even on rough roads.
I like how the Marshall is a bit more upright than a standard mountain bike but in a better position for standing than a cruiser. This creates a more seamless look and functionality with both the front and rear lights. This bike comes equipped with front, rear, and bottom lights. The front and rear lights are attached to the fenders while the bottom lights are part of the battery itself. If it’s a bright night and you just want some visibility, the bottom lights work well. Otherwise, the headlight is adjustable to your preference, and the rear light is built into the fender itself.
We’re confident that in no time at all you’ll be zipping around town, pedaling on a path, or motoring down a trail in the quiet woods. This bike has some schwinn electric bike serious pep, and it flew just about everywhere we wanted it to go. We really liked its low-end torque, which made it great for getting up hills.
It’s a bit jarring the first time or two, but that’s par for the course, and you’ll warm up to it quickly. Once the electric’s on, there are three modes of assistance to choose from on that left control panel — flat, downhill, and hill climbing. We’re not saying it’s without effort, but it’s a greatly reduced effort. Uphill, however, we definitely expended a significantly higher amount of energy with our toothpick-like legs. On flat roads, shifting gears will allow you to put more or less effort into your ride as you please, allowing for a lot of levity in the experience.
It’s not just one of our favorite e-bikes, but it feels hands down like one of the year’s best electric bikes. We think the RadRunner Plus is a spectacular option for anyone looking for one bike that can do a little of everything. Rated as our top value pick among the best folding e-bikes on the market, Rad Power’s RadExpand 5 succeeds the RadMini 4, the brand’s previous folding model, in stellar fashion. Shedding almost 5 pounds and sporting a 750-watt motor, the RadExpand seeks the road less traveled with plush 4-inch tires wrapped around nimble 20-inch rims.
The only hitch I encountered was when installing the front fender. Even at the highest position, the underside of the fender rubbed on the tire, and this was before I pumped the tire up to the recommended pressure. Without knobby tires, the Marshall isn’t going too far into mud or snow, but it is great for easier trails and dirt roads. My testing has been done on gravel roads and wet, muddy trails at around 5° C with a bit of snow on the ground.
Whatever you do, you do need a good partner to help you with it. Our electric bikes are your best friend, powerful and sturdy enough to help you get things done safely and quickly. On flat roads, we found the assist useful, helping the bike along with minimal pedal input required. The gears allow you to put in as much physical exertion as you feel like.
If you’re looking for something slightly more affordable, GoCycle also sells the G4i ($5,999) and the G4 ($4,799). A 2022 version of the G4 mongoose excursion has an injection molded composite mid-frame. Then you should check out the Brompton Electric C-Line Explore, which starts around $3,000.
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The frame is the same 6061 aluminum with internal cable routing. However, the same 250W brushless geared hub drive motor is present, as well as the 7-function LCD controller. It’s the large battery with a five-hour recharge time that separates the Coston DX from the others. The Marshall has a 6061 aluminum frame with internal cable routing, along with JAK 7 mechanical disc brakes with a 180mm front rotor and 160mm rear rotor. At the front of the Schwinn Marshall is a 27.5”, Hi-Ten steel fork with 100m travel. This offers plenty of cushion for off-road riding, or in case you hit any potholes on the way to work.