Schwinn EC1 electric bicycle review: a fun and comfortable e-cruiser!

Schwinn has a long and storied history of making the best bikes on the planet specifically for younger riders. That youth-first attitude is fully schwinn dealers embraced in our e-bike offerings as well. When it comes to buying things in the 21st century, we seem to have an embarrassment of riches.

I think I would prefer something a little more concrete like a numeric display, especially given the range anxiety you can get while riding this bike, but again, some indicator is better than none. Before we get into the e-bike itself, I want to take a moment to talk about e-bike ownership and what it has meant for me. I mentioned the shunning of my trusty Trek bike in lieu of my e-bikes this summer, but the reason for that has been life-changing for me. I’ve been using an electric bike and a shoulder bag for most of my shopping “can you grab me XYZ from Target” runs.

Schwinn Bicycle Company is one of the oldest and most trusted companies in the bicycle business. Founded in 1895 Schwinn has over a century of trust worthy experience manufacturing the bicycle. It’s not any wonder they have established such a solid presence in the new electric bicycle movement. Our cycling expert editors and writers choose every product we review.

The simple, somewhat disappointing truth is that the Coston DX doesn’t stack up against other e-bikes of a similar price. At over $2,000, it should have better acceleration and range, and as a Schwinn it should have better craftsmanship. It’s undeniably a great-looking bike, but the performance simply doesn’t deliver on that promise.

Electric bikes are taking over anywhere bicycles roam, including off-road trails. Few things have changed the MTB (mountain biking) space like electrification, taking trail capabilities to a new level, and allowing riders to actually enjoy the uphill pedal. To that end, we’re looking at the best electric mountain bikes of 2023. Its throttle was so lackluster and slow — especially when compared with other bikes of a similar price class — that it sometimes didn’t feel like it was powered at all. Once you’re up to speed and cruising on a flat surface, the ride quality feels smooth and reasonably quick, but the motor struggles up moderate hills.

Go up to 45 miles on a single charge, depending on conditions with the 313-watt hour rack mounted battery. Recharge in 4 hours with a standard household outlet and included charging cable. There are several different types of electric motors an e-bike can have. The first type is a front hub motor which is located on the front tire and moves the bicycle forward by spinning the tire, creating a pulling sensation.

We may earn an affiliate commission if you buy from one of our product links, at no extra cost to you. Upgrading to a larger capacity battery will allow you cover greater distances and/or ride for a longer period before needing to recharge. In terms of pricing, this is not the cheapest e-bike you can buy. But it’s one of the least expensive ones you can buy from a bike company.

Keep in mind that e-bikes are built for all different types of riders, from casual cruisers to high-octane adventurers. Also know that there are bikes equipped with features that are specifically designed for kids, women, and older riders. Whatever you want to do on your e-bike, and whatever type of riding you intend to do, we’ve got you covered. For seniors, we recommend an e-bike with a step-thru frame and upright riding position. This frame style makes it easier to get on and off the bike, and an upright riding position is easier on the lower back. The frame is also designed to be lighter for easier handling, and includes wider tires for extra stability.

This creates the feeling of being pushed – it’s that extra boost of energy e-bikes are famous for. But of course half the fun of riding a bike is using your own power for propulsion (or at least sharing the load). So I usually found myself keeping it in the second schwinn dealers or third pedal assist level out of five total levels. But while the Schwinn EC1 isn’t a fancy cruiser, it is a comfortable and pleasurable ride. The 250 W motor doesn’t sound powerful, but when I put it in the highest assist level I don’t have to do any work.