With the skyrocketing gas prices, more and more people are looking for alternative ways to commute. Electric bikes are a great option because they’re environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and fun to ride!
We’ve got the best options if you’re looking for high-quality electric bikes under $500.
When you think of e-bikes, you might think of those expensive, high-end models that are out of reach for most people. But there are actually some great e-bikes available for under $500. In this article, we’ll look at some of the best electric bikes under $500 on the market today.
Four Best electric bikes under 500
It can be hard to find the best e-bike for you. But don’t worry; we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best e-bike under $500.
Let’s explore some best electric bikes under 500:
1. Swagtron EB-5 Pro Folding Electric Bicycle
Specifications
Recommended Age: 12+ Years
Battery Type: Lithium
Bluetooth Enabled: No
Brake Type: V-Brakes
Color: Black, White
Maximum Load: 264.5 lbs
Speed: 15.5 mph
Terrain Type: Flat Terrain
Description:
If you’re looking for an affordable and high-quality electric bike, the Swagtron swag cycle EB-5 Pro Folding Electric e-bike is a great option. It’s made with a lightweight aluminum alloy frame and can fold up to easily store and transport. You can reach speeds of up to 15 mph, and it has a range of up to 15 miles on a single charge. You can fold it; plus, it comes with a 90-day warranty period.
Pros
- It has a range of up to 15 miles on a single charge
- Folds
- Made with a lightweight aluminum frame
- It comes with 90 days of the warranty period
Cons
- Some users found the e-bike to be difficult to assemble
2. Ancheer Mini-Size 12 Inch Wheel 350W Folding Electric Bike
Specification:
Recommended Age: 16-60
Frame Material: aluminum alloy frame
Design: Dolphin Shape
Weight: 15kg
Max Speed: 25km
Load Capacity: up to 120kg
Support System: Bluetooth
Description
The Ancheer folding electric bike is an excellent option for a lightweight and affordable electric bike. It has a durable alloy frame and a rear disc brake for safety. The lithium battery gives you up to 25km of range, and you can fold the bike. The bike also has a Bluetooth system that allows you to control it with your smartphone, making it an ideal electric bike for long routes.
Pros:
Bluetooth system for easy smartphone control
– Durable alloy frame
– Lightweight and affordable
– Disc brake for safety
Cons:
– Limited range of 25km
– No suspension system
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3. Windway Folding Electric Bike
Specifications
Riding Modes: Three riding modes
Battery: Lithium-ion front battery
Cruise Control: Yes
Description:
The Windway Folding Electric Mountain Bike is a great option for an affordable and lightweight foldable bike. It has a durable alloy frame and features 3 smart cycling modes, perfect for city commuting or weekend rides. The front battery provides up to 36V of power, and the bike also has cruise control for a smooth and comfortable ride.
It is a great buy if you are looking for a cheap electric bike that is easy to fold and transport. The Windway Folding Electric Bike is a great choice for affordable and lightweight electric bicycles.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight and durable
- Features 3 smart cycling modes
- Has cruise control
Cons:
- No suspension system
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3. NAKTO Camel 26″ 250W Cargo Electric Bicycle
Specifications
Gears: SHIMANO Push-Button 6 speed
Battery: Durable Lithium Cell Battery (In A Sealed Removable pack)
Maximum speed: 18 mph
Motor: 250W high-speed brushless gear motors
Frame: High-strength carbon steel
Brakes: High-quality Front V Brake, Rear Expansion Brake
Description
The NAKTO Camel electric bike is another excellent choice for those looking for an e-bike on a budget. This bike has a high-speed brushless gear motor and can reach speeds up to 18 mph. It also has a SHIMANO push-button 6-speed gear system and high-quality front and rear brakes. The frame is made from high-strength carbon steel, and the tires are CST fat tires 26″ x 4.0″. This bike also comes with a 36V*10/12AH lithium cell battery that is lightweight and durable. The best thing is its affordability and durability.
Pros:
- Can reach speeds of up to 18 mph
- SHIMANO push-button 6-speed gear system
- High-quality front and rear brakes
- It is made from high-quality carbon steel
- Lightweight and durable lithium cell battery
Cons:
- It may be heavy for some people
What to Consider While Buying the Best Electric Bikes Under $500
An electric bike, also known as an e-bike, is a bicycle that’s powered by an electric motor. The motor is usually located in the front or rear wheel and helps propel the bike forward. Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a great way to get around with a pedal-assist mode.
Now that we’ve gone over some of the best e-bikes under $500, let’s talk about what you should consider before buying the best electric bike.
1. Budget
The first thing you’ll want to consider is your budget. How much are you willing to spend on the best electric bike? Keep in mind that the more you spend, the better quality bike you’ll get. However, there are still great options available even if you’re on a tight budget. All you need to do is do a little research to find the best deal.
2. Usage
Another important factor to consider is how you plan on using your electric bike. Will you be using it for commuting? Recreation? Both? Depending on your needs, you’ll want to look for a bike designed for that particular purpose. For example, if you’re looking to use your bike for commuting, you’ll want one with a comfortable seat and a durable frame. On the other hand, if for an electric mountain bike for recreation, you’ll want one that’s lightweight and easy to maneuver. And, although it is not in our top four, the Shaofu folding electric bike is great for communicating on trains and buses.
3. Size
Size is another important factor to consider. You’ll want to make sure you get a bike that’s the right size for you. Otherwise, you won’t be comfortable riding it, and it may be difficult to control. To find the right size bike for you, simply measure your inseam (the distance from your crotch to the ground) and compare it to the size chart of the bike you’re interested in.
4. Features
You’ll want to consider the features of the bike. Does it have all the features you’re looking for? For example, if you’re looking for a bike with a lot of power, you’ll want one with a high-wattage motor. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a bike that’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, you’ll want one with a smaller motor.
5. Material
The material of the bike is also important to consider. Most electric bikes are made from either aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, but it’s not as durable as steel. A lightweight steel frame is more durable, but it’s also heavier. Ultimately, the material you choose should be based on your personal preferences.
6. Suspension
If you’re planning on using your electric bike for off-road riding, you’ll want to make sure it has a suspension system. Otherwise, you’ll feel every bump, and it will be very uncomfortable. There are two types of suspension systems: full suspension and hardtail.
Full suspension is more expensive, but it’s also more comfortable. Hardtail is less expensive and not as comfortable, but it’s easier to maneuver.
7. Weight Capacity
You’ll also want to consider the weight capacity of the bike. Make sure it’s able to accommodate your weight and the weight of any gear you’ll be carrying. Otherwise, you may have difficulty riding it, and it may not perform as well as you’d like.
8. Speed
The speed of the bike is another important factor to consider. How fast do you want to be able to go? The speed of the bike will determine how much power you need from the motor. If you’re only looking to use your bike for commuting, you won’t need as much power as someone who’s looking to use their bike for recreation.
9. Range
The range is the distance the bike can travel on a single charge. If you’re only looking to use your bike for commuting, you won’t need as much range as someone who’s looking to use their bike for recreation. However, if you plan on using your bike for long-distance riding, you’ll want a bike with a longer range.
10. Controller
The controller is the brain of the electric bike. It regulates the power from the battery to the motor. You’ll want to make sure the controller is easy to use and understand. Otherwise, you won’t be able to get the most out of your bike.
11. Battery
The battery is the heart of the electric bike. Without it, the bike won’t go. You’ll want to make sure the battery is powerful enough to get you where you need to go. The type of battery also matters.
Batteries can be of two types: lead-acid battery and lithium-ion battery. Lead-acid batteries are cheaper, but they’re also heavier and not as powerful. A lithium-ion battery is more expensive, but it’s also lighter and more powerful.
Battery life is another important feature to consider. You’ll want to make sure the bike has a long-lasting battery life so you don’t have to worry about recharging it frequently.
12. Motor
The motor is what powers the electric bike. It’s important to make sure the motor is powerful enough to get you where you need to go. The type of motor also matters. There are two types of motors: hub and mid-drive. Hub motors are cheaper, but they’re not as powerful. Mid-drive motors are more expensive, but they’re more powerful.
13. Tires
The tires on your electric bike are important. They need to be able to grip the road, especially if you’re going to be riding in wet or icy conditions. You’ll also want to make sure the tires are inflated properly. Otherwise, they won’t be able to grip the road, and you could have an accident.
14. Brakes
The brakes on your electric bike are crucial. They need to be able to stop the bike quickly and safely. There are two types of brakes: disc brakes and rim. Rear disc brakes are more expensive, but they’re also more powerful. Rim brakes are less expensive and not as powerful, but they’re easier to use.
15. Colors
Some people also care about the color of the bike. If this is important to you, simply choose a bike that’s available in the color you want. Mountain bikes are available in many colors, so you should have no problem finding one perfect for you.
16. Brand
Another important factor to consider is the brand of the bike. There are a lot of great electric bike brands out there, but not all electric bikes are created equal. Some electric bikes are known for their quality, while others are known for their affordability. It’s up to you to decide which is more important to you.
17. Warranty
You also need to consider the warranty of the bike. Most electric bikes come with a one-year warranty, but some brands offer more. If you’re looking for a bike that will last, you’ll want one with a longer warranty.
18. Price
Finally, consider the bike’s price. As we mentioned before, the more you spend, the better quality bike you’ll get. However, there are still great options available even if you’re on a tight budget. You need to do a little research to find the best deal.
Now that we’ve gone over some of the things you should consider before buying an electric bike for under 500 dollars, go look for an e-bike and go for the next road trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are e-bikes legal?
A: Yes, e-bikes are legal in most states. However, you need to check the laws in your state before buying an electric bike.
Q2: Do e-bikes have gears?
A: No, an e-bike does not have gears like a conventional bike. They speed up and slow down like other vehicles.
Q3: How fast do electric bikes go?
A: The speed of an electric bike depends on the motor. Most electric bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph.
Q4: How far can electric bikes go?
A: The distance an electric bike can go depends on the battery. Normally they have a range of 20-40 miles.
Q5: How much do electric bikes weigh?
A: The weight of an electric bike varies depending on the size and style. Most electric bikes weigh between 30-60 pounds.
