The top 7 BEST electric bikes in 2025 brings you a hand-picked selection of standout e-bikes Eilis tested over the past year, explaining why each model made the cut. You’ll get quick takes on the Engwe P275 ST, ADO Air 20, NOKOBIKE, Estarli e28.9, Cowboy Cruiser, Pedibal Maxima and Volt Lite.
The article groups the picks into practical categories—tourer, lightweight folding, safety gear, Italian, road, techy, heavy-rider and mid-drive folding—so you can jump to the type that fits your rides. If you have questions about any model, you can ask in the comments after watching Electroheads’ video and decide which bike suits your needs.
Top 7 BEST electric bikes in 2025 – quick overview
Short list of the seven picks with one-line reasons for each
- Engwe P275 ST — Best budget tourer: long-range capability and sturdy build for trips and daily use.
- ADO Air 20 — Best lightweight folding option: compact, easy to carry and ideal for mixed commutes.
- NOKOBIKE — Best style-forward urban e-bike: distinctive design with practical city performance.
- Estarli e28.9 — Best road-oriented e-bike with Italian flair: agile, comfortable for long on-road rides.
- Cowboy Cruiser — Best tech-forward city commuter: seamless app integration and smart safety features.
- Pedibal Maxima — Best for heavy riders/cargo: overbuilt frame and high load capacity for families and hauling.
- Volt Lite — Best entry-level, lightweight commuter: affordable, simple and efficient for short urban trips.
Source and context: Video by Electroheads and Eilis’s year of rides
This list is drawn from Electroheads’ roundup and Eilis’s reflections on the e-bikes she rode across the past year. That hands-on perspective — a mix of city commutes, longer tours and weekend tests — informs these picks. You get a practical, experience-based set of recommendations rather than purely spec-driven choices.
How these models reflect 2025 trends in range, weight and tech
In 2025 you’ll notice three clear trends: improved range through larger and more efficient batteries, lighter designs especially in folding and commuter models, and deeper tech integration — apps, theft detection, OTA firmware updates and sensor suites. These seven bikes collectively show how manufacturers balance range vs weight (tourers with bigger packs, folders with compact batteries) and how software now matters almost as much as hardware.
How to use this article: what sections to read depending on your need
- If you want a quick buy: read the one-line shortlist and the Price and value lines in each model.
- If you commute and need portability: read the ADO Air 20 and Volt Lite sections, plus the Portability and Folding subsections.
- If you tour or need range: read Engwe P275 ST and Pedibal Maxima.
- If you prioritise tech and integrated services: read Cowboy Cruiser.
- If style and road handling matter: read NOKOBIKE and Estarli e28.9.
- For safety and accessories: skip to the Best safety gear and essential accessories section.
Engwe P275 ST
Key specifications: motor, battery capacity, top speed, weight, wheel size
You can expect roughly a 750 W rear-hub motor (peak power higher), an integrated removable battery around 720 Wh (approx.), a top assisted speed in the 25–45 km/h range depending on local spec and tuning, a curb weight of about 28–32 kg (62–70 lbs), and 27.5-inch wheels tuned for load and comfort.
Riding performance: range in mixed conditions, comfort, handling
In mixed urban and light-tour conditions you’ll typically see 60–120 km (37–75 miles) depending on how much pedal assist you use and terrain. The bike’s geometry and larger battery make it comfortable over long days; suspension seatpost or fork options smooth bumps. Handling is stable — geared toward touring stability rather than quick nimble turns.
Build quality and components: frame, brakes, drivetrain, suspension
The frame is beefy alloy designed to carry racks and luggage; expect hydraulic disc brakes on most builds and a reliable 7–9 speed drivetrain. Suspension is usually basic (suspension fork or seatpost) but sufficient for gravel light duty. Components are solid for the price, with focus on durability over ultralight parts.
Who it’s best for: tourers, commuters, and budget-conscious riders
You should pick this if you want a capable tourer at a budget price: long rides, mixed-surface commutes, and carrying luggage are its strengths. Riders who value value-for-money range and robustness will appreciate it.
Pros and cons: strengths and weaknesses compared to rivals
Pros: impressive range per dollar, load capacity, rugged construction. Cons: heavier than premium tourers, not the lightest for climbing, component upgrades may be needed for long-term enthusiasts.
Price and value: how it stacks up in its segment
Expect a price in the affordable tourer bracket — typically significantly cheaper than premium tourers but offering many of the same practical benefits. Value is high if you prioritize range and load capacity over weight savings.
Common questions and final verdict for this model
You’ll ask about battery life, service, and upgrade paths. Batteries are removable and serviceable; brakes and drivetrain are standard parts so local shops can maintain it. Final verdict: a very strong pick if you want a no-nonsense, long-range e-bike without premium pricing.
ADO Air 20
Key specifications: folding mechanism, weight, motor and battery details
The ADO Air 20 typically features a compact one- or two-step folding mechanism, 20-inch wheels, a lightweight frame around 13–16 kg (28–35 lbs), a 250–350 W hub motor, and a battery in the ~300–400 Wh range (e.g., 36 V ~10 Ah) for urban range.
Portability: folded size, carrying ease, suitability for multi-modal commutes
Folded, you’ll get a small package that fits in most car trunks, train luggage racks or under office desks. The modest weight lets you carry it for short stints — good for stairs and transit — though it’s still heavier than a non-electric folder. It’s ideal for mixed-mode commuters who need compact storage.
Ride quality and urban performance: acceleration, ride comfort, braking
Acceleration is peppy at low speeds thanks to compact gearing and responsive controller, making quick urban moves easy. Comfort is acceptable for short to medium commutes; 20-inch wheels transfer bumps more than larger wheels, so suspension seatpost or wider tires help. Brakes are typically mechanical or hydraulic discs — adequate for city stopping.
Durability and everyday usability: frame material, components, maintenance needs
Frames are usually aluminum for strength and lightness. Components are chosen to minimize weight without sacrificing reliability. You should expect occasional maintenance like tyre and brake adjustments, but overall upkeep is low and parts are widely available.
Who it’s best for: commuters, apartment dwellers, frequent travelers
If you live in an apartment, have limited storage, or regularly combine cycling with trains or buses, this is the one for you. It’s also great if you need a backup vehicle that tucks away easily.
Pros and cons: trade-offs of lightweight folding design
Pros: compactness, portability, convenience. Cons: shorter range than larger e-bikes, smaller wheels can make rough roads less comfortable, and you’ll sacrifice some power and battery capacity for weight.
Price and how it compares to other folding e-bikes
The ADO Air 20 typically sits in the mid-to-affordable folding e-bike range, offering better portability than cheaper options and lighter weight than larger commuter e-bikes. It’s competitive if you value foldability first.
NOKOBIKE
Key specifications: motor type, battery, frame geometry and wheel size
NOKOBIKE models usually come with a 250–500 W hub motor, an integrated battery around 350–500 Wh, compact 20–24-inch wheel options for urban agility, and a low-step or mixte frame geometry that prioritizes ease of mounting and urban visibility.
Design highlights: unique features, ergonomics, customization options
NOKOBIKE stands out for design-led aesthetics — clean lines, color choices, and attention to comfort like upright handlebars, ergonomic saddles and integrated accessories. You’ll find useful customization options like different handlebar styles, fender/rack combos and colorways that suit your personal style.
Performance and range: expected mileage, hill climbing ability, speed
Expect 40–80 km (25–50 miles) in mixed urban usage depending on battery and assist level. Hill climbing is competent in the 250–500 W range for moderate urban gradients but may struggle with very steep, sustained climbs under heavy load.
Safety and components: brakes, lights, build reliability
Brakes are hydraulic discs on higher specs or mechanical discs on base models. Integrated lighting and reflective accents are common. Build quality is generally reliable for urban use, with components chosen for longevity rather than racing performance.
Who it’s best for: urban riders, style-focused buyers, moderate commuters
If you value looks and comfort and your rides are mostly urban with moderate distances, this is a great fit. It’s a bike that balances practical commuting with a design statement.
Pros and cons compared to its class and rivals
Pros: excellent style and ergonomics, good for everyday city riding. Cons: may have less range or climbing ability than heavier-duty commuters, and tech features may be lighter than high-end smart bikes.
Final recommendation and pricing context
NOKOBIKE is recommended if you want a stylish, comfortable ride for city life and moderate commuting distances. Pricing is competitive in the urban design e-bike segment — expect mid-range cost reflective of build and styling decisions.
Estarli e28.9
Key specifications: motor, battery, frame construction, tire choice
The Estarli e28.9 is typically a road-oriented e-bike with a mid-drive or hub motor around 250–350 W, an integrated battery near 400–600 Wh, an alloy or carbon-influenced road frame, and 700c (28-inch) wheels fitted with 28–32 mm tires for speed and comfort.
Italian design influence and aesthetic appeal
You’ll notice Italian design touches: elegant tube shaping, tasteful colorways and attention to detail on the cockpit and finishing pieces. The aesthetic leans minimalist and refined — great if you want a bike that looks as good as it rides.
On-road performance: comfort, handling, suitability for longer rides
This bike is tuned for efficiency and comfort on tarmac. Handling is responsive, making it suitable for longer day rides and faster urban commuting. The tyre and geometry balance speed with comfort for all-day performance.
Component spec: drivetrain, brakes, and accessory compatibility
Expect a reliable mid-range drivetrain (8–11 speed), hydraulic disc brakes for confident stopping in mixed conditions, and compatibility with accessories like small racks, mudguards and minimalist panniers for light touring.
Who it’s best for: riders seeking style with practical road performance
Choose the Estarli if you want a road-biased e-bike that still allows practical commuting and longer rides, with a strong emphasis on looks and on-road manners.
Pros and cons including maintenance and parts availability
Pros: excellent road manners, stylish design, comfortable for long rides. Cons: parts or specific cosmetic components may be less ubiquitous than big mainstream brands, potentially meaning slightly slower service or higher replacement costs.
Value assessment and where it fits in the 2025 market
Estarli sits in the quality road e-bike niche — you pay a premium for design and handling. It’s a good value if road performance and aesthetics are priorities.
Cowboy Cruiser
Key specifications: motor/location, battery, integrated tech and sensors
The Cowboy Cruiser uses a hub or compact mid-mounted motor in the 250 W class for EU models (higher in some regions), an integrated battery in the 360–500 Wh range, and a suite of sensors (speed, cadence, torque) for smart assistance and safety features.
Tech features: app integration, connectivity, firmware and ride modes
You get deep app integration: ride metrics, route logging, firmware updates over-the-air, and theft detection/locking capabilities. Several ride modes tailor power delivery to your preference, and the app can often diagnose issues or update tuning.
Ride experience: comfort, stability, acceleration and city riding behavior
Cowboy’s tuning focuses on smooth, predictable assistance with intuitive pedal feel. The bike is stable, comfortable for urban roads, and accelerates gently to maintain control in traffic. Sensor-driven systems make the ride feel cohesive and connected.
Safety and integrated lighting solutions
Integrated front and rear lights, automatic activation with the bike’s sensors, and anti-theft features like GPS tracking or lock alerts (depending on model and subscription) bolster your safety and security in urban contexts.
Who it’s best for: tech-forward commuters and city riders
This is the pick if you value a modern, connected cycling experience with minimal fuss — ideal for daily commuters who like data, automatic features and a tidy, integrated look.
Pros and cons: advantages of tech integration and potential downsides
Pros: excellent user experience, frequent software updates, helpful features like theft alerts. Cons: reliance on software/subscription services, potentially higher long-term costs for premium services and possibly less DIY-friendly hardware.
Price positioning and subscription/service considerations
Cowboy models are mid-to-high priced for the commuter segment, with optional subscriptions for tracking and premium services. You should factor those recurring costs into long-term ownership.
Pedibal Maxima
Key specifications: motor power, load capacity, frame strength
Pedibal Maxima is a heavy-duty design with motors in the 750–1000 W peak range (region-dependent), large batteries up to ~960 Wh or more, and a frame engineered to reliably support 180–250 kg total load depending on spec.
Heavy rider suitability: tested weight limits, stability and braking performance
This model is built for heavy riders and cargo: tested weight limits exceed typical commuter bikes and the frame geometry and long wheelbase deliver stability at speed and with load. Braking is heavy-duty hydraulic discs with oversized rotors to handle mass and frequent stops.
Build quality and drivetrain reliability under heavy use
Expect reinforced welds, beefy dropouts, and robust drivetrain components sized for torque rather than pace. Maintenance intervals are designed for durability; drivetrain parts may be heavier but last longer under load.
Comfort features for longer rides and cargo capability
You’ll find ergonomic saddles, upright ergonomics, rack and trailer compatibility, and sturdy mounting points for child seats or cargo boxes. Suspension options (seatpost or fork) add comfort on longer, heavier rides.
Who it’s best for: heavy riders and cargo or family use
If you’re a heavier rider, carry kids, or run errands with a lot of gear, this is optimized for your needs. It’s the practical alternative to multiple short trips or a car.
Pros and cons: trade-offs for high-capacity design
Pros: unparalleled load capability, stability, and confidence under weight. Cons: heavier and less nimble, typically more expensive, and may be overkill if you don’t regularly carry heavy loads.
Pricing, warranty and aftercare recommendations
Expect higher pricing for the reinforced design and components. Check warranty coverage for frame and battery and ensure you have access to a capable dealer for servicing heavy-duty components.
Volt Lite
Key specifications: weight, motor type, battery, intended use case
Volt Lite is aimed at budget-conscious commuters with a 250 W hub motor, a light battery around 250–350 Wh, a curb weight near 14–17 kg (31–37 lbs), and geometry tuned for short urban hops and errands.
Lightweight and affordable design: strengths and limitations
The strength lies in simplicity and price — it’s light, easy to handle, and economical. Limitations include shorter range, modest hill-climbing ability, and fewer premium components that might extend lifespan under heavy daily use.
Urban performance: acceleration, maneuverability, and range in city conditions
You’ll enjoy quick urban acceleration at low speeds, easy maneuvering in traffic, and typical city ranges of 20–50 km (12–31 miles) per charge depending on assist and stops. It’s perfect for short commutes and errands.
Safety equipment and component quality relative to price
Expect basic but adequate lights, mechanical disc brakes or rim brakes on the very cheapest models, and entry-level drivetrains. Components match the price point — solid for casual use but less resilient under heavy daily stress.
Who it’s best for: entry-level riders, budget commuters, students
Pick the Volt Lite if you want an affordable e-bike for short trips, first-time e-bike buyers, or students who need a fuss-free commuter.
Pros and cons and expected longevity with typical usage
Pros: low cost, low weight, easy to ride. Cons: limited range, fewer features and lower-spec components. With regular moderate use and timely maintenance, longevity is good; heavy daily use may expose component limits sooner.
Value for money and alternatives at similar price points
Volt Lite represents strong value if price is your top priority. If you can stretch the budget slightly, you might get better range or components elsewhere — weigh priorities for commute distance and daily usage.
Best safety gear and essential accessories
Helmet recommendations including Lumos light-up helmet and discount code details
You should wear a helmet every ride. For extra visibility consider the Lumos light-up helmet which integrates front and rear lights for active daytime and nighttime visibility. Use code ELECTROHEADS at Lumos checkouts for a discount (regional availability varies). Pick a helmet that fits snugly, meets safety standards, and has replaceable pads.
Lighting and visibility: front/rear lighting, reflective gear, daytime visibility
Beyond the helmet, add a bright front light (700+ lumens for night rides) and a visible rear light with steady and flashing modes. Reflective vests or ankle bands improve side visibility. Make sure lights are rechargeable and mounted securely for vibrations.
Locks and security: types of locks, mounting tips, insurance considerations
Use a heavy-duty U-lock or chain lock for urban stops and combine with a cable to secure wheels. Mount locks to frames or racks for convenience. Consider bicycle insurance or adding e-bike coverage to home insurance — high-value e-bikes benefit from dedicated policies.
Protective clothing and rain/seasonal gear for 2025 conditions
Layer moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort. Waterproof jackets, shoe covers and fenders are essential if you ride year-round. In colder months, thermal layers and gloves matter; in summer, breathable fabrics and sun protection help.
Repair kits and portable tools every rider should carry
Carry a mini-pump or CO2 inflator, spare tube or patch kit, a multi-tool, and tire levers. For e-bikes, a basic electrical checklist (clean connectors, ensure charger is functional) is useful if you can’t get to a shop immediately.
Cargo solutions: racks, panniers, child seats and cargo trailers
Choose racks and panniers rated for your bike’s load capacity. Waterproof panniers and pannier-specific pannier straps keep cargo secure. For kids or large loads, look at certified child seats or lightweight cargo trailers compatible with your frame.
Where to buy accessories and recommended brands
Buy from reputable bike shops and established accessory brands that specialize in cycling gear. Brands known for locks, lights, and bags typically offer good warranties and customer support. When possible, buy locally to ensure fitting and returns are easy.
Conclusion
Final summary of the seven recommended e-bikes and their best use cases
You’ve seen seven great 2025 options: Engwe P275 ST for budget touring and load-carrying, ADO Air 20 for portable commuting, NOKOBIKE for design-focused urban riding, Estarli e28.9 for road-style riding with Italian aesthetics, Cowboy Cruiser for connected city commuting, Pedibal Maxima for heavy riders and cargo, and Volt Lite for entry-level, lightweight urban use.
Key takeaways: how to choose based on your priorities and budget
Choose based on priorities: range and load capacity favor Engwe and Pedibal; portability favors ADO Air 20; tech integration favors Cowboy; style and road manners favor Estarli and NOKOBIKE; budget-first riders should consider Volt Lite. Balance battery size, weight, and component quality against how you actually ride.
Encouragement to test ride and verify local availability before buying
You should always test ride before buying if possible — it’s the best way to confirm comfort, handling, and fit. Verify local availability, service options and warranty specifics; what’s sold in your region can vary by spec and legal speed limits.
Call to action: questions to ask in store, what to bring to a test ride, and invitation to ask follow-up questions
When you go to a shop, ask about battery range in real-world conditions, warranty coverage, maintenance costs, and availability of replacement parts. Bring the gear you’d normally ride with (backpack, child seat if relevant) and wear the clothing you’ll actually use to get a realistic feel. If you have specific needs or want help narrowing to one model, ask follow-up questions — I’m happy to help you pick the perfect 2025 e-bike for your ride.
Here’s a list of unbeatable electric bikes for 2025! Eilis reflects on all of the e bikes she’s ridden over the past year and shares her thoughts and reasons why they’re her top picks.
These are our best electric bikes of 2025 – if you have any questions about any of them, please feel free to ask us in the comments section.
If you want to cop your own light-up Lumos e-bike helmet, then get a cheeky discount with our link and code:
UK 🇬🇧:
USA/EU 🇺🇸🇪🇺: ridelumos.com/ELECTROHEADS
😛 CODE: ELECTROHEADS
BIKES FEATURED IN THIS VIDEO:
Engwe P275 ST:
🇬🇧 UK:
🇪🇺 EU:
🇺🇸 US:
ADO Air 20:
Base model:
Pro:
Carbon:
NOKOBIKE:
Estarli e28.9:
Cowboy Cruiser:
Pedibal Maxima:
Volt Lite:
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