What Are the Best E-bikes under $500?

As the latest trend in personal transport, e-bikes have become increasingly popular over the past few years.

Powered by a rechargeable battery, which is attached to the frame of the bicycle, these bikes are easy to use and environmentally friendly.

They’re also an affordable alternative for those who would like some assistance on hills or just for the ability to get out and about without being the next Chris Boardman.

Tech Bang, in his Youtube video, compiled the best cheap and foldable e-bikes for your daily commute with a battery that lasts many miles and also fast and powerful e-bikes for rougher terrains.

Of course, top trends always come with enhancements, so if you’re looking to purchase an e-bike outfitted with all of the bells and whistles, be prepared to pay up – they’re not cheap!

From hand-grip shifters and front suspension forks to speedometers and electric motors capable of speeds over 20mph (32 kph), there’s something for everyone… or at least everyone willing to fork out hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars.

Luckily there are a growing number of more affordable options on the market, and in this article, we’ll help you find the best E-bikes under $500.

Things to Look For in an Electric Bike

Before we get started with our recommendations, it’s important to consider the features you need and the type of electric bike that’s going to meet your requirements best.

Power

E-bikes come with a range of power options. Most models with a price tag of $500 or under are likely to come with an output of about 250w. That will allow you to travel up to 20mph when on a flat surface.

Battery

The last thing you want is for the battery to go flat when you’re out enjoying your ride. That means that you need to check how long the battery will hold a charge and what that means in terms of the distance it can travel. A 5.2Ah battery, for example, will provide power for around 45 minutes on a 250w bike being run at full power.

Location of Wheel Hub Motors

E-bikes are created with either front or rear wheel hub motors. Front-wheel hubs are more common, but they require the rider to pedal at all times.

Rear-wheel hubs can be engaged with a throttle, so riders don’t always have to pedal for assistance.

Technology

Workout equipment built into some models allows users to hook their bikes up to computers that track speed, distance traveled, heart rates, etc.

The Types of e-Bikes Available

There are three types of e-bikes available on the market today: pedelecs, throttle bikes, and Power-Assisted Mountain Bikes (PAMBs).

Pedelecs Bikes

Require the rider to pedal in order to get assistance from the electric motor.

Throttle Bikes

Allow the riders to use a throttle to start the electric motor without having to pedal.

PAMBs

Are mountain bikes with an electric motor that helps with pedaling uphill or on trails.

Our Choices of E-Bikes for Under $500

There are now a huge number of bikes that fit within this price category, but we’ve selected just five that we think are some of the best options.

SWAGTRON EB-5

At the top of our list is the SWAGTON EB-5. This is an affordable e-bike that is not only full of features but also has a really eye-catching design.

The Swagtron bike is both lights, being made of aluminum, and also highly durable, making it a great investment for long-term use.

The bike comes with three riding modes, low, medium, and high-speed modes and it has a 21-speed transmission. The Swagtron will run for up to 15 miles on a full battery charge and it has a unique folding design.

Thus, you can trust its battery life and portability. This makes it the perfect choice for commuting.

Macwheel 16”

The Mac wheel is a mini folding e-bike that despite its small size, can support riders up to 220lbs. It comes with a 250-watt rear hub motor and five different levels of pedal assist.

There’s also a throttle to give a little more power as and when you need it. We like that the throttle has an on/off switch that ensures that you don’t accidentally engage it when out riding.

Unlike the Swagtron, it’s not a true folding bike as it doesn’t fold in half. However, you can lower the seat post or remove it entirely which then means that it can fit into smaller places.

You might still find though that it’s not small enough to fit into the boot of most cars without lowering the rear seats.

Ancheer

Ancheer is a well-known manufacturer of electric bikes that come with great features. The Ancheer mini just about comes into our budget of under $500.

With a 350-watt high-speed motor, the mini achieves a top speed of 15 miles per hour and is powered by a 36V 6Ah battery, giving it a range of 12 miles.

We really like the lightweight folding frame that weighs just 26.5lbs making it easy to carry with just one hand. If you’re looking for a commuter e-bike then this might be the one.

NAKTO 26”

With a high-strength carbon steel frame, combined with a premium shock absorption system, this is a good choice when the comfort of the ride is important.

The Nakto comes with a 250W brushless high-speed motor that can happily travel at up to 26 miles per hour.

Fitted with a six-speed shifting system, you’ll be able to easily decide if you need to get somewhere quickly or for those times when you need to conserve battery power.

This model is equipped with a 36V, 10AH lithium-ion battery and a full charge will get you around 30-45 km when in pedal-assist mode.

Also, it has a removable battery, so you can take it out for safety purposes.

Tomasar 26” Folding E-Bike

The last of our choices is the Tomasar 26” folding e-bike. It comes equipped with a 36V Lithium-Ion battery, that can produce 250w of power.

And which will take you on journeys of up to 50km depending on whether you selected e-bike or assisted mode.

The Tomasar frame is made of 100% aluminum alloy, while the front fork is made of high-strength carbon steel. There are both front and rear disc brakes along with an LED headlamp and horn for night riding.

Swagtron Folding-Bicycles Swagcycle Pro

Because of its improved technology and enhanced riding comfort, the Swagcycle Pro has earned a lot of traction among tech fans.

These electric bicycles allow you to swiftly zoom across congested streets, trails, and off-road shortcuts. Plus, you won’t need any legwork because of its pedal-free design.

Moreover, its attractive appearance and user-friendly form can sustain weights of up to 264 pounds. 

However, you won’t have to make any sacrifices in terms of power, as the bike is equipped with a 350w electric motor. It’s tough enough to bring you through rugged terrain and steep inclines of up to 12 degrees.

Also, its premium disk braking system is another winning feature.

ANCHEER Folding Electric Bicycle E-Bike Scooter

This jewel will brighten you up if you require app help in your daily commute.

The bike has a top self-app supporting system that seamlessly combines with the functionality of your ride. 

Additionally, the app provides valuable information such as battery capacity, speed tracking, and journey distance. Thus, simply download ANCHEER from the app store and you’re ready to go.

Additionally, the bike can attain maximum speeds of up to 25 km/h in no time thanks to its 350w motor.

It has enhanced rubber wheels that handle inclines, and uneven areas, providing you with a solid ride. Moreover, thanks to its smart battery regulation, you will be able to travel for longer. 

Engwe Electric Mountain Bike

The Engwe Electric Mountain Bike has a lasting and low-cost infrastructure that costs a little less than $500. 

The lithium battery has a charge cycle life of up to 900 times, which amounts to four to five years. However, the sole disadvantage of this model’s battery is that it has a very short max range. Consequently, it offers a meager 18.5-mile range.

Yet, its robust carbon steel body, makes the electric mountain bike sturdy enough for off-road use. Moreover, the frontal shock absorber and 26-inch wheels help ensure a smooth journey.

When in pedal-assist mode, you’ll be able to maximize the electric motor’s performance. This is thanks to the 21-speed Shimano groupset in your bike. Plus, employing the pedal-assist mode, increases the range of this model by up to 25 kilometers.

 Also, the charger charges the battery from zero to full in almost five hours. Next, the dual disc brakes, which appear to perform a good job, bring everything to a standstill. The bike comes with only 85 % pre-installation, so you will have to assemble the rest of it before you can use it.

Hyper Bicycles E-Ride Electric Pedal Assist Mountain Bike

There is simply no better option for an electric bike on a small budget than the Hyper Bicycles E-Ride Electric Pedal Assist Mountain Bike. Its light aluminum alloy frame and suspension fork make it a perfect commute. 

Additionally, a 250W motor drives it to a peak speed of 20 miles per hour. 

This engine, plus the bike’s inbuilt flush-mount battery, offers a 20-mile range. In other words, it will help you for nearly an hour as you cycle. It takes roughly four hours to completely recharge the battery from empty.

Moreover, it would be ideal to see twin disc brakes, but at this price range, front and hind V-brakes are logical. Also, the six-speed Shimano grip shifter makes the bike more adaptable. However, it can only handle a meager 275 pounds which limits users a little.

Sailnovo 14-Inch Electric Bike

Anyone who is limited in space, whether on public transportation or at home, should buy the Sailnovo 14-Inch Electric Bike. Despite its diminutive size, this model offers a weight limit of 264.5 pounds. 

It receives power from a detachable lithium battery and has a capability of 28-45 miles. However, this depends on whether you use the throttle or pedal mode. 

Further, it reaches a peak speed of 18.6 mph in throttle-only mode, which is mediocre. This is because it has a 350-watt electric motor, but it might be due to the 14-inch wheels on this model.

A twin disc braking system brings everything to a halt, which is fantastic to see on a rider at this price bracket. Despite its measly size, Sailnovo has made an evident effort to make this model comfortable. 

This includes a high-density sponge padding and a back shock absorber. An LCD panel displays your speed, trip length, and battery capacity, ensuring that you don’t run out of steam unexpectedly. 

Also, the one-step folding method makes folding this bicycle quick and easy. Plus, transporting it around isn’t too tough either, as it weighs only 55 pounds.

Hiboy P10 Folding Electric Bike

Hiboy has always been the first choice for electric bike enthusiasts seeking all-around performance as well as useful features. The P10 more than hits the mark.

The bike comes with the industry’s most powerful engines. It has a 350w motor and can reach speeds of almost 15.5 miles an hour. With this kind of speed and mileage, you’ll be zooming across town in no time.

A quick engine needs a decent pair of tires, and this rocket has plenty of them. The 12-inch tires ensure that all of the power reaches the track and that there is maximum grip through those cheeky tight corners.

Speedrid Electric Bike

Our next option is a Speedrid beast that has garnered fame for its speed and power that is difficult to manage.

It’s a beast of a ride that screams for freedom every time you get on it. The 500w motor is all business, allowing you to race across downtown streets and hilly courses at speeds of up to 20 mph. This beast gets power from a 48V battery that allows it to go 20 kilometers on a full charge.

Therefore, the dual disc brakes manage all that strength well. Brakes on both the front and rear axles ensure that you come to a complete stop despite your speed or the road conditions.

The bike has a clever dolphin-based architecture that draws attention and blends in with any style. Because it minimizes the need to crank the accelerator every now and then, cruise control renders the total journey a perfect joy.

Conclusion

With a $500 budget, there is an excellent range of bikes to choose from. Don’t forget to carefully consider your requirements relating to speed and distance to ensure that you make the right choice.

The electric bike has really changed the world of cycling for those whose fitness may have prevented them from heading out on two wheels.

Now, there is the opportunity to feel the wind in your hair while being helped up steep slopes. But don’t forget to keep an eye on the battery consumption, if not it’s going to be a long walk home!

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