Electric bicycles aren’t as new as the recent trend would have you think, but they’ve become extremely popular lately due to plummeting prices.
New technology, longer-lasting batteries, and cheaper materials mean high-quality, affordable electric bikes are now available to the wider public.
Although they were once scoffed at by traditional cyclists, the benefits of electric bikes can no longer be ignored. Older people, people with disabilities, or simply those who don’t want to exert themselves are finding e-bikes to be a lifesaver.
In this buying guide, we’ll recommend the best electric bikes under $2,000 available right now, followed by a short buying guide to help you choose the best option for your needs.
- Also consider: Best Electric Bikes Under $1500: Cheap Ebike Picks
Best Electric Bikes Under $2,000
- Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus: Fat Tire Hybrid e-Bike
- Lectric XP 3.0: Folding fat-tire eBike
- Cannondale Adventure Neo Allroad EQ: Great value hybrid/commuter e-bike
- Ride1UP 700 Series: City Hybrid by an e-specific brand
- Aventon Level.2: Fully-equipped ebike for a commuter rider
- Co-op Cycles Generation e1.1: A new utility eBike
- Buzz Centris: Foldable commuter eBike at an affordable price
- Electra Townie Go! 7D: Cruiser & commuter style eBike
- Denago City 3: An urban e-bike with innovative design features
1. Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus
Best fat tire electric bike under $2,000
Weight – 73 lbs | Battery – 48V 14Ah (672Wh) | Motor – 750W | Range – 45mi | Torque – 80Nm
MSRP: $1,399
- Hydraulic brakes
- Class 2 eBike (Speed limited to 20mph with throttle & pedal-assist)
- 7-speed gearing
- 26″ x 4″ Kenda Juggernaut tires
- Size Recommendation: 5’4″ – 6’2″
With massive 4″ tires, a front suspension fork, and a custom motor, the RadRover 6 Plus is no ordinary e-bike. This rather heavy beast of a bike is an off-road machine that can take on sand, snow, or mud with no trouble at all.
The fat Kenda tires are fitted on 26″ wheels and feature a puncture-resistant liner for added protection. They’re driven by a powerful 750W geared-hub motor with 5 levels of pedal assistance, taking the stress out of uphill cycling while still giving you some exercise. With a 672WH semi-integrated, removable battery, you’ll easily get a full day of cycling before needing to pop it out and recharge it.
The rest of the bike’s components are fairly standard, including hydraulic disc brakes, a 6061 aluminum frame, and a basic 7-speed drivetrain. The focus is mainly on the electric side of things but it tackles rough terrain with ease.
One thing is for sure, it’s one of the best electric bikes under $2,000 on the market!
2. Lectric XP 3.0
Best budget folding electric bike
Weight – 64 lbs | Battery – 500Wh | Motor – 500W | Range – 45mi | Torque – 55Nm
MSRP: $999
- Class 2 eBike (option to change it to class 3)
- 20″ x 3″ tires
- Mechanical disc brakes
- Charge time: 4-6 hours
- Fits riders 4’10” to 6’4″ tall
Lectric is a newish company that’s exploded onto the scene with its range of cheap folding electric bike models. The XP 3.0 folds up to be suitcase-sized (37″ x 18″ x 28″), perfect for going into elevators, storing, or taking public transport.
At 64 lbs, it’s not the lightest eBike, but it sure packs a punch for its size. A powerful 500W motor gives you 55Nm of torque powered by PAS and throttle modes that will take you up to 20mph before you have to pedal. The 500Wh battery will keep going for 45 miles on one charge, making the XP 3.0 a great medium-distance ebike.
On top of all that, you get lights, a rack with a payload capacity of 150 lbs, solid disc brakes, and comfy 3″ tires. You can even upgrade the top speed to 28 mph (45km/h) if the laws in your area allow it. The components aren’t brand names, but for the price, it’s convenient and easy to commute.
There’s no doubt that this is one of the best electric bikes under $2,000 with a foldable frame that you can get.
3. Cannondale Adventure Neo Allroad EQ
Reliable all-terrain commuter e-bike
Weight – 52.4 lbs | Battery – 418W | Motor – 250W | Range – 47mi | Torque – 45Nm
MSRP: $1,825
- 27.5″ x 2.6″ Kenda Booster tires
- Tektro HD-T257 hydraulic disc brakes
- Charge time: 4 hours
- Class 2 eBike
- Fits riders 5’5″ to 6’5″ tall
The Cannondale Adventure Neo Allroad is an affordable series from a big name in the industry.
It’s a Class 2 commuter e-bike, pre-fitted with a rear rack, kickstand, and lights. The groupset includes a basic microSHIFT drivetrain with 7 gears and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes.
- Related post: 10 Best Mid-Drive Ebikes We Recommend
The 250W motor only has 45Nm of torque, so it takes some time to get rolling but will carry you along with pedal assistance up to 20mph. The 418W battery delivers a decent 47 miles worth of cycling power and pops out for an easy four-hour charge.
You get plenty of suspension from the wide 2.6″ Kenda Booster tires, so you can tackle some light trails and gravel roads, but they don’t have puncture resistance.
Overall, the Adventure Neo Allroad EQ doesn’t have any outstanding features but rather provides a solid, affordable option for getting around town.
4. Ride1UP 700 Series
Best minimalistic urban commuter
Weight – 62 lbs | Battery – 48V 15Ah (720Wh) | Motor – 750W | Range – 30-50mi | Torque – 60Nm
MSRP: $1,695
- Class 3 eBike with a 20mph throttle
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- 100mm front suspension
- Lightweight alloy frame
- Fits riders 5’0″ – 6’4″ tall
With a powerful 750W rear hub motor, thick tires, and an air-sprung front fork, you’d be forgiven for thinking the price of the Ride1UP 700 Series is wrong. It’s an impressive package for under $2,000!
Not only that, but the motor kicks out an astonishing 60 Nm of torque and as a Class 3 bike, you can reach a full 20 mph (32km/h) with the throttle alone before you even have to start pedaling.
After that you continue to get pedal assistance up to 28 mph (45 km/h), making this bike feel more like a motorbike than a bicycle. All this power does put a strain on the battery which only lasts about 30-50 miles (48-80km) but it’ll get you to work and back.
The fork provides a decent 100 mm of travel to swallow up bumps and you get quality disc brakes for instant stopping power. The Shimano Acera 8-speed drivetrain is sufficient and on the handlebars, you also get a color display, thumb throttle, and Rapidfire shifters.
If you’re looking to purchase one of the best electric bikes under $2,000 with hydraulic brakes, look no further than the Ride1UP 700 Series.
5. Aventon Level.2 Step-Over
Best accessories under $2,000
Weight – 53 lbs | Battery – 672Wh| Motor – 500W | Range – 60mi
MSRP: $1,799
- 27.5″ x 2.1″ tires
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Charge time: 4-5 hours
- Class 3 eBike
- Fits riders 5’7″ to 6’4″ tall
The Aventon Level.2 eBike is a low-price city commuter with everything needed to replace your car.
Aventon equipped the Level.2 with an integrated rear rack, fenders, and a kickstand. It even comes with a bright headlight and rear lights with brake lights and turn signals, which is rare on electric bikes under $2,000.
The Level.2 has an 8-speed Shimano Acera drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes for reliable shifting and powerful stopping. Comfort comes from the plush 2.1″ tires, a 65mm coil fork, and ergonomic touchpoints.
- Read our full review: Aventon Level.2 Review
A punchy 500W motor can deliver max speeds of 28mph (20mph throttle), which is plenty for any urban riding. This motor pairs with a 672Wh battery that returns a max range of 60 miles.
Overall, this is a reliable and versatile option and one of the best commuter bikes you’ll find in the sub-$2,000 range. However, if it doesn’t meet all your needs, you can also consider the Aventon Pace 500.3, as it also costs under $2,000.
6. Co-op Cycles Generation e1.1
Best electric utility bike under $2,000
Battery – 418Wh | Motor – 350W | Range – up to 40mi
MSRP: $1,499
- Class 1 eBike
- 20″ x 2.4″ Schwalbe Super-Moto-X puncture-resistant
- Shimano Altus 7-speed drivetrain
- Aluminum frame and fork
C0-op Cycles is becoming a household name thanks to its range of quality bicycles, which now includes a new line of inexpensive electric utility bikes similar to compact cargo bikes. These bikes are designed to offer a more functional alternative to the eCTY line.
The Generation e1.1 is clearly designed for comfort over speed with comfort touchpoints, 70mm of front suspension, upright geometry, a step-through frame, and an adjustable stem.
The 350W Bafang motor kicks out a decent 20mph pedal-assist speed, more than enough to tackle moderate hills with some cargo on board.
Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors help you stop reliably in all conditions and a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain allows you to maximize the 418Wh battery for up to 40 miles of range.
This bike is also equipped to carry large cargo loads on the frame-integrated rear rack.
Buy it if you need a bike that’s comfortable and equipped for running errands or commuting.
7. Buzz Centris E-Bike
Best foldable e-bike under $2,000
Weight – 67 lbs | Battery – 48V | Motor – 500W | Range – 20-40mi
MSRP: $1,399
- 20″ tires
- Disc brakes
- 6-speed Shimano Tourney
- Front and rear lights
- Lockable battery
E-bikes have certainly become a buzzword lately, so much so that there’s an actual ebike company called Buzz Bikes.
The Buzz Centris e-Bike is a fun little machine for zooming around town with your friends, grabbing some drinks, and hitting the park. It’s got compact 20″ wheels, front and rear cargo racks, an easy step-over frame, and just enough juice to go 20-40 miles (64km).
The 6-speed Shimano drivetrain is an impressive addition, allowing you to push a bit beyond the 20 mph (32km/h) pedal-assist speed limit that the 500W motor provides. You also get decent disc brakes and front and rear lights for added safety at night.
I wouldn’t try to go cross-country on it but it’s an ideal and affordable way for getting around town.
8. Electra Townie Go! 7D
Best electric beach cruiser bike under $2,000
Weight – 47 lbs | Battery – 250 Wh | Motor – 250W | Range – 16-40mi | Torque – 40Nm
MSRP: $1,900
- Class 1 eBike
- 26″ x 2.35″ tires
- Tektro mechanical disc brakes
- Charge time: 4 hours
- Sizing: 5’3″ – 6’4″
Electra is popular for its affordable ebikes and the Townie Go! is one of their best-selling models.
Its classic style and simplicity are its winning factors, combined with a lightweight frame and practical design. Electra’s patented Flat Foot Technology means you’ll never have to lean over when stopping, keeping you upright and comfortable all day long.
As a Class 1 bike, the 250W motor provides pedal assistance up to 20mph (32km/h), after which you can speed up with the 7-speed Shimano drivetrain. The 250 Wh battery charges in just over 4 hours but only provides you with a maximum 40-mile range – and that’s if you pedal a lot!
However, it’s the perfect town commuter for collecting groceries, visiting friends, or going to work. You get a convenient integrated rear rack and kickstand, comfortable balloon tires, and powerful disc brakes.
In our opinion, this is among the best ebikes under $2,000 as long as beach cruisers are considered.
9. Denago City 3
Lightweight, affordable urban e-bike
Weight – 62 lbs | Battery – 672 Wh | Motor – 500W | Range – 62 mi | Torque – 50 Nm
MSRP: $1,799
- Class 3 eBike
- 27.5×2.6″ tires
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Sizing: 4’9″ – 6’5″
Denago Bikes is a popular brand that makes only electric bikes, and the City 3 is their practical, urban e-bike.
All Denago e-bikes are designed to make urban living easier. They have excellent accessories, torque sensors, and puncture-resistant tires, and they arrive almost fully assembled.
- Also read: Best Cheap Electric Bikes
This model has fast-rolling 27.5″ x 2.6″ tires, an upright ride position, agile geometry, and comfortable touchpoints, creating a comfortable yet responsive ride feel that’s perfect for city rides.
A no-frills groupset comprises an 8-speed drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes. Finally, you have a fully equipped setup and plenty of range (62 miles) to make commuting hassle-free.
All in all, Denago City 3 is one of the best e-bikes for urban riders who want a comfortable, practical, and well-equipped city commuter.
FAQ
How much are electric bikes worth in 2024?
These days, you can get great ebikes under 2000 dollars if you shop around a bit. Some of the best low-cost electric bikes are found online but you should really check the components and read the reviews, as some are low quality.
The most affordable electric bike that still provides good quality is around $800 but if you can push it to $2,000 you’ll appreciate the difference. Above $2,000 you can start finding the best budget electric mountain bikes and specialty bikes, such as road, gravel, and mountain ebikes.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the ebike price range:
$500 – $999 — Entry-level hub motor and cheap components.
$1,000 – $1,500 — Mid-range hub motor or entry-level mid-drive motor with entry-level components
$1,500 – $2,000 — Mid-range hub motor or entry/mid level mid-drive motor with mid-range components
$2,000 – $3,000 — High-end hub motor or mid-range mid-drive motor
$3,000 – $4,000+ — High-end hub motor or high-end mid-drive motor
What do you get with $1,000 vs $2,000 vs $3,000 E-Bikes?
Always buy an eBike with disc brakes, wider tires, and a strong frame.
At $1,000 or less, you’re getting the type of bike that is only used on the occasional weekend for short, fun rides. It could have durability issues and probably won’t have much power or gearing options.
For a decent yet affordable electric bike, you should look to spend anywhere between $1,500 and $2,500. Bikes in this price range will have better parts and feel more solid and safe.
Above $3,000, you can get some good quality mountain bikes, gravel bikes and electric road bikes with a mid-drive motor and better-quality Shimano and SRAM components, including hydraulic disc brakes and high-capacity batteries.
Which is better – mid-drive or hub motor eBikes?
It’s hard to find an affordable mid-drive e-bike because these motors are more expensive. However, they are also more powerful and reliable, so the investment is worth it if you can make it.
If you just want to ride around town, a hub motor is more than adequate. Ebikes under $2,000 typically come with 750-watt motors that offer decent performance for everyday riding.
A lithium-ion battery is also part of the package, typically with anywhere between 500 and 700 Wh of capacity.
However, most of the low-cost, affordable eMTB bikes lack the necessary power for off-road riding if they don’t have a mid-drive motor.
How much should I spend on an electric bike?
If you’re just looking for a cheap motorized bicycle, you can get something for under $1,000 but you may not be perfectly happy with it. Ideally, you would want to get an e-bike with disc brakes, wider tires, and a strong frame because e-bikes are heavy and need extra safety features.
Best affordable e-bikes are typically available in the $1,500 to $2,500 price range. If you’re on a tight budget, it might be worth considering buying a used electric bike as well. Finding one in good condition will bring you a lot of value for less money.
Are cheap electric bikes any good?
Although you can get cheap ebikes under $1,000, it’s not always recommended because they might have durability issues, especially if you’re not buying from a reliable brand.
The best inexpensive e-bikes cost between $1,500 and $2,000. For this price, you’re likely to get decent components, strong materials, and a better warranty on the frameset and components.
Still, there are some decent cheap options out there, such as Hurley Electric Bikes, that look good and perform well for casual cyclists.