Are you looking for powerful electric bikes with throttle that would help you tackle steep inclines, breeze through city traffic, and embark on long-distance adventures with ease and comfort?
These are the main reasons ebikes with throttle are quickly gaining popularity as an eco-friendly, fun, and efficient mode of transportation.
In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the 9 best electric bikes with throttle on the market, perfect for urban dwellers, leisure riders, and adventure seekers alike.
Get ready to discover your next favorite ride as we delve into the top electric bikes that will truly redefine your cycling experience.
Benefits of Riding an Electric Bike with Throttle
The benefits of riding an electric bike with throttle are numerous, particularly if you’re seeking a convenient, efficient, and enjoyable cycling experience.
An ebike throttle is typically activated by twisting a grip or pressing a trigger, allowing riders to engage the electric motor without pedaling.
Thumb throttle on the Cannondale Adventure Neo AllRoad. (Source: cannondale.com)
This feature provides an instant boost of power, making it easier to tackle steep inclines, accelerate from a stop, or maintain a consistent speed.
The added assistance can be particularly advantageous for commuters, older riders, or individuals with mobility limitations, as it reduces the physical strain of cycling and allows for longer rides with less fatigue.
For that reason, electric bikes with throttle are particularly popular on electric city bikes and electric cargo bikes, as well as on the best ebikes for seniors.
Of course, all throttle-powered ebikes also have pedal assistance (otherwise they’d be considered as electric mopeds), so you don’t need to rely on the throttle alone when riding.
Are electric bikes with throttle illegal?
In the US, electric bikes with throttle are not illegal, as they are regulated as Class 2 ebikes.
According to federal law, ebikes are categorized into three classes based on their top speed, motor power, and the type of assistance they offer:
- Class 1 Electric Bikes: Pedal assistance (PAS) only, top speed of 20 mph, max power output of 750W.
- Class 2 Electric Bikes: Pedal assistance and throttle, top speed of 20 mph for both, max power output of 750W.
- Class 3 Electric Bikes: Pedal assistance and optional throttle (depends on the state), top speed of 28 mph for PAS, 20 mph for throttle, max power output of 750W.
However, it’s important to note that 12 out of 50 US states are not using the three-class e-bike system, so their position on electric bikes with throttle might differ.
In addition, some states may be imposing additional restrictions or requirements, such as helmet use or age limitations for class 2 ebikes with a throttle.
For more information, read our detailed guide on Ebike Laws and Regulations or check your local ebike laws.
9 Electric Bikes with Throttle We Recommend in 2023
- Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 3
- Lectric XP 3.0
- Cannondale Adventure Neo Allroad
- Ride1UP Turris
- Velotric Discover 1
- Aventon Level.2
- Buzz Centris
- Priority E-Coast
- Velowave Breeze T
1. Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 3
Best Utility Ebike with Throttle
- Price: $2,299
- Motor: 750W
- Battery: 672 Wh
- Range: 45 miles
- Weight: 75.5 lb
Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 3 is among the heaviest ebikes on this list, weighing in at 75.5 lb. However, that’s to be expected considering this is practically a compact cargo ebike, with a long rear rack and a heavy-duty build.
The RadRunner 3 is the recent successor of RadRunner 2, sporting some handy improvements, such as a 7-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, fenders, a semi-integrated battery, and more.
- Featured in: 750W Electric Bike Selection
It’s propelled by a 750W rear hub motor and 672 Wh battery, which is a typical combo on Rad Power Bikes models. You’ll get Class 2 abilities on PAS and throttle, with a 45-mile range.
What we like about the RadRunner 3 is how customizable it is, allowing you to equip it for any type of riding you plan to do, be it commuting to work, hauling groceries, transporting kids, or riding for fun.
Don’t hesitate to get it if you want a well-thought-out option that prioritizes comfort and utility, and comes with a reasonable price.
2. Lectric XP 3.0
Folding Electric Bike with Throttle
- Price: $999
- Motor: 500W hub motor (1000W peak)
- Battery: 500 Wh or 672 Wh
- Range: 45 or 65 miles
- Weight: 64 lb
Lectric XP 3.0 is one of the most popular electric bikes with throttle because of how affordable and well-equipped it is.
This versatile urban ebike is compatible with numerous accessories, allowing you to outfit it for commuting, carrying cargo, or transporting passengers.
Equipped with a powerful 500W rear hub motor with 1000W peak power, the XP 3.0 lets you choose between two batteries, 500 Wh and 672 Wh, offering 45 or 65 miles of range, respectively.
Moreover, as an electric bike with throttle and pedal assist, the XP 3.0 comes with Class 1, 2, or 3 capabilities, which you can change in the settings.
It’s extremely practical as well, as it comes with multiple accessories, such as fenders, lights, a kickstand, and a rear rack. It also boasts a 7-speed drivetrain, mechanical disc brakes, and burly 20″ x 3″ fat tires. However, at 64 lbs, the bike is relatively heavy for a compact foldable e-bike, but this is a trade-off for its sub-$1,000 price point.
So if you need a foldable ebike with throttle to commute, climb hills, and take on public transportation, the Lectric XP 3.0 is an excellent choice.
3. Cannondale Adventure Neo Allroad
Best Electric Mountain Bike with Throttle
- Price: $1,675
- Motor: Bafang G020 hub, 250W
- Battery: 418 Wh
- Range: 47 miles
- Weight: 49 lb. 1 oz.
Cannondale is one of the most popular bike brands in the world, known for their high-quality Class 1 and Class 3 electric bikes. The Adventure Neo Allroad stands out as the first electric bike with throttle in Cannondale’s lineup.
This versatile ebike comes with 27.5″ x 2.6″ knobby tires, making it perfect for gravel and dirt roads, as well as some mild MTB trails. It’s also available as a step-through electric bike, so it’s a good choice for urban rides.
It’s powered by a Bafang 250W rear hub motor and a 418 Wh battery, so you can expect a 47-mile range and a 20 mph top speed. It also features a large, easy-to-read LCD display so you can check your power and change levels on the go.
The Adventure Neo Allroad also has a 7-speed microSHIFT drivetrain and JAK-7 mechanical disc brakes, which are entry-level specs, but reliable considering the low $1,675 price. While the addition of front suspension or a wider gear range would be a welcome upgrade, it would also increase the cost.
We recommend the Adventure Neo Allroad to anyone who enjoys steering off the beaten path and is looking for an electric mountain bike with throttle at a budget.
Buy from REI Buy Step-Through Model
4. Ride1UP Turris
Electric Class 3 Electric Bike with Throttle
- Price: $1,295
- Motor: 750W, 60 Nm
- Battery: 48V 12 Ah
- Range: 25-45 miles
- Weight: 55 lb
The Turris is a recent addition to Ride1UP’s lineup of electric bikes with throttle. This is a Class 3 ebike with a 28 mph top speed, through the throttle cuts off at 20 mph.
The Ride1UP Turris is incredibly affordable considering the value you get, costing under $1,300 but sporting a 750W motor, 576 Wh battery, 45-mile max range, and all the accessories you could need.
With its wide 27.5″ x 2.4″ tires, the Turris is suitable for city commutes on weekdays, as well as gravel adventures on weekends. It also features a 7-speed drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes, which is a steal at this price point.
The slightly swept-back handlebars provide an upright yet responsive geometry that translates into great all-around comfort for daily riding. For those who frequently commute at night, the 60 lux front headlight is a useful addition, although it could be brighter.
All in all, if you’re looking for a high-value electric bike with throttle that costs little and offers plenty of value, the Ride1UP Turris is an excellent choice that will meet your needs.
5. Velotric Discover 1
Best Step-Through Electric Bike with Throttle
- Price: $1,599
- Motor: 500W
- Battery: 691 Wh
- Range: 65 miles
- Weight: 65 lb
The Velotric Discover 1 ebike features a modern design and fresh color schemes and comes with either a step-over or a step-through frame.
The Discover 1 is an electric urban bike with a throttle that combines powerful components and handy accessories, allowing you to ride it to work every day on busy city streets.
It’s equipped with a robust 500W motor, a high-capacity 691 Wh battery, and offers 5 levels of pedal-assist, throttle, and walk mode.
- Related: Velotric E-Bike Brand Review
With a top speed of 25 mph, the 26″ x 2.5″ tires allow for smooth riding on any surface. Plus, the 65-mile maximum range is pretty good given the size of the battery.
One of its main standout features is the accessory pack that includes fenders, a kickstand, and lights, but it also comes with a 7-speed drivetrain, suspension fork, and hydraulic disc brakes.
Considering the $1,599 price tag, the Discover 1 is quite a deal, as there are not many similarly equipped ebikes out there available for less.
Therefore, if you’re in the market for a capable electric bike with throttle and appreciate the urban aesthetic, the Velotric Discover 1 is worth considering.
6. Aventon Level.2
Best Commuter Throttle E-Bike
- Price: $1,799
- Motor: 500W (750W peak)
- Battery: 672 Wh
- Range: 60 miles
- Weight: 54 lb
Aventon Level.2 is quickly becoming one of the most popular electric bikes with throttle and pedal assist for commuters and urban dwellers.
It’s a modern and attractive ebike with great accessories and components, costing just $1,799, which is significantly less than similar offerings from other brands.
It’s powered by a 500W rear hub motor, a 672 Wh battery, and boasts a torque sensor that guarantees a natural ride feel.
The Level.2 is a Class 2 electric bike, so you can reach 28 mph on pedal assist and 20 mph on throttle. The battery provides a maximum range of around 60 miles, though this may be less if you rely heavily on the throttle.
In terms of extras, this throttle ebike has front and rear lights, turn signals, an iOS and Android app, and all other accessories you need for daily commuting. It also sports an 8-speed drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes, so it rides well on different types of terrain.
Considering the $1,799 price tag in mind, it’s hard to find any downsides to the Aventon Level.2. We recommend it if you want a competitive electric bike with throttle for commuting and leisure riding.
7. Buzz Centris
Cheapest Ebike with Throttle
- Price: $1,199
- Motor: 500W
- Battery: 48V
- Range: 20-40 miles
- Weight: 67 lb
The Centris is a folding electric bike built by Buzz Bicycles for comfort and practicality, equipped with a number of great accessories.
It boasts a 500W rear hub motor and a 48V battery (Buzz doesn’t specify the exact capacity), which is a pretty standard setup on this list. You can power your ride with pedal assist and throttle for around 20-40 miles on a single charge, and maintain a 20 mph top speed.
The Buzz Centris is a versatile machine, as it’s equipped with a front and rear rack, fenders, lights, a kickstand, and burly 20″ x 4″ tires.
It costs just $1,199, but can frequently be bought for just $899 on sale, which is a real bargain.
The bike is heavy at 67 lb, so its folding frame doesn’t mean you’ll be able to carry it on public transportation, but you can easily store it at home or fit it into a car trunk.
So if you’re shopping on a tight budget and you’re looking for a well-equipped folding electric bike with throttle and reliable components, the Buzz Centris is an excellent choice.
8. Priority E-Coast
Cruiser Electric Bike with Throttle
- Price: $2,000
- Motor: 500W rear hub
- Battery: 576 Wh
- Range: 20-60 miles
- Weight: 56 lb
Priority E-Coast is the best class 3 electric bike with throttle if you’re looking for a beach cruiser model that prioritizes comfort and minimal maintenance.
The E-Coast is a rare beach cruiser ebike with a belt drive instead of a chain that requires no cleaning or lubrication. Just hop on, twist the throttle and you’re off.
The 500W rear hub motor is operated with throttle or five pedal-assist modes, allowing you to reach speeds of up to 28 mph. However, it’s worth noting that the E-Coast ships as a Class 2 ebike, but you can increase the speed in the settings.
This ebike is clearly built to last, boasting a heavy-duty aluminum frame, fenders, a rear rack, lights, and beefy 26″ x 3″ tires. It also has hydraulic disc brakes, an essential safety feature on an electric bike with throttle.
The only thing we dislike about it is the position of the battery as it sits high on the rear rack so it might impact stability and is not the most visually appealing.
However, if you value comfort, style, low maintenance, and an authentic beach cruiser experience, the Priority E-Coast is a solid choice.
9. Velowave Breeze T
Best Torque Sensing City E-Bike
- Price: $1,699
- Motor: 500W rear hub motor, 65 Nm
- Battery: 720 Wh
- Range: Up to 90 miles
- Weight: 66 lb
The Velowave Breeze T is the best-equipped electric bike with a throttle on our list thanks to its 500W rear hub motor and a 720 Wh battery.
These features enable a top speed of 28 mph and a range of up to 90 miles, which is more than enough for any application. Although the throttle is limited to 20 mph, you can still exceed that speed with your own effort.
The Velowave Breeze T is affordably priced, but despite that, it offers some excellent features, such as torque sensors for a more natural ride feel. Moreover, it weighs around 66 lb, which is in the same range as similarly priced models. The battery can be removed to lower the weight or to charge it off the bike.
Other excellent components include hydraulic disc brakes, city tires, a 7-speed drivetrain, and practical accessories like fenders, a rear rack, and lights.
So, if you’re looking for style and high-quality electronics for a reasonable price, the Velowave Breeze T is a fun, fast, and powerful electric bike with a throttle that you’ll enjoy riding.
What are some more powerful and faster e-bikes with torque sensor then this list? 35 mph plus on throttle and pedal assist but good torque for hills and good torque sensor for pedaling?
Hi Joe, Bakcou bikes meet most of the requirements you’re looking for. QuietKat bikes are pretty fast and powerful as well. You can also check out our Fastest Ebikes Buying Guide for some fast models we recommend. Cheers!
take a look at ECells, the super Monarch Crown has faster speeds, with both