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Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 2 Review

Are you in the market for a high-performance electric mountain bike? Look no further than the Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 2.

This cutting-edge bike is designed to take your off-road adventures to the next level.

Electric mountain bikes have gained popularity in recent years, offering riders the ability to tackle challenging trails with ease.

The Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 2 is a top-of-the-line option that combines the latest technology with exceptional performance.

In this review, we will delve into the features and capabilities of the Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 2.

Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker or new to the sport, this bike has something to offer.

From its powerful motor to its advanced suspension system, we will explore why this electric mountain bike is a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts.

– Carbon frame: The E-Caliber 9.9 features a lightweight OCLV Mountain Carbon frame that provides excellent strength and durability while keeping the weight to a minimum. This allows for better maneuverability and faster acceleration.

– Electric-assist system: The E-Caliber 9.9 comes equipped with a powerful electric-assist from the Fazua Ride Trail 50 motor that provides an extra boost of power when you need it most. This system allows you to tackle steep climbs and challenging terrains with ease.

– Sram drivetrain: The bike is equipped with the top-of-the-line XX1 Eagle AXS drivetrain from SRAM. This 1×12-speed drivetrain offers smooth and precise shifting, allowing you to maintain your momentum on any type of terrain.

– RockShox suspension: The E-Caliber 9.9 features a full suspension system with 60mm of travel from the RockShox SID Ultimate front fork and Fox Factory rear shock. This suspension provides excellent control and comfort, allowing you to take on rough trails with confidence.

– Carbon wheels: The bike is equipped with Bontrager Kovee XXX wheels that offer a perfect balance of strength and lightness. These wheels provide excellent traction and stability, allowing you to maintain control even on challenging terrains.

– Remote lockout: The bike comes with a remote lockout system that allows you to quickly and easily adjust the suspension settings on the go. This feature is especially useful when transitioning between different types of terrain.

– Tubeless-ready tires: The E-Caliber 9.9 comes with tubeless-ready Bontrager XR3 Team Issue tires that offer improved traction, lower rolling resistance, and reduced risk of flats. This allows you to ride with confidence and focus on the trail ahead.

– Integrated battery: The bike features an integrated Fazua Evation battery, 250Wh battery that is seamlessly integrated into the frame. This not only provides a clean and streamlined look but also allows for easy access and removal when needed.

– Smart connectivity: The E-Caliber 9.9 is equipped with smart connectivity features, allowing you to connect your bike to your smartphone or other devices. This enables you to track your rides, monitor your performance, and access additional features and settings.

Construction

One of the standout features of the E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 2 is its lightweight construction.

Weighing in at just 16.35 kilograms for the size medium, this bike is incredibly agile and responsive on the trails.

It’s perfect for riders who want to tackle steep climbs and technical descents without feeling weighed down.

The bike is powered by a Fazua Ride Trail 50 motor, which provides up to 85 Nm of torque.

This allows riders to effortlessly conquer any terrain, whether it’s a steep incline or a rough trail.

The motor is also incredibly quiet, so you won’t disturb the peace of nature as you ride.

The E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 2 comes equipped with a 250Wh battery.

This means you can spend more time exploring the trails and less time worrying about running out of power.

The battery is also easily removable, so you can quickly swap it out for a spare if needed.

The E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 2 is equipped with a high-quality suspension system, with a RockShox SID Ultimate fork at the front and a Fox Factory shock shock at the rear.

This provides riders with a total of 60mm of travel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride even on the most challenging trails.

The bike’s drivetrain is equally impressive, with a SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS electronic shifting system.

This allows for precise and effortless gear changes, so you can focus on the trail ahead.

The bike also features powerful SRAM G2 Ultimate hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring reliable stopping power in any conditions.

Overall, the Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 2 is a top-of-the-line electric mountain bike that offers a thrilling and enjoyable riding experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking to take your skills to the next level or a beginner looking for an easy and fun way to explore the outdoors, this bike is sure to impress.

With its lightweight design, powerful motor, and advanced technology, it’s a bike that will take your adventures to new heights.

Order yours online today and pick it up at your local Trek store or have it shipped to your home!

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Trek Lift+ Review

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• Trek Reviews
• City Electric Bike Reviews
• Mid-Drive Electric Bike Reviews
• A light weight, efficient and more upright city style electric bike with a two year warranty, features an adjustable stem and is available in both high-step and step-thru frame styles in four sizes for improved fit
• Leverages the Shimano STePs drive system keeping weight low and centered across the frame, the step-thru model is reinforced for rigidity and strength, both get excellent range
• Rigid fork and seat post aren't as comfortable as suspension but reduce weight and the larger tires help to cushion the ride over cracks and bumps
• More expensive than I expected at ~$2,729 considering you don't get fenders, a rack or lights and the Shimano system isn't as refined as Bosch or Impulse, the battery pack has to be removed for charging and shift sensing isn't as responsive

Video Review

Introduction

Body position:, suggested use:, electric bike class:, learn more about ebike classes, availability:, model year:, bicycle details, total weight:, battery weight:, motor weight:, frame material:, frame sizes:, frame types:, frame colors:, frame fork details:, attachment points:, gearing details:, shifter details:, brake details:, seat post length:, seat post diameter:, tire brand:, wheel sizes:, tire details:, tube details:, accessories:, electronic details, motor brand:, motor type:, learn more about ebike motors, motor nominal output:, motor peak output:, motor torque:, battery brand:, battery voltage:, battery amp hours:, battery watt hours:, battery chemistry:, charge time:, estimated min range:, estimated max range:, display type:, display accessories:, drive mode:, written review.

The Lift+ is Trek’s most affordable electric bike (unless you count the Townie Go! from Electra which is also owned by Trek). The Lift Plus is significantly lighter at just ~45 pounds and I’m a huge fan of the quick release seat tube clamp, quick release wheels and adjustable angle stem! You can dial this thing in for a range of heights and body types and it comes in two frame style (high-step and step-thru) as well as four sizes… wow, that’s the power of a more established brand like Trek. The downside is that in my opinion the bike is on the more expensive side for what you get. While the Townie Go! mentioned earlier uses a more refined drive system from Bosch, the Lift+ relies on a Shimano system. The difference is that shift sensing is delayed, you get fewer levels of pedal assist, there’s no USB charger on the display, the motor puts out less torque and you have to take the battery off the frame each time you want to charge it. This last point is a big deal for me because I store my bike inside and have accidentally dropped batteries before when removing them so being able to plug directly in without removing the pack would just feel safer… plus, the Shimano charger has a really large blocky plug at the end that just doesn’t seem as well thought out.

The bike works very well on smooth streets and sidewalks but isn’t as cushioned as some of the other models I’ve covered in recent years. You don’t get a suspension fork or seat post shock and while the rubber ergonomic grips feel great and the sizes compliment the adjustable stem for a more upright, relaxed seating position I found the saddle to be very firm. The tires are slightly oversized at two inches in diameter and I’d probably run them a little low for added comfort… just don’t go so low that you get a pinch flat! The recommended PSI is listed on the sidewall so follow that closely and check often if you run low because air tends to leak slowly over time. So what am I really saying? Consider a suspension post like the Thudbuster , Body Float or something more cheap on Amazon and just make sure you get the correct size 36.1 mm diameter or use a shim to convert from the more standard 27.2 mm diameter.

All things considered, the Lift+ is an efficient and well made ebike. It’s backed by a reputable brand with dealer outlets all across the country so you should be able to take a test ride. There’s room for improvement with the motor system but I don’t hold that against Trek. I would love to see those bottle cage bosses added but I love that you get them for adding a rack and fenders because the bike would make an excellent commuter. There are ways to improve comfort with accessories and depending on your environment those may not even be necessary. I had a blast riding this bike on the smooth paved streets of Irvine California for the review and I felt well taken care of by Jax Bicycle Center because they spent time on fit and provided feedback about regular maintenance and things like hydraulic disc brake adjustment. There are some high end systems at work on this bike including the ten speed drivetrain but I’d love to see the price closer to $2,500 because it’s very plain compared with the next level up ( the Conduit+ ) and doesn’t deliver the same feature set as the Electra Townie Go! which can also be had from Trek.

• All Trek bicycles have to be shipped to a local Trek retailer but this is free of charge, from there some retailers will deliver to your house
• Awesome two year comprehensive warranty, they recommend storing the battery in a dry room at 60° to 70° Fahrenheit and keeping it fully charged, expect a 5% degrade each year
• Unique frame designs (the high-step version has a curved top tube for easier stand over) both are stiff and I love the internal cable routing
• Quick release seat tube clamp makes adjusting the ride quick and easy, the front and rear wheels also feature quick release skewers so maintenance and transport are both quick and easy
• Mid-drive motor system leverages the rear cassette for efficient energy use, the bike should get excellent range in Eco and Normal settings up to 75 miles per charge
• Highly adjustable stem and handle bar will accommodate shorter and taller riders, with four frame sizes (and two frame styles) this model should fit most riders
• Hydraulic disc brakes are smooth and powerful, much more enjoyable to use than band brakes or v-brakes but may require a shop’s help to adjust and bleed occasionally
• Premium drivetrain (especially for a neighborhood/city style electric bike), ten speed Shimano Deore Shadow Plus… enough gears to climb steep hills comfortably and also max out the 20 mph motor speed limit (you can also pedal faster than that but the motor won’t help)
• Front and rear mounting points for cargo racks, you could outfit this bike to carry a lot gear or add premium fenders to stay dry commuting
• The step-thru model is reinforced with two downtube/top tubes as well as an extra tube at the rear for improved strength and rigidity (this combined with the mid-mount motor and battery feel very balanced and stiff)
• At just under 45 lbs I consider these to be light weight electric bikes, they could easily reach 50 lbs with fenders and a rack but not everyone needs these things and the removable ~6 lb battery and quick release wheels make transporting much easier than comparable e-bikes
• Shimano STePs features a remote button bar that’s easy to reach while riding (to adjust assist level), I like that it clicks when you change levels and there’s also an electronic beep (that can get a little annoying), I also appreciate that the display is removable
• Battery must be completely removed from the frame in order to charge it, the charging socket is located at the base where it connects to the mounting plate, this adds work and increases the potential for accidental drops vs. leaving it on the frame to charge
• Firm ride, no suspension fork or seat post shock but the larger 2″ tires, ergonomic grips and enlarged saddle help, I found the saddle to be firm and would probably replace it
• It seems like there’s room on the high-step frame to add a bottle cage mounting point and this would be useful given that the bike doesn’t include a rack, the more expensive Conduit+ model does offer bosses on the seat tube
• The Shimano STePs drive system isn’t as refined as Bosch or Impulse in my opinion, shift sensing isn’t as smooth and the on/off activation isn’t quite as fast (but it’s still a top level drive system)
• In my opinion this electric bike is priced a little high, you get an excellent warranty but the frame is basic and you don’t get accessories like fenders, chain guard, rack or lights
• Limited color choices with this model… not a huge deal but basically gloss black for the high-step and gloss white for the step-thru, as a guy who would probably get the high-step model I’d like a silver option for increased visibility to cars at night
• The rear hydraulic disc brake cable is not run through the frame and stand out on the white step-thru model, perhaps it’s easier to service and I appreciate that most of the other cables are internally routed but considering the price I’m surprised this one was left out because it could snag more easily and just doesn’t look as good
• Official Site: http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/city-bikes/urban-commuter-bikes/lift/lift/p/1325600-2016
• Shimano STePs Manual: shimano-steps-electric-bike-user-manual.pdf
• More Pictures: https://goo.gl/photos/uK52oWjF7U4cdfwKA

Review Updated On

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Comments (16) YouTube Comments

Jon in seattle.

The 2017 model Trek ‘Lift’ has been updated so the battery can be charged while it is attached to the bike.

Shifting any geared transmission while under load [aka power shifting] will stress the system and create some interface noise. Manual-shift cars and motorcycles have a clutch to allow smooth gear changes. On a standard pedal bicycle with a derailleur shifter it is common practice to decrease force on the pedals while shifting to obtain smooth engagements. Changing gears on the Lift in that manner works perfectly for seamless shifting.

Power from the Shimano Steps with its 44-tooth chainring is quite surprising. The motor is a mere 250 watts but its internal gearing in combination with the torque, crank rpm, and wheel cadence sensors, and smart software, creates a lot of hill climbing energy. My testing showed the Lift to be a noticeably stronger [and much easier] climber than a 350-watt geared-hub bike using the same battery voltage. With the Step’s optional 38-tooth chainring, it would be even better.

That’s correct Jon! Thanks for chiming in about the updates to charging on the 2017 Shimano STePs system. I just reviewed the Wallerang which also uses the new battery. You’re completely correct about easing off pressure while shifting and given how smart the Shimano motor is, you can usually avoid mashing by gaining some speed, easing off the pedals a little and then shifting. Thanks for adding your thoughts, it sounds like you’re enjoying the product and I hope this helps others consider it as an option. Indeed, the smaller chainring would increase torque but for most of the urban riding the Lift+ seems designed for I feel like the 44 tooth is great :)

Shimano changed the Steps battery mount which now includes a receptacle for on-bike charging, and the charger has a new small plug to fit that port. To retain the off-bike charging option, the updated charger includes an adapter for direct connection to the end of the battery.

The earlier Lift could be updated with the new battery mount, and new charger.

Great comment Jon, you’re exactly right! The new Shimano batteries allow you to charge on-bike and do indeed require an adapter/dongle for charging off. You and others can see this new battery in my Walleräng review here , in the video mostly.

I tried this bike out; it was really comfortable and in my opinion, quiet. I am surprised that there are no integrated lights on this bike. No fenders, no lights, and no way to plug the bike in with the battery on board… that’s a few too many deal-breakers for me for a rather expensive bike.

Again, I appreciate your expert review Court; you mention details I wouldn’t even think about. Each review I listen to, I become a bit more educated … a bit wiser consumer. Thanks! Julia

Hey Julia, well thanks for the positive feedback. I agree that there is room for improvement with this bike and am glad to have contributed to your awareness and education. With so many ebikes available now, I hope you find one that fits and feels like a great deal :D

No site ever gives the dimensions of the trek or Towine bikes. How long are they? How high are they? This information lets one know if it will fit into their vehicles. Thank You.

Hi Jean! I do this for all of my new reviews (at least for the frame size I have to test) and have got the measurements for the 2017 Medium 16.5″ Lowstep which are: 22″ Reach, 19″ Stand Over Height, 24″ Width, 71.5″ Length and also for the 2017 Large 21″ Highstep which are: 23.5″ Reach, 24″ Width, 30″ Stand Over Height, 71.5″ Length. I hope this helps you! I do my best to be thorough here and provide an open space to help people… but I’m just one guy ;)

Just got a great bargain on a 2018 Lift – it’s super comfy and I can go much farther & faster than a ‘regular’ (not electric/pedal assist) bike. Wide tires on the Lift absorb most bumps with finesse. I think 2018 is its ending year – seems like it’s called Verve now. E-bikes need much more publicity and positioning as traffic subtractors/solutions because they allow more people to bike more easily.

Thanks for the update Kate! Glad you found a deal on the Lift+ and are enjoying ebikes so much. Reading your comment made me smile, be safe and have fun out there :D

Hey Kate, I am looking at the 2018 LIFT+ as well. Can you share what your “great bargain” was? How much did you end up paying out the door? Did you end up adding fenders or rear rack? Thanks ~ Kid

torn between this bike and the hard to find NEKO+. Your reviews have been an absolute help with this overwhelming process. In your opinion, will this bike fair well off road? I often travel packed dirt roads as well as graveled trails with rocks and roots. I’m hoping to find a bike that can get me back into biking and allow me to keep up with the kids on their adventures, while keeping me comfortable and ready for where the adventure takes us. My LBS has the step through model for $2,300 currently.

Hi Annie! I think the Neko+ is better suited to gravel and bumpy trails, since it has a suspension fork. The Lift+ will probably do alright, just not as comfortable. Getting it at a reduced price from your local bike should could make it worthwhile if you’re planning to mostly ride on road. Sounds like you’ll have a blast riding with the kids either way :D

Thanks for your reply friend! I absolutely love your videos and your reviews have helped a ton in this search. Went back to our local bike shop and took the Lift+ for a lengthy ride… it was hill killer and such a game changer but was somewhat uncomfortable on the dirt trail portion I went on. With all our potholes in New England I returned the bike hoping to find an option with some suspension help. Neko+ is no where to be found on the EastCoast so our bike guy recommended the Raleigh Candet IE. We ordered it so I can give it a whirl, it should arrive in a few weeks. Any thoughts on that 2018 Candet as a on road / off road option?

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Trek's best-selling budget mountain bike gets an e-MTB boost

Trek takes its most popular mountain bike - the Marlin - and equips it with a Bosch e-MTB motor and 400w battery to create the Marlin+

Trek has taken the Marlin, one of its most popular mountain bikes, and fitted it with an e-MTB motor to create the Marlin+. This new budget e-MTB will come in two versions, both of which are equipped with a Bosch motor suited for riding on and off-road,

The new Trek Marlin+ shares the same updated geometry and features as the Gen 3 Trek Marlin which was updated last year . Where the Marlin+ differs is its mid-drive motor and integrated battery which help give this hardtail electric mountain bike some extra oomph up the hills.

Trek has fitted the Alpha Silver Aluminium Marlin+ frame with a Bosch Active Line Plus motor. Inside the downtube is a 400Wh battery which can offer 2-4 hours of run time on a full charge (depending on conditions, climbing, and modes) which can be extended using Trek's PowerMore 250Wh range extender. The motor is capable of putting out 50Nm of power and is controlled via a 2-in-1 remote and display to make mode selection and battery status easy. 

The Marlin+ comes in five different sizes, the two smallest sizes use 27.5in wheels while M to XL has larger 29in wheels. Geometry is aimed at balancing comfort and trail performance with a 66.5-degree head angle and 74-degree seat angle. Reach is 440mm for a medium and the 485mm chainstays should give the bike a stable ride feel.

On the trail a 120mm suspension fork (100mm on the XS) and 2.6in tires will improve comfort and control while the rack and fender mounts mean it will be equally at home cruising around the city on your daily commute.

Pricing and specifications

The Trek Marlin+ is available now in two different builds, with the Marlin+ 8 priced at $3,499 / £3,000 and the Marlin+ 6 at $2,699 / £2,500. Check out the specs below, or head over to Trekbikes.com for more information. 

Trek Marlin+ 8

• Frame: Alpha Silver Aluminum 
• Fork: SR Suntour XCM 34, 120mm 
• Motor: Bosch Active Line Plus, 50 Nm
• Controller: Bosch Purion 200
• Battery: Bosch CompactTube 400 Wh
• Drivetrain: Shimano Deore M6100, 12-speed
• Bar: Bontrager alloy
• Stem: Bontrager Comp, 35mm
• Seatpost: TranzX JD-YSP18, 100mm (XS,S) / 150mm (M,L,XL)
• Brakes: Shimano MT420 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Wheels: Bontrager Line TLR 30
• Tires: Bontrager Gunnison Pro XR, tubeless ready
• Size: XS-XXL
• Claimed Weight: M – 21.30 kg/46.96 lb (with TLR sealant, no tubes)
• Price : $3,499 / £3,000

Trek Marlin+ 6

• Drivetrain: Shimano CUES U4000, 9-speed
• Seatpost: Bontrager Alloy, dropper compatible
• Brakes: Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc
• Wheels: Bontrager Connection
• Tires: Bontrager XT3 Comp, tubeless ready
• Claimed Weight: M - 22.45 kg / 49.5 lbs (with tubes)
• Price : $2,699 / £2,500

Graham is all about riding bikes off-road, based in Edinburgh he has some of the best mountain biking and gravel riding in the UK on his doorstep. With almost 20 years of riding experience, he has dabbled in downhill, enduro, and gravel racing. Not afraid of a challenge, Graham has embraced bikepacking over the last few years and likes nothing more than strapping some bags to his bike and covering big miles to explore Scotland's wildernesses. When he isn’t shredding the gnar in the Tweed Valley, sleeping in bushes, or tinkering with bikes, he is writing tech reviews for  Bike Perfec t.

Rides: Cotic SolarisMax, Stooge MK4, 24 Bicycles Le Toy 3, Surly Steamroller

Height: 177cm

Weight: 71kg

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Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped in review – A new generation of E-trekking bike

With the Powerfly FS 9 Equipped, Trek have developed a unique concept that looks beyond conventional bike concepts and combines the best features of different worlds instead. Was the Powerfly FS 9 Equipped able to assert itself against the competition in our E-trekking bike group test?

That eBike is part of our big trekking eBike group test . There you can find an overview of the test fleet and all information on the latest generation of trekking eBikes.

Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped in review – Is this what the next generation of trekking bikes feels like?

It’s all a matter of balance: with the Powerfly FS 9, Trek have made it their mission to blur the boundaries between bike categories and combine the best of the eMTB and E-trekking bike worlds. Instead of prioritising particular riding characteristics, Trek’s full-suspension ebike was developed to blend supposed opposites and create a balanced and harmonious riding experience, both on- and off-road. To find out whether the concept actually works, we tested the flagship Powerfly FS 9 Equipped, which weighs 27.10 kg and retails for € 6,999. The upright pedalling position allows you to concentrate on the trail ahead and is pleasantly balanced, distributing the weight evenly between the hands and saddle – the perfect prerequisites for a great tourer! At the same time, the balanced weight distribution ensures good control over the front wheel and generates lots of traction at the rear. The Bosch Performance Line CX motor delivers plenty of power in all situations and is easy to modulate thanks to the progressive eMTB mode. Moreover, the Trek has a second progressive mode called eMTB-Lite, which is optimised to provide increased range. The intuitive handling makes it easy to lean the bike into wide corners and take advantage of the wide handlebars to dodge potholes and obstacles with quick and controlled turns. Although it’s not as playful as a trail bike, the Powerfly is great fun and easy to control on easy trails, getting you to your destination quickly and safely even when the route includes unpaved trail sections on challenging terrain.

Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped

Specifications.

Motor Bosch Performance Line CX 85 Nm Battery Bosch PowerTube 625 Wh Display Bosch SmartphoneHub Fork SR Suntour ZERON35 120 mm Rear Shock RockShox SID Lux Select + 100 mm Seatpost Bontrager Line Dropper 100 – 150 mm Brakes Shimano XT 200/200 mm Drivetrain Shimano XT 1x12 Stem Bontrager Elite 70 mm Handlebar Bontrager 750 mm Wheelset Bontrager Line Comp 30 29" Tires Bontrager LT4 Expert 2.4"

Technical Data

Size XS S M L XL Weight 27.10 kg Perm. total weight 136 kg Max. payload (rider/equipment) 108 kg Trailer approval yes Kickstand mount yes

Specific Features

Supernova MINI 2/E3

Well-equipped for everyday life and excursions

The wide, high-volume 2.4” Bontrager LT4 Expert tires generate plenty of traction and feel predictable both on tarmac and loose terrain, inspiring huge amounts of confidence in all situations and only sliding out in muddy conditions. Shimano XT four-piston brakes with 200 mm rotors provide powerful and reliable deceleration. Even on long descents with a full pannier on the rack, they deliver consistent braking power and good modulation. While at 108 kg the Trek has a relatively low maximum payload, even with a 10 kg pannier on the rack it’s good natured and easy to manoeuvre, feeling significantly more composed than other bikes with a higher maximum payload ratings – i.e., the Kalkhoff Entice 5 Advanced+. The pannier rack features a practical MIK rail, which makes it easy to attach compatible bags and is approved for a 25 kg load. The Supernova MINI 2 headlight and E3 tail light look great and are powerful enough for night riding. Unfortunately, other accessories don’t live up to the otherwise high-quality spec of the Powerfly. The plastic mudguards are too short and can’t prevent mud from flying onto the person riding behind you and the kickstand makes a loud rattling noise.Trek-Powerfly-FS9-Equipped-Trekking-E-Bike-Test-Review-2021-mag-0007.jpg

Tuning tip: Bosch Help Connect plan with fall detection for solo adventurers

Stiff – Riding comfort onboard the Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped

The suspension of the Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped consists of a SR Suntour Zeron 35 fork and semi-integrated RockShox SID Lux Select+ shock, controlling 120 and 100 mm travel respectively. Although the numbers suggest a high level of comfort, the suspension is tuned for maximum efficiency which translates into a stiff and sporty rear end. On smooth tarmac, this converts each pedal stroke into efficient propulsion, without the rear end bobbing. Small bumps and vibrations are mostly dealt with by the high-volume tires while the suspension takes care of bigger hits, working actively and efficiently. As a result, the Trek is less comfortable than the Riese & Müller Homage but, in return, doesn’t feel as sluggish. The low-slung top tube and 150 mm Bontrager Line dropper post make it easy to get on and off the bike.

Propulsion first! The sporty suspension is tuned uncompromisingly for efficiency and riding fun, not for comfort.”

A smartphone as an on-board computer – The connectivity of the Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped in detail

One of the most striking equipment features of the Trek is the versatile Bosch SmartphoneHub. For short rides, this can be used without a smartphone. The basic 1.5” display shows all key data such as battery charge and speed. If you want other functions like navigation or fitness tracking, you can connect your phone to the SmartphoneHub via the COBI.Bike app and Bluetooth. While riding, the smartphone is firmly attached to a spring clip on the SmartphoneHub, where it can be operated via remote and charged via the hub itself. The COBI.Bike app offers a wide range of functions including voice navigation. If you tend to ride a lot on your own, you should take a closer look at Bosch’s Help Connect function (€ 4.99/month or € 39.99/year) with fall detection mode. This can notify your local emergency services in the event of a crash and is currently available in 11 European countries.

Quick off-road blast or long weekend ride? The Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped doesn’t say no to either!“

This is what the future of trekking looks like – The Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped in detail

Even whilst stationary, the Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped cuts a damn fine figure. Particularly striking are the sporty silhouette with its low-slung top tube and the elegant finish with its dark accents. Unfortunately, the chaotic cable management in the cockpit area spoils the otherwise tidy look. The Bosch Performance Line CX motor is neatly integrated into the frame and protected by a skid plate, while the 625 Wh battery is integrated into the down tube and can be easily removed to the side. The battery cover features Trek’s trademark carrying- handle while the battery cover and charge-port cover on the seat tube are both painted to match the colour of the frame. The charge port cover is easy to open and closes automatically – awesome! Not only the frame but also components like the handlebars, dropper post and BontragerLine Comp 30 wheelset, which Trek also use on their other performance-oriented eMTBs, make a great impression. In the smaller XS and S sizes, the Trek Powerfly comes with smaller 27.5″ wheels while all other sizes roll on big 29” wheels.

Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped conclusion

The Trek Powerfly FS 9 is exceptionally versatile and covers a wide range of applications, giving the concept of trekking a whole new meaning. The finely-tuned suspension and balanced pedalling position ensure sporty yet predictable handling and top riding fun while inspiring huge amounts of confidence on long off-road expeditions. The everyday equipment makes daily commutes and weekend trips more comfortable. The elegant look rounds off the successful concept of the Trek Powerfly FS 9, which comes out on top in our E-trekking bike group test, securing the coveted Best in Test.

• wide range of applications
• predictable handling
• spec includes high-quality mountain bike components
• many connectivity features through Bosch SmartphoneHub

• untidy cable routing of the cockpitt

For more information head to Hersteller-Website

The review of the Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped is part of our big trekking eBike group test “The best trekking eBike of 2021 – 8 modern eBikes for touring in comparison ”. We’ve tested four different concepts and eight bikes to tell you what modern trekking eBikes are capable of and which one is the best to buy.

Test bike overview

CENTURION Country R2600i | FLYER Goroc3 6.50 | Greyp T5.2 | Kalkhoff Entice 5.B Advanced + | MERIDA eONE-FORTY EQ | Niner RLT e9 RDO | Riese & Müller Homage GT Touring | Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped

Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of E-MOUNTAINBIKE, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more .

Words: Rudolf Fischer Photos: Valentin Rühl

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About the author.

Rudolf Fischer

In his previous life Rudolf was a dab hand at promoting innovation, putting his brain behind big-ticket patent assessments that easily ran into six-or-seven-plus figures. These days, the self-confessed data nerd’s role as editor at DOWNTOWN and E-MOUNTAINBIKE is no less exciting. Given his specialism in connectivity, Rudolf’s often placed on the front line of future mobility conversations, but he’s also big into testing new bikes–both on the daily as a committed commuter and intensively for our group tests. The business economist graduate is as versatile as a Swiss penknife, and that’s no hyperbole. Away from two wheels, his background in parkour means he’s a master of front, side and backflips, plus he speaks German, English, French, Russian and a touch of Esperanto. Japanese remains woefully unmastered, despite his best home-learning attempts. Good to know: Rudolf’s sharp tongue has made him a figure of fear in the office, where he’s got a reputation for flexing a dry wittiness à la Ricky Gervais... interestingly, he's usually the one laughing hardest.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

Trek’s Fuel EXe Is the Best e-Mountain Bike You Can Buy Right Now

Light, discrete, and quiet with a great chassis, the new EXe proves that more doesn’t make e-bikes better.

TQ HPR50 Motor

Motor noise, battery and range, display, remote, and apps, frame details, models and prices.

The Takeaway: Motor or no motor, the Fuel EXe is one of the best mountain bikes on the market right now.

• All new EX carbon frame with 140mm rear travel and 150mm fork
• Small and light (1850 grams) TQ HPR50 with maximum 50Nm torque
• 360Wh in-frame battery. Optional piggyback 160Wh range extender
• 2-5 hour claimed ride range from in-frame battery
• Six models priced $6,500 to $14,000

Weight: 40.9 lbs. (medium, 9.9 XX1 AXS)

Price: $14,000 (9.9 XX1 AXS)

Trek kicks off a big week of mountain bike launches here at Bicycling with the introduction of their latest e-mountain bike: The Fuel EXe. While the usual e-bike story is about more power, battery, and range, the EXe falls into the intriguing e-light category where the story is less.

The EXe is lighter, a lot lighter—10 or so pounds lighter—than a full-power e-bike because it uses a less powerful motor requiring a smaller battery. That makes it appealing to riders who want an e-bike but also want the feel and handling of an unpowered e-bike. It should also interest lighter and less powerful riders put off by riding a 50-pound eMTB. As I found out, being less powerful doesn’t mean less fun. The EXe proves that the old Less Is More axiom works for e-bikes too.

The Fuel EXe arrives in shops worldwide, in limited numbers, today.

Ride Impressions

Most of the e-bikes I ride are motorized versions of a brand’s existing unpowered frame platform, which there’s a better-than-good chance I’ve already ridden. However, with this new Fuel EXe, Trek flipped the script on me because the powered version came first.

My test bike was the most expensive model: The $14,000 9.9 XX1 AXS in Baja Yellow. The parts were, as you would hope for a bike this expensive, flawless. I did notice the RockShox Reverb AXS dropper on this post seemed smoother and less sticky than other examples of this post I’ve tried, perhaps due to some running changes on the assembly line. The Bontrager SE5 Team Issue tires are the best Bontrager trail tires I’ve ever ridden, and I feel like the company has a rubber compound that lets them compete with the best on the market. Also impressive were the 2023 RockShox parts which are a step forward in smoothness for the brand, and operate silently.

One thing not present on my bike was Trek’s AirWiz suspension pressure sensors on the fork and shock, or the Quarq TyreWiz tire pressure sensors on the wheels. These are a stock feature on the model I tested, but Trek’s PR team decided to remove them from my review bike after the issues I had with the sensors on the Rail test bike in October . Riders who order the new EXe through Trek’s Project One customization program have the option to remove the sensors.

While much of this bike is new to me, the Fuel EXe is such a harmonious package that I got comfortable with it very quickly, and it wasn’t much longer before I was in love with this bike. In fact, I’m going to declare that this is one of the best mountain bikes—powered or unpowered—I’ve recently ridden. I can’t wait until the unpowered version of this frame lands because I think it will kick ass.

Everything makes this bike good, but I’ll start with the frame. The chassis has a modern fit and balanced handling that lets the rider climb comfortably and let it run on the descents, yet it’s still agreeable on mid-speed and flatter trails. There’s nothing particularly unique or different about the EXe’s geometry numbers, which I think is the point: It finds an equilibrium that works well on many kinds of climbs and flavors of descent without neglecting that some trails are flatter. If anything, it’s snappier and livelier—things I don’t think I’ve ever said about an e-mountain bike—than the average 140/150mm bike, and enough that I legitimately forgot that I was on an e-bike at times.

I sometimes forget I was on an e-bike because the motor is so quiet and well-mannered. I couldn’t hear it over my breathing on climbs, and it’s so smooth that there are almost no vibrations or buzzing to feel in the frame. Plus, it is entirely free of clunking and lash.

It’s the most natural feeling motor I’ve yet ridden, by which I mean it doles out the power in an approximately human way. It is also so quick that there’s almost no lag between when you start and stop pedaling; the motor power flows in and out. It legitimately feels like you’re just having a really great day when you pedal this bike. I felt less surging and pushing from this motor, even in the highest assist mode, than I’ve experienced from any other e-bike motor system.

The EXe’s motor feels exceptionally well-tuned, and the experience is refined, eclipsing even Specialized’s excellent motors. Some of this smoothness likely results from the TQ’s lower torque. By keeping the system quiet, the bike tricks the brain a bit—quieter is perceived as smoother. But riding the EX- was such a pleasant experience that I never missed the extra boost of a “full power” e-bike.

I feel like this e-lite mountain bike might provide a superior experience for many riders, even committed e-bike riders. Yeah, it’s not going to hurl you up the climbs the way a full-power e-bike will. Yes, I did wish for more range—if only because riding the EXe is so damn fun—but there’s enough power and range here to offer some substantial assist, yet the bike remains agile and doesn’t punish the upper body on the descents. It is an e-bike experience that doesn’t overwhelm the mountain bike experience. The experience of transitioning from a mountain bike to a full-power e-bike is pretty extreme and can be jarring.

Full-power e-bikes are a lot: A lot of power and a lot of weight. Many riders adapt and are completely happy with their full-power e-bikes. But if you’ve tried a full-power e-bike and thought it was a bit much, the EXe will be a revelation.

Based on Strava, even with the EXe’s assist, I was still slower on the climbs and descents than my town’s fastest pro riders. I wasn’t even as fast as my best unassisted times from when I was in my best riding shape. But I could ride quicker and with less effort than I can (at my current weight and fitness) compared to an unassisted bike. It lessened—but did not eliminate—the pain and significantly increased the fun in a quiet, sleek, and easy-to-ride package. Which, to me, are the hallmark of an extraordinary bike.

For the new EXe motor, Trek turned to a new supplier: TQ Group. Like Bosch, Brose, and Mahale, TQ’s e-bike division is a small part of a large and diverse company with extensive knowledge in electronics. Though they may not have the recognition of its competitors, this isn’t TQ’s first foray into e-bike motors: The Flyon motor used for some Haibike models was a TQ product. But while the Flyon was noteworthy for its massive 120Nm of torque, the HPR50 maxes out at 50Nm (300 watts maximum assist), putting the Fuel EXe into the growing e-light category of mountain bikes. Other e-light trail bikes include Specialized’s Levo SL and Orbea’s Rise.

With nearly half the maximum torque, these e-light bikes don’t have the sheer thrust of a full-power e-MTB. But less powerful motors are smaller and lighter, and they draw less juice so that the bikes can use smaller and lighter batteries. And that’s why this EXe is easily 10 pounds lighter than a comparable full-power e-bike. For example, the full-power Trek Rail I reviewed last October weighed 51.3lb. This EXe with a similar build weighs 40.9 pounds.

The HPR50 is a light (1830 grams) and small e-bike motor because of its architecture. The “harmonic pin ring” system allows a concentric profile without belts and with fewer gears, packaging the entire unit into a shell that looks more like an oversized standard bottom bracket than the typical e-bike motor. Rather than explaining the design, the hypnotic animation provided by TQ below illustrates it nicely.

One more stat I want to highlight is TQ’s claimed “135mm Q-Factor.” While this is true, it’s the Q-factor of the motor without cranks which, last I checked, is hard to pedal. With my test bike’s e*thirteen e*spec Race Carbon cranks installed, I measured an approximate 195mm Q-Factor, which is quite a bit wider than a Shimano EP8 motor’s 177mm.

According to Trek’s launch materials, they spent a lot of time analyzing and quantifying e-bike motor noise. And while I don’t consider any of the current mid-drive e-bike motors loud, they all make noticeable—and not particularly pleasant—noise. Trek claims that when measured in an anechoic chamber, their motor’s tonality across a range of cadence speeds is four to five times lower than other e-bikes, registering as “barely perceivable.”

After many hours of riding the EXe, I agree that barely perceivable is an apt way to describe the motor’s noise. It’s so quiet that it barely registers above (and most of the time is masked by) tire noise and breathing. And not only is it hushed, but the noise you can hear is a much lower pitch—almost like a cat’s happy purr—than the high-pitched whine of most e-bike motors.

So quiet is the HPR50 motor that I could ride the EXe in a group without others knowing I was on an e-bike. Unless they got a good look at the bike from the non-drive side or happened to see the discrete handlebar remote (which I tried to cover with my hand as much as possible), they assumed it to be a non-assist bike. To make it even stealthier, I covered the top tube display with electrical tape to hide it, covered the top tube logo with stickers, and rode trails that are closed to e-bikes. Of course, I can’t suggest you do the same, but no one I rode by gave me or the bike a second look.

The EXe has a 360 Wh internal battery, which is enough for “two to five hours” of riding, according to Trek. While frustratingly vague, it’s accurate as many factors influence battery range. Riding in the “mid” assist mode, I did a 25-mile ride with almost 2500 feet of climbing. The ride took two hours and 40 minutes and finished with under 30 percent battery remaining, so I think the two-to-five hour estimate is accurate.

If you want more range (or less range anxiety), the EXe offers a couple of options. One is a 160Wh piggyback battery ($660, 900 gram claimed weight) that fits into the bottle cage. You’ll lose the ability to put a water bottle on the bike, but it provides 40 percent more range. One clever thing about this range extender is you can charge both it and the bike’s in-frame battery through a charge port in the extender. The other option is to buy a second in-frame battery ($750). You can easily remove the in-frame battery from the frame, so hot swaps on the trail are possible if you’re willing to carry a spare 1835g battery in your pack.

Claimed charge time for the 360Wh battery is a relatively short two hours, while the 160Wh piggyback charges in an hour.

The EXe has a two-inch OLED flush-mounted in the top tube with four data lines and the system’s on/off switch. A remaining charge graphic and assist mode indicator always show, and you can scroll through four data screens. The most helpful are the ones that display the remaining battery charge as a percentage and estimated ride time remaining, and remaining range in miles and estimated ride time remaining. The other data screens show rider and bike power and speed. In addition, the TQ system broadcasts information on an ANT+ channel, so you can also see information on compatible GPS cycling computers.

The TQ handlebar remote is very discrete. Use it to select one of three assist modes (Eco, Mid, High), to shut off all assistance, or activate walk mode.

Riders may access further information and settings through the new Trek Central app for iOS and Android. The app can customize all three assist modes. However, assist-system firmware updates must be done by a Trek dealer.

The Central app also offers ride tracking/recording (with automatic export to Strava and Komoot) and navigation with battery charge remaining at the end of the trip. It also has a range cloud that shows how far you can ride if you want to make a round trip and how far you can ride one way with a full charge.

The Central app also provides suspension and tire pressure setup information based on rider weight and recommended suspension damping settings. If your bike has Trek’s TireWiz or AirWiz electronic pressure sensors, the app also connects to those devices.

The EXe is the debut of Trek’s all-new carbon frame platform. Though the e-bike version is the first to launch, I’d bet there’s an unassisted version of this same frame coming soon. It is a mid-travel trail frame with 140mm of rear travel and complete models equipped with 150mm forks (it can take up to a 160mm fork). In addition, Trek seems to be heading in a new styling direction with the EXe, as the frame shapes and graphics seem crisper yet more subtle than previous mountain bikes.

The rear suspension is Trek’s familiar ABP (Active Braking Pivot) design. ABP is a single pivot system with a floating brake arm, allowing the nerds to fine-tune the bike’s anti-squat (pedaling) and anti-rise (braking) characteristics more than they could by using a more traditional single-pivot design. Trek says the kinematics work with either air or coil shocks and states that all coil shocks from Fox and RockShox are compatible with the EXe.

All frame sizes fit a 20-ounce water bottle inside the front triangle, and there’s a cargo mount under the top tube, too. Hoses and housing run internally (of course), but this frame does not use Trek’s Knock Block system to limit bar rotation. It got sacrificed to make room for the in-frame display.

The EXe’s geometry is pretty average for a modern 140/150mm travel trail bike. The highlights are two geometry positions (via a chip in the rocker link yielding a 64.7- or 65.2-degree head angle/76.7- or 77.2-degree effective seat tube angle) and chainstays that measure about 440mm.

While complete bikes come with 29-inch wheels, Trek says the bike is compatible with a 27.5” rear wheel.

Trek recommends using the high geometry position with the smaller-sized wheel fitted. However, it cautions that “the smaller wheel circumference will affect the accuracy of the speed reading and cannot be adjusted.”

Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

There are six EXe models—starting with the $6,500 Fuel EXe 9.5 and topping out with the $14,000 EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS. All use the same carbon frame, TQ motor, and 360Wh battery, but the rest of the build changes accordingly to price. Trek provided complete bike weights for the line, which I’ve pasted below, and you’ll also find build highlights. Full component package details are available on Trek’s website.

Notably, the most expensive EXe is not the lightest bike in the lineup. The $13,000 Shimano XTR build and the $8,700 and $9,200 Shimano XT bikes are lighter weight than the range-topping $14,000 SRAM XX1 AXS-equipped model. Also, the least expensive 9.5 model (remember: same frame, motor, and battery for all models) costs $7,500 less than the 9.9 XX1 AXS build but only weighs 3.3(ish) pounds heavier. To put it another way, the 9.5 is 53.6 percent cheaper than the 9.9 XX1, yet only eight percent heavier.

Personally, the best build in the line is the XT model. It’s under 40 pounds (claimed), has the carbon rims, comes with tough and sticky SE tires, and has the fancy one-piece carbon bar/stem of the most expensive builds. It has all of this while carrying a sub-five figure price tag.

Lastly, on the SRAM AXS -equipped bikes (like my review sample), the rear derailleur gets power from the bike’s battery via an “extension cord” pack. This pack clips on in place of the standard AXS battery and connects to the bike’s wiring harness. If you completely drain the e-bike battery, there is still enough juice left for about 200 shifts. Riders can bring along a spare AXS battery as an extra precaution.

Model | Weight in Pounds | Price

Fuel EXe 9.5 | 43.94 | $6,500

Fuel EXe 9.7 | 41.99 | $7,600

Fuel EXe 9.7 P1 Now* | 41.99 | $8,100

Fuel EXe 9.8 XT | 39.9 | $8,700

Fuel EXe 9.8 XT P1 Now* | 39.9 | $9,200

Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS | 40.06 | $11,000

Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR | 38.51 | $13,000

Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS | 40.67 | $14,000

* “P1 Now” models have a “premium” finish and are painted and assembled at Trek’s headquarters in Waterloo, Wisconsin. The weight and build kit are the same as standard models.

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

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Trek Marlin+ adds Bosch e-Bike Power to Popular Hardtail

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The new Trek Marlin+ takes their all-purpose alloy hardtail and gives it the Bosch Active Line upgrade. The e-bike variant has all the same features as the analog original, giving you a wide range of use options, from trail to town.

Featuring 2.6″ tires, a 120mm suspension fork, and size-specific wheel selections, the Marlin+ scoots all of that along with a 50Nm mid-mount motor.

It’s a Class 1 e-bike, assisting up to 20mph or 25km/h, depending on market. A bolt-on cover on the non-drive side makes motor service easy, and a protective plate under it makes cable routing simple.

That’s paired with a 400Wh CompactTube battery, augmented with an optional 250Wh PowerMore range extender. Expect 2-4 hours of run time on a full charge, and about 50% more than that with the external battery pack. It uses the slim Bosch Purion display/remote for simple mode switches and easy visuals for power, speed, etc. Switch to Auto mode for automatic assist changes based on terrain, cadence, and your output.

Size medium frames and up get 29″ wheels, small & XS get 27.5″ wheels. All frame sizes get rack and fender mounts, letting you set it up for backroad touring and urban commuting. Or shed the cargo and shred the trail.

Trek Marlin+ Specs & Pricing

Two builds are available, both on the affordable end of Trek’s e-bike lineup.

Marlin+ 8 Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain, dropper seatpost, Shimano 4 piston hydraulic disc brakes, 120mm RockShox Recon Silver Air fork, Tubeless Ready wheels and Bontrager Gunnison Pro XR 29×2.6” tires. MSRP $3,499. Also available in gray/silver.

Marlin+ 6 Shimano wide range CUES drivetrain, Shimano Linkglide cassette, Tektro hydraulic brakes with 203mm rotors, 120mm SR Suntour XCM 34 fork, Bontrager Montrose 29”x2.4” tires. MSRP $2,699. Also available in black.

Available now globally in most markets. Prefer the standard version? The analog Trek Marlin got a refresh in 2023.

TrekBikes.com

Tyler Benedict is the Founder of Bikerumor.com . He has been writing about the latest bikes, components, and cycling technology for almost two decades. Prior to that, Tyler launched and built multiple sports nutrition brands and consumer goods companies, mostly as an excuse to travel to killer riding locations throughout North America.

Based in North Carolina, Tyler loves family adventure travel and is always on the lookout for the next shiny new part to make his bikes faster and lighter.

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Looks fantastic. Please don’t refer to regular bicycles as analog? Pretty Please? With sugar on top?

I completely agree with ya, unfortunately even the manufacturers use it in their online training videos… which is pretty infuriating to listen to.

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Trek Introduces Marlin+, an Affordable eMTB Series

Trek offers the Marlin+ in two different builds, the Marlin+ 8 and the Marlin+ 6. These are hardtail eMTBs equipped with Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive motors and 400Wh Bosch CompactTube batteries . Both e-bikes use 27.5-in. wheels for the XS and small sizes and 29-in. wheels for the medium, large and XL sizes. The XS is equipped with a 100mm-travel fork, while the small, medium, large and XL sizes all receive a 120mm-travel fork.

The Bosch Active Line Plus motors are rated at 250W and produce up to 50Nm of torque. The choice to go with a Bosch is a bit of a surprise; we don’t often see their motors spec’d in this price range, and that detail alone makes the launch of these eMTBs very exciting. In our experience, the Bosch motors are the gold standard for eMTB performance.

And because offroad terrain can vary so much, rather than list a mileage estimate, they suggest that riders will enjoy two to four hours per charge. Riders wanting greater range can purchase Bosch’s PowerMore range-extending battery. These are Class 1 eMTBs, legal to ride anywhere e-bikes are permitted.

With five sizes to choose from, Trek says that the Marlin+ will fit riders from 4 feet 9 inches up to 6 feet 5 inches.

The Marlin+ 8 features a 12-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain, 4-piston Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, 203mm rotors and a dropper post. It comes set up for tubeless riding complete with sealant. The Marlin+ 8 retails for around $3500.

The Marlin+ 6 features a 9-speed Shimano drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, 203mm rotors and an alloy seatpost. The Marlin+ 6 retails for less than $3000.

The Marlin+ is available on Trek’s website and should be in Trek stores later this month.

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The best electric bikes of 2024

Our picks for the best electric bikes for riders of all types and budgets, based on dozens of reviews and tests.

• The best for most people
• Best budget ebike

Best fat tire ebike

• Best for commuters

Best electric dirt bike

Best under $1,000

Best cargo ebike, best folding ebike, best front-storage cargo bike, best for long distances, ebike specs compared.

• What to look for
• Ebike rules and regulations

Meet our testers

• How we test electric bikes

The best electric bike for most people

The best ebike for most people

It's not the flashiest, but we think the RadCity 5 Plus will more than fit the needs of most riders. It's comfortable, offers plenty of power, and comes with lights, fenders, and a rear rack for your gear. Plus, RadPower makes a lot of accessories that let you easily customize the bike.

In our tests, we found the RadCity 5 Plus to be responsive and powerful enough to get us up and down hills easily, and do so in comfort. It is a bit heavy at 64 pounds, but that should only be an issue if you try to go farther than it's 55-mile range.

Read more below .

The best affordable electric bike

For those who don't want to spend too much on an ebike, the Ride1Up Turris offers just about everything you could want, with few compromises. 

If you're looking for an ebike that can go anywhere, look no further. This bike is responsive, stable in all conditions, including snow, has both lights and turn signals, and even comes with fenders.

Read more below

The best for commuters

This affordable ebike has a neat feature: Its handlebars can turn sideways, so it'll take up less room when you have to store it in a hallway or some other cramped space. It's also fairly light, has a great range, and has a built-in rear rack.

This BMX-style fat tire bike delivers some great thrills on trails and dirt paths. It has a powerful motor to get you around, but no suspension.

This lightweight ebike lacks some niceties you'll find on more expensive rides — you'll have to provide your own lights and fenders — but it delivers a zippy ride around town at a great price.

The best cargo ebike

A truly versatile ebike that can be configured with dozens of accessories. It's also compact, powerful, very comfortable to ride, and one of the most affordable cargo bikes around.

Read more below 

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This futuristic-looking ebike is made from carbon fiber, which keeps its weight to just 36 pounds. It has a speedy electronic shifter, responsive and powerful motor, and a great range for something this small. It ain't cheap, though.

Read more below.

When you need to haul really big loads, the Supercargo CL is your best bet. It has a ton of space, yet is very stable and even fun to ride.

Longest range

With dual batteries, this bike has the endurance to get you wherever you need to go. And, it's often on sale for a very reasonable price.

1. The best for most people 2. Best affordable ebike 3. Best fat tire ebike 4. Best for commuters 5. Best electric dirt bike 6. Best under $1,000 7. Best cargo ebike 8. Best folding ebike 9. Best front-storage cargo bike 10. Longest-range e-bike 11. What to look for 12. Electric bike FAQ 13. Ebike rules and regulations 14. How we test ebikes  

What makes for the best electric bike? With so many models out there, it's hard to know at a glance which model will get you where you need to go and which features you can and can't live without. That's why we've tested a number of the top models across all types of electric bikes to give you the best recommendations for your needs. 

We test the bikes by riding them around, to see how responsive their electric motors are when going up hills and getting started from a dead stop. We also gauge the comfort of the bikes over long miles, and note the ease with which we can use their various features, such as an accompanying smartphone app. And, we also test the bikes' battery life; while endurance is affected by many factors, such as terrain and temperature, we try to the best of our ability to see how the bikes live up to the company's estimates.

While many of the best electric bikes are expensive — upwards of $2,000 — they're coming down in price; in fact, we also have a list of the best budget electric bikes under $1,500. And before you do any riding, be sure to pick up one of the best bike helmets to keep your head safe, and one of the best bike locks to keep your ride secure. 

Read on for all our best electric bike picks. 

The best electric bikes you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

best electric bike

1. Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

For the vast majority of riders, the Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus will be the best electric bike. It has a comfortable design, plenty of power, and a multitude of mounting points for things such as baskets and child seats. Plus, it comes with a rear rack and mudguards. Its 7-speed shifter, combined with three levels of pedal assistance and a twist throttle is more than enough to get you up even the steepest of hills.

Rad Power says that the RadCity5 should get upwards of 50+ miles on a charge; in our testing, it came fairly close — about 40 miles. 

We really enjoyed pedaling around on this bike, which is offered in both step-through and step-over models. Its battery, while not fully integrated into the downtube, provides plenty of range, and can also be used to charge your phone (with the right adapter). The one caveat is that this bike weighs a hefty 64 pounds, so you're not going to want to lug it up stairs.

At a starting price of $1,999, it's reasonably affordable, but you should check out our Rad Power Bikes promo codes for the latest discounts. 

Read our full Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus review .

Best affordable ebike

2. Ride1Up Turris

While there are plenty of great electric bikes that cost more than $2,000, the Ride1Up Turris shows that you can get a lot of value from an ebike that costs much less. During our testing, we found the Turris' 750W motor to be more than powerful enough for most situations. We were equally impressed with how quickly it responded when we started pedaling, as many budget ebikes exhibit a slight delay in these situations. (There was a slight lag when using just the throttle, though).

Other standout features include its mechanical disc brakes, easy-to-read digital display, and bright 60 Lux headlight. Included front and rear fenders helped keep our clothes clean on wet days, and its wide, 27.5 x 2.4-inch tires made for a comfortable ride — so much so that we thought that the front suspension felt a bit extraneous. 

There's no taillight, so you'll want to check out our picks for the best bike lights , and unlike some pricier ebikes, you'll have to assemble a few pieces of the bike yourself, including the handlebars, front wheel, and pedals. We also had to make a few adjustments to the fenders, which might mean a trip to your local bike shop. 

But for those who want an affordable electric bike to get around town, the Turris should be at the top of your list. 

Read our full Ride1Up Turris review .

3. Aventon Aventure.2

If you're looking for a fat-tire electric bike that's less than $2,000, the Aventon Aventure.2 is hard to beat. It's as good off-road as it is on pavement, has a beefy battery and a clear color display, as well as fenders that'll save your clothes from getting too muddy. Other niceties include a brake-activated rear light and turn signals.

The Aventure.2 has both pedal-assist and throttle modes, and the battery and wires are neatly integrated into the frame. What's more, the battery can be removed for charging. The battery lasted nearly the advertised 60 miles on a charge, but, as with other ebikes, we drained it much faster when we relied on the throttle.

While not as capable as a dedicated mountain bike, the Aventure.2 was able to get us up and over hilly terrain, and its torque sensor was quick to translate our pedaling into power. 

Our only real critiques were the bike's 77-pound weight and its front suspension fork, which felt unnecessary. Otherwise, it's an excellent bike for the price.

Read our full Aventon Aventure.2 review .

best for commuters

4. Charge Bikes City

If you plan on commuting to work, Charge Bikes City may well be the best ebike for you. Not only does it come with features like full-fenders to keep the mud off and a rear rack for a pack or bag, but it does everything well for a very reasonable price. The Charge City has a five level power assist, as well as a full-power throttle button, should the need or hill arise. 

The biggest reason why we think this bike is best for commuters is that its handle bars fold flat, so you can more easily store it in an apartment or a cubicle at work. It comes with all the necessary bells and whistles a commuter is going to want, including the bell (actually a superior and very loud electronic horn). The bike is available in both step-over and step through, and in a few color options, too.

The City's electric assist is so smooth you'll think you're doing all the work yourself. At night, the bike's lights sufficiently lit up the road and the throttle helped us zip around potential trouble when we felt out of gas. Its advertised range of 50 miles held up, too; we found we only had to recharge the bike every three days using it on our regular commute.

Founded by folks from biking icon Cannondale, Charge's sui generis feature is that even newbies can assemble the bike right out of the box in 10 minutes or less. All you basically have to do is put the front wheel on. 

Read our full Charge Bikes City review

Best BMX-style bike

5. Juiced Ripracer

The Juiced Ripracer is a lot of fun, and costs a lot less than you might think. It's one of the more affordable offroad ebikes we've tested, and it can go just about anywhere. This fat-tire bike has 20-inch wheels and a 40.3-inch wheelbase that's meant for trails and other unpaved surfaces. However, its lack of shock absorbers, like most e-mountain bikes, means you're in for a rougher ride. 

Its 750W motor delivered some real get-up-and-go, and, thanks to its low-end torque, was great for charging up hills. In one concession to its price, the Ripracer has a cadence, rather than a torque sensor, so you have to rotate the pedals a couple of time before the assist kicks in. As it's a BMX-style bike, the Ripracer is a lot smaller than other mountain e-bikes, which also makes it easier to maneuver around tight spaces. 

Read our full Juiced Ripracer review .

6. Ride1Up Roadster V2

At first glance, the Ride1Up Roadster V2 It looks like a regular, non-motorized commuter bike — the better to blend in with traditional rides — but concealed inside is a battery capable of up to 30 miles of range. 

The Roadster V2 is also one of the lightest ebikes we tested — it weighs just 33 pounds, so carrying it around shouldn't be a problem — and although there's no step-through model, Ride1Up offers it in two sizes to accommodate riders of nearly all heights. 

The Roadster V2 was fast and fun on flat and rolling terrain, and its belt drive made for a very quiet ride. However, this is a single-speed model, so it's a bit hard to get moving on hills. 

There are a few concessions to get to this price: The Roadster V2 doesn't have lights of any kind, nor does it have fenders, and it uses rim, rather than disc brakes. We also found its display to be on the small side. Still, if you can live with those compromises, you'll enjoy the Roadster V2.

Read our full Ride1Up Roadster V2 review .

7. RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus

How's this for an endorsement? Our reviewer loved this bike so much that he decided to buy one for himself. 

While it can't haul as heavy loads as some other larger (and much more expensive) cargo bikes, the RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus is more than capable of carrying you, your kids, and plenty of groceries wherever you need to go. We loved its responsive 750W motor, its comfortable ride, and its low center of gravity, thanks to its 3.3-inch thick, 20-inch tires.

However, we found it to be fairly heavy, tipping the scales at 75 pounds, so you're not going to want to try pedal it without any power assist. But we found its advertised 45-mile range to be pretty accurate, so long as we didn't go too heavy on the throttle.

Aside from its performance, what made the RadRunner 3 Plus stand out so much to us was its versatility: You can outfit the bike with any number of combinations of racks, seats, bags, and other accessories to truly customize it for your needs. And, its relatively low price for a cargo bike makes it a real bargain for those looking to replace their car with an electric bike.

Read our full RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus review .

8. Gocycle G4i+

The Gocycle G4i+ looks like something a supercar designer would build, which isn't surprising given that it was conceived by former McLaren sports car engineer Richard Thorpe. Not only is this bike's unique wheels-on-one-side and tapered body eye-catching, but we were able to fold it up in less than a minute into a size small enough to get us on and off a train, and past our security and into our office elevator. At 36 pounds, it's one of the lightest folding electric bikes out there, too. 

Despite that, this bike was a real pleasure to ride. Its electric shifter responded near instantly, as did the pedal assist and throttle. However, while the G4i+ has daytime running lights, you'll have to pay extra for a legit headlight, as well as mudguards. Also, the G4i+ has a great smartphone app, but one of the flimsiest methods of holding your phone on the bike itself — a cheap solution for a bike that costs $7,000. 

If you're looking for something slightly more affordable, GoCycle also sells the G4i ($5,999) and the G4 ($4,799). A 2022 version of the G4 has an injection molded composite mid-frame. Still too much for your wallet? Then you should check out the Brompton Electric C-Line Explore , which starts around $3,000. 

Read our full GoCycle G4i+ review .

9. Yuba Supercargo CL

The Yuba Supercargo CL can haul an astounding 500 pounds, making it one of the heftiest electric cargo bikes in its class. Yet, it offers a surprisingly stable ride, thanks to its low center of gravity. Its cargo area is very customizable, letting you convert it from a place to carry groceries to a space to tote your tots to soccer practice.  

Magna hydraulic brakes and a Bosch mid-drive motor were very responsive, though the relatively small 20-inch tires and lack of suspension did make bumps feel a bit jarring. The Supercargo CL starts at around $6,000, but is incredibly customizable; you can select from a range of accessories to adapt the cargo area to suit your needs. 

If you're looking for a cargo bike that can haul more than the Rad Power RadRunner 3 Plus, this is the model to consider.

Read our full Yuba Supercargo CL review .

10. NIU BQi-C3 Pro

There's nothing worse when running out of power when riding your electric bike, especially if you're miles from home — and at the bottom of a hill. With its dual batteries, the NIU BQi-C3 Pro is the best electric bike for those who have range anxiety, as it can give you up to 90 miles of range before you need to recharge. And, that's no boast — based on our testing, we found that 90-mile estimate to be pretty accurate, too. 

But range isn't the only thing we liked about the BQi-C3 Pro: It has mechanical disc brakes, front and rear lights, and a rear rack so you can carry things wherever you plan to go. A carbon belt drive is another nice-to-have feature, as it's quiet and easier to maintain than a traditional metal chain. Its step-through design also makes the bike easy to use for riders of all sizes; we tried it with both a 5' 11" rider and a 5' 3" rider, and both found it comfortable. 

Our only real complaint with the BQi-C3 Pro is that at 70.5 pounds, it's one of the heaviest electric bikes we've tested that's not a cargo bike, so this is not a model to buy if you have to go up any stairs. Still, the bike's 500W motor was more than powerful enough to get its bulk moving with ease. 

The bike's regular price is $2,199, but we've seen it on sale during the holidays for as low as $1,299, so wait for a sale to pick it up.

Read our full NIU BQi-C3 Pro review .

What to look for when buying an electric bike

Pedal-assist or throttle? All electric bikes have what's called pedal-assist; you start pedaling, and the bike's motor kicks in to make your ride a little easier. But you need to put in at least some work: you won't go anywhere unless you pedal. Most electric bikes will also let you set the level of assistance, so you can decide how hard you want to pedal.

However, some electric bikes will also have a throttle. Press a button or push a lever, and the bike will do all the work for you — no pedaling needed! Using a throttle will quickly eat up the battery life on the bike, so you'll get far less of a range if you don't want to pedal at all.

Motor type Less expensive electric bikes traditionally use a rear hub motor. Mid-drive motors located in the center pedal crank shaft tend to be more expensive but offer better overall balance and smoother shifting. 

Motors are also rated based on their power, measured in Watts. Typically, the least powerful motor will be 250 Watts, but unless you're a very large person or planning to go up really steep hills, the motor size shouldn’t be a major determining factor for your purchase. More important,  there is no industry standard for measuring Watts (is it continuous or peak and if peak, for how long?). So in general, a motor’s Watt rating isn’t a reliable indication of power.

Battery size Consider where you live. If you're in San Francisco you're going to want more help than if you're cruising around Austin. Watt hours (Wh) is the most important figure for comparison—it takes into account battery output and battery life to give you a better sense of available power. Higher Wh translates into more range. 

Many electric bike makers will also include an estimated range (usually about 40 miles) that you can get off a single charge. You should take this figure with a large grain of salt, as that number is usually determined under ideal circumstances: A fairly lightweight person riding on flat terrain with no wind, and at the perfect ambient temperature for the battery. Range is also dependent on the level of power assist being used, whether full-throttle has been applied and for how long, and your average speed. As they say, your mileage may vary.

Removable or built-in battery? Most bike batteries will handle rides of about 40 miles and need to be plugged in for at least a couple of hours to get to 80 percent of capacity. So if you have a more demanding commute, consider a model that lets you swap out the battery rather than a bike with an integrated battery. 

Also, if you live in a place where you can't bring your bike inside or get close to a wall outlet (such as if you live in a walk-up apartment), definitely look for a bike with a removable battery. It will make your life a lot easier.

Step-over or Step-through? Many electric bike makers will offer their bikes in two configurations: Step-over (which has a top bar that runs parallel to the ground) and Step-through (the bar is angled downwards). Once upon a time, step-through models were traditionally thought of as women's bikes, but that perception is changing. It's generally easier to get on and off a step-through bike, as you don't have to lift your leg over a bar. 

Safety features If you're planning to ride your electric bike in traffic or in low-light conditions (such as dawn and dusk), it's worth looking for an electric bike with built-in head and taillights. While increasingly common, it's not a standard feature on all models. 

Electric bike FAQ

What are the different types of electric bike.

Generally speaking, electric bikes fall into the same categories as non-electric bikes. Here's a quick summary of some of the kinds of electric bikes you'll find.

Road bike: These are meant solely for riding on roads, and are designed for speed. They will have thinner tires and curved handlebars, so that the rider will be crouched forward. Higher-end models may also be made out of carbon fiber, so as to make the bike as light as possible.

Mountain bike : Designed for off-road use, mountain bikes will have thick, knobby tires, full suspension, and a burlier frame to better absorb bumps and jumps. 

Fat tire bikes : Similar to mountain bikes, fat tire bikes are meant to be ridden off-road, usually on very soft ground, such as mud, sand, and snow. As their name suggests, these bikes have very wide tires — as much as four inches — which helps keep a grip on unsteadier terrain.

City/Commuter bike: Made for urban dwellers who need to get around town, a commuter bike will have tires that are somewhere in between a road and a mountain bike. Generally, the bikes will be configured so that the rider's back is vertical when seated, which gives them a better view of their surroundings.

Cargo bike: These bikes are made for carrying heavy loads, and will have a cargo area either in the front or rear of the bike. Because of the payload area, these bikes often tend to me much longer and heavier — and more expensive — than a typical bike.  

What is a good speed for an electric bike?

In the U.S., electric bikes are limited to 20 miles per hour; that is, they can only provide you with power — either through pedal-assist or with a throttle — until the bike hits 20 MPH. While you can easily go faster than 20 MPH on an electric bike, the rest of that power will have to be provided by you — or gravity. 

How much does an electric bike cost?

Electric bikes range widely in price. Some of the best cheap electric bikes start at around $1,000; you can certainly find models for less, but quality will be less. 

The bulk of electric bikes cost anywhere from $1,500 to around $2,500, and there are hundreds of models in this price range.  

Higher-end and specialized electric bikes — such as cargo bikes — will cost upwards of $3,000, and can easily reach $6,000 to $8,000, which is a sizable investment. 

rules and regulations

There has been a lot of confusion about ebikes (pedal assist versus throttle bikes) and where you can legally ride them. Some municipalities have banned ebikes from bicycle paths, for example. Many places classify ebikes depending on whether they can go full throttle and have a maximum speed of 20 or 28 mph. There are three official classifications:

Class 1: Ebikes that only assist while you pedal, with a top speed of 20 mph.

Class 2: Ebikes with a throttle that don't require you to pedal but have a top speed of 20 mph.

Class 3: Ebikes that only assist while you pedal, with a top speed of 28 mph.

So check your local regulations before you buy. And always wear a helmet.

Dan Cavallari is the former technical editor for VeloNews Magazine, who currently reviews electric bikes, the best bike lights , best bike locks , and other bike accessories for Tom's Guide. In addition to VeloNews, his work has appeared in Triathlete Magazine, Rouleur Magazine, CyclingTips.com, Road Bike Action, Mountain Bike Action, CycleVolta.com, Tomsguide.com, and much more. 

Dan also hosts two podcasts on his site, Slow Guy on the Fast Ride: One is about cycling and other outdoor activities, while the other looks at mental health issues. Most recently, Dan also covered the 2022 Tour de France. Dan lives outside of Denver, Colorado with his family. 

John R. Quain has been reviewing and testing video and audio equipment for more than 20 years. For Tom's Guide, he has reviewed televisions, HDTV antennas, electric bikes, electric cars, as well as other outdoor equipment. He is currently a contributor to The New York Times and the CBS News television program. John has also written our guide to the best bike helmets . 

how we test

All the bicycles in this feature were road (and in some cases, off-road) tested by Tom’s Guide reviewers and staff. 

The testing process begins when we first receive the bike; as most come only partly assembled, we assess the difficulty with which we have to put the final pieces together. Typically, this involves attaching the front wheel, handlebars, and pedals, but some bikes are easier to put together than others. 

Next, we take the bikes for a ride, evaluating their comfort, handling, responsiveness of their motors — some will be faster to apply power than others — as well as how they perform over a variety of terrain and conditions. For example, if we're testing a fat-tire bike, we'll take it off-roading; if we're testing a cargo bike, we'll load it with kids and grocery bags. 

If a bike has headlights and/or taillights, we'll also check to see how bright they are in dimmer conditions. After all, you're not going to only ride it during the day. We'll also try out any other safety features, such as bells and horns. 

We also evaluate the advertised battery range of an electric bike. Many companies will offer, shall we say, optimistic range estimates based on ideal riding conditions: A light rider using the lowest level of power assist, and traveling on a level road in 70-degree conditions. 

But, that's not reflective of real-world use. While it's impossible to replicate the exact same conditions from one bike review to the next, we do our best to provide as much detail in our reviews as to how we rode the bike (terrain, pedal assist levels) to determine how close to accurate the companies' claims are.

Finally, if an electric bike comes with an app — as is becoming increasingly common— we'll test it out too, to see how easy it is to use, and how well it works with the bike itself. 

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Michael A. Prospero is the U.S. Editor-in-Chief for Tom’s Guide. He oversees all evergreen content and oversees the Homes, Smart Home, and Fitness/Wearables categories for the site. In his spare time, he also tests out the latest drones, electric scooters, and smart home gadgets, such as video doorbells. Before his tenure at Tom's Guide, he was the Reviews Editor for Laptop Magazine, a reporter at Fast Company, the Times of Trenton, and, many eons back, an intern at George magazine. He received his undergraduate degree from Boston College, where he worked on the campus newspaper The Heights, and then attended the Columbia University school of Journalism. When he’s not testing out the latest running watch, electric scooter, or skiing or training for a marathon, he’s probably using the latest sous vide machine, smoker, or pizza oven, to the delight — or chagrin — of his family.

• John R. Quain

I cycled 46 miles with the Himiway Zebra ebike — here's what happened

Blood, sweat and beers — 7 lessons I learned from building my first ebike

Arsenal vs Chelsea live stream: How to watch Premier League game online

• Marc-G Hello, I noticed a couple of errors in the article around pricing on a couple of the bikes. Regarding the Gazelle Medeo T9 classic, your article list a starting price of $1999 but clicking the link takes you to their site where the least expensive model is $2499 and no model called Medeo T9 Classic is available nor can such a model be found with search. The second model is the VanMoof S3 which is listed in the article with a starting price of $1999 but going to the site shows a price of $2299. As someone trying to persuade his wife that an ebike would be a worthwhile purchase for me, I’d be grateful if you would clarify these discrepancies. One last thing. On the article itself, it says it was published 21 hours ago when it was actually published on July 21. I’m going to assume some aspect of it was updated but I can’t spot any changes to it and would appreciate it if whatever was updated could be noted somewhere. Many thanks for the article. Pricing confusion aside, it’s been quite helpful for me. Reply
• Marc-G Thanks for the reply. Just went back to the top of this page and realized that it said 2020. However, if that’s the case, why is it made to look like a recent article? Does that mean all the authors did was change the title from best of 2020 to best of 2021? That seems kind of disingenuous to me. Reply
• mprospero Hi Marc - We've recently updated the pricing for all the models. We've also added new ones to this list as we've reviewed them. Reply
• GFujioka You do your readers a disservice and reveal your partiality by not listing the 64,5 lb weight of your number one bike. Cheers. Reply
• gtilford One factor that seems to be missing from virtually every review-support. I have some friends who could not get parts for their ebikes for 6+months, and they were only 1 year old. I've had problems getting parts with a highly recommended brand. The bike is well made, it performs well, but parts are nearly unobtainable. If I knew then when I know now about parts availability I wouild not have purchased the brand. Reply
• View All 5 Comments

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• Verve+ 3 Lowstep

"The Best Ebikes for Elderly Riders"

"It hits the sweet spot between comfort, power, and safety. For comfort it offers a step-through aluminum frame, a suspension seat post, and wide, stable tires. A nine-speed Shimano drivetrain powered by a removable Bosch 500-watt-hour battery not only powers the bike and provides 30 to 75 miles of range, its integration into the downtube provides better overall balance and aesthetics."

Experience Verve+ with Trek Travel

Electrify your global adventures on a Trek Travel trip with Verve+. Take the cycling vacation of a lifetime and get up to $500 off your next bike purchase.

Get rewarded for going electric

Electric bike rebate programs are popping up all over the country, meaning you could save big when you buy a Trek e-bike! See if you're eligible for a rebate near you.

How to responsibly recycle your e-bike battery

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How the owner of a coffee shop in Los Angeles brewed up a new lifestyle when he traded Trek his car keys for an e-bike.

Your guide to electric bikes

Learn all about the best way to give your day a boost.

Forever prime

When a D.C. teacher saw what school closures would mean for his students, he turned to bikes. And that changed everything. 

How to ride on bike paths

Tips for more fun, responsible, and respectful riding.

Product features

Removable integrated battery.

RIB is a one-piece battery and cover with a built-in handle that can easily be removed and re-installed in the frame with no tools and no hassle. It’s the most convenient way to remove your battery for transport, security, or just easier charging.

Goodbye, car. Hello, Range Boost!

Range Boost seamlessly attaches a second long-range 500Wh Bosch battery to your bike’s down tube for up to twice the distance and time between charges. Ride longer, commute farther, and take on bigger adventures. Range Boost can be added to select Trek electric bike models.

Ready to ride

It's never been easier to get out and go! Verve+ comes with everything you need to ride, like fenders to keep you dry, a rear rack for bags, and front and rear lights that turn on with your bike.

What is the range?

To see how far you can ride your electric bike on a single charge, check out Bosch’s range calculator. We’ve auto-filled the variables for this bike model and the average rider, but you can make adjustments to get your most accurate estimate.

Compliant with leading safety regulations

The e-systems on Trek and Electra e-bikes are third-party tested to meet the latest e-bike safety regulations, including the stringent UL 2849 certification — so all you have to worry about is where your e-bike will take you next.

Mid-motor placement

The motor is housed around the bottom bracket, keeping the center of balance lower for the ultimate in stability, comfort, and control.

Bosch Active Line Plus

The Bosch Active Line Plus motor offers 50 Nm of torque for a smooth ride and just the right amount of support. The 250-watt motor is centrally located near the bottom bracket and supports speeds of up to 20mph.

Bosch PowerTube 500Wh

This latest Bosch battery sets the standard in integration and has 500Wh for an extended range.

Bosch Purion Display

Bosch's Purion display features a fully-functional speedometer with a backlit display, service interval indicator, and battery range indicator. Its thoughtful design allows riders to scroll through functions or choose the right level of support while maintaining contact with handlebars.

Hard-Case Ultimate

Bontrager's top level of defense is the best of both worlds, combining the benefits of Hard-Case with the proven sub-tread protection of Hard-Case Lite for a tire that accelerates quicker, rolls faster, and lasts longer than competing brands. The ultimate in flat protection!

Hydraulic disc brakes

Hydraulic disc brakes offer the absolute strongest stopping power in all conditions, including wet and muddy.

Stepthrough geometry

Easy-on, easy-off stepthrough frame is perfect for anybody not interested in slinging a leg over the top tube.

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Troubleshooting Common e-Bike Problems: The Ultimate Guide

Maintaining an ebike in good working condition can be tricky business, especially if you’re a newbie ebike rider. 

An ebike will work smoothly only when all the parts are functioning properly. Luckily, not every hiccup with your electric bike means there’s a major problem. Sometimes, it just needs a bit of DIY maintenance.

Not to mention, many ebike owners don’t live near an electric bike service shop, so getting the job done themselves can be a lifesaver. In any case, knowing how to troubleshoot common problems of ebikes is valuable information for anyone owning an electric bike or thinking about buying one. 

In this article, we’re sharing a full guide on how to troubleshoot common ebike problems to help you get back on the road in no time. So without further ado, let’s get started!

1. Troubleshooting the Battery

If your ebike won’t start or keeps cutting off, the issue can often be traced back to the battery. Even if you’re just doing a routine troubleshooting session, the battery on your ebike should be the first component to inspect. Here are some ways to troubleshoot battery problems:

Check the Voltage

The first thing you need to do is check the battery voltage. The LEDs on the control panel and the ebike should light up, if this doesn’t happen, then there’s a chance that the battery hasn’t been charged or there may have been a blown fuse. 

Checking the battery voltage can give you a clue as to whether or not the battery has been damaged.

You can check the voltage of an ebike using a voltmeter by simply attaching the prongs to the positive and negative sides of the prongs on the battery. Another way to get a reading is to fasten the voltmeter directly into the charger connector on the battery.

If you find that the battery power dies out too quickly, then the first you should do is determine how long the battery pack has been left without charging. Accordingly, you’ll be facing one of 2 scenarios:

• If the battery pack hasn’t been charged for 6 months or less, you may be able to recharge it successfully.
• If the battery pack hasn’t been charged for more than 6 months, then it’s probably defective. 

If you know that your ebike has been sitting in the garage for some time without recharging and when you try to start it, the battery loses power too quickly, then it’s safe to assume that the battery is defective and will require a replacement. 

If you’ve charged your ebike battery for less than 8 hours, try letting it charge for 8 hours and then check if the electric bike can run at full speed. We highly recommended not to leave the battery charger plugged into your electric bike for more than 12 hours. This is to avoid the risk of overcharging or damaging the battery if the charger malfunctions.

Check the Battery Charger

While you’re at it, you should also check the battery charger. You don’t need any tools to get this done; just plug the battery charger into the wall and see if one or more of the indicator lights are illuminated. 

If the indicator light doesn’t illuminate or even blink on and off when the charger is plugged into the wall, then you’re dealing with a defective charger. To test the output voltage of your battery charger, you can use a multimeter or voltmeter.

The voltage reading must be a few volts higher than the battery charger’s rated voltage. If the output on the battery charger is lower than the battery charger’s rated voltage or if it’s zero, then the battery charger is defective.

For example, if your ebike is equipped with a 36V battery but the voltmeter reads 10 volts, then the battery is faulty. In this case, it’s a good idea to check if your ebike is still under warranty. 

If so, then you can contact the manufacturer and file a warranty claim for replacement parts. But if not, then you should buy a new battery.

If the voltmeter reads a surface charge of more than 36V, then the battery is fully charged and you can try troubleshooting another component.

Check the Battery Management System

If your ebike keeps cutting off, one of the most common reasons for such hiccups is a failing battery. If your battery pack is particularly choking when under load, then the issue could be that the battery management system is shutting it off to protect your battery pack from overeating.

Typically, the battery management system will cut off the power if it senses the battery draining too fast below certain safe levels.

Often than not, a severe voltage drop means that one or more cells in your battery pack have been damaged. There are several reasons for such malfunction including aging, too frequent charge cycles, improper battery management, and a manufacturing defect. 

If you’re experiencing power cuts with a new ebike that you’re just starting to use, it might be because the pack has been sized, engineered, or manufactured with less than the required high current capacity for supporting heavy loads.

When cells fail, it’s usually due to being under severe loads. One way to solve this is by dropping the assist level and pedaling a little harder when going up steep inclines or hills. This should reduce the load on your battery.

Another thing to keep an eye out for is the possibility of your battery arriving already pre-aged. This can happen in lower-quality batteries that are typically installed in cheaper bikes because they’re made by recycling batteries from other older devices such as laptops.

To find out if your battery is the culprit behind the repeated choking of your ebike, try using it on a different reliable electric bike with the same setup as yours. The same problem should happen if the battery is faulty. 

If you’ve owned your ebike for a few years and you’ve used it almost every day, the frequent rides may have just pushed the battery pack towards the natural end of its lifespan. Here, buying a new pack from the manufacturer will solve the issue.

Check the Battery Prongs

A failing battery can be the result of improper lining up of its prongs. If this is the case, the electrical circuit can’t be completed so no power will be produced.

Using a wrench, you can easily fix this issue by slightly bending the prongs to realign them into the correct position.

Check the Battery Charger Port

Additionally, you need to check the battery charger port. Be sure to first unplug the battery charger if it’s plugged into the wall. 

Next, plug the battery charger into the battery charger port on your ebike and observe the indicator light on the battery charger. If the indicator light illuminates when the charger is plugged into the electric bike, then the wiring and the wiring connectors going to the charger port as well the charger port itself are working.

If you have a voltmeter or a multimeter, you can test the voltage of the battery charger port. The level of the voltage measured at the charging port must be the same as the one rater for the battery pack. 

Alternatively, you can test the battery pack on another reliable electric bike where you ride the ebike at full throttle on flat ground. Note how long the battery pack will last. 

On flat ground, most ebikes have a battery range somewhere between 30 and 45 minutes. If your battery pack lasts less than 30 to 20 minutes, chances are it’s worn out and you have to replace it. Severely worn out batteries have a maximum range of 5 to 10 minutes.

• If your ebike features a headlight, you can perform a load test by fastening an arch-shaped piece of cardboard over the headlight so you can see the beam from the headlight while riding.

From here, you can fully charge the battery pack and ride your ebike with the headlight on. Keep an eye out for the headlight’s beam shining on the cardboard. 

If the battery is good, the headlight will dim just a bit when you give the ebike full throttle. If the beam on the headlight dims severely when you give the ebike full throttle, then you’ll know that the battery is worn out.

• If you can get your hands on a multimeter, you can perform a battery load test while your ebike is running. Start by fully charging the battery, then jack up the rear wheel by connecting the multimeter to the battery. Give the electric bike full throttle while engaging the brake on the rear without locking it up. 

When you engage the rear brake, the battery pack will go through a load so you can then read the voltage and find out how much it drops. If the battery is working well, the voltage will drop by a few volts only. Otherwise, the voltage will massively drop. 

2. Troubleshooting the Brake Motor Inhibitor

If you’ve dropped your ebike, then a part of the handlebars may have been damaged. You can easily spot this by visually inspecting your handlebars and brake levers for signs of any cosmetic damage. 

If you find that the brakes have been pulled back because of damage and can’t seem to break free, this will cause the motor inhibitor switch to stay turned on. To get your ebike running again, you’ll need to fix the jammed brake levers.

If the damage is significant, then the switch itself may require replacing. Such a process will need the skills of an expert electric bike mechanic.

• Some people may suggest that you use your controller to figure out which wires are for the brake inhibitor so you can disconnect them completely to get rid of the problem. However, we stress that you never do that as it can be extremely dangerous on the road.

If your brakes aren’t functioning properly, then you should check the shoes or the brake pads for signs of wear. If they’re damaged or worn out, replace them right away. You should also check the brake cable tension and adjust it if necessary.

If you find the brake pads or the brake shoes in good condition then you may want to tighten the brake cable adjuster on the brake lever or the brake itself until the brake becomes more responsive. Make sure that the brakes aren’t rubbing on the rotor or rim when the brake lever is released. 

Once you’ve adjusted the brake cable adjusters to the end of their limits, screw them all the way in. Then, tighten the brake cable by loosening the brake cable stopper, pulling the brake cable tight, and re-tightening the brake cable stopper. 

You can make a final adjustment to the brake cable tension by unthreading the brake cable adjuster until you get the right tension. 

• It’s crucial to your and others safety that you maintain the braking system; keep discs and rims clean and straight, promptly replace any worn-out brake shoes and pads, replace frayed or worn cables and housings, and lightly lubricate brake pivot points.

3. Troubleshooting the Controller

Think of the controller as the processor of your ebike operating system. As a result, it’s also one of the most common reasons why your electric bike may not be working properly. 

The controller’s job is to take input signals from all the controls and sensors on the ebike, analyze them, and then determine the best way to transfer the power coming from the battery to the motor.

Since the controller serves a huge yet sensitive purpose in the functioning of an ebike, the slightest technical glitch could ruin the established balance in any aspect including power transfer and distribution. 

Inspect your controller for any wires that may be loose, disconnected, or misconnected. If you do see disconnected cables, reconnect them to the proper port. In general, the wires should be color-coded so you can match the same color wire with the same color the outlet.

If the controller doesn’t work at all, make sure that the power switch is turned on. Also, check the fuse or circuit breaker.

If your ebike comes with a circuit breaker, you can reset the circuit breaker by pushing the breaker. However, you should be aware of any problems that may pop up as circuit breakers are designed to protect the system and there could already be an ongoing problem that’ll seriously damage components.

For ebikes with a fuse, you can simply remove it and hold it against some light to see if it’s burned out. If so, replace the fuse.

4. Troubleshooting the Throttle

A lot of ebikes on the market come with throttle control. If you overuse the throttle control, it may get stuck when pulled back and won’t return to the off position on its own.

If you do this repeatedly, the throttle will eventually loosen or get damaged. If this happens, you’ll tend to experience power cut-offs. 

The safest way to use the twist throttle is to pull it back and then slowly release it back into its original position once you’re done.

If the throttle is feeling loose or missing out on strokes from time to time, you can just replace it after testing whether or not it’s receiving steady power. This way you’ll know for sure that your throttle is to blame.

5. Troubleshooting the Pedal Assist

Malfunctions of the power or pedal assist system on your ebike may cause issues associated with pulsating or occasional power cut-offs. Different ebike models feature different pedal assist systems; some are built around the front sprocket chainring while others are built into the bottom bracket.

If you’ve recently made mechanical adjustments to the wheels, pedals, sprockets, derailleurs, and so on, this could be why you’re encountering power supply hiccups. Another reason for such issues could be the ring of magnets on the front sprocket; the sensors may be out of alignment due to being dirty or knocked around.

You can adjust the pedal-assist magnet position using a flathead screwdriver to push the disc nearer to the sensors. If this doesn’t work and you’re having a hard time determining whether or not your pedal assist system is faulty, it’s best to take your ebike to an electric bike service shop so they can remove and replace the faulty parts.

6. Troubleshooting the Motor Connections

As we mentioned earlier, loose wire connections are one of the most common reasons why you may be experiencing issues with your ebike. As such, the wires connected to the rear hub motor can often get loose, frayed, or damaged over time. 

If the wires are loose, you’ll probably have to replace the loose or damaged portions. Check if there are any melted or burned wires connected to the rear hub motor. 

Melted or burned wires are a sign of overheating. If the insulation on the copper coil wires melts due to overheating, occasional short circuits may occur causing the power to cut off. 

If the coils in the motor keep overheating, you’re potentially risking the motor’s integrity and may end up having to replace the motor to avoid damaging the controller.

Check the motor’s power transmission system for missing parts. Worn-out, missing, or damaged components could lead to problems in power transmission resulting in unwanted interruptions of power flow. 

There you have it, a comprehensive guide on how to troubleshoot common problems of ebikes. Even though DIY maintenance can be easy to perform, it’s still best to bring your electric bike to a service shop if you’re not fully confident in your skills.

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NCM Moscow Plus

An e-mountain bike equipped with high-end brake and drive systems, the NCM M5 is for adventurous riders who want to hit the trails comfortable in the knowledge that their ebike can handle whatever they throw at it.

BIKE COMPONENTS

Frame: Alu. 6061, 26"*17.3 inches / Alu. 6061, 27.5"*18.9 inches / Alu. 6061, 29"*20.5 inches

Suspension Fork: Suntour, XCM-HLO-26/27.5/29, with hydraulic lock system

Brake: F/R: Tektro Hydraulic Disc Brakes,HD-E350

Freewheel: LY, 8 Speed, 11-32T, Silver

Tire: Schwalbe, Black Jack, 26"*2.1/Smart Sam, 27.5"*2.35/29"*2.35, Black

Saddle: Selle Royal, Lookin-A200UR, Black

Crank: Das-Kit, CM48,28/38/48T

Derailleur: F: Shimano, Altus, FD-M310, R: Shimano, Acera, RD-M360

ELECTRIC COMPONENTS

Battery: Das-Kit, i5-4816, 48V 16AH, 768WH

Hub Motor Rated / Peak Power: Das-Kit, X15, 48V 500W / 900W

Controller: Das-Kit, CT-i5, 48V 18A

Charger: Das-Kit, 48V3A

Display: Das-Kit, C7 

Net Weight (with battery): 57.0 lbs

Battery Weight: 9.1 lbs

Max Load (driver+bike): 275.0 lbs

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Our on-line store is open 24/7 and we ship Monday through Friday, excluding some holidays. Orders received for products without shipping restrictions on its product page will ship the same business day when received before 12:00 p.m. PST. Orders in high demand will have an estimated production time listed on its product page and will ship according to the date listed.

Customer Reviews

Very happy with my new M7 and wife's Moscow Plus

We purchased the NCM Moscow 29 E bike from Leon Cycles earlier this month. Communication was via 'Whatsapp' which I initially thought a little odd but worked out well. Once communication established the transaction was completed quickly and easily. We were able to arrange for the team to assemble the bike for us and we picked it up from the warehouse without an issue. We love the bike and are continuing to find new places to discover using it. Competitive price and great service.

I ordered the bike 4 days ago and today it arrived. Now my first impressions: it is easy to assemble, looks great, is cleanly finished and after a first short driving test I have to say, the hammer. It's totally easy to drive. If it stays that way, I can only say thank you Leon Cycle. Now I can cycle again, despite knee problems. Price-performance top

Great bike, this is my second e bike and by far the best. Watching e bikes over the last 10 years I think the Moscow 29er is fantastic. I live in the Dandenongs outside Melbourne with big steep hills and the Moscow takes them all on with great pulling power and gear range. 48v with 16 amps means over 750 watts of power. The bike is big and serious so getting on and off can be tricky but you do get used to it. With the previous bike (36v at 8amps) I was scared of running out of battery on a big hill and having to push the bike home but not with the Moscow. Also if you take the front wheel off you can get it in a hatchback like my Mazda 3 Which is nice. At $2200 it is a great buy.

Purchased two Moscow 27.5. One for my wife, one for me. Fast delivery, well boxed and easy assembly. Absolutely FANTASTIC to ride and use. Great range, and enough power for steep hills and tough terrain. I highly recommend them. Exactly as advertised and brochure. Looked at many options from other suppliers but these are the best value for money. If anyone wants a little extra range and a few more features then a Moscow Plus may suit. 48 Volt is the way to go. Great support and assistance from the team at Leon to make the right purchase decision. Hope other people may enjoy the ride and quality product. Harry G

Highlighted Features

Das-Kit 500W Motor

Ergonomic handlebar grips

Moscow 48V disc brake

Product specifications.

Battery: Das-Kit, i5-4816, 48V 16Ah, 768Wh

Hub Motor Rated / Peak Power: Das-Kit, X15, 48V 500W / 750W

Display: Das-Kit, C7

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Auto dealers

• Vinfast VF 8
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• Vinfast VF 9

VinFast just added 12 new car dealers in the US

VinFast Auto (Nasdaq: VFS) today announced that it’s officially signed agreements with 12 new car dealers in the US. 

The dozen new car dealers working with VinFast will begin to operate this month. This will bring the total number of US VinFast dealerships to 18, spanning seven states: North Carolina, New York, Texas, Florida, Kansas, Connecticut, and Kentucky.

There are already 15 VinFast stores and service centers in California, but in Q4 2023, VinFast announced it would be pivoting from its direct-to-consumer distribution model to a “capital-light hybrid model” by building dealership networks in the US and globally. The Vietnamese automaker is optimistic that sales through dealers will boost sales numbers in the second half of 2024.

David Duncan, vice president of sales and marketing at VinFast US, said, “Leveraging the network of stores, market experience, and capabilities of leading US dealers, VinFast will quickly deliver high-quality, competitively priced electric vehicles to consumers, along with outstanding after-sales policies. This establishes a solid foundation for VinFast’s strong growth in the US market.”

VinFast’s after-sales policy includes a 10-year/125,000-mile warranty for the car and a 10-year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery under standard use. VinFast’s parts distribution center will support the US dealers it’s working with.

The new dealerships will sell the VF 8 model, followed by the VF 9 and VF 7, once they’re launched in the US.

Here’s the complete list of 18 dealers, and the new dealers are in bold:

• Leith VinFast, Raleigh, NC
• Smith Haven VinFast, St. James, NY
• Principle VinFast, Grapevine, TX
• Hiley VinFast of Fort Worth, TX
• VinFast Wichita, KS
• Holman VinFast, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
• Premier VinFast, Branford, CT
• H Greg VinFast, West Palm Beach, FL
• Triad VinFast, Greensboro, NC
• H Greg VinFast, Doral, FL
• Sandy Sansing VinFast, Pensacola, FL
• VinFast Austin, TX
• VinFast Gainesville, FL
• Ewing VinFast of Plano, TX
• VinFast of Bowling Green, KY
• Hanna VinFast of Bradenton, FL
• DeMontrond VinFast, Conroe, TX
• DeMontrond VinFast North, Houston, TX

Read more: VinFast VF 8 (City Edition) first drive: A solid start, but there’s always room for improvement

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Michelle Lewis is a writer and editor on Electrek and an editor on DroneDJ, 9to5Mac, and 9to5Google. She lives in White River Junction, Vermont. She has previously worked for Fast Company, the Guardian, News Deeply, Time, and others. Message Michelle on Twitter or at [email protected]. Check out her personal blog.

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