Weight is a big factor in how well a bike is going to perform and the factors such as power/range. A lightweight electric bike is ideal in many scenarios, with the city and foldable electric bikes boasting the lightest frames.
Best Lightweight Electric Bikes in 2022
One of the greatest factors in an electric bike’s overall performance is its weight. Weight can help to determine speed, distance, and overall movability. Lightweight electric bikes tend to be very high performance, especially when it comes to urban environments or commuting. With an electric bike, weight is one feature not to overlook.
Kent Step-Through
In this review you will find out everything that you need to know about the Kent Step-Through electric bike. If you have never heard of this brand before, well, we will be happy to tell you a short story. Kent International Inc. has designed ...
PROS:
- Powerful motor
- You can choose your preferred speed with 3 assist modes
- Great electric bike for less than $900
CONS:
- Only two color options
Ecotric City Vortex
San Francisco brand Ecotric was born of a simple idea: make great electric bikes that anyone can enjoy. Today, this USA based brand still manufactures all of its bikes right in their San Francisco facilities, offering a full range of electric bikes. ...
PROS:
- Long-range 30 miles per charge (similar models only garner about 21 miles)
- Fast charge time within 5-8 hours
- 26” inch tires for balance and speed
CONS:
- Much heavier than a traditional bike model (57 pounds)
- Limited color options
RadMission 1 Electric Metro Bike
The RadMission comes from the company Rad Power Bikes, a company that specializes in all sorts of ebikes from the city to offroaders. This North American bike company has been around since 2007, making many different types of ebikes, but focusing on ...
PROS:
- Decent mileage for an e-bike
- Sturdy, narrow tires make it great for any terrain
- 30% lighter than any other Rad Power Bike
CONS:
- One speed bike makes it difficult on hills
Ride1Up Prodigy
The Ride1UpProdigy is an excellent electric bike for fast commuting and off-road riding. You will be impressed by the ride quality and build quality while enjoying every ride.
PROS:
- When you compare the Ride1Up Prodigy with other electric bikes in this price range, they tend to have cheaper motors from China, such as Bafang. However, Ride1Up has fitted the Prodigy with a high-end Brose mid-drive motor from Germany. So you can be assured that your Prodigy will be reliable and high performing.
- All the electronics, including the battery, are fully integrated into the bike's frame. This creates a clean look and protects cabling and electrical components from the weather and damage.
- The Ride1Up Prodigy has impressive specifications for its price. Aside from its superb motor, it has powerful dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes, a 9-speed Shimano Alivio transmission, and included rear rack and fender set.
CONS:
- The only thing this electric bike is lacking is that it doesn't have a throttle mode for pedal-free riding.
Nakto 250W Fashion Foldable City
If you are looking for a foldable e-bike that is easy to ride, highly portable and comes at a great price, the Nakto 250W Fashion Foldable City Electric Bike – Black is a great choice for you! A popular bike amongst its peers and beyond, the Nakto ...
PROS:
- Affordable price
- Easy to ride
- Portable
- Large seat for comfortable riding
- Smaller wheels assist with heightened maneuverability
CONS:
- Great for hobbyists, not the pick for commuters.
Electra Townie Go! 8D Step Over Bike
Since 1993, California brand Electra has been committed to making bikes for everyone. From step-over electric bikes to fat tire mountain bikes, Electra produces them all. Every Electra bike is designed in California and manufactured in China. Though ...
PROS:
- Patented Flat Foot Technology
- Powerful Bosch Components
- Long 100 mile range with assisted technologies
CONS:
- Weighs a bit more than a standard city bike
- Lacks water bottle mounts
Nakto Skylark
If you want a comfortable and fun commuter bike that can be easily stored while spending under $1,000, the Nakto Skylark will give you value for money.
PROS:
- The Nakto Skylark is a great commuter bike for someone who doesn't have much space or wants to take it on public transport. You can fold the bike in seconds, making it compact enough to stash at home, work, or carry in your car.
- Nakto has looked into all aspects of creating a comfortable and safe bike at this price range. For example, the handlebars have a light rise, enhancing control, while the 16" tires provide agility and stability. The ergonomic saddle is adjustable for comfort too.
CONS:
- However, at 66lbs, it may not be lightweight enough for all riders, so if you are not particularly strong, portability may be an issue.
Step Over Townie Go! 7D
California based bike brand Electra has been churning out quality bikes since 1993. The goal of Electra has always been to offer up affordable bikes that suit every lifestyle. Made in China but designed right in Vista, California, each Electra bike ...
PROS:
- Available in several frame sizes and color options
- Hydrive technology and patented flat foot features
- Lightweight and easy to transport (other bikes can weigh up to 20 lbs more!)
CONS:
- Not as much power as Step-Over models from Rad
- No added brake lights for night riding
TopMate ES31
Ever thought about an electric bike that you can fold it and carry with yourself almost everywhere? TopMate ES31 Aluminum Lightweight Electric Folding Bike is the one for you! It has a 250W Controller motor and 18650 Lithium battery and a throttle – ...
Why Electric Bike Weight Is Important
Electric bike weight is important because it directly correlates to a bike’s overall performance. Much of the weight of an electric bike is a result of the battery and the electric motor. This is what makes them so much heavier than a traditional bike. Extra weight tends to make it easier to pedal and maintain a set speed, even as the motor is assisting you.
When weight is reduced, in the case of a lightweight electric bike, there is a smaller motor and battery size capacity. This means you may not be able to go as fast or travel as far on a single charge. However, great strides are being made and big-name battery manufacturers have made it possible to create lightweight electric bikes without reducing performance. The frame may also be made from a lighter material such as carbon fiber rather than steel or aluminum.
Generally, a heavyweight e-bike will weigh between 40 to 70 pounds. A lightweight electric bike will typically weigh between 15.5 pounds and 30 pounds.
Light Vs. Heavy Electric Bikes
Price is almost always a factor when determining whether or not to opt for a light or heavy electric bike. Which costs more a lightweight electric bike or a heavy one? Generally, there is not much difference in price between a light and a heavy electric bike. Pricing does not typically have to do with weight itself, but rather with the brand, grades of components used in the bike, and overall bike performance.
For example, you can have a lightweight bike with premium Bosch or Shimano components and electronic extras that cost upwards of $2500. In the meantime, you could have a heavy mountain bike that costs $1500 because a lower grade of components is being used. Price can vary drastically among both light and heavy electric bikes depending on where the bike is made, the parts being used, the brand name, and performance aspects.
The Lightest Electric Bikes - Which Type to Look for
Let’s say that you intend on buying an electric bike and you’ve decided you want something lightweight. Which type of electric bike should you look for? First things first, consider your usage needs. If you’re planning on commuting long distances, then you definitely want something lightweight, as you may be carrying your bike every so often. You’ll also want a bike geared towards a more urban environment.
In contrast, if you’re someone who is mainly cruising or taking joyrides with the family you may want something more versatile and well suited to a variety of environments, not just the city or an urban environment. With that said, if you’re looking for a lightweight electric bike, you’ll want to consider one of the following:
- City E-Bikes (30-40 lbs). A city e-bike is designed to very lightweight and is one of the lightest weight types of electric bikes available today. These are specifically engineered to bear no added weight, even the batters are often integrated right inside the frame. Additionally, these are typically made with carbon frames rather than steel or aluminum, making them easy to lift and maneuver.
- Foldable e-Bikes (15.4-27 lbs). Foldable electric bikes aren’t just handy for commuters or those with tight living quarters, they are extremely lightweight due to their carbon fiber frames and relatively compact nature. They can also boast a perfectly adequate range and decent top speeds, all while being able to carry up to 200 lbs.
- Hybrid Electric Bikes (50 lbs). Though a bit heavier than the above options, hybrid electric bikes are still fairly lightweight and don’t skimp on power or performance. They tend to be an all-in-one alternative for individuals who want to use their bikes in a myriad of ways.
Any of these three types of bikes will be pretty lightweight, but obviously a foldable e-bike is going to be the lightest, followed by the city e-bike.
