Mid-Drive Electric Bike Reviews

This type of electric bike utilizes a motor system that is positioned at the middle of the frame, usually exerting force on the same chain that the rider is cycling as they pedal. They are known for their balanced weight distribution, unsprung weight advantage, battery use efficiency (because they benefit from gear shifting, just like the rider), and improved climbing power. Because they often require custom motor interfaces, mid-drive ebikes tend to cost more money. They exert more strain on the chain, belt, and drivetrain than hub motor and friction drive, and usually do not offer throttle on demand power. Most high-end and European ebikes utilize mid-drive motor systems.
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Moustache Samedi 27 Trail 8 Review

  • MSRP: $5,700
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A premium, full suspension, trail style electric mountain bike with 140 mm air suspension, four-bar rear suspension design with stiff carbon alloy parts, Boost longer hub spacing with sturdy thru-axles, and 2.8" plus sized tires for improved traction and float. Available in three sizes to fit an range of riders, steeper top tube lowers stand-over…...

Riese & Müller Packster 40 NuVinci Review

  • MSRP: $6,369
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

One of the most compact electric cargo bikes on the market, capable of hauling gear or a passenger up front, the frame is stiff and sturdy with a large double-leg kickstand, available with 20 mph or 28 mph motors. Optional Gates carbon belt drive and NuVinci CVT are durable, quiet, and can be shifted…...

BULLS LACUBA EVO E45S Review

  • MSRP: $3,899
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018, 2019

A high-speed 28 mph commuter style electric bike that comes in four frame sizes and three styles (high-step, mid-step, and step-thru), it offers excellent weight distribution (motor and battery are positioned low and center). Beautiful aesthetic with hidden wires, an internally mounted battery, and a smaller motor casing, the…...

2018 FLX Trail Review

  • MSRP: $1,899
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A hardtail cross country style electric mountain bike with quiet Bafang Max Drive 350-watt mid-drive motor, adjustable top speed upwards of 35 mph position it for private property or OHV use only. Three different colors to choose from - White Lightning, Carbon Black, and Gun Metal Gray…...

Piaggio Wi-Bike Active Plus Review

  • MSRP: $3,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017, 2018

A beautiful looking, feature-complete, well balanced, Class 3 speed pedelec (capable of ~27 mph top speeds) from Italian automotive company Piaggio, the same brand that makes Vespa scooters and Aprilia motorcycles. Custom alloy frame has been sculpted with smooth welds and some blade accents that double…...

BULLS E-CORE Di2 FS 27.5+ Review

  • MSRP: $5,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018, 2019

A full suspension electric trail or enduro mountain bike with 150 mm travel, large 2.8" plus sized tires, and Boost hub spacing for strength, made in three frame sizes. All-black frame, fork, and anodized RockShox stanchions makes for a mean look, Shimano STePs E8000…...

2018 Moustache Samedi 27 XROAD 5 Review

  • MSRP: $3,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A crossover touring electric bike that's capable and comfortable on city streets as well as packed dirt trails thanks to all-terrain tires, a sturdy spring suspension fork with 80 mm travel, and suspension seat post. Both wheels offer quick release for easy maintenance on-the-go, powerful Shimano hydraulic disc brakes stop…...

Riese & Müller Nevo GH NuVinci Review

  • MSRP: $4,979
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A heavy-duty version of the standard Nevo with reinforced frame tubing, upgraded stem, handlebar, pedals and a nicer Thudbuster ST suspension seat post, available in two sizes and three colors. This electric bike is easy to approach because of the step-thru wave design but doesn't…...

BULLS LACUBA EVO E8 Review

  • MSRP: $3,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

One of the most popular models in the Bulls ebike lineup, it comes in four frame sizes and three styles (high-step diamond, mid-step, and step-thru wave), motor and battery weight are low and center. Extremely stealthy, the drive system and battery are almost completely hidden on this frame and…...

Fuji Ambient 27.5+ 1.3 Review

  • MSRP: $3,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A hardtail cross country style electric mountain bike with 3" wide plus sized tires and Boost hub spacing for improved wheel strength, adjustable 100 mm suspension fork with remote lockout. Available in three frame sizes, relatively lightweight at ~47 lbs, high-torque Bosch CX motor with…...