Best E Bike for Commuting in 2024: Top 5 Electric Commuter Bikes
Our guide to the best e bikes for commuting compares some of the top electric bikes that promise to improve your daily commute.
The Commuter's Guide to Choosing the Perfect E-bike
Before we delve into the best electric bikes for commuters, let's dive a little deeper into what a commuter bike should deliver.
Selecting the ideal e-bike can be quite challenging, given the huge range of pedal assistance options out there. There are also concerns around e bike laws, but rest assured, here at Evolve all of our electric bikes are suitable for commuting and completely legal.
While the ultimate decision will depend on your specific budget and preferences, there are some key factors that you should consider when choosing the best electric commuter bike.
Commuter Bike Features
Firstly, comfort should be a priority so consider getting on a test bike when visiting your local e-bike shop. Look for bikes with an upright riding position, a stable ride, and a suitable gear range for urban riding. If shopping online, dig into the reviews and see what fellow commuters liked and disliked.
Secondly, durability is important, as after all, a commuter bike is likely to be used on a daily basis. Choosing an e bike loaded with reliable components like Shimano hydraulic disc brakes or a trusty Bosch motor can reduce unwanted maintenance issues.
Thirdly, consider the range of the e-bike. If you have a long cycle to work, and maybe don't have the option to charge up somewhere, options like a Range Extender battery or a long range commuter bike should be considered.
Our 5 Best E Bikes for Commuting
E bikes enhance the commuting experience and are a greener way of travelling from A to B, while offering huge health benefits too. Remember, the perfect e-bike for you should align with your commuting needs and lifestyle.
The list below compiles some of the best electric bike models available to buy this year for commuters and has been handpicked by the experts at Evolve e-Bikes.
Specialized TURBO VADO SL 4.0 EQ ELECTRIC HYBRID BIKE - The Ultimate E-Bike for Long Commutes
One of the most well known and largest brands in the cycling world. Specialized bikes excel in offering very good quality, performance based bicycles. Weighing 40% less than its full-power counterpart, the Vado SL delivers unmatched ride quality, range, and power, making it a standout choice and best-in-class in the lightweight electric bike market.
Whether you're aiming for speed, distance, or both, the Vado SL empowers you to do it all with confidence, all while significantly reducing the weight factor. Easily lift it onto racks, carry it upstairs, or navigate city streets with agility.
Price: £2,600
Specialized TURBO VADO SL 4.0 EQ Specifications:
Range: Up to 80 miles w/option range extender for up to 120 miles of range
Assisted top speed: 15.5 mph
Battery: 320 Wh (with 160Wh optional range extender)
Motor: Mid-drive SL 1.1 motor, 35Nm torque
Gearing: 11-speed derailleur with 11-42 tooth cog on the cassette
Specialized TURBO VADO SL 4.0 EQ Pros:
Impressive range suitable for lengthy commutes
Overall lightweight design
Specialized TURBO VADO SL 4.0 EQ Cons:
The primary battery is not easily removable, complicating charging
Rear rack weight limit of 15kg may restrict heavier loads
Ideal for the commuter, the Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 has the following features:
Impressive range
Lightweight motor
Comfortable ride
Sleek design
Rating: Design: 9/10 Performance: 8/10 Value for Money: 8/10
2. RIESE AND MULLER Silent Electric Hybrid Bike 2023 - The Perfect City Rider
Ideal for urban commuters, the agility and lightweight design of the Swing Silent, coupled with its discreet battery integration, make it a swift and stealthy companion for city commutes. The ability to customise features like handlebars, gears, and racks is a nice touch, allowing riders to tailor the bike to their preferences.
Price: £3495.00, however this varies due to the ability to customise the spec of this commuter bike.
RIESE AND MULLER Swing Silent Specifications:
Battery: 500Wh
Motor: Bosch Performance Line 65Nm torque
Range: 60+ miles
Gear System: Shimano Nexus internal hub gears
RIESE AND MULLER Swing Silent Pros:
Comfortable ride perfect for city riding while capable on various other terrain too
Customisable features like handlebars, gears, and racks
Low step frame to make it more accessible
RIESE AND MULLER Swing Silent Cons:
Premium price may be a barrier for some
Rating: Design: 9/10 Performance: 8/10 Value for Money: 7/10
3. Raleigh Motus Grand Tour Lowstep Hub Gear Electric Hybrid Bike - The Comfort King
Hop on the Raleigh Motus Grand Tour Lowstep and its comfort level will immediately impress. The short-travel suspension fork and plush saddle make for a smooth, enjoyable ride. The low-maintenance gear system and versatile performance round out its appeal, making it an excellent choice for both daily commuting and leisurely weekend spins.
The Raleigh is a fantastic option for those prioritising comfort and versatility.
Price: £2699.00
Raleigh Motus Grand Tour Lowstep Specifications:
Motor: Bosch Active Line Plus motor with 50Nm of torque
Battery: Bosch PowerPack 500WH
Gear System: Shimano Nexus seven-speed hub gears
Range: Up to 99 miles (typical around 56.75 miles in hilly terrains)
Raleigh Motus Grand Tour Lowstep Pros:
Comfortable ride with short-travel suspension fork
Low-maintenance gear system
Versatile performance for daily commutes and leisure rides
Raleigh Motus Grand Tour Lowstep Cons:
Heavy bike
Rating: Design: 8/10 Performance: 8/10 Value for Money: 8/10
4. Cannondale Mavero NEO SL1 Low Stepthru Electric Hybrid Bike - Best Step Thru Bike
The Cannondale Mavero NEO SL1 Low Stepthru Electric Hybrid Bike offers a comfortable and convenient riding experience with its electric assist and quality components. For those with mobility issues or who prefer a more accessible frame, this is a great pick, as well as those simply looking for a reliable commuter e-bike capable of absorbing shocks and vibrations from rough roads or trails.
Price: £2400.00
Cannondale Mavero NEO SL1 Specifications:
Motor: 350W Bafang hub motor with 45 Nm of torque
Battery: 360Wh battery
Gear System: microSHIFT Acolyte 8-speed
Range: 67 miles on a single charge
Cannondale Mavero NEO SL1 Pros:
Step-through Design: The low step-thru frame design makes it easier for riders to mount and dismount
Quality Components: Cannondale is known for using high-quality components, this is no exception
Integrated Battery: The battery is integrated into the frame, giving the bike a sleek and clean look
Cannondale Mavero NEO SL1 Cons:
Integrated battery design can be an issue for some e bike riders
Rating: Design: 8/10 Performance: 8/10 Value for Money: 9/10
5. Cowboy Cruiser Performance with Rack - The Ultimate Connected Rider
The Cruiser Performance electric bike offers a dynamic and connected riding experience. Equipped with streamlined handlebars, wireless phone charging, and Cowboy AdaptivePower™ technology, this sleek e-bike delivers consistent power, making it ideal for conquering hills and headwinds.
With a raised cockpit and curved handlebars, the Cruiser gives you a comfortable riding position.
It provides automatic locking and unlocking and timely recharging notifications. Thanks to AdaptivePower™ Technology, you'll receive extra power when facing inclines and headwinds, resulting in a seamless ride.
Unlock the full capabilities of your journey with Cowboy Connect. Enjoy turn-by-turn Google Maps navigation and rest easy with GPS tracking and theft alerts.
This sleek and stylish, high-performance e-bike is the perfect choice for riders seeking the ultimate connected journey.
Price: £2,990.00
Cowboy Cruiser Performance with Rack Specifications:
Motor: Cowboy rear hub motor 30Nm
Battery: Removable Cowboy 360Wh
Gear System: Single speed with belt drive
Range: 25-50 miles
Cowboy Cruiser Performance with Rack Pros:
Removable battery for ease of charging
Connected app and ability to include additional services from Cowboy
Low maintenance belt drive
Practical features like mudguards, integrated lights, and kickstand
Cowboy Cruiser Performance with Rack Cons:
Single speed may not offer the range of gearing if riding on a hilly commute
Rating: Design: 9/10 Performance: 7/10 Value for Money: 7/10
So that completes our list of the best electric commuter bikes for 2024, but there is room for one more carefully selected model which is crowned as the best deal on an e bike for 2024:
BMC 257 AMP AL ONE ST Disc Electric Hybrid Bike - Best Value for Money
Price: £5,500
BMC 257 AMP AL ONE ST Disc Specifications:
Motor: Bosch Performance CX electric bike motor (belt drive)
Battery: Bosch PowerTube 625WH
Gear System: Shimano Alfine 8-speed hub gears with a belt drive
Range: Up to 99 miles (typical 56.75 miles in hilly terrains)
BMC 257 AMP AL ONE ST Disc Pros:
Powerful motor and battery system
High-quality construction for durability
Practical features like mudguards, integrated lights, and kickstand
BMC 257 AMP AL ONE ST Disc Cons:
Non-removable battery requires bringing the bike for charging
BMC have nailed the brief when it comes to creating the best electric hybrid bike for commuters with the 257 AMP AL ONE ST Disc. The Bosch electric motor and battery system, high-quality construction and practical features (mudguards and integrated lights) make it one of the best electric bikes for any commuter.
Looking for a high-performing, durable e-bike at a bargain price? The BMC 257 could be the perfect fit.
Rating: Design: 8/10 Performance: 9/10 Value for Money: 10/10
What about a folding commuter electric bike?
We have formulated our electric commuter bike list from our hybrid and leisure bike section, but commuter e bikes do come in other shapes and sizes.
Folding electric bikes make great commuters, especially if part of your journey uses public transport. We have a large selection of folding e bikes from the leading brands such as Brompton electric bikes, perhaps the number one brand when it comes to the folding bike.
Electric Cargo Bikes
A cargo bike is another valid alternative for commuters, especially if you have the school run to take care of before work, or you need to grab the food shopping on the way home. If you fancy a super practical bike with features such as a rear cargo rack and huge carrying capacity, be sure to check out the latest cargo bikes from brands such as Tern and Cannondale.
Commuter Bike Accessories
In addition to finding the right e-bike, a few crucial accessories can significantly elevate your commuting journey. Here are some to consider.
A sturdy lock is a must-have. Given the investment you’re making in your e-bike, you’ll want to ensure it’s secure when you’re away. Helmets are also essential for safety. Choose one that’s comfortable and fits well and of course if commuting year round, a good set of bike lights are a must unless your e bike has them integrated already.
Remember, these accessories aren’t just add-ons. They’re vital components of your commuting setup, ensuring your rides are safe, convenient, and enjoyable.
