Best Electric Bikes Under $500

Are you looking for an electric bike that fits your budget? Although getting a good quality electric bike with all the required features at an affordable price is challenging, this needs keen research, which is time-consuming.

To make this easy for you, I deeply researched this product. After testing dozen of electric bikes, here I have a list of the best electric bikes under $500, so you never have to put extra effort. Also, in this article, I will cover a buying guide so you can pick the most suitable E-Bike from the list. To get one for yourself, keep reading this article.

Best Electric Bikes Under $500 Overview

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Best Overall	Best Overall	ANCHEER 500W Electric Bike	Motor Power: 500 watt Max Speed: 20 mph Frame Material: High-strength steel	Check On Amazon
Premium Pick	Premium Pick	Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 E-Bike	Motor Power: 350 watts rear hub motor Max Speed: 18.6 mph Frame Material: Aluminum	Check On Amazon
Editor’s Choice	Editor’s Choice	ANCHEER Folding 350W Electric Bike	Motor Power: 350 watts rear hub motor Max Speed: 20 mph Frame Material: Aluminum	Check On Amazon
Top Pick	Top Pick	Jetson Bolt Folding Electric Bike	Motor Power: 250 watts rear hub motor Max Speed: 18 mph Frame Material: Aluminum	Check On Amazon
Most Durable	Most Durable	ENGWE Folding E-Bike	Motor Power: 350 watt brushless rear motor Max Speed: 19.2 mph Frame Material: Carbon steel	Check On Amazon
Budget Friendly	Budget Friendly	NAKTO Adults Electric Bike	Motor Power: 250 watt brushless geared motor Max Speed: 20 mph Frame Material: Aluminum	Check On Amazon
		Sailnovo Electric Bike	Motor Power: 450 watt motor Max Speed: 18.5 mph Frame Material: Aluminum	Check On Amazon
Best Seller	Best Seller	VIVI Electric MTB	Motor Power: 350 watt motor Max Speed: 20 mph Frame Material: Aluminum	Check On Amazon
		Razor RSF350 Electric Street Bike	Motor Power: 250 watts chain driven motor Max Speed: 14 mph	Check On Amazon
		Razor E300 Electric Scooter	Motor Power: 450 watt motor Max Speed: 18.5 mph Frame Material: Alloy Steel	Check On Amazon

Top 10 Best Electric Bikes Under $500 Review

1. ANCHEER 500W Electric Commuter Bike

Are you looking for a road bike that fits your budget? ANCHEER 500W electric bike is the right option for you as it efficiently works in your range. It features a 500-watt powerful motor that is enough to power your e-bike to run with a speed up to 20 mph. Furthermore, this electric bike is a durable product as it features an E-Bike self-test that helps you detect any fault.

In addition, ANCHEER 500W has advanced controls such as app speed setting according to you area electric bike speed limit laws, motor locking, and mileage recording. These controls add to its functionality and save you from any inconvenience while commuting.

Furthermore, this e-bike allows you to go up to 20 miles per charge, which is quite impressive. Its powerful 48V 7.5AH smart battery takes only 3 hours to fully charge, which is relatively short compared to the distance it can travel with a 100% charge.

The thing that makes it more worth buying is the IPx5 waterproof design that makes it not only waterproof but also dustproof and shockproof. So, you can ride it in the rain without fear of short-circuiting.

Also, it has anti-slip rubber wheels to enhance traction. This 500W electric commuter bike features rear and front mechanical disc brakes to add stability. In terms of looks, it is more like a mountain bike but equally suitable for both street riding as well as the trail.

Why I Recommended ANCHEER Electric Bike

ANCHEER 500W electric bike is the most affordable option. Still, it provides all needed features from multiple brakes, user, and power modes. If you want to take control of your device, this perfectly designed electric bike is the best suitable option for you. For US residents, it is recommended to follow their state electric bike rules.

2. Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 Folding E-Bike with Pedals

If you are looking for a lightweight and portable electric bike that you can easily carry anywhere, the Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 is what you need. Its aluminum frame makes it lightweight, while its foldable design lets you take it on buses and wherever you want. Furthermore, it has a pedal-operated and throttle-operated motor so you can use one according to situation demand.

Moreover, it has a seven-speed driveline to keep its design simple and lightweight. The wheels of this portable bike are small in size to maintain its portability. This bike has throttles that let you quickly pass any tough road without much effort. Due to this feature, you can use it as a road and mountain bike.

For additional power, you can attach extra batteries. However, with a full charge, you can go 15 miles with e-mode and 25 miles with assist mode. The battery takes almost 7 hours, which is a bit higher, but if you are used to charging your bike at night, this will never bother you. With this electric bike, you can go up to 18mph, which is relatively high. It has disc brakes for an instant stop to ensure safety even at this speed to avoid accidents.

Why I Recommended Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5

Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 is the best foldable electric bike as you can fold handles, pedal, and frame easily for premium portability. Irrespective of size and weight, anyone can ride this bike with comfort. If you want portability and all supportive features, choose this model.

3. ANCHEER Folding 350W Electric Bike

Do you want an electric bike with a compact, foldable design for your small rides? Look at ANCHEER folding 350W scooter electric bike because this is ideal to fulfill these needs. Its compact design makes it a lightweight and easy-to-carry option.

While its foldable feature makes it portable, you can keep it with you anywhere you want. To provide complete control over your vehicle, this bike has an application that lets you adjust things like speed, etc.

Moreover, the powerful and right-sized 350W motor provides enough energy so you can ride for longer with a single full charge. This model is suitable for road rides as it works perfectly on smooth surfaces. So if you are willing to buy a bike in hilly areas, this is not what you need.

Furthermore, rear and front disc brakes ensure instant stop and avoid accidents. For a comfortable ride, you can adjust handles and seats according to size and height. To add to portability, the handles are foldable to save space and small wheels from reducing weight. However, this bike has no pedals, so you can only use it with a charged battery.

Why I Recommended ANCHEER Folding Electric Bike

ANCHEER folding 350W scooter electric bike is the best foldable, powerful, and high-speed vehicle option. You can carry it to your office and keep it on the bus. If you want an electric road bike that fits into your budget with all the required features, this is what you need; buy it without any delays.

Not getting convinced of these e-bikes? Well, you can get a much better electric bike for $700

4. Jetson Bolt Folding Electric Bike

Jetson Bolt is a foldable and one of the best electric bikes under 500 option with a portable weight limit. Also, if you are looking for a pure electric bike with no pedal options, then this e-bike is the best for you.

However, it has throttle power to ensure a long commute without any disturbance. With this bike, you can achieve more than 18mph, which is relatively high. In appearance, it is more like a scooter due to its small wheels and no pedals.

Furthermore, the power source is a 250W motor and a single rare disc brake to keep it in your budget. Even without a front disc brake, it is quite a safe option and stops on time. But to add safety, it has front and back lights and a brake indicator. Also, the light is bright enough to ensure the safest rides at night.

For portability, you can fold handles. However, this is the only part that is foldable. Still, no worries, this is due to its already compact design, which makes it easy to carry. Also, the aluminum body reduces its weight to 34lbs. You can own this bike for under $500 and keep it longer with you without spending much on maintenance.

Why I Recommended Jetson Bolt Electric Bike

If you want a fun ride, Jetson Bolt electric bike is a classic option with a compact design and portability. You can enjoy its ride with safety, don’t delay; buy it now.

5. ENGWE Folding Electric Bikes for Adults and Teens

Do you need an electric bike that comes under $500 but stays longer with you? The engine electric mountain bike is the answer to your needs as it can stay with you for years due to its strong build and carbon steel frame. Its battery lasts for 3-5 years without losing its strength. Its quality construction makes it ideal for off-road use without any worries. Moreover, its dual disc brakes and dual suspension give you a comfortable ride.

Furthermore, its battery takes 5 hours to get a full charge but lasts 22 miles if you use throttle mode. However, with a pedal assistant mode, you can extend its range to 50 miles, which is relatively high. Also, the 350-watt brushless rear motor lets you enjoy your ride at 19.2 mph speed by producing strong torque. However, this is possible only in electric mode.

An electric mountain bike protects with its dual mechanical disc brakes so you can stop your bike on time. This feature is a must-have to keep your balance in bumpy areas.

Besides this, you get this bike 85% assembled, and you must do the remaining 15% yourself. This is a superb off-road electric bike option as it has the best structure with four shock absorptions to provide maximum shock-absorbing capacity.

Why I Recommended ENGWE Folding Electric Bike

An electric mountain bike is an ideal off-road bike with a pedal option. Also, due to its affordable price, durability, and speed, it is simply worth your money and trust. Add this to your next buying list, so don’t miss this amazing product. Also read a detailed article on best folding electric bike under 1000.

6. NAKTO E-Bike for Adults

You should consider this product mainly from the list if you want a durable and comfortable bike with maximum shock absorption power. The aluminum frame adds to durability, and it stays intact even after an off-road ride but not all the time as this is a city bike. Furthermore, it is specially designed to absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride on rough roads.

Moreover, this bike can go 20mph, which is more than average. This is possible because of a 250W brushless high-speed motor. Here you get six-speed options that you can adjust based on your priorities. For example, if you want to save power, you can go with low-speed possibilities, but if you are getting late, you can choose the highest speed easily.

To ensure a long-lasting battery and to let you travel long distances on a full charge, this bike has a 36V lithium-ion battery. With a single 100% charge, you can go 15 with pure power while up to 30 miles with paddle assistance without any worries.

Furthermore, the thing that adds value is a removable battery, so you can use the bike without leaving the battery uncharged. All these features make this bike worthy of your hard-end money.

Why I Recommended Nakto electric bike

You need a Nakto electric bike if you are into versatility and love to ride your bike at high speed. Also, this durable bike stays with you for longer. This simple bike is a must-have product if you are a beginner.

7. Sailnovo 14″ Electric Bike

If you have space issues and want a portable and compact electric bike, you should choose Sailnovo. You can fold this bike to reduce the size. Also, you can easily hold it in transport and store it in small spaces. Furthermore, the battery is removable for added convenience. You can keep the battery on charging and go for a ride.

Also, this product provides three operation modes that you can choose according to your mood and need. These modes include electric bike, pedal-assisted bike, and traditional bike. You can choose an electric one if you are tired and don’t want to put in any effort.

In comparison, the assistant mode is best to conserve battery. The last mode is suitable for the exercise in case of an empty battery. Moreover, you get a dual disc brake in this price range and the best safety from accidents.

This electric bike has everything to ensure comfort, from seat padding to shock absorbers. Also, you can see your speed, remaining battery, and the remaining distance to keep things under check. With a 450-watt electric motor, you can go up to 18.5 mph speed and enjoy your ride.

Why I Recommended Sailnovo 14″ Electric Bike

Sailnovo electric bike is an ideal pick for teenagers and adults, irrespective of age; you can own this perfectly designed product. This lightweight electric bike is best for you if you prefer a compact design without compromising on advanced features. Without making any delays, buy this product for yourself.

8. VIVI 26″ Electric Mountain Bike

For an adventure lover, the VIVI electric bike is a perfect option. This bike is ready to face any off-road experience without losing its power. However, if it costs you more than $500, it is still worth your additional few dollars. Also, you can choose among the available three user modes according to the situation.

Furthermore, its battery has 350W power while its brushless motor produces enough torque to provide a 20mph speed that is more than average. You also get a Shimano 21-speed groupset, the top-rated groupsets that ensure smooth speed transitions. Regarding safety, it has front and rear mechanical disc brakes that let you stop the bike on time to avoid accidents.

Moreover, with a full charge of 4-6 hours, you can go 22-25 miles while using the electric bike mode. However, by setting it on the pedal assistant mode, you can extend the battery timing to 45 miles, which is too high. In terms of durability, it has an aluminum frame to make it strong and bear all ups and downs of roads. If you like exploring things, this can be the right pick for you.

Why I Recommended VIVI Electric Mountain Bike

For an excellent off-road experience, VIVI electric bike is a must-have mountain bike. This lightweight bike has durability, high speed, high range, aluminum frame, and Shimano 21-speed groupset that is worth your money and is worth your trust. For a MTB riders, it is highly recommended to read about putting an electric bike on a bike rack.

9. Razor RSF350 Electric Street Bike

If you are looking for an affordable electric bike with an elegant design, Razor RSF350 electric street bike is the one that will end your search due to its stylish look. It has a trellis-frame chassis design with 12-inch pneumatic wheels that adds to the performance.

Moreover, it comes as assembled. You only have to attach handlebars and number plates before your ride which saves your time and effort.

In addition, this Razor RSF350 electric street bike features a 250-watt chain-driven motor that helps to attain a maximum speed of 14 mph. It features two 12V lead-acid batteries to provide enough electric power to run the motor for continuous 30 minutes.

Furthermore, you can go up to 8 miles with a fully charged battery that makes it suitable for street commuting. When we look for stability, it has a dual suspension system that provides maximum traction. This e-bike has rear disc hand-brakes that help in stopping.

Also, it has shatter-resistance fairing that helps to increase drag with the increase of speed. One thing that sets this e-bike apart from others is that it features a hidden compartment that makes it suitable to carry things with more ease. It can carry up to 140 lbs., including the rider’s weight, without sacrificing speed.

Why I Recommended Razor RSF350 E-Street Bike

Razor RSF350 Electric Street Bike is the best option due to its hottest street-bike-inspired design. It also allows you to store things in its hidden compartment. This budget electric bike will be a good purchase if you consider its storage capacity, compact design, and price.

10. Razor E300 Electric Scooter

If you are big in size and heavy in weight, you need a bike that can hold you easily without losing its strength. The Razor E300 electric scooter is the right choice here as the oversized deck and strong frame do their duty very well. It can bear 220 pounds of rider weight effortlessly, and the big deck provides enough sitting space to ensure comfort.

Furthermore, this is a pure electric bike without pedals and more like a scooter. However, the 250w motor generates enough torque to give the bike high speed. You can achieve a 15mph top speed with ease. Moreover, it has a 24V battery that takes a few hours to charge fully. With a full battery, you can use it for 40 minutes continuously.

It has pneumatic front and rear tires to provide comfort by absorbing shocks on bumpy roads. This feature makes it suitable for people of all ages. Choose this product if you want to travel short distances with additional convenience. This budget-efficient option has all features but is very low in price.

For old age and heavyweight users, Razor E300 electric scooter is a must-have option. Due to enough sitting space and shock-absorbing wheels, you get a comfortable ride every time. If this is all you need, pick this product now.

What to Consider While Choosing E-Bike Under $500?

1. Motor Power

If you want to enjoy the maximum power of your electric bike, the thing that you need to consider is motor power first. The motor power of your bike depends on two factors, i.e., torque and wattage. Both factors help you ride on a steep hill and have an excellent off-road riding experience.

Here the wattage reduces heat while climbing the steep hills and provides the necessary power. While the torque lets you enjoy a smooth ride on rough, challenging roads. Therefore, if you want these benefits, look for high motor power.

2. Electric Bike Operating Modes

In an electric bike, you can get three modes; these modes let you survive without power. There are so many electric bikes available in the market with switchable modes. You can get the following modes.

2.1. Powered Bike

These bikes use batteries, and you don’t have to charge them manually. Just plug the switch into a power source and charge it.

2.2. Pedal Assist

Here you have to do pedaling to charge the motor. For this mode, you don’t need a direct power source.

2.3. Unpowered Bike

This type of bike is just like a traditional bicycle with no power mode. In this operating mode, you have to pedal the bike to get a ride.

3. Electric Bike Type

You can pick your electric bike based on riding requirements, like where you want to use it and the purpose behind this purchase. It is essential to choose the right bike type; otherwise, you lose your hard-earned money and get nothing in return.

3.1. Electric Road Bike

If you want to own a bike so you can travel from your home to school, and the road is smooth. Here having a road bike is the best option.

3.2. Electric Mountain Bike

As an adventurous person, a mountain bike is the right option for you. This bike is suitable for an off-road ride, where you can enjoy a ride in bumpy and hilly areas with maximum shock absorption. This bike type ensures a comfortable riding experience due to its specific design.

3.3. Hybrid Electric Bike

These bikes are a perfect mixture of road and mountain bikes. With hybrid bikes, you can easily ride them on rough areas as well as on normal roads. These bikes are lightweight, allowing you to carry them anywhere you want with maximum ease, making them more like mountain bikes.

3.4. Electric Gravel Bike

This bike is also a mixture of road and mountain bikes. However, it is designed to ride specifically on the road. Still, you can use it in hilly areas without any restrictions.

3.5. Electric Commuter Bike

This bike is an advanced road bike with a more refined design. It has flat handlebars and high sitting. This way, you can do good pavement on the road.

3.6. Folding Electric Bike

If you want a portable design, then a folding bike is what you need. You can easily fold these bikes and carry them anywhere you want. With this feature, you can easily travel by bus.

4. Electric Bike Motor Type

You can pick among three motor types based on your requirements. These types include rear-hub drive, mid and front-hub drive. If you are looking for a bike that costs you under $500, you can access a rear-hub drive.

With our rear-hub drive, you can get high traction on the front wheel. Also, this motor type has a high weight on the back wheel, which provides extra traction. In contrast, front and mid hubs provide less traction but high power. So if you are tight on budget and want additional traction, pick the rear-hub motor.

5. Drive Types

You can pick between two available drive types, i.e., throttle/electric-only mode and pedal-assist mode. Although you can choose both modes based on the bike features, if you want electric mode only, you can get this with a 20mph electric bike. To select the correct drive type for you, look at your needs and then read all available features of electric bikes.

6. E-Bike Battery

This is the most important factor in determining the quality of the electric bike. To choose the right battery type for you, you need to consider a few aspects of it. These factors include the right size of the battery with motor, battery range, time taken for a complete charge, and the battery timing.

However, the most prominent feature that makes a battery worth keeping is the removable battery. With this feature, during charging, you can use such bikes. Also, such bikes work best in the rain as you can keep the battery at home and go for a ride without any worries. 

7. Groupset of Electric Bike

The gears of electric bikes are called groupsets. The right groupset type lets you change gears smoothly and improve your riding experience. Also, the number of groupsets determines the reliability of the bike. Moreover, this helps best in pedal-assist mode. Choose the correct number of groupsets based on your drive mode.

8. Frame Material

Many manufacturing materials are available in the market for an electric bike. These materials include aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel. Aluminum material provides lightweight construction and reduces the overall cost of electric bikes. In contrast, carbon fiber is a bit more expensive option but is lighter than an aluminum frame. If you can compromise on weight, then a steel body is a more durable option but a bit heavy in weight. Each frame material has pros and cons; you can pick one that suits you best.

9. Wheel Size

Correct wheel size makes the ride comfortable. Big-sized wheels are recommended options as with them, and you can manage off-road rides with ease. But if you need a bike for road riding, you can go with any size of tire. However, if you are looking for a foldable electric bike design, then you cannot go for bigger wheels. Small-sized wheels are essential for foldable designs to make them lighter in weight.

10. Brake System

While maintaining your budget, you can choose between mechanical disc brakes and V-brakes. If your focus is performance, choose disc brakes that cost you a bit high but work perfectly. In contrast, V-brakes are ideal if you are into affordability and want a low-maintenance option. This is up to you to choose the suitable types based on your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast do 500W electric bikes go?

20mph is the fastest speed for 500W electric bikes. This is relatively high as people often use these bikes in crowded places. Speeds higher than this can be dangerous. However, this is not the maximum limit but the average, and there are many available E-bikes with a maximum speed limit of 20+ mph.

Do e-bikes charge when you pedal?

Many companies have launched this self-chargeable design. In these models, when you use the pedal to run the bike, the energy produced in this process is used to charge the battery. This is an environment-friendly option; you don’t need a power source to charge the battery.

Can you ride an eBike without the battery?

Many multiple-mode electric bikes let you choose a pedal mode that needs no energy from the battery. You can switch it if you want to exercise, and this mode also enables you to use your bike in case of zero battery.

Do electric bikes need servicing?

Everything needs maintenance to increase durability and to keep the performance at its best. Similarly, an electric bike needs your proper care and regular service to keep everything in the best condition. Also, this regular care saves you from accidents. Therefore, maintenance is key to adding to your ride’s lifespan.

How long do electric bike batteries last?

According to the bike, the right battery size and type increase the battery’s lifespan. Generally, the battery lasts for 2-5 years easily. However, you can extend this time with proper care and regular maintenance.

Concluding Electric Bikes Under $500 Review

Having an affordable electric bike with all the required features can make traveling convenient. However, it is not an easy thing to get one. But I am sure that after checking the previously shared list of best electric bikes under 500, you can choose the right option for you. Although all mentioned products are the best, I am sharing with you my top three favorite options.

• Swagtron EB5 Electric Bike – This is my top favorite electric bike because of its 500w motor that provides high speed and range. With this bike, you can go on all roads due to thick tires without being worried about losing balance.
• ANCHEER Folding 350W Scooter Electric Bike – This is one of my favorite portable options. Even with portability, it has a powerful motor. You can easily carry this bike in transport and need a small space to store it.
• ANCHEER 500W/250W Electric Bike – This bike comes under $500 and lets you choose the operating modes. Also, being lightweight, you don’t have to put extra pressure on riding your bike on the road. Moreover, you have a replaceable battery option for convenience.

Don’t pick one product without the proper information. Read the buying guide and choose your electric bike carefully. That is worth your money.