One of the challenges for developers of electric bikes is lowering their weight. The motor, battery and other additional features required to power an e-bike mean that they often end up considerably more cumbersome than a normal bike.
There should also be a balance between being light and providing the rigidity and stability that comes with a smooth, safe ride.
E-bikes have come a long way in recent years in terms of their technical specifications. There are now several very lightweight models on the market that don’t cost the earth. We expect these weights to continue dropping as the technology advances.
We have pulled together some suggestions of the best lightweight electric bikes in terms of their weight when considered alongside their other specifications.
Best Lightweight Electric Bike Comparison
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Why Lightweight eBikes Are so Important
A typical non-electric bike tends to weigh anywhere from 25 to 35lbs (11 to 16kg). Of course, this varies depending on budget, design, specification, and whether it is a road or mountain bike.
Electric bikes typically weigh over 40 lbs (18kgs), so they are considerably more substantial.
The biggest reason that serious cyclists opt for a lighter bike is that it can impact speed. This is particularly true when you are on ascents. The heavier the bike, the more you will have to work to get it up the hill, and the same is true for the work the motor will have to do.
If the bike is lighter, it also means that the mileage range that the battery life will cover should be more.
Of course, the lighter the bike is, the easier things become in terms of maneuverability and portability. Lifting a bike that weighs a few kilos more over a gate or wall can seem like a big difference when you are physically exhausted.
It also makes a difference if you are a commuter having to lift your bike on and off public transport, for loading onto a bike rack, and for carrying upstairs to your apartment!
Folding electric bikes, along with electric scooters, are becoming increasingly popular, and many designers compete to achieve the lowest weight possible.
Weight isn’t Everything When it Comes to an e-bike Though
While we are looking at lighter bikes in this article, it shouldn’t be your main focus when considering which e-bike to select. You should also be looking at things like the suspension, brakes, tires, motor and battery.
If your bike is super light, but it doesn’t have an efficient motor and battery, it wouldn’t be a worthwhile investment.
It also depends on what you are using your bike for too. E-Mountain bikes are generally heavier than road bikes as they need a more robust frame, additional stability and they often have more advanced suspension.
Some manufacturers, controversially, don’t even publish the weight of their bikes when listing the specifications as they argue it should not be a deciding factor.
Be Aware of the Electric Bike Classes
Don’t forget to check the Class of the electric bike you are considering too. The laws vary depending on the country you are in. Within the United States, there are even some states that don’t conform to the norm. In Europe, e-bikes are generally not allowed to go above 15mph on their power-assist modes.
Check out the People For Bikes website, which is a handy resource for gaining a better understanding of these sometimes nuanced regulations.
In general, though, they are broken down as follows within the United States:
Class 1 e-bikes
- Max speed of 20mph
- Pedal-assist motor only
- In some areas, the motor can be no greater than 250w
- Generally no restrictions on where they can be used in the US
Class 2 e-bikes
- Max speed of 20mph
- Pedal-assist mode or thumb throttle function
- Motor no greater than 750w
Class 3 e-bikes
- Max speed 28mph (often referred to as speed pedelecs)
- Pedal-assist function only
- Motor no greater than 750w
- There are restrictions in certain States on where these can be used – always check
Best Lightweight Electric Bikes Reviews
We have selected four different lightweight electric bikes to review.
All of the bikes are under 45lbs (20kg).
Each has its own specific advantages in terms of features, usability and performance. Some of the key criteria we looked at when we were reviewing include:
- Value for money – Even the best electric bikes can vary significantly in their pricing. Lightweight bikes are often more expensive. We look at a range of budgets and want to make sure that they are offering the best value for their price bracket
- Motor efficiency – We compare the power, efficiency and level of smoothness of the motors.
- Battery efficiency – We compare the batteries in terms of their efficiency, power and charging speeds
- Overall performance – How do the bikes cope on the ascents and descents? What is the riding experience like, what is their suspension like? What is their weight capacity?
- Reputation – How does the brand stack up against its competitors. Are they known for producing robust, high performing e-bikes?
Ride1Up are relatively new entrants in the world of eBikes. Since their launch in 2018, though, they have grown quickly because of their reputation for producing practical, quality, and very affordable electric bikes.
The Roadster V2 is the most affordable AND lightest bike on this list.
However, it still has a whole host of decent features and parts that will offer plenty for entry-level riders or those that don’t need anything for particularly technical or long-range riding.
Specs
| Type of Bike | Class 2, pedal-assist |
| Motor | 500w (peak) 350w (nominal) Geared Hub Shengyi |
| Battery | 36V 7.0ah Samsung 35e Cells battery |
| Max Speed | 25 mph |
| Max Distance | 20-35 miles |
| Brakes | Tektro R315 Dual Pivot V-Brakes |
| Charging Time | 2 – 4 hours |
| Drive Train | 64Tx20T Belt Drive |
| Weight | 32 lbs |
| Price | $995 |
What We Loved
There’s plenty to appreciate with this model from Ride1Up considering it’s available for under $1,000!
Often budget e-bikes look clunky and less than cool. The Ride1Up, however, has a streamlined and slick frame. At first glance, it would be easy to mistake this for a traditional, non-electric road bike, especially as the battery is well-integrated and hidden on the frame.
To get a bike that weighs just 32lbs in this price bracket is pretty unusual too. It’s the lightest of all those we have reviewed – and the fastest too. That makes it a great choice for zippy commuters that have to carry it up stairs to an apartment or lift it onto public transport regularly.
Even though the range isn’t incredibly generous with this model, because it’s so light it isn’t such an effort to pedal unassisted. The high-pressure tires help with this too.
The bike’s battery only takes a maximum of four hours to reach full charge too, so it’ll be easy to recharge while you’re at work.
Bikes in this budget don’t often have a belt drive. Because the Road1Up does it means less maintenance, better durability, and a smoother and quieter ride than chained models provide. Plus, you don’t have to worry about getting grease on work clothes.
Why it Might Not Work For You
As already mentioned, it’s a shame the Road1Up doesn’t have a more generous range capacity (though it’s far from bad). There have to be some compromises, however, when you consider the price.
Perhaps the biggest negative when it comes to this bike is its brakes. It only has basic direct-pull v-brakes. These brakes do help to keep the weight of the bike down and they’re a low-maintenance option. However, they aren’t as responsive as disc brakes, especially when riding in wet weather conditions and at high speeds.
There aren’t any gears to shift through on the Ride1Up either. This means there are less technical things to get a handle on when learning to use the bike, but you’ll have to work harder on the hills, especially if you aren’t using pedal-assist.
It’s no surprise either, given the price that this bike doesn’t have any suspension. If you regularly cycle on less smooth road surfaces, you won’t be in for the most comfortable riding experience.
None of these are deal-breakers, and mostly just reflect the price and weight of this bike.
Verdict
Despite being the most affordable bike on our list, the Roadster V2 is also the lightest and fastest.
It’s a perfect choice for commuting and cruising, and it takes top spot on our list (much like Ride1Up’s other bikes do in our other reviews).
>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on Ride1Up.com <<
This is a straightforward, no fuss, surprisingly lightweight folding e-bike.
It is a budget brand and model, so you shouldn’t be expecting a high specification or to do long distances or cover rough terrain.
This comes into its own as a simple and portable option for commuters. It often saves you having to chain your bike up outside, and this means there is less chance of them being damaged or stolen too.
It is easy to take onto public transport, and it will fit in the trunk of a car no problem. It can also be a good option for taking on a road trip or another holiday.
Because you often end up carrying a folding bike around more than a traditional frame, you do want this to be as light as possible. Given the price, this bike is amazingly light.
Specs
| Motor | 350W motor |
| Battery | 36V/10.5AH lithium Panasonic |
| Max Speed | 20 mph |
| Max Distance | Up to 50 miles |
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc brakes |
| Weight | 37.5 lbs |
| Price | $1,275 |
What We Loved
Okay, so there are a few models out there that are lighter than this 37.5 lb model. But, at this price, it is unusual to find a half-decent folding e-bike that is anywhere close to this weight.
The frame folds down very quickly, and it is robust enough that it will not start to deteriorate with multiple fold downs. It is also smaller than a lot of folding e-bike frames, so it makes it even better for storage and maneuverability.
It won’t blow you away, but it’s perfect to save you pedaling after a hard day in the office or for avoiding getting sweaty at the start of the day on steeper inclines.
It’s also got a 280 lb capacity, so it’s pretty good for such a light and small bike!
Why it Might Not Work For You
This is just designed for straightforward, short distance riding. It is not going to cope with rough terrain or off-road trails, and it is not intended for long distances either. With a maximum range of around 20 miles per charge, it needs to be for short commutes.
If you are a speed demon, don’t opt for this bike. It can get a little unstable at high speeds, and it is not designed with adrenaline junkies in mind. It claims to go up to 20mph but, at this speed, it would be a bit of a hairy ride.
It can be difficult to source parts for this bike because it is not from a large, well-established e-bike dealer or manufacturer.
Verdict
While this is by no means a high-end model, it is functional if not pushed passed its limits. Given it has such an economical price and is a very lightweight for a folding e-bike, you can’t really grumble.
Perfect for short, simple commutes.
>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on eBikeGeneration.com <<
GigaByke have a solid reputation for their affordable and well-established electric scooter (the Groove). They have now introduced an electric bike that is affordable and lightweight.
Like the Road1Up, the GigaByke Swift is suited to entry-level riders, but it does have some great selling points.
Specs
| Type of Bike | Class 2 |
| Motor | 36V 350W (500W Peak) Brushless GigaByke |
| Battery | Lithium-ion 36V 7.5Ah (10.4 Ah upgrade available) |
| Max Speed | 20 mph |
| Max Distance | 30 miles |
| Brakes | TEKTRO High-Pressure Disc Brakes |
| Drive Train | Carbon Drive belt drive transmission system |
| Weight | 36 lbs |
| Price | $1099.95 |
What We Loved
Again, this bike is under $1,000. Despite this, it’s light, has decent power with a reputable Bosch 350w motor, and it also has a throttle power option if you really don’t want to work up any sweat.
The TEKTRO disc brakes mean it’ll handle better in wet weather conditions when compared to the Road1Up Roadster V2 with it’s basic V-brakes. Plus the carbon drive belt drive ensures a quiet and smooth riding experience.
Why it Might Not Work For You
It’s a good thing that this bike is light. There could be times when you have to resort to pedal power alone. The range on this model is pretty limited, especially if you use the throttle power a lot. There’s an option to buy a slightly more powerful battery for an additional cost, but, even then, it’ll still only take you up to 35 miles at the most on pedal-assist.
Like the Roadster V2, this is another bike that is designed for road riding only. It doesn’t have any sophisticated suspension or wide tires to support lots of off-roading.
If you have a preference for a streamlined design, the bike doesn’t look quite as sleek as the Roadster V2 frame does. The battery isn’t integrated in the same way and does stand out visibly.
Verdict
Another practical, well-made, lightweight entry-level road bike that is perfect for short commutes on a budget.
>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on BikeBerry.com <<
Award-winning manufacturer BESV have a solid reputation in the world of electric bikes, and their PSA1 model is no exception.
The BESV PSA1 is an incredibly compact bike while having a much sturdier and lightweight frame than folding bike options do. If you’re looking for something that won’t take up room at the office, but you won’t have the hassle of folding down and it’s built to last, this model may appeal.
Specs
| Type of Bike | Class 1 |
| Motor | 250W Rear Hub |
| Battery | 36V, 10.5Ah |
| Max Speed | 19 mph |
| Max Distance | 38 miles |
| Brakes | Tektro MD-M311 |
| Charging Time | 4 hours |
| Drivetrain | Algorhythm, BESV custom-built power drive system |
| Weight | 38.5 lbs |
| Price | $1,609 |
What We Loved
The frame on this bike keeps it very lightweight, but it’s also durable and doesn’t have the flex that some more compact or folding frames suffer from.
For such a light and compact bike, it’s also unusual in that it has full front and rear suspension. This means you get a really comfortable and stable riding experience too – despite the wheels being smaller than standard.
The battery and front wheel can be removed easily from the frame. This then allows additional options in terms of how the bike can be stored if you’re limited for space in an apartment or office. Be aware though that if the seat post is adjusted to the lowest position, the battery isn’t able to be removed at this setting.
The small wheels and sturdy frame also mean this bike has a generous maximum weight capacity of 265lbs – much more than a more flexible standard folding bike has.
This company has a good reputation for after-sales support and provides a solid warranty too (including two years for the motor and battery, and five years for the frame).
Why it Might Not Work For You
If you’re a rider looking for a sleek, streamlined design, the PSA1 isn’t going to be for you. The triangle-shaped design may be functional, but it doesn’t look all that cool.
Of all the bikes we’ve reviewed, this one has the least power. For a 250w motor, it’s still surprisingly zippy and has decent acceleration, but it doesn’t pack the punch some of the other models we have reviewed do. For heavier riders and when tackling hills, this could prove to be frustrating.
Although the brakes are perfectly adequate in most conditions, it’s a shame, when you consider the price, that this bike still only has mechanical, rather than hydraulic, disc types.
The small frame size won’t be suited to the tallest of riders – even when the seat post is adjusted to its highest position.
This bike is the most expensive on the list, and given it doesn’t have the power of some of the other bikes on the list. Unless you really need the compact size and smooth riding experience offered by the suspension, it might not offer the best value for money.
Overall Verdict
Compact, light and sturdy, the BESV PSA1 is designed to last and, despite it’s frame size will offer an exceptionally comfortable ride. It can be stored in smaller spaces without it being a folding option. It does have some limitations, especially in terms of power, despite the higher price point.
>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on BikeBerry.com <<
Lightest Bikes That Didn’t Make Our List
We would have loved to have featured the Orbea Gain M20i.
Spanish manufacturer, Orbea have a stellar reputation for their high specification road bikes. Their recent electric bike model has quickly generated a lot of chat because of how light they are managing to keep them.
It is just launching in the US, so it is not yet widely available. When it is, it will be sure to attract a lot of attention given that this e-bike weighs less than 27 lbs!
It looks like the Orbea M20i may be available for order through American dealer Jenson if you want to take a peak. While it is expensive at $5,799, this seems reasonable given you can expect a top of the range bike with such a feather light weight.
We would also have loved to have reviewed the One eCycle F1 from German maker Coboc. These road e-bikes weigh in at just 24 lbs! They are not widely available in the States, unfortunately.
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