Advice for a good commuter option? Prospective ebike owner.

Posted by Prince_Marf@reddit | ebikes | View on Reddit | 10 comments

I am looking into getting an ebike for my 3.5 mile commute. I have never owned an ebike before and in fact have not really biked at all since I was a child.

I want to prioritize comfort first and foremost. Top speed isn't so important to me, but more speed is nice if it does not come with drawbacks. I do not necessarily need any cargo space bc I don't carry a backpack to work or anything. I have done a little research on "Dutch" bikes and the upright sitting positions seems appealing to me.

My biggest concern is that I commute downhill, which means uphill on the way back. One of the main reasons I am looking into an ebike commute is to add a little extra exercise into my routine, but I don't want to be dying riding up this hill at the end of my long work day every day. So I want the battery to be able to help me make this hill comfortable, but I do NOT want a bike that is just a moped with cosmetic pedals.

Ideally I would want something light enough that it is still comfortably rideable if the battery is dead. I want something that looks like a bicycle. I also aesthetically don't like the look of the smaller wheel bikes that look almost like stunt bikes, but if that is what would fit my needs best then so be it.

Additionally, besides my daily commute, I'd like to occasionally take the bike out on longer recreational rides.

Any advice would be much appreciated. It seems the more I research on my own the more confused I get. I am in the USA. Iowa if that matters.

Thanks in advance!

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The_Mighty_Glopman@reddit

The Velotric Tempo is very light. I often pedal it with the power off and only add pedal assist as required to go up hills without straining. The handle bar is adjustable so you can sit upright. I got the mid- step frame so it is very easy to get on and off.

TraditionalJob787@reddit

I have the Trek Allant + 8s. Paid $2,200 and added on another $400 in goodies like saddle bags, mirror, spare tubes and patch kits, riding gear etc. I commute 10 miles RT per day, 5 days a week. It has 4 levels of pedal assist and an incredible range. I’m perfectly happy with it.

JolyonWagg99@reddit

You could spend half the amount and get a Trek Verve, or for a bit more look into Gazelle.

20indacan@reddit

If your budget is $5k then you can choose from some of the cream of the crop. I’d generally recommend Aventon for a popular high quality brand with good support, and most of their options are under or well under $3k with a few option that I think reach $4k or more. Also, there are a handful of other brands that are up in the $3-5k range that are amazing but I am honestly not totally familiar with them because I’m more of a mid range guy (I’m broke)

At your budget, you should just take the time to figure out what you want in a commuter bike moreso than what you already have. Some brands provide generalist products, while others specialize. You can expect every bike in that range to top out at least at 28mph, minimum so speed isn’t an issue at all.

You could even go to a local shop and get a custom made build. Local shop bikes are generally quite expensive, but pack more bang for their buck compared to mass-produced bikes of the same price range. Plus, you get a guarantee that you have somebody who is able and willing to warranty and work on your bike if something arises.

Find some popular ebike review channels, watch some of their YouTube reviews, and explore. You can’t go wrong with your budget

Lordly_Lobster@reddit

You can spend a lot less than $5k and get something suitable. Your best bet is to shop locally so you have a place to go for warranty/general service. Ride a few and see what you like.

weregeek@reddit

Your budget is generous, so you shouldn't have trouble finding something decent. Bike World, had a bunch of hold-over stock the last time that I looked at their site. I'd suggest a mid-drive bike, not so much because they are inherently better, but because they are up-market from most of the hub drive bikes and tend to be nicer in lots of other ways as a result. With commuter focused bikes, diminishing returns start kicking in around $3k, plenty of good options closer to $2k, and serviceable direct to consumer stuff all the way down to about $1k.

As for comfort, that has more to do with how well the bike fits you than anything else. Hold on to some of your budget for maintenance and to make changes to the saddle/(suspension)seatpost, grips/bars/stem and pedals. Don't forget to budget for a helmet, gloves, and a good lock. Also, riding with a backpack is a recipe for sweat, so some of your budget should go toward ensuring that you have a rack and panniers to carry your stuff.

Not sure where you are in Iowa, but if you're in Central Iowa you're spoiled for bike shop options. I'd visit Eriks, REI, Bike World, Big Cock Bike Shop, Kyle's Bikes, and REI in order to figure out who you like dealing with the best.

BodSmith54321@reddit

I don’t see a budget.

Prince_Marf@reddit (OP)

$5k max I suppose.

I think something like the Velotric Discover 3 would be good. If that isn’t available in stores near you, an Aventon Level 4. If you want to spend more and don’t mind not having a throttle, Specialized Turbo Como 4.0 or 5.0.

MN_is_Better@reddit

I recently purchased my first e bike for my 3 mile commute to work in a pretty hilly city. Mainly downhill to work and uphill back. I have the Specialized Turbo Vado (non SL) and it has been fantastic. It is a pedal assist only but I will say the 10-15 minutes of exercise going to and from work really has been great. I went with the specialized because it is carried by my local bike shop, is a reputable brand and was on sale. The 2025 Turbo Como 4.0 is on sale currently and if you’re looking for a more upright seating position I would not hesitate to go that route.