Best Electric Bikes under $500 in 2020

Last updated on September 30th, 2020 at 08:13 am

Are you tired of pedaling your conventional bike? Are you looking for the best electric bike under $500, but you are confused to see so many options? Don’t worry, we got your back in search of the best ebikes under $500 in 2020.

Bike cycles are one of the most convenient means of transportation. It helps to save fuel consumption, leaving no carbon footprints and offers physical fitness too. The only issue we have with these typical bikes is the manual pedals; you need extra effort to pedal the bike for long distances. In this era of advanced technology, these bikes met modernization and offer the best electric bikes for your ease.

Electric bikes are considered as one of the best effortless rides with style. They do not just have an automatic pedaling system; they provide an extensive range of distance with comfortable riding experience. We have provided a comprehensive review of the best electric bikes under 500 in 2020 available in the market by considering all the crucial factors to consider before buying. This review will save you some time and help you narrow down your choices in case you are planning to buy one.

From our extensive review, we recommend you the overall the best electric bike “Shaofu Folding Electric Bike.” Shaofu Folding Electric Bike is an excellent choice because of being lightweight and extremely portable due to its folding feature. Most importantly, it is affordable and ranks first in our list of the best electric bikes under $500.

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Top 8 Best Electric Bikes under $500 in 2020

Here is the list of top rated electric bikes under 500 USD:

Read the following detailed review of each 8 bikes if you are in search of best Electric Bike under 500 Dollars:

1. Shaofu Folding Electric Bike

Shaofu Folding Bike is considerably inexpensive and compiled with unique features. The bike is 100% electrical, with zero charge emission. The bike comes with pre-installed headlights and horn. Moreover, the cycle can be lock using App on your smartphone. It is the best e bike under 500 dollars for the following features.

Design:
It has a double-layered aluminum wheel with an aluminum frame. The shape of the structure is inspired by dolphins making it fashionable. Moreover, the seat is adjustable and comfortable.

Foldable Frame:
Bike is compiled with a light-weight aluminum frame. It overall weights 12kg. The easy folding system helps for compact storage and easy to carry.

Power motor and Removable battery:
It has a 36 volt and 8 Ah Lithium-ion battery with a smart charger. The charging duration is up to 3 hours, and a full battery can give you a ride of 25 km to 50 km distance. This bike has 350 Watt power motor.

App support system:
This bike is compatible with Bluetooth System (above Android 4.3/iOS 8). It also supports setting desirable Speed, Motor locking, and Mileage. The app can also record time and offers self-testing mode.

Safety:
It has a front headlight, braking taillight, and horn for a safe ride in the night. The rare disc brakes are reliable and have great control for stopping.

Waterproof:
IPX5 Waterproof range protects the battery so you can enjoy your trip on a rainy day without caring about any damage.

Note: It comes with one year of warranty not for just the electric motor but also for battery and the charger.

2. SWAGTRON SwagCycle E-Bike

Swagtron SawagCycle E-Bike has high-quality components and has secure safety gears that are approved based on industrial-leading features. This bike is emission-free and eco-friendly. Most importantly, it has only a 10-mile range making it ideal for short distances.

Compact Design:
The cycle has a sleek aluminum frame designed with elegance. It is foldable and can fit into trunks of all sizes.

Powerful motor and battery:
It has a 36-volt battery that comes with a charger. The charging duration of the cycle is up to 2.5 hours, and a full battery can give you a ride of up to 10 miles. This bike has a 250W power motor.

Monitoring system:
The handlebars have a screen that displays battery life for your ease. It also has a USB charging port for your devices like a smartphone.

Safety gears:
It has headlight for a safe ride in the dark. It also has a powerful accelerator and horn.

No-pedaling Technology:
It is fully automatic. The No-pedaling technology requires no human force for pedaling the motorcycle, making it effortless.

Note: It comes with one year of warranty from the SWAGTRON and available in two colors.

3. ANCHEER 500W/250W Adult Electric Mountain Bike

ANCHEER is one of the leading companies in the e-scooters industry. They are famous for manufacturing some of the most sporty and sturdy bikes with outstanding designs. ANCHEER Adult Electric Bike is specifically designed to satisfy your mountainous adventure with significant breaks and gears. Read the below features to know why it is considered as one of the best electric bikes under $500.

Sturdy body:
This bike has a fork made of carbon steel and the handles of aluminum alloy. The body of the cycle is lightweight yet healthy due to double-layered Aluminum. The bike is foldable, easy to carry, and compact.

3-mode of Biking:
One of the prominent features of the bike is it can be used as a manual bike, Assisted bike, and Electric bike. You can even pair up two modes for long routines and exercising purposes. The mode of the bike can be selected by the monitoring Meter operator placed on the handle of the bike.

Battery and Millage:
It comes with a 36V 8Ah Lithium battery with a smart charging system. The range of mileage is about 15 to 30 miles, and a high-speed brushless gear motor assists you in maintaining a speed of 15mph.

Gear and Brake shift system:
The speed is adjustable according to 21-speed transmission; it all depends on your preference. There are two disc brakes, placed on the front and back wheels. With the help of horn and LED headlamp, you can smoothly ride the bike at night.

Note: It comes with a one-year service warranty for the electric motor, battery, and charger. You can also ask for the ‘Assembly’ service at the time to purchase, free of cost. You just have to pick the bike from the store. The bike also comes in three designs.

4. SWAGTRON SwagCycle EB5 Plus Folding Electric Bike

Swagtron SawagCycle E-Bike has already created high-quality electric bikes for Youngsters and Adults. EB5 Plus Folding Electric Bike is their yet another fine product at an affordable price with pre-assembled service and battery options. It is arguably the best folding electric bike with respect to average customer reviews. This $500 electric bike is awesome and trendy in 2020 because of the following features.

Design:
This bike is made from aluminum, making it lightweight. Moreover, it can easily be folded three times into compact size to carry around easily. Both of the air-filled rubber tires of this bike are 14 inches and in-lined with quick-disconnect power lines to help better traction.

Adjustable Height:
It is highly customizable. You can adjust the height of the seat and handlebars according to your height and comfortability.

Power Assist:
It comes with power assist mode. You can just change the throttle to power assist for 15mph or just use the bike only as a manual bicycle. This feature provides you with limitless riding experience.

Battery and Millage:
It comes with robust 250-watt motor and a Lithium-ion battery that takes up 4 to 5 hours of charging. It can cruise up to 15.5 miles with the full battery while toggling between pedaling and power assist mode.

Auto-guard technology:
The auto-guard technology helps you in applying brakes during sudden hurdles. This feature allows you to maintain the balance of your body and the bike without any accidents.

Note: It comes with two battery options, Standard and Removable battery. It is delivered pre-assembled as well.

 5. ANCHEER Folding Electric Bicycle

ANCHEER is a leading icon in the industry of electric bikes. Their folding electric bike is easy to maintain from terrible weather conditions due to its IPX5 Waterproof technology. It is the best electric bike under $500 for people with a passion for enjoying rainy weather.

Design:
The frame of the bike is made of Aluminum alloy with dolphin design. The cycle is the most compact and lightweight that it can be carried around with just one hand.

Bluetooth system:
The bike system can easily be connected with your smartphone. You can monitor its battery life, speed, mileage, the time duration of the ride, and bike self-test on Handlebar Display. You can also lock the bike using your phone.

Battery and Millage:
It has a powerful 350 Watt high-speed motor and comes with a 36V 6Ah Lithium battery with a smart charging system. The top speed of the bike ranges from 20 to 25 km/h. The battery charges in less than 3 hours.

Waterproof:
IPX5 Waterproof technology protects the battery from water so you can enjoy your ride on a beautiful rainy day.

Note: It comes with a one-year service warranty for the electric motor, battery, and charger.

6: NAKTO 26″ 250W Cargo Electric Bicycle

NAKTO 26″ Cargo Electric Bike offers a handful of features that are an excellent deal for the price money. Its sleeker design stands out, and it comes with a rack on the back. As the name suggests, ‘Cargo,’ this bike can help you carry items from one place to another without any hustle.

High-quality components:
The frame of the bike is made of high strength and durable Carbon steel. The frame has premium comfort shock absorption also.

Brake and Gear shift system:
It has two brake systems. The front wheel has a V brake system, and the rare wheel has an expansion break. The brakes are fully protected that ensure your safety.

6-Speed-Transmission System: There are six-speed choices you can select according to your preference and the speed is fully controlled by the power brakes for your safety.

Battery and mileage: It has a 36V 10AH lithium removable battery with a smart charger. The highest speed the motor can offer is 18-25 MPH, and the battery can support 28 to 35 miles of distance.

Dual working modes: It has two modes, Electric and Assist mode. You can easily choose between the modes according to your travel, or you can combine the two modes as well to enjoy even better workability.

Note: It and battery have a year warranty. One of the benefits of purchasing this bike is that it’s 95% assembled before shipment to avoid any damages in transit. You just need to assemble handlebars and the front wheel. This is the best electric bike under $500 for those who  re looking for all in one features bike.

7. Emdaot 26” Electric Mountain Bike

If you are looking for the best folding electric bike under 500 for mountains then Emdaot 26” Electric Mountain Bike is for you. The overall design of this bike is classy, and there is no compromise on functionality in the mountains.

Quality frame:
It is made of a maneuverable aluminum alloy frame that is long-lasting and durable with a beautiful shiny black finish.

Gear shift system:
It has a 21-speed gear system that stabilizes the bike during hill climbing and trekking. The gears are powerful enough to control the bike through the rough and uneven track.

Battery and millage:
It consists of a 36V 8Ah battery with a combination of 250 powerful motors that can provide speed up to 15 mph.

3- Working modes:
Emdaot 26” folding bike has three riding modes, electric bike, manual bike, or assisted bicycle. You can choose the modes based on the terrain and your personal preferences. You can also add speed using the throttle.

Note: It has an adjustable seat, ergonomic handlebar with anti-slip, and wear-resistant tire. The bright LED headlight and horn are attached to the bike for night riding.

8. Goplus 20” Folding Bike

Goplus 20” folding bike is ideal for traveling and short mountain trips. The Frame made of 100% aluminum alloy frame, the front fork made of high-strength carbon steel. This bike is overall very secure and designed to reduce the chances of an accident. If you need a secure, durable and powerful bike then this is the best electric bike under $500 for you.

Battery and mileage:
It comes with 250W motor and 36V, 8AH lithium battery. It gives mileage of 15 to 30 miles. The bike comes with UL approved charger.

Adjustable seat and handles:
It comes with a simple flip and folds lever that helps the rider to adjust the cycle according to their height and comfort level.

BS Reflectors:
The pedal and wheels have a BS reflector that can reflect light from the vehicles behind you while riding the bike in the night to avoid accidents.

Slip and wear-resistant tires:
The tires are made up of high-quality rubber that alloy rims that make them sturdy and durable on wet and rough roads.

Shimano Transmission handle:
It has a responsive 7-speed transmission handle that helps you to switch between different speed during the ride.

Powerful V brakes:
The bicycle is equipped with front and rear V brakes, which make the brakes more efficient and shorten the braking distance when riding out.

Note: It is 98% assembled before the shipment. You just have to assemble the wheels to use.

A complete Buyer Guide for the best Electric Bike under 500 USD

Before buying e bikes under $500, you need to understand a few essential features according to your needs. You will find many options in the store that might overwhelm you and make your decision difficult. Following are elements you need to distinguish between the models of the bikes before purchasing:

Mileage

The average distance that bike covers are crucial. It helps us to determine the capacity of the battery, and the quality of the built-in motor. The bikes with high powered motor and the excellent battery will guarantee a long mile range.

Another thing that affects the mileage of the bike is the mode. If the bike is fully electric, then the mileage may vary. Assist mode bikes are recommended for better mileage because it helps you to cover long distances with efficient use of battery and also helps you exercise as you are pedaling the distance away.

Frame and Adjustability

Electric bikes are a revolutionary means of transportation for minimalist and bike lovers. Many of us use bicycles as a regular means of transport, and many use it as a sport or to wander about the mountains. The durability of the frame is an important feature to be noted since you might be carrying some extra weight with you during the ride. We recommend looking for a durable metal frame like Aluminum. Wheels, hubs, and forks should be made of long-lasting material like Carbon-metal.

Similarly, not every bike structure for a specific height. It’s better to look for the bikes that provide a seat and handle height adjustment so that you can enjoy the ride without any fatigue. This adjustment feature is very useful if the bike is to be used by more than one person (you can share your bike with your friends and family because sharing is caring).

LCD Monitor

An LCD monitor is essential to monitor speed, distance covered, and battery level in the long run. If the bike doesn’t have an LCD monitor, then look for the bikes that can connect to your smartphone for monitoring. Of course, you need to keep an eye on some crucial information while riding for safety.

Portability

If you want to carry a bike from places to places, then you must look for light-weight and portable bike options. Try to find the bike that is under 40lbs or 18 kg so you can easily carry the bike anywhere you want.

Another option is to look for foldable bikes. Foldable bike is compact and takes less space than a standard bike. You can store in the house and the cars easily.

Safety

An electric bike is used as an everyday vehicle by many people. Before you ride the bike on the road, you need to check a few things like the brake system, Headlights both front and back, and Horn.

While using an electric bike, try to find waterproof battery coverage to avoid electrocution. Also, look for the shock absorption structure to prevent physical injuries while riding the bike over rough surfaces. Many people also consider the locking system of the cycle to avoid theft.

You can also look for anti-slip built-in tries to avoid slipping on wet and rough roads. Few people consider replacing tries in their favorite models for better usage. Besides that, a bike should include a proper locking mechanism so that you can be tension free about it while leaving it in the garage or parking lot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

What is the best cheap electric bike?

ANCHEER Folding Electric Bicycle is the best cheap electric bike under 500 in our reviewed list. It has impressive functionality and is ideal for beginners to experience the luxury of the electric bike.

What is the best electric bike for the money?

We recommend Shaofu Folding Electric Bike. It is an excellent choice because of its design, compact-ability, and durability. The features the bike provides is an incredible deal at this much affordable price range.

Are electric bikes worth the money?

Electric bikes range from $400 upwards to over $15,000 based on the features you want on the bike. Undoubtedly, they’re worth a pretty penny. One of the biggest reasons for electric bikes being worthy is that they require a one-time investment. It also saves your expense of fuel and other transportation fares.

What are the disadvantages of electric bikes? 

One of the most significant disadvantages of electric bikes is they run on battery. They might be the not best companion for a long ride, but few of them are not entirely battery dependent also. You can always switch between manual pedaling and automatic pedaling during the ride to save battery for the long run.

Why do electric bikes cost so much?

The main reasons today why electric bikes are more expensive than conventional bikes are that they have more expensive components when they are built. E-bikes also have higher running costs because of servicing, battery replacement, tire wear, and charging. If have low budget, we have written detailed review about high quality yet cheap electric bikes under 500.

Do you pedal an electric bike?

It depends on the type of electric bike you choose. If the bike has a dual pedaling system, then you can always switch between manual pedaling and automatic pedaling during the ride. The duration of manual pedaling is entirely up to your will and stamina.

Conclusion

We know it is tough to choose an electric bike from so many options. We hope that your complication should have been solved after reading our suggestion. With the help of this in-depth researched reviews and buying guide, you can quickly narrow down the options based on your requirements. You can also see a list of high-end best electric bikes under $1000 if your budget is high.

The best electric bikes under 500 Dollars in 2020 mentioned in this review are quality guaranteed with a sturdy and out-class performance in the long run. Their designs are sleek and eye-catching for not just sports but also regular use. These are the most convenient rides and ideal for your pocket, the environment, and don’t even take lots of parking space too.