If there’s one other thing that the past year has proved, it’s that the electric bike is here to stay. The now-popular electric ride has gained unexpected recognition last year more than any other year. With establishments and modes of transportation limiting their services, the e-bike served as a trusty and rather economical solution to daily dilemmas.

 



 

E-Bikes are known for being one of the most convenient ways of travelling. It has several types, some of them we have introduced in a previous article. But what caught the attention of many are the electric city bikes. Why and how? We have reviewed what we think are the best electric city bikes in 2021, so let’s talk about that in this article!

 

What are Electric City Bikes?

From the name itself, the electric city bike is a sleek and classic-looking e-bike that is made especially for the city setting. It usually comes in simple color block themes, making one easy on the eyes. This minimalist approach on the bike’s design is one of the reasons why metropolitan dwellers favor it among the other types.

The stylish electric ride is built to be comfortable, yet efficient. Its uses range from everyday commute, to a leisurely ride in the weekend. Most cities are hustling and bustling, so a slick ride like a city e-bike would be a good investment. One can easily slice through the streets and avoid heavy traffic jams, saving them much time and effort on the streets.

 

Two Kinds of Electric City Bikes

Electric City Bikes come in two more sub-types, namely electric commuter bikes and electric comfort bikes. These two kinds were designed to cater the rider’s needs and preference. They have distinct differences, mainly on their built and design.

Let’s take a quick look at their differences:

Electric Commuter Bike

From the word commuter itself, this hybrid bike is made for commuting in the urban areas. It’s the type of city e-bike that is usually used by those who need to get from point A to point B as quickly as they can, without even breaking a sweat. A 10 to 20-mile ride from home to work/school can be exhausting, but in an electric commuter bike, it could be rather fun and exhilarating.

This type of electric city bike is also called a hybrid bike, because of its decent mix of a road bike’s wheels, and a mountain bike’s handlebars. This combination makes it the perfect ride for riding down the streets every day. Moreover, an electric commuter bike would have narrower tyres and saddle, less suspension, and a more lightweight design.

 



 

Electric Comfort Bike

This kind of electric city bike is designed for a more comfortable riding (hence the name). It doesn’t differ much from the commuter bike, but this type is built with more comfort features. It is furnished with a wider saddle, a step-through frame (for easier mounting), and swept-back handlebars. All these features make up for a more laid-back riding experience.

Experts say that this type of city e-bike is made specially to help ladies who want to ride while wearing flowy skirts or dresses. It also benefits the elderly, as the step-through frame would avoid swinging their legs as they mount on it.

Sure, there are distinctive differences between the two. But ultimately, both types are perfect for gliding through the big city streets. With a number of unforeseen situations that one can encounter on the road every day, urbanites are always on the lookout for more convenient ways to travel, an electric city bikes are definitely in.

 

What Makes a Good Electric City Bike?

When it comes to a city e-bike, practicality comes second to none. This type of electric rideable is less about power and more about functionality. It is designed to take on the everyday hassles of a busy town or city. This fact guarantees that it should be the first to come to mind when thinking about purchasing an e-bike that you plan to use on the daily.

However, just like other e-bike models, not all city e-bikes are built alike. There is a wide range of electric city bikes available today, and they come in a wide range of prices as well. If you want to get the best value for your money, then it is a must to be meticulous and really know what you’re looking for.

 



 

So, before we head on to our review, let us first find out some factors that make up a good e-city bike.





Comfort is paramount. If you are considering buying a city e-bike, odds are you’re planning to use it regularly. For many, comfort is their main priority. Comfort, in this sense, might have various meanings. Others might say that it’s the ability to get from one place to another, without having to break any sweat. For some, it might be being comfortable with their seats, or the way the handlebars are placed.



Whatever your definition might be, a good electric city bike could definitely live up to that expectation.  





The longer riding range, the better. Knowing how far an e-bike could go is one factor that a rookie buyer tends to overlook. For this, you would have to look mainly at the city bike’s battery power. An e-bike with a max range of 80KM is already considered an exceptional model, and there are also affordable ones that could give you this much.



A good electric city bike could provide you with the enough range to cover distances for your daily travels. However, if you’re planning to utilize it for other purposes as well, then a city e-bike with a longer riding range will be suitable for you.





Your safety is important. Having to slice through the busy streets on the daily can be very dangerous. But, with a good electric city bike, would have features that will ensure your safety. This would mean that they are installed with lighting that would illuminate your surroundings at night, strong brakes and brakes lights. Some are also installed with higher handlebars that lets the rider easily check his surroundings while riding.



City e-bikes that are built with anti-theft technology might fall on the pricier side, but a model that come with durable locks is definitely welcome too.  

Given these characteristics, it is also worth noting that electric city bikes that fall on the more affordable spectrum could give you all of these and even more. What makes the high-end bikes more special would probably be the additional tech features and components present in them. These could make all the difference for a rider, but at the end of the day, it all boils down to one’s preference.

 

Staff Picks: The Best Electric City Bikes in 2021

As mentioned above, we have come up with a list of, in our opinion, the best city e-bikes of 2021. These models are the newest and the ones that always make our customers leave a 5-star review, so we suggest that you give them a chance them too!

 

Bolzzen Macaw Step-Through Electric City Bike 

Price: $2,395.00

 



 

Starting off this list of the best electric city bikes in Australia is the Bolzzen Macaw Step-Through Electric City Bike. This all-in-one electric bike is built with specialized components, like a true Bolzzen model. It's a unisex city electric bike that's perfect for day-to-day travel.

It can reach a range of up to 110KM, depending on battery charge and riding style. From running errands, food deliveries, daily commutes, the Bolzzen Macaw is an investment that's worth making.  

Specifications:



Frame: Aluminum 6061

Fork: RST Neon-700C

Brake: Tektro HD-T285 Hydraulic Front Disc and Rear Disc 180mm Front, 180mm

Brake Lever: Tektro HD-T285 Hydraulic Disc Brake

Handle Bar: Promax

Stem: Promax Adjustable

Pedal: Neco

Saddle: Relle Royal Gel A230D

Grip: Hualong, HL-G308, pure black

Tyre: Kenda

Crank: Prowheel

Shifters: Shimano SL-M4000, Alivio, Right, 9-Speed

Derailer: Shimano RD-M4000-SGS, ALIVIO, 9-Speed

Chain: Kmc X9NP

Flywheel: Shimano Cassette Flywheel CS-HG400-9, 9-Speed

Light: LED Front & Rear

Display: KD51C-D (WITH USB)

Motor: SY DGW07, 48V 250W Rear Motor

Battery: 48V 14AH 672W Samsung

Charger: 48V 2A

Kickstand: Yes

Distance: 70-110KM

Max Speed: 25KM/H

N.W. 25KG

Max Load: 120KG



 

Xiaomi HIMO C26 Electric City Bike

Price: $1,799.00 

 



 

Next on the list is one of Xiaomi's best and most-improved electric city bikes, the HIMO C26 Electric City Bike. The Xiaomi C26 boasts of its range that reaches up to 100KM, which is greater than most electric city bikes in the market.

The electric city bike is installed with 26-inch tyres and a durable metal casing. Unlike the earlier e-city bikes from Xiaomi, it also has a triangular frame which makes it more resistant and stable on bad roads and uneven terrains. All-in-all, the Xiaomi C26 is not just a trusty electric city bike, it can also be taken tp climb up hills, mountains, or even to visit neighboring cities!

Specifications:



Motor: 250W

Max Speed: 25KM / H

Max Load: 100KG

Battery Life: 650 cycles

Meter: Three-speed switch, one-button switch

Wheel: Spoke wheel

Shock Absorption: Fork Shock Absorption

Tire Size: Jianda 26x2.125 Pneumatic Tires

Water proof: IPX7



 

Progear E-Classique Electric City Bike

Price: $1,049.00

 



 

A modern bike with a classic twist on it, the Progear E-Classique Electric City Bike is like something out of a day dream. It comes in an attractive turquoise color, and a wicker basket to complete the preppy ensemble. 

The E-Classique, however, is more than what meets the eye. Behind its fun and laid back design is a dependable electric city bike that can be used every day, whether for travel, leisure, or running errands. With a distance that reaches up to 70KM, you can go about your day without any hassle!

Specifications:













Frame

700C x 17" Alloy





Fork

700C Rigid Alloy Fork





Handlebar

Steel Width:595MM,H:66 44°





Stem

Alloy ?25.4* 100mm, +-30°





Grip

L=130MM R=92M





Crankset

170m Crank, 42t Chainwheel





BB sets

BB68*126mm





Pedal

Alloy 9/16"





Chain

1/2*3/32”x118L





Freewheel

Shimano Tourney MF-TZ500-7,7-SPEED, 14-16-18-20-22-24-34T

























Derailleur R

Shimano Tourney TY300D 7/6SP





Shiter

Shimano Tourney SL-RS35-7R, 7-SPEED REVO SHIFTER





Brake

Mechanical disc brake, Rotor=160mm





Hub F.

700C 3/8"*13G*36H*100*108, W/QR,115mm





Rims

700C*1.5(622)*13G*36H,H=25,double wall





Spokes

280mm W/brass nipple





Tyre

700C*38





Seat Post

?27.2*350mm*2.55T





Seat Clamp

?31.8 Quick Release





Kickstand

Steel Kickstand

























Motor

36V*250W*700C 25KM/H - Complies to EN15194





Torque Sensor

dual hall Cable length:130MM





Display

0-5 assist level, Max Speed 25kph

























Battery

36V 8.7AH SAMSUNG battery cell





Controller

700C 36VAP 12A





Charger

42V 2A DC2.1 charger port AS













  

Progear E-Sierra Ladies' Hybrid Electric City Bike

Price: $1,149.00

 



 

Another model from Progear that made it to this list is the E-Sierra Ladies' Hybrid Electric City Bike. This functional yet stylish electric city bike for sale in Australia is mix of beauty and convenience that suits any lady.

As an electric commuter bike, the E-Sierra is perfect for every-day riding in the city. The cozy saddle and sturdy seat post assure a comfortable ride, free from any kind of pain. 

Specifications:











Frame

Alloy 700C×17"





Fork

Suspension fork travel= 65 mm with lockout





Handlebar

Alloy Width660MM. 30mm rise





Stem

Alloy 70mm +-7°





Grip

L:125mm,R:92mm, Closed end





Crankset

170mm Crank, 36t Chainring





Pedal

9/16" Alloy





Chain

1/2"*3/32"*108L





Freewheel

Shimano CS-HG200-8,8-SPEED, 12-14-16-18-21-24-28-32(BR





Derailleur R

Shimano Tourney TY300D





















Shifter

Shimano SL-M315-8R, RIGHT, 8-SPEED RAPIDFIRE PLUS





Brake

Front / Rear Mechanical disc brake w/ 160mm rotor





Hub Front

3/8"*13G*36H





Rim

26"*1.5*13G*36H, H= 25 A/V





Spokes

249mm W/14mm Steel nipple





Tire

700*40C





Seat Post

?27.2*350mm





Seat Clamp

?31.8 Quick Release





Kickstand

Steel Kickstand





















Motor

700C 36V250W 25KM/H - Complies to EN15194





Torque Sensor

Dual hall Cable:80MM





Display

0-5 level, Max Speed 25kph





















Controller

square wave 36V*12A





Battery

36v, 8.7AH Samsung battery cell





Charger

42V 2A DC2.1 charger port











 

 

Progear E-Sierra Men's Hybrid Electric City Bike 

Price: $1,149.00

 



 

A bit bigger than the former Progear model, the E-Sierra Men's Hybrid Electric City Bike shares almost the same specifications. The apparent difference would be the torque sensor; as the Ladies’ Hybrid Electric City Bike has an 80MM dual cable, while the Men's Hybrid Electric City Bike has 150MM.  

 With their lightweight built and outstanding balance and comfort, both the E-Sierra Electric City Bikes from Progear are worth every penny.

Specifications:













Frame

Alloy 700C×18"





Fork

Suspension fork travel= 65 mm, with lockout





Handlebar

Alloy width: 660MM, 30mm rise





Stem

Alloy 70mm, +-7°





Grip

L:125mm,R:92mm, Closed end





Crankset

Alloy Crank Length 170mm, 36t Chainring





BB setes

L:BB73*127.5mm(26+73+28.5)





Pedal

Alloy 9/16"





Chain

1/2"*3/32"*116L





Freewheel

Shimano CS-HG200-8, 8-SPEED, 12-14-16-18-21-24-28-32

























Derailleur R

Shimano TY300D





Shifter

Shimano SL-M315-8R, RIGHT, 8-SPEED RAPIDFIRE PLUS





Brake

Front/Rear, Mechanical disc brake, 160mm Rotor





Hub Front

3/8"*13G*36H*





Rim

26"*1.5*13G*36H, H= 25 A/V





Tire

700*40C





Seat Post

?27.2*350mm





Seat Clamp

?31.8 Quick Release





Kickstand

Steel Kickstand

























Motor

700C 36V250W 25KM/H - Complies to EN15194





Torque Sensor

Dual hall Cable:150MM





Display

36V 0-5 level, Max Speed 25kph

























Controller

square wave 36V*15A+1





Battery

36v - 10.4AH





Charger

42V 2A DC2.1 charger port













 

 

Smartmotion E-Urban City Electric Bike

Price: $2,399.00

 



The E-Urban is claimed to be designed for the savvy commuter. It comes with great motor power, range, and a reasonable price. It has the ability to glide through the busiest streets, and is used by many as their main mode of transport. It is a very classy electric city bike that has been recommended on magazines like Choice and Ride On.

Specifications:









Frame





Alloy frame. Centre-mounted adjustable kickstand.









Distance





60 to 80KM depending on power assistance used









Fork





SR Suntour alloy suspension forks









Motor





High torque brushless with freewheel 250-350w.









Charging Time





4 - 6 Hours









Brake





Tektro disc brakes, with 180mm rotors for superior stopping









Security





Integrated frame C-lock for easy security (locks the rear wheel)









Gears





Shimano 8 speed cassette 11-34 gear set, with Altus derailleur & shifter









Battery





36v/15.6ah Samsung advanced lithium ion battery for NZ conditions – superior weatherproofing. USB charge port.









 

Smartmotion E-City Electric Bike

Price: $2,399.00

 



 

The E-City Electric Bike from Smartmotion is regarded as one of best electric city bikes under $3000. It has become a favorite among many e-bike enthusiasts both from New Zealand and Australia. It boasts a comfortable ride position, and a unisex step-through frame which makes mounting and unmounting easier for the rider. Its throttle is also set at a default 6KM/h, which is good if you haven’t ridden an e-bike for a while. This feature allows the rider to balance himself on the bike, and start pedaling with less effort!

Specifications:









Frame





Alloy step-through. Centre-mounted adjustable kickstand. (Also available in its 24” small version)









Distance





60 to 80KM depending on power assistance used









Fork





SR Suntour alloy suspension forks









Motor





High torque brushless with freewheel 250-350w.









Charging Time





4 - 6 Hours









Brake





Tektro disc brakes, with 180mm rotors for superior stopping









Seat





Smartmotion comfort seat. Suspension Seatpost.









Gears





Shimano 8 speed cassette 11-34 gear set, with Altus derailleur & shifter









Battery





36v/15.6ah Samsung advanced lithium ion battery for NZ conditions – superior weatherproofing. USB charge port.









 

Kristall C-one Step Through Electric City Bike

Price: $1,450.00

 



 

This model from Kristall is another one that falls on the cheaper spectrum. It might be cheaper than other units in this list, but the manufacturers ensure that this trusty electric city bike is made only with high-quality materials. This traditional-looking city e-bike has a range of up to 90KM on pedal assist, and 60KM in throttle mode.

Specifications:









Colour





Black / Red & Grey









Frame





Aluminium C-ONE 26ER









Tyres





26 inch KENDA-K1187









Brakes





SHIMANO Hydraulic Disc Brake MT-200









Derailleur lever





SHIMANO Tourney 8 speed









Rear Derailleur





SHIMANO M370









Chain





YBN-8S









Fork





TWITTER Aluminium Lockable Fork









Hub





RS Aluminium









Saddle





Ergonomic Saddle









Cassette





DNP 8 Speed,11-32T









Chainring





YBN-8S









Pedals





WP-625 Aluminium









Wire





JAGWIRE IP54 Waterproof









Motor





DC Brushless 250w motor low resistance and low noise









Controller





5-speed intelligent control system









Battery





36V 13Ah Li-ion battery









Range





70-90km (pedal assist); 40-60km (throttle mode)









Weight & Height





20kg / Height from ground to handle bar (96cm) Lowest that the seat will go (80cm)









Loading capacity





100kg









   

Smartmotion Pacer GT City Electric Bike

Price: $4,499.00



This high-end electric city bike is the most expensive one in this list. It is an upgrade to Smartmotion’s Pacer Electric Bike. And when we say upgrade, we mean it. The Pacer GT is equipped with a powerful 250W Bafang Mid-Drive motor with torque and cadence sensor. This specific e-bike has tons of power, durability, control, and provides a great riding experience to its rider. The city e-bike is designed for everyday used, and was tested in harsh conditions for more than five years.  It’s definitely a practical investment that would last you for a long time.

Specifications:









Frame





27.5 low step hydro-formed top tube with battery and LCD









Chainwheel





60 to 80KM depending on power assistance used









Fork





SR Suntour alloy suspension forks









Motor





High torque brushless with freewheel 250-350w.









Charging Time





4 - 6 Hours









Brake





Tektro disc brakes, with 180mm rotors for superior stopping









Seat





Smartmotion comfort seat. Suspension Seatpost.









Gears





Shimano 8 speed cassette 11-34 gear set, with Altus derailleur & shifter









Battery





36v/15.6ah Samsung advanced lithium ion battery for NZ conditions – superior weatherproofing. USB charge port.









 

So, there you have it—the top-performing electric city bikes in 2021! More than giving their owners the satisfaction of having a new electric bike, these electric rideables have surely made everyday living easier and more manageable for them too!  

Are you planning to buy your very first (or your next) city e-bike? You might want to check out trusted online electric rideables stores like E-Ride Solutions for the best models, at the best prices. They are one of the biggest dealers of all types of e-rides, and they ship Australia-wide!

Do you have anything to share with us and your fellow readers? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think!