12 Best Electric Bikes in Australia (2024)

Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, are becoming increasingly popular in Australia as an easy means of getting around without breaking a sweat. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which e-bike is the best for you.

In this article, we'll look at the best electric bicycles available in Australia, their features, pros, cons, and pricing. We also discuss a buying guide to help you decide and e-bike maintenance tips to get the best out of whichever option you choose. Let's get into it.

Our Top Picks

If you don't have the time to go through all 12 options, here are our top three electric bike picks:

Cleverley Commuter S

Best overall e-bike in Australia with a 250W Mid-drive motor, stepless speed control, and a maximum speed of 25 km/h.

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Aventon Level 2 Step Through

Second best-rated e-bike with a 500W Rear Hub motor, 8-speed options, 5 pedal assist modes, and a maximum speed of 32 km/h.

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NCM Moscow Plus E-Bike

Best e-bike for speed options (24) with a 250W Das-Kit motor, 128 km of power-assisted travel, and a maximum speed of 25 km/h.

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Now, let's deep-dive into the detailed analysis, review, and comparison of all the top 12 e-bike options available in Australia.

1. Cleverley Commuter S

Best Overall E-Bike in Australia

The Cleverley Commuter S is made by an Australian-owned company. It’s well-built and works excellently for getting around the city. The bike meets Australian EN15194 safety standards and has a 350w M410HD mid-drive motor with 80Nm of torque, giving it enough power for steep hills and streets.

Mid-drive motors are often more expensive than their hub counterparts, but their benefits are clear outside of that. The Bafang M410HD motor is positioned directly between the pedals of the Commuter S, which means the weight of the motor is positioned low and central, establishing load balance stability and offering a much more natural feel when riding.

Additionally, the intelligence of the motor, combined with a torque sensor and smooth gear connection, means greater efficiency out of the integrated Samsung battery. Depending on the load and hills, the standard 14Ah battery gives you 40-95 km of range, while the 17.5Ah battery offers 60-110 km—both have a 6-hour charging time. The e-bike also carries up to 25 kg on the rear rack and 10 kg on the front rack, supporting riders weighing up to 120 kg.

The Enviolo City internal hub gearing, chosen instead of the usual derailleur system, is a smart feature because it works well and stays reliable in all kinds of weather. The gears are sealed inside the rear wheel's hub and, as a result, need less maintenance. This design also protects the gears from water, dirt, and other debris, so they stay in good condition longer.

Cleverly's Commuter S gear choice is a level above the Brushless Rear Hub Motor and a rear derailleur gear set used in the Aventon Level 2 Step Through, the second-best e-bike in Australia.

The gear system offers stepless shifting, allowing for smooth and seamless transitions between gears. This eliminates the need for fixed gear ratios so you can adjust your pedaling effort precisely to match the terrain. It also optimises energy use and minimises wear and tear on the bike's components, ensuring a more efficient and comfortable ride.

With the technical talk out of the way, how practical is the e-bike? First, it's clear that convenience is a significant design consideration for Cleverley. The e-bike's standard modular rack system offers plenty of flexibility for carrying items. The Commuter S also comes equipped with mudguards, integrated lighting, and a bell, and it’s delivered to your door 95% assembled. So, as long as you have a pump, you'll be ready to ride straight out of the box.

Pros

• Good value for money
• Delivered 95% assembled
• Mid-drive motor for efficiency
• Enviolo internal hub gearing
• Step-through frame
• Mid-compact size

Cons

• Slightly higher charge time
• A bit pricey

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2. Aventon Level 2 Step Through

Second Best-Rated E-Bike in Australia

The Aventon Level 2 Step Through is the flagship e-bike from Aventon. It's an innovative electric bike with many features to make your commute easy and convenient. The 24 kg electric bike has torque sensor technology for easy paddling, a powerful 500W motor that maxs out at 750W when necessary, 5 pedal assist modes, hydraulic brakes, and a removable battery that can power a journey of up to 97 km on 4 to 5 hours charging time.

The electric bike has a front fork suspension that protects the front tires from bumps, keeps the front tire on the ground for better control, and absorbs big shocks when landing from jumps. Aventon's e-bike has a colour LCD screen and a dedicated app that shows your speed and other vitals when on the road. Speaking of speed, the 500W motor goes up to 32 kph using the throttle or 45 kph with pedal assist. Aventon's Level 2 e-bike is rivalled by many options on this list, most of which max out at 35 km/h on motor power.

The Step Through electric bike has two sizes and three colour options: Polar, Glacier, and Himalayan. Folks between the height of 125 to 174 cm can choose the small to medium size option, while those from 177 to 189 cm should opt for the medium to large size model. Aventon ships front fenders, rear fenders, front & rear lights, a rear rack, and a one-year warranty.

Pros

• LED lights for night riding
• Strong 500W Bafang motor
• Supports up to 136 kg user weight
• Strong 48V 14Ah removable battery
• App integration
• 5 pedal assist

Cons

• Relatively pricey

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3. Vamos El Hefe 2024

Best Balance of Features

The Vamos El Hefe 2024 offers the best balance of key electric bike features. It is made to stand out in design, function, and power with a highly powerful 500W Brushless Dual Hub Motor, which is enough for most use cases. The e-bike reaches a top speed of 55 km/h and journeys up to 70km. However, due to Australian speed regulations, it ships locked at 25 km/h. You can unlock the speed limit using the LCD control panel on the handlebars.

Vamos' electric bike is made of a lightweight alloy. It weighs 26 kg and can support riders up to 120 kg. It is best for people between 160 cm and 205 cm tall. The e-bike's braking system is an efficient Tektro dual hydraulic disc, and you don't need to worry about pedalling with the half-grip throttle. It features the Shimano 8-speed gear set with fat KENDA tires adapted for any surface and integrated rear and front lights to ride day and night.

Samsung's 48V 20Ah battery powers the e-bike. It has a coloured display that shows its battery level, speed, and mileage. Vamos' well-cushioned JUSTEK saddle and ergonomic handlebars ensure a comfortable ride. You can adjust the seat with the ZOOM suspension seat post.

Pros

• 500W high-power motor
• Top speed of 55 km/h
• 120 kg maximum weight
• Strong samsung battery

Cons

• High budget

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4. NCM Moscow Plus Electric Bike

Best E-Bike for Speed Options

The NCM Moscow Plus is a mountain bike with a 250W Das-Kit X15 rear-drive motor and one of the biggest wheel sizes. It has a Shimano Acera crankset and rear derailleur with a strong, durable frame and fork made from 100% aluminum. The wheels are 29 inches in size with a width of 0.23 meters, and the grips are ergonomically designed for comfort.

The electric bike is also designed for top performance with 24-speed options. It features Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors, a DeHawk removable 48V lithium-ion battery, and an LCD screen with a trip distance function. In addition, it has a USB port for charging phones or other devices.

The NCM Moscow Plus supports up to 128 km of power-assisted travel and is a great mountain bike option for varied speed levels.

Pros

• 48W lithium-ion battery
• 128 km of power-assisted travel
• Tektro hydraulic disc brake system
• Sturdy aluminium frame

Cons

• Large wheels for short riders
• Limited motor power

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5. Cleverley Commuter C

Best Lightweight Electric Bike

The Commuter C is a sibling to the Commuter S above. It's a 28kg, low-maintenance dream with its Enviolo internal hub, capturing the best features of the Commuter S but with a dark, step-over frame.

The choice between the two options depends on your riding needs and preferences. You may prefer the convenience and comfort of a step-through frame or the sporty look of a step-over frame. However, the step-through frame is less important if you don’t need to carry bulky cargo.

The Commuter C also boasts slightly larger 27.5-inch wheels compared to the 26-inch wheels of the Commuter S, making it more suitable for tall riders. However, it shares the same width as the Commuter S for a comfortable ride through city potholes, bumps, and graded trails.

Pros

• Delivered 95% assembled
• Mid-drive motor for efficiency
• Enviolo internal hub gearing

Cons

• 6-hour charge time

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6. Engwe Engine PRO

Best Folding E-Bike

The Engine PRO electric bike is styled in a 6061 aluminium alloy frame with a mechanical lock front suspension fork, adjustable seat, handlebar, lightweight and efficient design, and 20-inch wheel. Its 750W brushless gear motor is among the most potent options on our list. The e-bike rivals our top-rated e-bike and has a speed of up to 40 km/h to top it up.

Engwe's Engine PRO includes front and rear disc brakes and an 8-speed system to travel at your ideal speed. On a single charge (5.5 hours), you can travel up to 120 km before recharge. Plus, regardless of where your battery shuts down, you can always switch to manual pedalling and find your way home. We chose the Engwe Engine PRO electric bike for its foldability and, more importantly, its ergonomic design when folded. With folded dimensions of 81 x 76 cm, it is easy to pack, store, and carry.

Weighing only 31 kg, the electric bike supports a maximum user weight of 150 kg. The foldable e-bike comes 75% pre-assembled and includes a battery charger, user manual, and a 1-year warranty.

Pros

• 8-speed option
• Lightweight and foldable frames
• 750W battery for long commutes
• IP2 water-resistant
• LCD display

Cons

• Relatively pricey

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7. NCM Aspen Plus

Best Fat Tyre E-Bike

The NCM Aspen Plus Fat tyre is built with a quality and durable aluminium frame and fork. It is a lightweight bike made to surmount obstacles. It has a 250W rear hub motor with a 25 km/h top speed. The bike has 6 pedal-assist levels and journeys up to 120 km.

The fat tire (26" x 4-inch) makes it adaptable to many surfaces and terrains: road, sand, or mountain. It has a powerful 48V 16Ah, 768Wh Panasonic battery, and a USB port for charging devices. The e-bike features front and rear Cateye reflectors, but its rear and front lights are sold separately.

NCM's drive unit consists of quality parts. The brake is made of Tektro hydraulic discs with sensors on both sides. The crank and derailleur are Shimano Acera and Shimano Altus, respectively. The tire has an anti-slip property, and the pedal is wide to improve riding comfort.

Pros

• Good travelling range
• Tire adapts to varying surfaces
• Front and rear lights with reflectors
• Strong battery power

Cons

• Relatively pricey
• Assembly requires assistance
• Lights are sold separately

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8. Smartmotion G3 ECity

Best for Daily Commute

The Smartmotion G3 ECity is excellent for city biking. It’s made with strong aluminum alloy and a 250W rear hub motor that reaches up to 35 km/h for commuting to work or school. It’s faster than other bikes with similar motor power and has a Shimano 8-speed cassette with an Altus derailleur.

Smartmotion's increased power is supplied with the 36V 15.6 Ah lithium-ion battery. The battery supports a pedal-assist ride for up to 120 km. The throttle is set at 6 km/h with eight speed-level options. The wheel is 26 inches long and fitted with wear-resistant tires. The strong frame can support weights up to 80 kg, a little less than its counterparts.

The city commute e-bike uses the Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors. It has a rear battery rack with elastic to carry extra items and a unisex step-through frame. With its speed, power, and an additional rear rack, it’s one of the best choices for a commuter bike.

Pros

• 120 km range
• Rear rack for luggage
• Step-through frame is unisex
• Has wear-resistant tires

Cons

• Pricey considering motor power
• Limited weight capacity

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9. Phoenix Vintage E-Bike

Best Vintage E-Bike

The Phoenix Vintage E-bike has a classic design that brings the past to life. The most alluring addition is the front basket for storage. In addition, it has an extra rear storage rack. For aesthetics, the blue colour and the brown saddle and handlebars give it a cool burst of colour.

Besides its design, the electric bike has a decent 250W brushless motor ready to go at the permitted maximum 25 km/h speed in Australia. The battery is a 36V 10Ah lithium-ion cell that journeys up to 40 km on a single charge. It uses the Shimano 6-speed gear system and has front and rear hydraulic discs for its brake system—an industry standard.

The lightweight electric bike has an LED headlight for night riding. The seat is comfortable and best suits riders between 160 to 180 cm tall. The 26-inch wheel makes it cool with durable tires.

Pros

• Well-cushioned saddle
• Front basket and a rear storage rack
• LED lamp for night riding
• Front and rear disc brake
• Vintage design

Cons

• 40 km range

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10. Universal TDE03 Electric Bicycle

Best Designed E-Bike

The Universal TDE03 electric bicycle has a sleek, simple design that suits city or commute usage. It had a strong 250W Bafang brushless rear hub motor with a maximum speed of 25 km/h. The gear is a Shimano 7-speed Acera with a Prowheel crankset. The pedals are foldable with front and rear medium-flanged alloy hubs, giving the bike a modern and uplifting look.

It has a powerful 36V 10.4Ah Samsung lithium-ion battery. It features a Kingmeter SW-LCD display. There are rear and front lights for night riding that are controlled by the display. The saddle is comfortable with an adjustable stem. It features the WiMAX RPM sensor for fast response assist pedalling.

The brakes are Tektro hydraulic discs for both front and rear wheels with 180 mm and 160 mm rotors, respectively. It also has a rear rack and heavy-duty aluminium fenders. The wheels are 26 inches with city-type tyres.

Pros

• Foldable pedals
• Rear rack for extra luggage
• Fast response assist pedalling
• LED lights

Cons

• Quite expensive for its motor power

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11. HIMO C26 Electric Bike

Best E-Bike for Long Mileage

The HIMO C26 electric bike is made for mileage. It accumulates up to 100 km assist mileage and 60 km power mileage, much more than most picks on this list. It also includes a 3-speed running mode powered with a button switch by a Shimano 7-speed gear and has a 250W rear hub motor capable of a maximum speed of 25 km/h.

The frame and fork (with a shock absorption feature) are made of aluminium alloy and carry up to 100 kg user weight. The brake system is a dual mechanical disc that works excellently. It is perfect as a low-profile option for all genders. The wheel is 26 inches with KENDA pneumatic tyres.

The HIMO C26 bike has a removable 48V 10Ah lithium battery that takes 5 to 6 hours to charge and lasts 650 cycles. It has a pedal assist for more leisurely riding and can maintain a steady speed. The saddle is adjustable to fit different heights and, like most bikes, has a headlamp for night riding.

Pros

• Can get up to 100 km mileage
• Has strong KENDA Pneumatic tires
• It is unisex

Cons

• 10 kg weight capacity
• Uses mechanical brake

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12. 3rd Gen Freestyler

Best Portable and Cheap E-Bike

The 3rd Gen Freestyler is a portable and foldable e-bike. The wheels on this e-bike are the smallest at only 14 inches. It folds in two simple steps to 60 x 68 cm for easy transport. It's also made of lightweight aluminium alloy with a 17 kg net weight to aid movement.

The motor on the 3rd Gen electric bike has a decent power of 250W and a Samsung battery of 36V 8Ah capacity, offering 25 km mileage when fully charged. The maximum speed is 25 km/h but can be unlocked to 32 km/h. It provides a 5-pedal assist level and a full power assist mode.

Interestingly, the e-bike supports 120 kg user weight with an option of a rear racking upgrade. It has an LCD, a pedestrian horn, and a front LED lamp for night riding.  The seat and handlebars are adjustable to accommodate different heights, and the brake is a dual-disc brake that works well.

Pros

• 120 kg weight capacity
• Speed can be unlocked to 32 km/h
• Easily transportable
• Affordable

Cons

• Small battery capacity
• Can't climb beyond 25° inclination angle

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How to Choose the Best Electric Bike

When you want to buy an electric bike, you should consider four important things. They include:

1. Purpose: Are you looking for a leisure ride or a way to exercise? Understanding your purpose will help you choose the right type.
2. Bike Type: Choose an e-bike that fits your needs. Cargo bikes are great for carrying items, commuter bikes are ideal for city rides, mountain bikes excel on rough terrain, and cruiser bikes are perfect for leisure. For exercise, go for a pedal-assist bike.
3. Budget: Your budget plays a key role in the decision-making process, so compare options within your budget that meet your needs.
4. Bike Weight: Consider the weight if you plan to transport it and ensure you can manage it easily.

Types of Electric Bikes

Electric bikes are classified by their use and working mode.

Based on the working method, there are Pedelecs and Throttle-Controlled E-bikes. However, considering their use case and functionality, there are mountain, folding, road, cruiser, and cargo bikes.

1. Pedelecs

This type of e-bike uses the pedal-assist system to aid the rider. The motor supports the rider's pedalling effort. First, the pedalling is detected by a sensor that initiates the assistance. The rider can adjust the level of support provided. Once pedalling stops, the aid does as well.

Pedelecs bikes are suitable for traditional riders who want a good blend of electric and manual bicycles. Also, they are ideal for exercise since they always require manual pedalling to initiate the pedal assist. The main con is the need for pedalling; it is not an efficient option for leisure and cruising. It is also not suitable for handicapped riders.

3. Throttle-Controlled E-Bikes

The throttle-controlled electric bikes have a throttle mounted on the handlebar for engaging the motor. You can control the speed without pedalling using the throttles. The motor supplies power to the rear wheels once the throttle is engaged. They are also called "twist-and-go" since the throttle twisting is enough to initiate motion.

Throttle-controlled bikes are best for cruising and leisure riding. They give more comfort to the rider since pedalling is not required. This makes the bike suitable for handicapped riders. Conversely, there may be some region-specific restrictions against using throttle-controlled e-bikes. Also, their maximum speed is usually restricted to 25 km/h for Australia.

Based on the usage and riding style of electric bikes, let's look at the five main available types:

1. Mountain E-Bikes: They are designed to be rugged and sturdy. Mountain bikes are suited for elevated surfaces. They usually have wide wheels and other features for withstanding rough trails.
2. Folding E-Bikes: These are designed for flexibility and portability. Usually, folding bikes have small wheels and easy steps to fold them into a smaller unit. They are safe for transporting in cars or even via buses or trains.
3. Commuter E-Bikes: These are also called urban or city bikes. They are the most common e-bike type, easy to use and may have racks for carrying extra things.
4. Road E-Bikes: These bikes are made for the road with lightweight parts. They usually have more speed options and aerodynamic designs such as drop handlebars. They have medium wheels for better traction on the road.
5. Cruiser E-Bikes: These are made for luxury with an upright riding position. The frames are lightweight, relaxed and adjustable. It is also common for cruiser bikes to have throttles.

How to Improve Your E-Bike's Lifespan?

Here are seven tips to keep your e-bike running:

1. Clean your bike regularly to remove dirt, sand, salt, or debris that can cause corrosion or fading.
2. Check the tires before and after each ride for proper inflation and signs of wear or tears.
3. Lubricate the chain regularly to reduce wear and ensure smooth gear function.
4. Monitor the battery level and charge it as needed.
5. Inspect the brakes regularly and replace them when necessary.
6. Check the electrical components to ensure wires and connections are intact.
7. Examine the frame for any damage, bends, or signs that require attention.

These tips help catch any issues early and keep your e-bike in top condition.

How to Prolong Your E-Bike's Battery Life?

The battery is a crucial component of electric bikes. With proper care and the tips below, you can preserve its lifespan:

1. When not in use, store your bike in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
2. Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures for long periods. Always remove it from your car if parked in the sun.
3. If your e-bike has a battery management system, use it properly to control charging and discharging.
4. Prevent overcharging and discharging; unplug the charger once the battery is full and avoid letting it fully drain before recharging.
5. Use your battery regularly and avoid storing it for extended periods. Never store the battery fully charged or fully discharged.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Buy the Best Electric Bike: Australian Guide

From key components and local regulations to features like range, weight, and accessories, our Australian e-bike buying guide helps you make an informed purchasing decision.

ExpertEasyMark Thompson

Final Thoughts

We've offered a thorough overview of the e-bike market in Australia, having carefully researched and reviewed the top e-bikes to cover a wide range of options to suit different needs and lifestyles.

We hope you find a bike here that suits your needs, whether for relaxing rides, exercise, or daily commuting.