How to choose a low cost electric bicycle
Affordable e-bikes still differ a lot. Start with the type of bike, then compare four specs: battery, brakes, frame and max load.
Start with the type
The SAMEBIKE CY20 folds and rides on 20 x 2.35 in tires; our folding e-bikes have more folders. The SAMEBIKE XD26-II is a full-size, non-folding bike on 26 x 2.1 in tires, with full suspension and a throttle. The Riding'times Z8 gives you the moped look on 20 x 4.0 in fat tires, also with full suspension and a throttle; compare it with our other cheap moped-style e-bikes.
Battery size, and whether it comes off
Range is roughly battery watt-hours (Wh) divided by the Wh your riding uses per kilometre, so a bigger battery goes further on the same ride. The CY20 carries 468 Wh, the XD26-II 720 Wh and the Z8 750 Wh, and the Z8's Pro version takes two batteries. The CY20 and Z8 packs are removable, so you can bring them inside to charge at room temperature. Our battery range guide shows the math.
Brakes
Mechanical disc brakes are pulled by a cable and cost less; hydraulic disc brakes typically have more stopping power. The CY20 uses mechanical discs and the XD26-II hydraulic, while the Z8 pairs mechanical discs with an electronic brake. Check the brake type on each product page before you choose.
Frame, weight and max load
The CY20 has a high-carbon steel frame and weighs 28.0 kg; the XD26-II has a 6061 aluminum frame and weighs 25.5 kg. The CY20, XD26-II and Z8 each list a 150 kg max load, the Z8's with a passenger included, but not every bike here does. Add up your weight, your cargo and any passenger, and leave a margin under the brand's figure.
What this price band leaves out
None of the bikes here lists a torque sensor, which measures how hard you press on the pedals and adds help in proportion. A cadence sensor adds a set amount of help once you pedal; our guide compares torque and cadence sensors. For a torque sensor, look at higher-priced models in all our e-bikes.
Delivery, returns and deals
Every bike here ships free across Canada, priced in CAD, with 15-day returns. Shopping on a budget? Also browse our e-bike deals.
Questions
Are cheap e-bikes any good?
They can be, if the parts match how you ride. Specs vary widely under $1,500: the SAMEBIKE XD26-II has hydraulic disc brakes, full suspension and a 6061 aluminum frame, while the SAMEBIKE CY20 folds and uses mechanical disc brakes on a high-carbon steel frame. Compare battery size in Wh, brakes, frame and max load before you choose.
What are budget-friendly e-bikes?
On this page, they are every e-bike we sell under $1,500, priced in CAD and shipped free across Canada; sort by price, low to high, to see the cheapest first. To spend less, see our e-bikes under $1,000. You can also browse our e-bike deals.
What do you give up on an inexpensive e-bike?
At this price, a torque sensor: none of our bikes under $1,500 lists one. A torque sensor measures how hard you press on the pedals and adds help in proportion, while a cadence sensor adds a set amount once you pedal. Brakes vary too: the SAMEBIKE CY20 uses mechanical disc brakes, the SAMEBIKE XD26-II hydraulic.
How long do cheap e-bikes last?
Our spec sheets don't give a lifespan in years, so watch the battery. Battery University says lithium-ion packs fade with age and charge cycles, and runtime shortens gradually rather than stopping at once. Its guideline is to replace a pack when capacity drops to 80%. For long storage, Health Canada advises about a 50% charge, checked every 3 months.
Should I buy a used e-bike instead?
If you do, check it first: look up the serial number on the RCMP's CPIC stolen-bike search and a registry, search the brand and model on the Government of Canada's recalls site, inspect the battery and charger, then test-ride it. Our used e-bike guide has the full checklist. Every bike here is new, ships free across Canada and comes with 15-day returns.
Is a conversion kit worth it instead of a cheap e-bike?
It can be, if your bicycle is sound, but the motor is only part of the job. You also need a matched battery and charger, brake levers that cut the motor, and dropouts and brakes that can take the extra force. A complete e-bike is simpler, because one maker matches the motor, battery and brakes.
