One major factor that can determine an e-bike’s performance is its weight, which is why many riders pay so much attention to it. A heavier electric bike typically has a more powerful battery and motor. However, not all electric bikes, and some are surprisingly lightweight.
While most electric bikes weigh about 50 pounds, some of the lightest e-bikes on the market weigh just 20-40 pounds. These bikes are easier to handle and carry, and some are even faster than heavier bikes. Most lightweight bikes don’t have as much power or range as heavier ones.
Without a doubt, a lightweight e-bike is far easier to handle, and can even offer better features than its heavier counterpart. Also, the weight of a lightweight e-bike will depend mostly on what type of bike it is and the purpose it’s been designed for.
What’s the Lightest E-Bike?
Every day, manufacturers create e-bikes that get lighter and lighter. Advances in technology have made it much easier for companies to manufacture lighter e-bikes for the mass market.
One good example is the HPS Domestique electric bike with an incredible weight of just 18.7lbs. The bike has a 200W motor hidden in its seat, though it does not have as much torque as other e-bikes tend to and won’t be able to help out as much on hills.
The maximum speed of this e-bike is 15.5 mph. An HPS Domestique bike is rather expensive with a price point of $14,449. But considering the precision and advanced technology put into the design and production of this bike, it’s no surprise that it costs so much.
Some might argue that this is a wild price to pay for a bike that has fewer features, but for that niche of people who just absolutely need the lights e-bike, this is the one that takes the cake for now. But what about normal or more mainstream e-bikes?
What’s the Typical (Average) E-Bike Weight?
Generally, the average electric bike weighs between 45 and 60 pounds. Some fall below or above this range, but most would fall within it. Many factors determine an e-bike’s weight, such as what type of bike it is, the materials used, its battery, and motor size.
Based on the types of e-bikes available and their uses, we can estimate a rough weight range for each style:
Folding E-Bikes: These bikes are popular for their portability and easy storage, and every variation comes with a particular weight.
- Folding electric mountain bikes weigh about 40-70 pounds
- Mini folding electric bikes weigh about 30-40 pounds
- Folding fat tire e-bikes usually weigh about 50 pounds
Racing E-Bikes: They are generally lighter than the average e-bikes because they have thin wheels and frames that increase speed. They weigh about 40 pounds.
Commuting E-Bikes: Since these e-bikes are designed to travel far distances, they’re usually heavier and weigh around 50-70 pounds.
Mountain E-Bikes: These weigh around 40-70 pounds, but most mountain bikes weigh 70 pounds.
Cruiser E-Bikes: Built for comfort and leisure, these bikes typically weigh around 70 pounds.
What are the Advantages of Using a Lighter E-Bike?
While many might favor a heavier e-bike due to performance and efficiency, there are many reasons why riders should consider getting a lightweight e-bike instead.
Easier Handling
Lighter e-bikes are easier to handle and ride than their heavier counterparts. Having to constantly carry a heavy e-bike can be such a hassle, especially if you have to lift it over an obstacle or carry it up a flight of stairs. Now, which would you prefer to carry: a 60lbs e-bike or a 35lbs e-bike?
Speed
Lightweight e-bikes will be considerably faster than other kinds of e-bikes; it’s simple physics. Since a bike’s weight determines its speed and torque, a lighter weight equals a quicker bike. Also, since the bike is lightweight, less energy will be required to power it.
Aesthetic Appeal
This point will be highly appreciated by riders who are all about aesthetics and fashion. Lighter e-bikes are undoubtedly sleeker and nowhere as bulky as heavier e-bikes. The small motor and batteries on a light e-bike can make it look like the bike isn’t even electric.
So, if you want a bike that performs efficiently while looking classy and trendy simultaneously, a lighter e-bike is your best bet.
Longer Battery Life
Since a lighter e-bike weighs so little and won’t be able to carry heavy luggage, you won’t have to charge the battery so often. The less often you charge the e-bike’s battery, the longer the battery will last – regular charging and recharging lead to battery degradation.
That said, the battery weight is one of the things manufacturers might shave off to reduce the weight, so you’ll want to make sure the battery will get you the range you want, regardless of the bike weight.
Picking a Light E-Bike
There is no shortage of choices if you want to get a lightweight e-bike. To make it easier to make a choice, here are some options you can consider:
The Lightest Folding E-Bike
Folding e-bikes are gaining popularity these days because of the countless benefits they offer. For one, you can take them anywhere, and they are effortless to use. Also, since you can always fold them up and store them someplace safe, you don’t have to worry so much about your bike getting stolen.
If you need a light folding e-bike, you could consider an Ancheer Folding Electric Bike (on Amazon). This lightweight bike weighing just 33lbs is one of the lightest folding e-bikes available on the market.
Still, the bicycle’s weight does not affect its performance since you can get a total of 15 miles mileage with its 36V 8AH battery, and 30 miles if you use the pedal.
The Lightest E-Mountain Bike
Mountain E-Bikes are typically some of the heaviest e-bikes around since they are power-packed to serve particular purposes. However, thanks to technological advancements and human innovation, there are now many lighter e-mountain bikes on the market.
A typical example, and probably the bike that takes first place, is the Turbo Levo SL which weighs 38lbs. Although this lighter weight does affect the bike’s range a little, this shouldn’t be a problem if you’re more concerned about the weight.
A Good Cheaper E-Bike Option with Low Weight
Although it is said that the more expensive an e-bike is, the higher the quality, some lightweight bikes can still offer high performance and efficiency at a relatively cheaper rate.
One of such is the Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 Lightweight Folding Bike (on Amazon). This bike weighs 37lbs, and for the price point of $619.99, it features quality materials and a long-lasting battery that beats other electric bikes.
The bike also has a triple-fold design that encourages portability and flexibility. With a rechargeable li-ion battery, you can get 15 miles of mileage on this commuter e-bike.