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The word lightweight isn’t something that usually springs to mind when thinking about electric bikes. Traditionally, e-bikes have been very heavy, mainly down to the extra weight of the electric motor and, in particular, the battery. The best lightweight electric bikes are barely distinguishable from their unassisted counterparts, thanks to recent technological developments.
The 12 best lightweight electric bikes
- Fiido C21
- Trek FX+ 2
- Tenways CGO600
- Raleigh Trace
- Ribble Hybrid AL e
- Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0
- Orbea Vibe H30
- Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 EQ
- Vitus Mach E Urban
- Kinesis Lyfe Equipped
- Ortler Speeder
- Boardman HYB 8.9e
Why e-bikes are getting lighter
About 20 years ago, early e-bikes still used very heavy sealed lead acid batteries; as we moved through the first decade of the 21st century, NiCAD batteries started to be used. However, until this last decade, we saw lithium battery technology become commonplace.
As the technology has evolved, so has the energy density of the lithium cells – put, you can cram more power into a single cell than you could a few years back. The upshot of this is a more powerful battery that is smaller and considerably lighter.
Another big leap in technology is motor efficiency. When e-bikes first became available, the motors used were typically heavy direct-drive hub motors. The latest generation of electric bike motors, like the Fazua Evation and X35 ebikemotion, are small, lightweight and efficient. Not only that, but they result in an e-bike that is practically indistinguishable from a regular bicycle.
lighter e-bikes generally appeal to people looking to return to regular cycling or cyclists who want to take the edge off a hilly commute. Either way, all the bikes featured here are well worth considering. At the bottom of this article, I have listed the key benefits of owning a lightweight electric bike.
Benefits of Owning a Lightweight E-Bike
Owning a lightweight e-bike is a particularly good idea if you have trouble lugging heavy items around. One of the first questions many of my customers asked me was, ‘How heavy will my bike be?’ after I fitted a conversion kit. Another thing to consider is that many bike racks made for cars have a weight limit, and many modern e-bikes exceed this limit. Below, I have listed four key benefits of owning a lightweight electric bike.
Ease of transportation
With the difference in weight being as much as 10kg, owning a sub-15kg electric bike will make life a lot easier, particularly if you want to put your e-bike on a car rack or live in a flat and take your bike upstairs. They’re also much easier to cart around, especially if you occasionally take your bike on a train.
Easy to pedal with the motor switched off
Most regular hybrid e-bikes that weigh more than 20kg can be pedalled with the assist off, but the extra weight quickly becomes a burden, even on the slightest hill – you will feel like you are cycling with a couple of panniers loaded with shopping!
Pedalling with the motor off isn’t an issue when riding a lightweight electric bike. All the lighter e-bikes I have tested feel like regular bikes, and the moderately extra weight doesn’t impact the overall riding feel.
Increased efficiency
Most lightweight e-bikes have lower-capacity batteries by design. There are a couple of reasons for this – the main one is to keep the weight down, and the second is so the battery can be neatly integrated into the frame.
Lower overall weight will improve the motor’s efficiency, as it will not need to work so hard to produce the assist. 8-10kg can make one hell of a difference to a 250w motor.
Despite the relatively low energy capacity of the batteries fitted to lightweight e-bikes, you can increase your range in many ways without buying a spare battery.
An e-bike that looks like a regular bike
All the bikes featured in this article don’t look like electric bikes. This can have a few benefits – from an aesthetics point of view, these bikes look much neater, and no large battery pack dominates the frame. Also, they are less likely to be targeted by would-be thieves.
Another thing is there is still a bit of isolated snobbery within the cycling community regarding e-bikes, and some riders don’t want to ride a bike that shouts out ‘I’M RIDING AN E-BIKE’. Personally, any cyclist who knocks someone for riding an electric bike is a backwards-thinking idiot and shouldn’t be given the time of day!
Great for commuting
Lightweight electric bikes are perfect for commuters who only want to use the electric assist to help with hills. Because there’s very little weight penalty (compared with regular bikes), you still feel like a normal bike riding without assistance. Several lightweight models in my article feature the best electric bikes for commuting.
On to my list of the 12 best lightweight e-bikes available in 2023. I have included quite a few 2022 models that are still available. I’ll be updating this article as and when newer versions become available. None of the e-bikes featured below are particularly cheap. There are cheaper bikes available, but I have gone with models that, in my opinion, offer the best all-around riding experience, quality and versatility.
Fiido C21 E-Gravel
Best budget lightweight e-bike for 2023
Key Features:
- Mivice M080 Rear Hub Motor
- 208Wh Internal Battery
- Up to 80 km range
- Tektro Hydraulic Brakes
- 17.5 kg Weight
- Approximate Price (UK) £1266 (USD) £1599 (EUR) £1458
I’m currently testing the new Fiido C21 E-Gravel, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best and most affordable lightweight e-bikes currently available. It features a super-smooth and quiet Mivice M080 rear hub motor, which is virtually silent while providing a strong boost to your pedalling efforts. In addition, the 208Wh battery has returned a range of 32 miles on a hilly route, with some left spare at the end of the ride.
The Fiido E-Gravel boasts smartphone and smartwatch connectivity, a smart OLED colour display, Tektro hydraulic brakes and all-terrain gravel tyres. Its smooth weld frame and internal cable routing offer a sporty but comfortable riding position and look incredibly stylish. I can highly recommend the Fiido as it’s both lightweight and affordable.
Watch my YouTube video review.
Trek FX+ 2
Key Features:
- Heyena HyDrive 250-watt Rear Hub Motor
- 252Wh Internal Battery
- Up to 56 km range
- Hydraulic Brakes
- 17.5 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £2250
New for 2023, the Trek FX+ 2 looks almost indistinguishable from its unassisted counterpart. Weighing in at 17.5 kg, it’s not too heavy considering the full complement of accessories fitted. The FX+ features the HyDrive motor with a 250Wh internal battery and sophisticated torque-sensing pedal assist.
This will be a great e-bike for commuting and even better for exploring the countryside. With Shimano 9-speed gearing, hydraulic brakes, mudguards, a pannier rack, lights and a kickstand, the Trek FX+ 2 wants for nothing!
Tenways CGO600
Key Features:
- Mivice M070 250W Rear Hub Motor
- 252Wh Internal Battery
- Up to 43 Miles / 70 km range (in eco mode)
- Tektro Hydraulic Brakes
- Gates Carbon Belt Drive
- 15 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £1399
The Tenways CGO660 is a lightweight single-speed e-bike with low-maintenance Gates Carbon belt drive. The CGO660 offers a really good spec for the price and is available in the US, EU and UK. Weighing in at just 15 kg, it’s nice and light. It has a nice frame geometry, Tektro hydraulic brakes and torque-sensing pedal assist.
The motor is a 250w brushless, geared rear hub motor, and the 252Wh battery is integrated into the frame. The maximum range is 70 km, which should be possible on flat roads in the lowest assist mode. A smartphone app also gives more detailed info, like total distance covered and range remaining.
Raleigh Trace
Key Features:
- Mahle ebikemotion 250-watt Hub Motor
- 252Wh Internal Battery
- 30 – 80 Miles Range
- Tektro Hydraulic Brakes
- 16.5 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £2199
Iconic UK-based brand Raleigh has all but turned their back on regular bikes. Their range now comprises almost exclusively e-bikes. The Raleigh Trace is the first lightweight electric bike in their lineup, and it looks like a great option.
Featuring the Mahle X35 ebikemotion system wrapped up in a lightweight alloy frame and full carbon fork, the Trace comes in at a respectable 16.5 kg. In addition, there are quality components like Shimano Alivio 9-speed gearing and Tektro flat-mount hydraulic brakes. There are also WTB gravel tyres, mudguards, lights and a pannier rack. The Raleigh Trace is a light and practical e-bike with sporty looks.
Check out 100’s nearly new e-bikes on the Pro’s Closet (USA only)
Ribble Hybrid AL e
Key Features:
- Mahle ebikemotion 250-watt Hub Motor
- 252Wh Internal Battery
- 30 – 80 Miles Range
- Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Brakes
- 15 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £2499
The Ribble Hybrid AL e is a popular lightweight e-bike. This ‘fully loaded’ version comes complete with a rack and mudguards. Weighing in at under 15kg, it’s light for a hybrid e-bike. It features quality components like the excellent SRAM NX 1 x 11 gearing and Shimano hydraulic brakes. In addition, there are tough Mavic Allroad rims. The motor is the Mahle ebikemotion with a 252Wh internal battery.
Ribble has produced a practical and versatile electric bike that looks great and is substantially lighter than some of the competition. Here is an e-bike that will be equally comfortable on canal paths and urban streets. Use the assist only when you need it and ride it like a regular bike any other time – the best of both worlds!
Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0
Key Features:
- Specialized SL 1.1 250-watt Mid-Drive Motor
- 320Wh Internal Battery
- 40 – 80 miles Range
- Tektro Hydraulic Brakes
- 16 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £3500
The Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0 uses their SL 1.1 mid-drive motor, which was developed in collaboration with German company Mahle (who also makes the x35 system). Riding the Turbo Vado SL is a whole lot of fun! What the Specialized offers isn’t a motor that takes over but an assist system that mechanically enhances your abilities in a way that makes you feel superhuman!
Tipping the scales at just 14.9kg, the Vado SL is an easy bike to get along with. Considering the impressive 320Wh internal battery and the 1.96kg motor, you have the perfect combination of e-assist with a potential range of up to 80 miles. The Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0 is one of the best lightweight electric bikes available and well worth considering if your budget allows it.
Orbea Vibe H30
Key Features:
- Mahle ebikemotion 250-watt Hub Motor
- 252Wh Internal Battery
- 30 – 80 Miles Range
- Tektro Hydraulic Brakes
- 16.5 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £1949
The Orbea Vibe H30 uses the latest version of the tried and tested Mahle X35 ebikemotion system, which is a small and lightweight 250w rear hub motor and 250Wh (watt hour) internal battery. Pedal assist is provided by a magnetic sensor ring installed on the rear freehub. This ensures smooth electric assistance as and when needed.
The Orbea Vibe H30 will fit the bill perfectly if you want a lightweight e-bike. Weighing in at under 14kg, it weighs about the same as a regular hardtail mountain bike. The 42t front chainring combined with an 11-46 10-speed rear cassette gives a good spread of gears, and the excellent Magura MT30 hydraulic brakes do a good job of slowing the rider down.
Check out 100’s nearly new e-bikes on the Pro’s Closet (USA only)
Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 EQ
Key Features:
- Mahle ebikemotion 250-watt Hub Motor
- 252Wh Internal Battery
- 30 – 80 Miles Range
- Tektro Hydraulic Brakes
- 18.5 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £2000
The Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 EQ is a fun and practical lightweight e-bike designed to be comfortable. Featuring the same torque-sensing Hydrive motor as the Trek, the Cannondale is a practical urban hybrid e-bike that has the added feature of a large front basket for carrying things like shopping bags.
It’s a nice-looking e-bike with relaxed frame geometry, durable 650b wheels, and wide 47c tyres. Perfect for riding on the tarmac or to venture off the beaten track. Other features include powerful Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic disc brakes and Microshift 8-speed gearing. If it’s a comfy urban bike you’re after, the Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 EQ is worth considering.
Vitus Mach E Urban
Key Features:
- Shimano Steps E6100 Mid-Drive Motor
- 504Wh Removable Battery
- 80-100 Miles Range (in eco mode)
- Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Brakes
- 17.5 kg Weight
- £1729
The Vitus Mach E Urban is a well-made e-bike. The 6061 alloy frame has a relaxed geometry and is finished with smooth welds and great paintwork. It also comes with a full-carbon fork and tough 700c wheels with thru-axles. I owned an earlier model for 12 months and covered nearly 2000 trouble-free miles. The Shimano Steps E6100 will get you up almost any hill. And the 504Wh battery will get you 50-70 miles between charges.
The Mach E weighs just over 17 kg, which is very light for a mid-drive e-bike. It’s a great all-rounder and is unbeatable at the current price. Based on my personal experience, I cannot recommend this bike highly enough.
Check out my YouTube video review
Kinesis Lyfe Equipped
Key Features:
- Mahle ebikemotion 250-watt Hub Motor
- 252Wh Internal Battery
- 30 – 80 Miles Range
- Tektro Hydraulic Brakes
- 17 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £1640
Kinesis are a UK brand whose focus has been designing bikes with the British rider in mind. Their range of e-bikes includes the Kinesis Lyfe Equipped, a lightweight e-bike aimed at commuters or weekend leisure riders. The Lyfe features the Mahle X35 motor with a nice alloy frameset and tapered fork.
There are also some quality components, like Shimano Deore 10-speed gearing and hydraulic disc brakes. It has front and rear lights, mudguards, a pannier rack and a kickstand. Its current discounted price of £1640 is an absolute bargain!
Ortler Speeder
Key Features:
- Bafang G20 250-watt Hub Motor
- 252Wh Internal Battery
- 30-60 Miles
- Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Brakes
- 19.2 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £2239
Featuring a Bafang G20 rear hub motor, torque-sensing pedal assist, and a 252Wh internal battery, the Ortler Speeder is reasonably lightweight and very nice to ride. In addition, the Speeder is adorned with some very high-quality components. Gearing is Shimano Deore 10-speed, with hydraulic brakes, Ergon grips, Velo saddle, SKS mudguards, and more.
The motor is smooth and efficient, and it feels like you’re riding a regular bike without the assist activated. It would be a great e-bike for commuting or shorter leisure rides. Read my Ortler Speeder review.
Boardman HYB 8.9e
Key Features:
- Fazua Evation 250-watt Mid-Drive
- 252Wh Internal Battery
- 40-80 Miles Range
- Tektro Hydraulic Brakes
- 16 kg Weight
- Price (UK) £2299
The Boardman HYB 8.9e has been around for a few years and remains unchanged. It is, however, still an excellent option in 2023 and has loads of positive customer reviews. It uses the excellent Fazua Evation drive system, and the total bike weighs under 16kg. Better still, if you want to ride without the motor and battery, you can remove it in seconds, fit a blanking plate (optional extra), and go away!
Some nice components are fitted to the Boardman, including a Shimano Deore M6000 1 x 10 drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. It’s a well-designed bike that can comfortably handle a mixture of terrain. It’s a bit heavier than the Ribble and lighter than the Trek. But it has the benefit of an easily removable drive system and battery.
Conclusion
Owning a lightweight electric bike isn’t going to be for everyone. There are certain compromises, like motor power and battery range, that will put a lot of people off. But, for me, the benefits far outweigh the negatives. I’ve ridden lots of light e-bikes, and I prefer them. They’re like having a good old-fashioned regular bicycle with the benefit of a helping hand on longer rides. You still get a good workout and can easily pedal beyond the assist cut-off. What these bikes do is help to reduce fatigue and put the fun back into cycling.
Thanks for reading, and if you need any help or advice choosing the right electric bike, please leave a message in the comments below; I will aim to reply within 24hours.
Is any available in Turkey?
Bonjour , article intéressant mais que conseillez vous e VAE léger pour femme avec suspension ( suspension pour davantage de confort sur les chemins ) merci de votre repou
Bonjour Florence,
Je suggérerais le Ribble Trail AL e – il est léger, a une suspension avant et la géométrie du cadre convient à une cycliste féminine. J’ai vérifié sur leur site Web et ils expédient en France.
Sincères amitiés,
Tony
Ik ben al 2 jaar op zoek naar een lichtgewicht e-bike die er niet duidelijk als e-bike uit ziet.
Ik kom steeds uit op sportieve fietsen, maar kan fysiek momenteel niet actief zitten, dus moet in ieder geval de komende periode genoegen nemen met een rechtop houding op een actief bedoelde fiets (alle andere fietsen komen tot nog toe niet in aanmerking).
De Merida E-Speeder 400 EQ leek dé perfecte fiets!
Op 1 punt na, helaas kan het stuur niet vervangen worden voor een hoog stuur (vanwege een uitzonderlijke maat, ongeacht wat er -blijkbaar per abuis- op de eigen website is gedeeld) en omdraaien van het stuur brengt nagenoeg geen winst.
Heeft u suggesties voor alternatieven?
Ik fiets graag ook zonder ondersteuning, heb de motor nodig bij bepaalde weersomstandigheden en grotere afstanden. Parkeer de fiets buiten en in Amsterdam, hoe minder kabels en e-bike looks, hoe beter. Wel ga ik een tas achterop doen, dus een bagagedrager is gewenst. Mijn wensen (zadel, stuur, bagagedrager) doen veelal geen eer aan de look & feel van het ontwerp van de meeste fietsen, maar wel aan mijn wens meer te fietsen en vaak ook zonder ondersteuning.
Ik ben 1,65 en weeg 60 kilo.
Ik zie het probleem met de Merida. Het heeft intern geleide kabels. Meestal zou ik een stuurpen met een hoek van 30 graden en een riser-stuur met een stijging van 25-35 mm voorstellen, maar dit zou nogal wat werk vergen. U zou de lengte van de hydraulische remslangen en versnellingspookkabel moeten vergroten. Ik zou een plaatselijke fietsenmaker zoeken en een prijsopgave krijgen voor de klus. Een stuurpen kost rond de 30 euro en een goed riser-stuur 30-50 euro. Plus de arbeidskosten, versnellingskabel, remslangen en vloeistof.
Hei.
Jeg trenger en elsykkel som er så lett som mulig og med avtagbart batteri. Jeg har ikke lader i bod og bor i 2 etg. Jeg er 158 cm høy. Gjerne en sykkel rundt 14 kg tung. Noe forslag?
Takker for svar.
Mvh
Nina Lind
Dag Tony, ik ben op zoek naar een lichte e-bike tot 18 kg om tochten mee te maken. Een toerfiets dus.
Kunt u mij daarin adviseren?
Hallo,
Ik denk dat de Rose Bikes Backroad+ een goede keuze is. Hij weegt ongeveer 17 kg en heeft een bagagedrager, spatborden, verlichting en terreinbanden. Het maakt gebruik van de Shimano EP8 middenmotor met een 360Wh batterij. Deze motor levert uitstekende prestaties en efficiëntie – je zou een bereik van 100-120 km kunnen bereiken als je de hulp verstandig gebruikt. Een andere goede e-bike om mee te toeren is de Bergamont E-Grandurance RD Expert. Deze heeft een lagere batterijcapaciteit, maar u kunt desgewenst een range extender-batterij kopen. Ik hoop dat dit helpt.
Groeten,
Tony
Hi Tony,
I live in Plymouth – almost as hilly as Cornwall and enjoy a ride up to the moors and also into the city so need something to cover both. Stats are : fairly fit (ex military) but short 5’2″, and due to a disability (broke my back and my bones are rubbish – awaiting new kneecaps) I now weigh 78kgs. I am getting totally bogged down in all the info about e bikes all over the place and have been in to see some in various stores but would really like to hear from a truthful user, not a seller – of what you may recommend for me. I think a step through would logistically probably be best. I appreciate you are probably not a 5’2″, cuddly female but your advice would be warmly welcomed.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi Annette,
If you’re after something that’s going to give you a nice boost on the hills without being too heavy, but at the same time can be ridden as a normal bike on flatter roads, the Ribble AL e step-through would fit the bill perfectly. It doesn’t weigh much more than a regular hybrid bike but has a small rear hub motor and integrated battery. My only criticism of the Ribble is the battery range isn’t so great if you rely on the assist more often than not, and the motor only produces subtle assist.
For something that’s really going to give you a substantial amount of power and great battery range, the Trek Allant +7 step-through is a great bike. My friend brought one of these from the bike Cellar in Plympton and she’s covered over 1000 miles on it this summer. It uses the latest high-performance Bosch CX motor and has an adaptive assist, so it’s always giving you the right amount of power in relation to how much force you’re putting through the pedals. The only downside is it’s quite a heavy bike at around 24kg, but it can be ridden without the motor switched on (it just feels a bit heavy).
Another good lightweight option is the Orbea Vibe H30, there’s a lowstep version available and Pure Electric have them in stock. It uses the same system as the Ribble, but weighs a little bit more.
The Specialized Como 3.0 lowstep is another popular e-bike, there’s quite a few round my way and everyone I speak to that owns one is very happy. They use a mid-drive Brose motor and are really good for getting up steep hills. They’re sold at Pure Electric and I think Certini in Saltash also have them in stock.
I hope this helps, let me know if you have any more questions.
Cheers,
Tony
Hi Tony, good article – thanks for posting.
As its now 2022 and things have moved on yet again have you done any more reviews ?
I am looking at a Specialised Vado 5.0 EQ which at time of writing is £4200 which is obscene I know. I like a rack and mudguards on my bikes and I thought this bike ticked all the boxes. My other consideration is Ribble at a lot less money. Thoughts ?
Hi Wayne,
Having ridden the Specialized Vado SL 4.0 a few times now, it’s still my personal favourite. One of my friends has just brought one and he’s been out on it every day since. The 5.0 EQ version has a better spec and if you can afford it, it’s worth the extra. I still really like the Ribble AL e, but the x35 ebikemotion motor just doesn’t feel as refined, intuitive or responsive when compared with the SL 1.1 motor (on the Specialized). If I had to buy a new e-bike tomorrow, I’d get the Vado SL.
Cheers,
Tony
Is the frame size important? If so, what frame size do I need at 5’2″.
Is the wheel size important. Why?
Thank you!
1). Can you take folding electric bikes onto cycle routes or touring in the UK? If so, can you recommend one for me please? 62, 5’2″, very unfit, needing a lot of power to help me.
2). How do you know what power to get?
3). Is the Moustache Friday 28.1 suitable for me (5’2″)? A local bike shop recommends it although I think I prefer sitting upright with low step through.
Thanks for your great article.
Hi,
The Moustache Friday 28.1 (2021 model) looks like a very good bike on paper, but it does have a more sporty riding geometry. A low step frame design like on the Orbea Optima is going to give you a comfortable and upright riding position which should prevent lower back discomfort and also relieve pressure on the wrist area. Orbea recommend a small frame for a rider 4’9 – 5’4. The Optima would be fine to take on cycle routes as would a folding e-bike.
Wheel size is only of particular importance if you’re focusing on certain disciplines like mountain biking or road cycling – for the regular recreational rider any of the common sizes are just fine. Smaller diameter wheels are generally a bit tougher, I’ve always used 700c (28″) on my bikes and I tend to ride on and off-road.
Regarding power, you are unfortunately limited to 250w due to UK e-bike laws. The motor on the Orbea will only provide a moderate level of assist as it’s a small hub motor. Mid-drive motors like the Bosch or Shimano Steps provide much more assistance. I have a friend in her 70’s who recently brought a Trek step through with a Bosch motor and has yet to be troubled by any of the Cornish hills.
The Orbea Katu E is a good bike, although not fully folding it’s a compact design and uses the Bosch mid-drive motor – I tested one of these a while back and I was surprised at how nice it was to ride.
I hope this helps, if you have any more questions please let me know.
Regards,
Tony
Hi, Could you please tell me which of these would be best for a small woman 5’2″? And could I take the Orbea Optima on cycle routes around the UK? Thank you for your very helpful article.