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If you’re looking for an e-bike that’s easy to live with on a day to day basis, they don’t come much easier than a step-through. This type of frame has been around for well over 100 years and has seen a massive rise in popularity in recent years. In this article we’ll be looking at 11 of the best step-through electric bikes currently available in 2023, and go over some of the benefits of riding one of these bikes.
My shortlist contains step-through e-bikes to suit all budgets, and features popular models from trusted brands. Most of the bikes in this article are available in the US, UK and EU.
Best Step-Through E-Bikes in 2023
- Best Step-Through City E-Bike: Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus
- Best Belt-Drive Step-Through E-Bike: Tenways CGO800S
- Best Fat Tire Step-Through E-Bike: Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus
- Best Step-Through Electric Cargo Bike: Fiido T1
- Best 20 inch Fat Tire Step-Through E-Bike: Himiway Escape Pro
- Best Lightweight Step-Through Electric Bike: Specialized Turbo Vado SL
- Best Bosch Powered Step-Through E-Bike: Trek Allant+ 7
- Best single-speed step-through Electric Bike: Magicycle Commuter
- Best Urban Step-Through E-Bike: Ribble Urban E
- Best High-Performance Step-Through E-Bike: Frey Savannah Ultra
- Best Step-Through Folding Electric Bike: Rad Power RadExpand 5
Step-through electric bikes are easy to live with on a day to day basis. Whether you’re after an e-bike for commuting, leisure riding or just getting from A to B, Step-through e-bikes are a great way to promote a healthier lifestyle and save money on fuel costs.
Are Step-Through Bikes Unisex?
The step-through bike frame design has been around since the late 1800’s and was originally designed to make it easier for women to ride bicycles wearing the formal attire of the period, which was mainly long skirts and dresses. This is why step-through bikes were traditionally thought of as women’s bikes.
However, early in the 20th century, step-through frames were increasingly used in the manufacture of utility bikes (like post office bikes) as the design made it much easier to mount and dismount the bike.
Fast forward to the 21st century and the step-through frame has become one of the most popular choices for the electric bike rider. They’re comfortable, safe and stylish. The old-fashioned view that these frames are for women only has long-since disappeared and they’re now ridden by people of both sexes, ages and abilities.
Pros and Cons of Step-Through Electric Bikes
There are more pros than cons when it comes to step-through electric bikes. I’ve listed the key benefits and negatives below.
Pros of riding a step-through e-bike.
- Comfort: Step-through e-bikes are designed with comfort in mind and usually have an upright riding position which puts less stress on the lower back and wrists. This is why in Europe step-through’s are popular among commuters.
- Safety: A lot of cycling accidents happen when the rider looses their footing when they’re stationary, or even just mounting the bike. A step-through can greatly reduce the chance of this happening.
- Clothing: If you’re wearing tight fitting jeans, a skirt or whatever – step-through electric bikes are perfect. You don’t need to worry about wearing stretchy, cycling-specific clothing. Step-through e-bikes are great for riding out to meet friends for a drink or meal.
- Mobility: If you have limited mobility or are recovering from an injury, a step-through frame is perfect. This is why they have become popular e-bikes for older riders.
- Quick to mount / dismount: This is why step-through bikes have been popular as delivery bikes going back to the early 20th century. If you’re using an electric bike for delivery, the step-through is the perfect option. Most cargo electric bikes have step-through frames.
Cons of riding a step-through e-bike
- Image: Even some younger riders still hold this old-fashioned view that step-throughs are for women. Don’t let what other people think put you off. Ride whatever’s comfortable and suitable for your needs.
- Weight: Step-through frames are usually slightly heavier than traditional diamond frames due to structural elements and the thicker gauged tubing needed to increase strength.
- Less mounting points: Step-through frames usually have less mounting points for things like water bottles and there are less places to hang things like frame bags. Most step-through electric bikes have pannier racks though, so this isn’t so much of an issue.
- Not as easy to carry: It’s much easier to carry a diamond-frame bike, but you wouldn’t want to be carrying an e-bike around on your shoulder anyway.
Should I get a Step-Through Bike?
This really depends on your personal preferences. If you have mobility problems that limit how far you can lift your leg up, then I would highly recommend one. Maybe you’re a delivery rider who is constantly getting on and off your bike. If you ride in a busy urban area and are constantly having to stop and start, a step-through frame can make life easier. As an electric bike for day to day use, they’re brilliant – if you just want to go shopping or pop out for a coffee, you can just jump on it wearing jeans and a t-shirt and go!
The Best Step-Through Electric Bikes are…
On to my selection of the 11 best step-through electric bikes available in 2023. My selection includes e-bikes from all price brackets ranging from under £1000 to over £3000.
Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus
Best Step-Through City E-Bike
Available in the US and Europe, the RadCity 5 Plus step-through from Rad Power Bikes is an excellent e-bike for day to day use. The RadCity uses a highly reliable 750w rear hub motor (250w UK / EU) and semi-integrated 672Wh battery, making it the perfect electric bike for city riding or leisurely outings in the countryside.
Components include 7-speed gearing, hydraulic brakes with 180mm rotors. In addition, there’s a full compliment of accessories, including mudguards, lights, big pannier rack and an adjustable handlebar stem. The RadCity Plus is stylish, comfortable and affordable and features all the accessories you’ll ever need!
Available from Rad Power Bikes (EU and UK shipping)
Buy from Rad Power Bikes US website
Alternative to the RadCity Plus 5
Addmotor CityPro E-43 (US only)
Tenways CGO800S
Best Belt-Drive Step-Through E-Bike
| Motor Type | Rear Hub Motor |
| Motor Power | 250-watt |
| Battery Power | 374Wh |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
| Number of Gears | 1 |
If you want the simplicity, and low-maintenance of a single-speed step-through e-bike, then the Tenways CGO800S takes some beating! Featuring a 250w rear hub motor, with torque-sensing pedal assist, a 374Wh internal battery, and a Gates Carbon Belt Drive. The CGO800S is ready to ride 365 days a year. No more worrying about oiling your chain or getting it on your clothes. These belts drives can last nearly 20’000 miles before needing to be replaced.
Designed for leisurely riding, the Tenways e-bike has a nice and upright riding position, and a suspension fork up front. Plus, there’s powerful Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, puncture-resistant tires, mudguards, lights and pannier rack. The icing on the cake is, it weighs only 19 kg!
If you’re looking for a lightweight e-bike with the benefits of a step-through frame, the Tenways CGO800S comes highly recommended!
Visit Tenways for more info (US, UK and EU shipping)
Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus
Best Fat Tire Step-Through E-Bike
This is the second e-bike from Rad Power featured on this list. The RadRover 6 Plus is one of their best-sellers on both sides of the Atlantic, and with good reason. You have all the benefits of a low-step frame, combined with the ‘go anywhere’ versatility of fat tires. Plus, there’s the proven rear hub motor and 672Wh battery, which provides an assisted range of between 25-45 miles.
The RadRover 6 Plus also benefits from improved braking, thanks to the powerful hydraulic disc brakes. The frame geometry is designed to be suitable for riders with an inseam of between 25-33.5″.
If you’re after a step-through fat tire e-bike that’s rugged and can tackle tougher terrain, then the RadRover 6 Plus is a great choice and highly recommended.
The similar RadRhino 6 Plus is available from Rad Power EU
750w version available from Rad Power US
Best Alternative to the RadRhino 6 Plus
Fiido T1 🆕
Best Step-Through Cargo E-Bike
| Motor Type | Rear Hub Motor |
| Motor Power | 750-watt |
| Battery Power | 48v 20.3Ah (974Wh) |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
| Number of Gears | 7 |
The Fiido T1 is a great option if you’re after an e-bike with a bit more carrying capacity. It’s a truly versatile machine with a big 974Wh (48v 20.3Ah) battery and powerful 750w hub motor. Early isolated reports of the frame braking have led to this latest model having a re-enforced frame and 5 year guarantee (on the frame). This latest version also has hydraulic disc brakes.
I’ve just taken delivery of one of these, and will be posting a full review article once I’ve finished testing it. But, first impressions are very good. It’s really well finished off and looks like a very rugged e-bike with plenty of options for carrying things like groceries or other cargo.
It’s designed with rider comfort in mind, with a step-through frame, fat road tires, large saddle (with suspension seat post) and upright riding position. It’s well worth considering if you want a comfortable electric cargo bike with powerful motor.
I’m currently testing one of these. For more information, check out my review of the Fiido T1.
Available direct from Fiido (US, UK, EU Shipping)
Best Alternative to the Fiido T1
Rad Power RadRunner 2 Utility E-Bike
Himiway Escape Pro
Best 20 inch Fat Tire Step-Through E-Bike
| Motor Type | Rear Hub Motor |
| Motor Power | 750-watt (US) 250-watt (UK / EU) |
| Battery Power | 48v 17.5Ah (840Wh) |
| Brakes | Mechanical Disc |
| Number of Gears | 7 |
The Himiway Escape Pro is a stylish step-through e-bike, featuring 20″ fat tires, 750w motor (250w UK version) and a long-range 48v 17.5Ah battery.
Designed with rider comfort in mind, the Escape Pro has adjustable front suspension fork and twin shock absorbers at the rear. Plus, a riding position that gives the rider a comfortable, upright posture. Accessories include full mudguards, lights, an integrated pannier rack and kickstand. Gearing is Shimano 7-speed and there’s mechanical disc brakes with 180mm rotors. In addition, there is a mounting point at the front for an optional basket for more carrying capacity.
The 4″ tires are great for rougher surfaces, and allow the Himiway to be ridden on surfaces like sand or even snow. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a relaxed ride with the added benefit of riding off-road.
Available from Amazon (US version)
Also available in the UK (250w version)
Alternative to the Himiway Escape Pro
Addmotor Soletan M-66X (US only)
Specialized Turbo Vado SL
Best Lightweight Step-Through Electric Bike
| Motor Type | Mid-Drive Motor |
| Motor Power | 250-watt |
| Battery Power | 320Wh |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
| Number of Gears | 10 |
One of my favourite electric bikes on the market today is the Specialized Turbo Vado SL. This step-through version is stylish, fast yet comfortable. If you’re looking for a lightweight electric bike that performs and feels like a regular bike without the assist, but turns you into a pro hill climber with the assist switched on, then this is the bike for you! It’s smooth, fast and nimble – definitely aimed at the rider who wants a sportier ride.
Available from Specialized direct (UK)
Buy direct from Specialized (US)
Alternative to the Specialized Turbo Vado SL
Trek FX+ Stagger Electric Bike (New model for 2023)
Check out 100’s of nearly new e-bikes on the Pro’s Closet (USA only)
Trek Allant+ 7 Step-Through
Best Bosch Powered Step-Through E-Bike
| Motor Type | Mid-Drive Motor |
| Motor Power | 250-watt |
| Battery Power | 500Wh |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
| Number of Gears | 9 |
I’ve featured the Trek Allant+ 7, because it’s an absolute gem of an e-bike. A family friend purchased one of these when they were first released late in 2021, and it’s proven to be a totally reliable workhorse.
It features the flagship motor in the Bosch range – the CX Performance Line, which is designed for mountain bikes. It produces 85Nm of torque and conquers hills with ease. My friend is in her 70’s and it will effortlessly take her up the 15% climbs in my area. The Bosch 500Wh battery gives a realistic range of around 40-50 miles, with more being possible in eco mode.
Front suspension is Suntour Mobi25 and the tires are the excellent Schwalbe G-One 605b x 57c, making the Allant+ 7 a real all-terrain machine.
For more info, read my Trek Allant+ 7 review. I can highly recommend the Trek, it’s a great step-through e-bike and benefits from Bosch’s legendary reliability and performance.
Also available from Sigma Sports (UK)
Alternative to the Trek Allant+ 7
Specialized Turbo Vado 4 Step-Through
Magicyle Commuter Step-Through E-Bike
Best single-speed step-through e-bike
| Motor Type | Rear Hub Motor |
| Motor Power | 350-watt |
| Battery Power | 52v 7Ah (364Wh) |
| Brakes | Mechanical Disc |
| Number of Gears | 1 |
If you want the simplicity and low-maintenance of a single-speed e-bike, then the Magicycle Commuter Step-Through is a great option. Featuring a 350w motor and internal 52v 7Ah battery, the Magicycle will be great for commuting and leisure riding.
The great thing about a single-speed e-bike, is you don’t need to worry about adjusting gears, you just get on and ride! Plus, belt drives are low-maintenance and you won’t have to worry about getting chain oil on your clothes.
It’s a nice looking e-bike with subtle styling and definitely worth considering if want a hassle-free ride.
Ribble Urban E
Best Urban Step-Through E-Bike
| Motor Type | Rear Hub Motor |
| Motor Power | 250-watt |
| Battery Power | 252Wh |
| Brakes | Hydraulic |
| Number of Gears | 11 |
The Ribble Urban E is a stylish and lightweight step-through electric bike. The Ribble uses the Mahle ebikemotion, which is the lightest e-assist system available (at just 3.5kg including battery). This bike is awash with very high quality components including, full carbon fibre fork, Mavic Allroad wheels, SRAM NX 1 x 11 gearing and Shimano hydraulic brakes. The Urban E looks fantastic and is very practical thanks to its front and rear racks, making the Ribble ideal for running errands and maybe even a bit of shopping.
Visit Ribble Cycles for more info
Frey Savannah Ultra
Best High-Performance Step-Through E-Bike
| Motor Type | Mid-Drive Motor |
| Motor Power | 1000-watt |
| Battery Power | 48v 17.5Ah (840Wh) |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
| Number of Gears | 9 |
There’s nothing quite like the Frey Savannah Ultra anywhere. It’s certainly a break from the norm. It features the powerhouse of a motor – the Bafang M620 Ultra which has peak power of 1500w. And there’s a 840Wh battery to give you hours of fun.
This is a really capable e-bike. If you want the benefits of a step-through with exhilarating performance and all-road handling, the Frey Savannah is the bike for you!
It’s full suspension frame with Rockshox forks, and big tires, make the Savannah perfect for long, off-road adventures. It would make a great e-bike for bikepacking, thanks to its large battery and efficient motor. Plus, there’s 4-piston hydraulic brakes and Shimano Alivio 9-speed MTB gearing. Highly recommended!
Available direct from Frey Bike
Check out 100’s of nearly new e-bikes on the Pro’s Closet (USA only)
Rad Power RadExpand 5 🆕
Best Step-Through Folding Electric Bike
| Motor Type | Rear Hub Motor |
| Motor Power | 750-watt (US) 250-watt (UK / EU) |
| Battery Power | 48v 14Ah (672Wh) |
| Brakes | Mechanical Disc |
| Number of Gears | 7 |
New for 2023, the Rad Power Rad Expand 5 is their latest step-through folding fat tire e-bike. The US version features their powerful 750w rear hub motor. For the UK and EU, this motor is rated to 250w and limited to 15.5 mph (25 km/h). Battery range is estimated to be between 25-45 miles, depending on assist level used, rider weight and terrain.
I really like the design, and with so many manufacturers opting for suspension forks on their e-bikes, it’s refreshing to see a fat tire e-bike with rigid forks – I’ve always felt they’re unnecessary and add weight to an already heavy bike. It’s great value for money at $1649 in the US or €1899 in the EU. Definitely worth considering, and the riding position looks very comfortable.
Available from Rad Power Bikes (UK / EU)
Alternative to RadExpand 5
Magicycle Jaguarundi Step-Through Folding E-Bike
Conclusion
Step-through electric bikes are practical and comfortable, and they’re perfect for riders of all ages, male or female. The old-fashioned view that step-throughs are just for women is very dated now.
The step-through e-bikes featured above are just a tiny amount of what’s currently available. There are more electric bikes now than ever with this frame design and there really is something to suit all budgets and disciplines.
I hope you’ve found this article useful and if you need any help or advice choosing your next step-through electric bike. Please leave a message in the comments section below – I aim to reply within 24hrs.
