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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

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.

are step through bikes unisex

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.
benefits of step through e-bikes
  • 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.
step through e-bike

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

radcity 5 plus is one of the best step-through electric bikes available
Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus

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

Tenways CGO800S Single-Speed Step-Through E-Bike
Tenways CGO800S Single-Speed E-Bike
Motor TypeRear Hub Motor
Motor Power250-watt
Battery Power374Wh
BrakesHydraulic Disc
Number of Gears1

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

rad powr radrover 6 plus step-through electric fat tire bike
Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus

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

Himiway Cruiser (US)

Himiway Cruiser  (UK)


Fiido T1 🆕

Best Step-Through Cargo E-Bike

fiido t1 electric cargo bike
Fiido T1 Pro
Motor TypeRear Hub Motor
Motor Power750-watt
Battery Power48v 20.3Ah (974Wh)
BrakesHydraulic Disc
Number of Gears7

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

himiway escape pro step-through e-bike
Himiway Escape Pro
Motor TypeRear Hub Motor
Motor Power750-watt (US) 250-watt (UK / EU)
Battery Power48v 17.5Ah (840Wh)
BrakesMechanical Disc
Number of Gears7

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)

Direct from Himiway US

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

specialized vado sl 4.0 step thru
Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0 Step-Through
Motor TypeMid-Drive Motor
Motor Power250-watt
Battery Power320Wh
BrakesHydraulic Disc
Number of Gears10

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

trek allant+ 7 step-through e-bike
Trek Allant+ 7 Step-Through E-Bike
Motor TypeMid-Drive Motor
Motor Power250-watt
Battery Power500Wh
BrakesHydraulic Disc
Number of Gears9

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.

Available direct from Trek

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

magicycle commuter step-through single speed e-bike
Magicycle Commuter E-Bike
Motor TypeRear Hub Motor
Motor Power350-watt
Battery Power52v 7Ah (364Wh)
BrakesMechanical Disc
Number of Gears1

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.

Available from Magicycle

Also available from Amazon


Ribble Urban E

Best Urban Step-Through E-Bike

ribble urban al e
Ribble Urban AL e
Motor TypeRear Hub Motor
Motor Power250-watt
Battery Power252Wh
BrakesHydraulic
Number of Gears11

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

frey savannah ultra high performance step-through e-bike
Frey Savannah Ultra High-Performance Step-Through
Motor TypeMid-Drive Motor
Motor Power1000-watt
Battery Power48v 17.5Ah (840Wh)
BrakesHydraulic Disc
Number of Gears9

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

Rad Power RadExpand 5 Step-through Folding Electric Bike
Rad Power RadExpand 5
Motor TypeRear Hub Motor
Motor Power750-watt (US) 250-watt (UK / EU)
Battery Power48v 14Ah (672Wh)
BrakesMechanical Disc
Number of Gears7

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)

Buy from Rad Power (US)

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.

Tony

Passionate E-Bike advocate and enthusiast since 2016. Riding an electric bike helped me to lose weight, get fit and reignite my passion for cycling!

Tony has 238 posts and counting. See all posts by Tony

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