E-Bikes & Bikes Customised to You
Whether you're a serious bike enthusiast or just like to occasionally get out there and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer on a nice day, electric bikes are a perfect way to do it.
Over the last decade in particular, the technology has gotten advanced enough - and affordable enough - to the point where e-bikes are practically everywhere. You've likely seen people zipping by you on one during your morning community, or enjoying the outdoors in the summer. But if you've gotten to the point where you're thinking about picking up a women's e-bike for yourself, the most important thing to keep in mind is that not all models are created equally.
To be deemed an electric bike, all a model has to do is give riders the ability to work it on electric power as well as by traditional pedaling. As you can likely imagine, that's a fairly low bar to clear and because of it, there are a lot of discrepancies when it comes to quality, particularly at the entry level stage of the market.
But thankfully, all hope is not lost. Our experts have taken a look at a host of different women's electric bikes that are available, evaluating based on essential criteria like their technical specifications, their performance, their design, their health-benefit, and more.
With all that in mind, what follows is a list of the best women's electric bikes of 2023, as rated by our experts.
Why Use an Electric Bike? Breaking Things Down
Regardless of the type of rider you are, electric bikes bring with them a wide range of different benefits - all at the exact same time.
For starters, an electric bike can be a perfect opportunity to improve your fitness routine - something that many people actually don't realize. While it's true that an electric bike can be used in "full motor" mode - meaning the motor is doing all the work - this doesn't always have to be the case. You can easily use it in pedal assist mode or even as a traditional bike when you really want to get a workout in. All this, and you still have the convenience of a traditional bike, too.
Indeed, medical professionals have long been supporters of adopting e-bikes as a health and wellness tool first and foremost. In 2021, one bike share system in the Portland area even launched an innovative "prescribe a bike" program for that very reason. Not only has it gone a long way towards improving access to e-bikes to community members, but it's also been shown to impact the public health as well.
Electric bikes can also dramatically improve your performance while you're out on a ride. If you're just trying to get your heart rate up but don't want to have to deal with those large hills in your area, you don't have to - engage the motor during these periods and pedal like normal at all other times. Electric bikes can help you ride significantly faster as well. Some of the top models that are available on the market today have top speeds that are almost 30 miles per hour (although this number will obviously vary depending on the type of terrain that you're riding on).
From the point of view of sheer utility, electric bikes are also a cheaper and more efficient mode of transportation than others that are out there. If you live in a big city, it may not make financial sense to own a car to get around to work or school. This is especially true when you consider the massive cost that comes with parking that care. Electric bikes can get you to where you need to go just as easily as a car can, all by way of something that offers all the other benefits outlined above that a car or even a motorcycle simply cannot match.
The Liv Thrive E+1
Another one of the best women's e-bikes available on the market today is undoubtedly the Liv Thrive E+1 Pro Electric Bike. It's a sophisticated option that offers the company's SyncDrive Pro motor. People love it because rather than manually switching between the motor and manual use and back again, the bike does so automatically. As you use it, it is constantly using sensors to take measurements of how you ride and what you need. That allows it to supplement your own efforts with a precise power boost at the perfect moment during your ride.
It's also notable because the handlebar design has more than enough room for accessories, which make it a versatile entry on this list, too. If you want to use it purely for the purposes of something like fitness, you can. If this is also going to become your regular commuter bike, and you need room for groceries or for essential items while you're on your way to work or school, you can easily add them as well.
Also important to note are the high quality hydraulic disc brakes. As the term suggests, they're built to offer the most precise braking capabilities possible in virtually any situation. Last but not least, one has to mention the tires. The bike comes with gravel tires that are intended to provide superior traction, regardless of the type of weather conditions you find yourself in. This makes it the perfect option in particular for women who are looking for an e-bike and who live in an area of the country that experiences all four seasons.
The Lapierre Esensium 300 Disc Women's Electric Road Bike
If you've already been conducting an extensive amount of research into which women's e-bike you should get in 2023, you've no doubt already come across mentions of the Lapierre Esennsium 300 Disc Women's Electric Road Bike. There's a very good reason for that - it offers a plethora of different benefits that simply cannot be ignored.
For starters, despite the fact that this is an admittedly powerful electric bike, it's also a model built with subtlety in mind. At a quick glance, you may not even realize that you're looking at an electric bike at all. That is perhaps no more evident than it is in the lightweight, stealth motor. If you don't need that extra bit of power from the motor, you don't have to use it. If you do, you might not even realize that the motor is engaged at all to begin with - that's how subtle this is.
Likewise, the included Ultra Sport II tires create the most comfortable experience possible at all times. This is another model that is perfect for riders who are expecting to take their new electric bike out in all types of weather. The hydraulic disc brakes add a significant amount of safety without compromising performance in any way.
All told, it's a great option for female riders who are looking for versatility when it comes to their electric bike. One day, you're using it purely to get in a rigid workout - and that's fine. The next day, you're using it as a part of your commute or to get where you need to be on-time. That's fine, too. It's capable of all this and more, which is why it has such a high entry on this particular list.
The Cube Kathmandu Hybrid 45 625 Trapeze
As previously mentioned, all riders are different - meaning that there is probably no "one size fits all" solution to buying an electric bike that you plan to use for years. There are those entries on this list that come close to offering that level of versatility, though, and the Cube Kathmandu Hybrid 45 625 Trapeze is chief among them.
This bike in particular offers a large capacity battery that can help make sure that you're always capable of getting to exactly where you need to go, regardless of how far that happens to be. It offers front suspension that will certainly help with performance and safety, and it comes with many different accessories as a standard feature. Again, with this particular unit, versatility is the name of the game.
The bike is also a very practical option, as it includes a number of features that are perfect for a variety of use cases. In addition to full-length mudguards, it also sports bottle cage and kickstand mounts. It even has built-in lights so that motorists and other riders on the road can always see you at night.
When it comes to accessories, it comes with a high quality rack that will help protect your belongings and other essential items as you go about your travels.
The only real downside to this is that it certainly isn't the lightest option on your list. So if you have your heart set on transporting your bike to a particular location so that you can then go out and about and do some exploring, you might have a bit of difficulty to that end. But if that isn't what you had in mind, or if you're just not too worried about it, then the Cube Kathmandu Hybrid 45 625 Trapeze has more than enough in the way of innovation to keep you covered at all times.
The Trek Dual Sport + E-Bike for Women
One of the elements that our experts loved about the Trek Dual Sport + E-Bike for Women in particular can be summed up in a simple word: durability.
The Trek Dual Sport + E-Bike for Women offers a 10 speed drivetrain, which packs an exceptional amount of power in a slender package. The 500w battery is removable, so you can either get a few dozen miles per charge or use it as a traditional bike - the choice is yours. It also comes with tires that offer exceptional traction, regardless of the weather conditions or the terrain that you find yourself on.
This is, however, one of the slower bikes that you will find on this list. The maximum speed tops out at about 15.5 miles per hour. Likewise, while it does include a rear light for safety purposes, it isn't exactly what you would call "bright." Is it better than no light at all? Yes - but if nighttime visibility is one of your top concerns, you'll likely want to look elsewhere or invest in some add-ons for that purpose.
The Aveny Skyline
The first thing you'll notice about the Aveny Skyline is its appearance - it's a visually striking bike that is sure to command attention as you jaunt around town. It's also available in a number of different color options for you to choose from, perfect for putting your own special stamp on the proceedings.
In terms of safety features, most people love the fact that not only does it come with very bright lights on both the front and back, but it also has tires made from Kevlar - making them about as puncture resistant as they come. It also features a rack design that is great for adding any accessories that you may need.
Possibly one of the only sticking points is that the braking system is not designed for wet roads, so you'll have to be extra mindful of the weather before you set out for your next ride. Likewise, the battery takes a decent amount of time to charge, so you'll want to take that into consideration as well. If those aren't major hurdles for how you plan on using the electric bike, you'll definitely find a lot to like here.
The Ribble Endurance SL E
Ribble Cycles has long-established itself as a brand worth paying attention to in the world of e-bikes, and all it takes is a quick glance at one of their flagship models to see why. The Ribble Endurance SL E is many things, but chief among them is "easy." It's a bike built to offer an effortless, comfortable ride, regardless of the situation that you happen to find yourself in.
This is another one of those electric bikes that somewhat goes out of its way to look like a more traditional bicycle. The hub-driven motor is very discreet, to the point where it looks like you're on a standard bike. The battery is internal, keeping it out of sight and out of the way to the point where you practically forget that it's there. Even when you're riding it while engaged with the motor, the low torque power output feels as smooth as can be - to the point where it's easy to forget yourself that you're being helped out by one of the best women's e-bikes on the market today.
One major benefit of this particular model is that the 250w battery takes just three and a half hours to charge according to the company's documentation. With that, it can provide up to 60 miles of assistance over many different types of road conditions. So even if you work far away from your home, if you charge the bike once you get to where you're going, you'll have more than enough power to get back again without issue.
The downside to that is that the charging port is in a somewhat vulnerable spot on the bike itself. It doesn't make charging impossible or even difficult in mixed conditions, but it is something to think about. Likewise, the power button is in a somewhat tricky position, especially if you're trying to engage it while you ride. But still, these are small prices to pay for the convenience, the ease-of-use, and the sheer power that the Ribble Endurance SL E has to offer.
The Canyon Grail:ON
The Canyon Grail:ON has been, as per the company's own documentation, optimized for female riders. So it doesn't just look like a women's electric bike - it operates like one, too.
Part of this has to do with the included 50mm tires that are designed to help guarantee optimum performance, even if you suddenly decide to take the e-bike off-road. Still, the carbon frame has been designed to work in tandem with the suspension system to increase comfort as much as possible, regardless of what type of road you happen to find yourself on.
It sports a removable 500w battery that is more than capable of getting you wherever you need to go, but that can also be removed should you so choose. So if you want to take this model and transform it into a traditional bike, you're absolutely within your ability to do so. But if you want to engage that motor and see how far you can take you and what type of adventures you can have, you're able to do that, too.
Overall, there are two potential downsides that won't make a big impact on most people but that buyers still need to be aware of. To start, the tires are certainly built with an eye towards getting into particularly tricky terrain and even off-road tracks, as mentioned. The thing that you're giving up is rolling resistance when you hit tarmac sections of the road. Because of that, this might not be the best option if you're not a particularly experienced rider or if you're looking for something with a more entry level slant. Likewise, the looks of this model can be pretty controversial. It tends to be one of those things where you either love the design or hate it and if you fall into the former category, that suddenly becomes one less sticking point on your quest to achieving greatness while on your electric bike.
The Ancheer Electric City E-Bike for Women
If you're in the market for the most cost-effective way to enter into the wonderful world of electric bikes, the Ancheer Electric City E-Bike for Women may just be it.
Despite its modest price tag (relative to some of the other options on the market), this particular bike still has performance where it counts. Not only does it have a six speed gear system (making it perfect for both casual riding and those instances where you're trying to get up a steep hill), it also has a range of nearly 40 miles on a single charge thanks to the included battery. Is that as long as some of the other options available to you? No, but for most people that should still be more than enough. It also has front and rear disc brakes to make sure that you're able to sop on a dime, increasing safety significantly along the way.
Potential downsides include the fact that the maximum speed is only about 16 miles per hour. If you're a casual rider, or are just looking for something built with an eye towards utility more than raw performance, it won't be an issue. But you certainly won't be winning any races on this particular model.
Likewise, the charger that comes with the electric bike takes a great deal of time to fully restore the battery. Again, depending on your use case, this might not be a problem at all. Still, you can get between 35 and 40 miles on a single charge thanks to the lithium-ion battery, so that is absolutely nothing to balk at.
All told, it's an electric bike that packs an incredible amount of value into a svelte package, which is why it has more than earned its spot on this list.
The Pendleton Somerby Electric Bike
If you had to make a list of all the reasons why the Pendleton Somerby Electric Bike is worthy of your attention, value would undoubtedly be right at the top.
This is not an entry that is setting out to re-invent the wheel (no pun intended), but then again it doesn't need to be. It offers all the functionality that you have come to expect from a bike at this price point, couple with traditional looks and an excellent value for the amount of money you're being asked to spend. If you're looking for an option for city riding, or for those occasional jaunts where you want to just get out there and see where the proverbial wind takes you, this is a top contender. Much of this is thanks to the capable 250w motor system, coupled with a battery that can take you up to 50 miles on a single charge.
It offers a step-thru frame, which is again perfect for keeping your body in the most comfortable position possible regardless of how long you're riding or what type of terrain you're going over. It offers mudguards and even a luggage rack to help transport all of your essential items in one piece.
Perhaps the only major downside to this bike is the aluminum V-brakes that have been included. That's not to say that they are inherently inferior or unsafe, because they're not. They deliver the precise stopping you need to keep you safe while on the go. However, they don't offer the same type of performance that an equivalent pair of hydraulic disc brakes would. This is especially true if you're talking about taking a ride over wet surfaces.
But still, when you consider exactly what you get for the money, it's easy to see why the Pendleton Somerby has become such a popular electric bike option for so many people since its original release and why it continues to do so in 2023 and beyond.
The Yuba Boda Boda E-Bike for Women
If you're the type of person who has a lot to do in your busy schedule, and it feels like there aren't enough hours in the day with which to do them, the Yuba Boda Boda E-Bike for Women may just be able to help to that end.
Even at a cursory glance, there is a lot to love about this particular electric bike. It comes with hydraulic disc brakes, which are perfect for precision stopping - especially valuable over rough terrain or in unpredictable weather conditions. It has both front and rear LED lights that always make sure that other people are aware of you while you're on the road, increasing the safety as much as possible. The included battery can also get you approximately 90 miles on a single charge, which should be more than enough for average, everyday use.
The only potential downside is that a good deal of assembly is required - meaning that you won't be able to just hop on and ride as soon as it arrives at your home. Some people balk at the fact that it can only go a maximum speed of up to 20 miles per hour, but once you get on it and see how fast that really is, it might not be that much of an issue.
So if you're looking for something that will help you run those important errands, and if you don't care too much about "maximum performance and speed," this is yet another entry on this list that has a lot to offer virtually all types of people.
The Islabikes Ejanis
The Islabikes Ejanis is another quality option on this list that we wouldn't necessarily call "entry level" in the strictest sense of that term, but that absolutely has something to offer virtually all types of riders.
For starters, it's lightweight and easy to transport, even when you're not explicitly riding it. If you want to throw it on the bike rack of your car to take it out into the world before you begin your ride, you should have absolutely no problem doing so. It has has a variety of easy to use component options available to help kick things up in terms of customization, allowing a single model to become a lot of different things to a lot of different people depending on specifically who you're asking.
It is also well priced, particularly when you consider the amount of value you're getting. Is this going to be the last women's e-bike you ever purchase? No, probably not. But it will offer enough to help you learn the ropes, to find out more about your own riding style, and to act as a stepping stone in your larger journey.
One possible downside that people might see is that you cannot remove the battery during charging periods. If you live in a house with a garage and that is where your charger is located, this won't be too much of an issue. Those who live in an apartment or smaller dwelling may find some difficulties, but it's nothing that cannot be overcome with the right technique.
The Kinesis Lyfe
The Kinesis Lyfe is a sturdily constructed, affordable, aluminum alloy electric bike that immediately lends itself to numerous different uses. It offers a rear hub motor and a powerful internal battery, both of which can help give you that extra performance while on the road that you need when you need it the most.
This particular entry comes in two different models. The standard and then an upgraded model that adds mudguards and accessories like a rack and lights. Most people will find these valuable reasons to spend the extra money on the upgrade, but if you're uninterested in them, you'll be able to save a bit of cash along the way.
It's not the most powerful option on this list, nor is it the most rugged or versatile. But it can offer the range you need, the performance you want, and the safety you deserve - all in one convenient package. Truly, things don't get much more straightforward than that.
Buying an Electric Bike: Essential Criteria
If you're totally new to the world of electric bikes, one thing to understand is that while many of them may seem similar in terms of technical specifications, there are still a few specific factors you'll want to consider when choosing the one that is right for you.
Maybe the most important of these is the exact location of the included motors. This is typically in one of three locations - either on the front of the bike, on the wheel, or on the frame itself.
Motors that are front or rear hub mounted are usually included on those more affordable options. They're a little quieter than normal, but at the expense of this you'll be giving up a bit in the way of performance - particularly if you're planning on getting out there on any steep hills.
Motors that are mounted on the frame distribute their own weight more evenly across the bike itself, increasing things like stability and how well you can balance. They offer a bit more in the way of performance, but you're also probably going to pay for that.
Next comes the battery supply, which you need to think about from a very specific perspective. When you look up the specs of any women's e-bike, this will usually be equated to how far it can take you. You'll pay more for a more powerful battery, but depending on your plans that may not be necessary. Just because a battery can take you 60 miles on a single charge doesn't make that the perfect model for you, as you may never encounter a situation where you need that level of performance in real life.
The same is true with speed. In the vast majority of all situations, the "full motor" mode will top out at roughly 20 miles per hour. Pedal assist can take you faster, but if you don't necessarily need that level of performance, it probably isn't worth paying a premium for.
Always consider things carefully within the context of how you plan on actually using the bike. That will help eliminate a lot of the entries on lists like these that aren't a good fit for you almost immediately, making your ultimate choice that much clearer moving forward.
In the End
As is true with the purchase of any bike - be it electric or traditional - it's essential to keep in mind that not all riders are the same. As you can see from some of the overviews on this list, bikes can vary wildly in terms of both performance and their overall intention. Some are great for casual riding, some are geared towards more serious enthusiasts. Some are perfect for getting too and from work or the grocery store thanks to their customization options, some offer a more "bare bones" experience.
If a particular bike that you're looking for lacks the features you need, that doesn't necessarily mean it's bad - it just might not be the right option for you. Always start with what your plans are for the bike - how you plan on using it and what you actually need it to be able to do. Then, work your way back to the models that check all of those proverbial boxes one by one. That's the best way to making sure that you're riding away on an electric bike that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations each and every time you take it for a spin.