In the heart of Toronto’s dynamic urban environment, e-bikes have revolutionized the way we navigate our bustling city streets. As Toronto evolves, so do our demands for sustainable and efficient transportation solutions. Here, we highlight eight top e-bikes tailored for commuting on the streets of Toronto.
Lectric XPedition is a Affordable Cargo Bike
The Lectric XPedition, priced at $1,399, has garnered significant attention in the electric cargo bike market by offering a robust cargo e-bike at a remarkably affordable price point. It has the capacity to handle substantial loads and allows for one or two batteries for extended range. With hydraulic disc brakes and a comfortable pedal-assist sensor, the Lectric XPedition is setting new standards for electric cargo bikes. While it may not be the most luxurious cargo e-bike available, it excels in terms of value due to its combination of high-quality components and reasonable pricing.
Aventon Soltera.2 is a Slick Roadster
Another standout option in the sub-$2,000 range is the Aventon Soltera.2, also priced at $1,399 (on sale now for $999). This city bike is the latest iteration of Aventon’s urban-oriented bicycles and impresses with its exceptional build quality, which rivals even higher-priced models. It is available in both single-speed and seven-speed versions, featuring narrow tires for an efficient city commuting experience and housing a robust 500W motor. Despite the smaller 36V 10Ah battery, the Aventon Soltera.2 makes up for it by integrating the battery seamlessly into the frame, resulting in an attractive overall package.
The bike further stands out with a vibrant color display, a powerful headlight, and a frame-integrated tail light. Additionally, it includes an innovative companion app that allows you to track important bike statistics conveniently using your smartphone. In summary, the Aventon Soltera.2 offers exceptional value for its $1,199 price tag.
These options represent some of the best choices in the sub-$2,000 price range, offering a range of features and capabilities to suit different preferences and needs. Whether you’re interested in an electric cargo bike for heavy hauling or a sleek and stylish city bike, there are compelling options available to cater to a diverse array of riders.
LeMond Prolog is a Drop Bar Beauty
The LeMond Prolog AR offers an exhilarating riding experience, often likened to “riding on air,” enabling effortless gliding and achieving speeds 30% faster than regular bikes. What makes the Prolog AR exceptional is its innovative design, featuring drop bars for an aggressive riding position and improved aerodynamics. With a carbon-fiber construction, it’s one of the lightest e-bikes at 12.7 kg.
Surprisingly, the Prolog AR can achieve impressive speeds even without its 250-watt motor, offering a swift and efficient ride. Founded by Greg LeMond, a three-time Tour de France champion, the LeMond brand is renowned for high-end e-bikes. The Prolog AR is a significant step forward, catering to those who prefer drop bars.
While its design and performance are impressive, it may not suit all riders, especially those accustomed to flat-bar setups. The non-removable battery and price may also be considerations for potential buyers. Ideal for those seeking a top-tier drop-bar e-bike with exceptional speed, comfort, and innovation.
Kona Libre EL
The Kona Libre EL is a fantastic adventure bike for individuals of all skill levels. If you’re aiming to increase your riding distance and looking for a tool that enables you to cover more ground in less time, the Libre EL is the versatile solution you need. Based on our immensely popular Libre platform, this bike boasts an aluminum frame and a Verso Full Carbon Flat Mount Disc fork. Similar to its CR DL counterpart, it comes equipped with a gravel-specific drivetrain and brakes, ensuring that the inevitable dirt and grime from a muddy ride won’t compromise its shifting and braking performance.
What sets it apart from its analog counterpart is the added power boost from a Shimano motor and internal battery. In simpler terms, this bike will effortlessly carry you to the summit of that incredibly steep mountain you’ve had your eye on, and then let you relish the joy of tearing up the gravel on the way down. And gravel bikes make fantastic commuters during the week.
Dahon’s E-Bike Folder is a Marvel
The Dahon Unio E20 presents an eco-friendly and practical transportation solution for urban dwellers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Designed with city living in mind, this electric folding bike offers a versatile means of commuting, running errands, or embarking on outdoor adventures.
Constructed with a lightweight aluminum frame, the Unio E20 boasts exceptional portability. Its foldable design allows users to effortlessly reduce it to a compact size, facilitating easy storage in tight spaces or convenient transportation on public transit systems.
The heart of the Unio E20 is its reliable 200W mid motor, delivering a smooth and comfortable riding experience. With five levels of pedal assist, conquering hills and headwinds becomes effortless, making every journey a breeze. The bike’s battery offers an impressive range of up to 50 miles, providing riders with the peace of mind that they won’t run out of power mid-ride. Furthermore, the Unio E20’s maximum speed of 20 mph ensures riders can easily keep pace with traffic and reach their destination swiftly.
Incorporating safety and comfort features, the Dahon Unio E20 includes front and rear fenders to shield riders from splashes, a rear luggage rack for added convenience, and responsive disc brakes for reliable stopping power. The adjustable handlebars and seat cater to riders of various sizes, while puncture-resistant tires help ensure a smooth and uninterrupted journey.
Tern Short Haul
Tern introduces the Short Haul, a compact and agile cargo bike designed for urban environments. Priced at $1,099US or $1,499CAD, it strikes a balance between the bulkiness of traditional cargo bikes and the limited carrying capacity of city bikes.
With a nimble design and the ability to carry up to 110 pounds on the extended rear rack, the Short Haul is an affordable yet capable option for those seeking a functional cargo bike. Featuring a low step-through frame, extra-long wheelbase, and a low center of gravity, it ensures stability even with substantial loads. Weighing just over 35 pounds, it’s easy to carry and park in tight urban spaces.
The bike is compatible with various accessories, including weather-resistant options for year-round riding. With an eight-speed Shimano Altus transmission and puncture-resistant tires, the Short Haul provides a sustainable and efficient alternative for city dwellers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Co-op Cycles CTY e1.1
In the heart of the city, the Co-op Cycles CTY e1.1 E-Bike offers a sleek and lightweight solution for urban exploration. Weighing just 48 pounds, its Pirate Black frame combines sportiness with accessibility. With a low stand-over height and an upright riding position, it ensures ease of use and comfort for city commuters.
Powered by a Bafang 250W hub-drive motor, the CTY e1.1 provides five pedal-assist modes and a walk mode for versatile urban navigation. Its 27.5 x 1.95-inch flat-resistant tires, supported by durable 36-hole double-wall rims, promise a smooth and reliable ride.
Comfort is a priority, evident in the thoughtful design of touch points such as the seat, hand positions, and grips. The Bafang 43V/450Wh battery, with a secure lock for parking and easy removal for charging, enhances the bike’s practicality.
Safety features include hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power and integrated lighting powered by the battery. The CTY e1.1 also includes practical extras like a center kickstand and a battery charger. With a tested 40-mile range, riders are encouraged to optimize their journeys using lower modes for regular rides and saving higher modes for challenging terrain.