Given the gentle assist that nudges the rider forward whenever the going gets too tough, it’s no wonder electric bikes are known for inducing joyful whoops as their riders buzz around town. (For the record, these pedalers are also burning calories.)
Here’s the gear you need for the next time you hop in the saddle. And good news: All our picks go perfectly with that perma-grin you’re wearing.
Cannondale Adventure Neo Allroad Low Step-Through Electric Bike
Cannondale has been making bikes for more than 50 years. The brand knows bikes, including e-bikes. Their new Adventure Neo Allroad is another shining example. More rugged than its city-focused cousin, the Adventure Neo 4, the Class 2 Adventure Neo Allroad comes equipped with knobby Kenda Booster tires and mechanical disc brakes with on-a-dime stopping power. Its 250-watt, Bafang G020 rear hub motor assists in pedaling up to 20 mph on flat terrain and provides an impressive 47-mile range that’s easily monitored on the LCD screen. The handy thumb throttle offers an extra power boost when needed, while integrated front and rear lights ensure you can see and be seen when you’re out later than the sun. $1,675
Electra Loft Go! 7D EQ Step-Thru Electric Bike
With its leatherette saddle, extruded fenders and step-through silhouette, Electra’s e-bike might leave other riders thinking you’re a dream out of yesteryear. That is until you pedal the 250-watt Hyena rear hub motor and leave them in your dust. Promising a top assisted speed of 20 mph and a range of up to 40 miles, this Class 1 e-bike (read more about classes here) charges in just four hours. A fully integrated battery provides a smooth ride and streamlined look, while the dual front- and rear mechanical disc brakes ensure you can stop when you need to. Speedy, 700c tires are designed for in-town transit. $2,000
REI Co-op Beyonder Saddlebag Panniers
If your pedal-assist grocery runs or commute require carrying more booty than you can fit in your backpack, consider investing in the REI Co-op Beyonder Saddlebag Panniers, which fit most bike racks. Their burly, bluesign-approved nylon exterior and polyester lining both feature water-repelling capabilities, while inside a laptop sleeve and internal pocket keep up to 20 pounds of accoutrements organized. An external side pocket is a perfect place to store your bike lock while in transit. And once you get to where you’re going, easily unhook the panniers and sling the bags–and all that stuff–over your shoulder using the tote straps. $99.95
Thousand Heritage 2.0 Helmet
Helmets sit at the top of the bike accessory hierarchy — and not just because they rest on your head. Data from the Mayo Clinic shows wearing one can reduce head injuries by up to 80 percent. So pick one that fits and wear it! The stylish Heritage 2.0 Helmet from Thousand is a great choice. The second iteration of their crowd-pleasing Heritage line still has a magnetic buckle, dial fit system and vegan leather straps, but now features six vents and interior channeling for active cooling, magnetic light capability and an updated fit system designed with feedback from real riders. Bonus: Thousand earns our stamp of approval as a Good Gear brand. $99
Flylow Anderson Shirt – Men’s
Made with a durable, polyester/spandex blend, Flylow’s Anderson Shirt is stretchy, moisture-wicking and equipped with UPF 50+ sun protection—though you’d never think ‘technical’ from seeing its button-down silhouette, ruggedly handsome plaid pattern and pearl-snap buttons. When Dapper Dan wants to look especially fly on his e-bike, he wears the Anderson. $80
Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt – Women’s
Why do so many reviewers recommend the quick-drying Capilene Cool Daily Shirt from Patagonia? For many, it’s the plant-seed-based multipurpose fabric softener that leads one repeat customer to call them the “most comfortable tees I own.” Or perhaps it’s the HeiQ® Pure odor control technology, which “never smelled on my 110-mile trek through the Alps in France, Italy and Switzerland.” Another reviewer digs its versatility: “It’s soft, hangs so nicely when wearing (not clingy) and the color is lovely. I’m not buying any more cotton as this shirt can double as athletic and up-style to more-than-casual wear.” $39
UHL Renegade Shorts – Men’s 10″ Inseam
There’s nothing like the freedom of a bike. Just make sure your pants get that “freedom of movement” memo and come equipped with some built-in stretch and a gusseted crotch. Enter the Renegade Shorts from KUHL, an abrasion-defying, nylon/spandex hybrid with a water-resistant durable water repellent (DWR) finish, quick dry time, UPF 50 sun protection and a look that’s classy enough to wear out to dinner. A whopping eight pockets store all the goods. Like to show a little more leg? Go with the 8-inch inseam version. $79
Wild Rye Ruby Mountain Bike Shorts – Women’s
Made with a lightweight, UPF 50 polyester/spandex hybrid material, the Ruby shorts (7-inch inseam) from Wild Rye, a women-focused mountain apparel brand, are tough enough for rugged mountain bike trails. But we think their trendy graphics (from the playful tent and camp chair imagery to sophisticated abstract foliage) and sleek look are just as fitting for e-bike outings. Like ‘em longer? Go for the Ramsey and its 12-inch inseam instead. Both boast a zippered pocket. $95
PEARL iZUMi Quest Barrier Convertible Cycling Jacket (Women’s) & (Men’s)
It’s a coat! It’s a vest! It’s the PEARL iZUMi Quest Barrier Convertible! As the superhero of cycling jackets, the Quest Barrier Convertible features zip-off-able sleeves for quick transitions in changing weather conditions, and it’s made with recycled materials. But that’s not all. A DWR finish fends off light rain; mesh paneling along the upper back boosts ventilation; and a two-way zipper and dual-side hem cordlock ensure a fit that would please Goldilocks. Reflective hits on the chest and back increase visibility in low-light conditions. $130
Fjallraven High Coast Pocket Sling Bag
Bring along the essentials like your smartphone, passport, wallet and keys—while avoiding cringey back-sweat from a backpack—with Fjallraven’s handy High Coast Pocket Sling Bag. The adjustable shoulder strap facilitates a range of carrying options and the waterproof fabric repels offending droplets from unexpected showers. Bonus: The 100% recycled nylon fabric and lining mean your brand-new bag has sustainability cred. $35
Topeak Mini 9 Multi-Tool
“And I shall call it … the Mini 9 Multi-Tool.” Certainly Dr. Evil would approve of Topeak’s naming convention. He’d likely be impressed with the nine essential tools–2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 Allen wrenches; Torx T25 bit for disc brakes; and a Phillips-head screwdriver–contained in this uber compact, fits-in-the-palm-of-your-hand design. Would he pay $1 million for it? Maybe somewhere else. $19.95
Nite Ize Squeeze Rotating Smartphone Bar Mount
With the Squeeze Rotating Smartphone Bar Mount from Nite Ize, apps, maps, texts and more all stay in view even when you’re on the go or parked. Need to switch between portrait and landscape views? No problem, thanks to the 360° rotation functionality. The tool-free mounting strap means attaching the device securely to your e-bike is easy-peasy-iPhone-squeezy. $26
Portland Design Works Takeout Basket
Add some uber-functional urban chic to your e-steed with the Portland Design Works Takeout Basket. Clocking in at just 500 grams (about the weight of a chinchilla … or a loaf of bread), the basket fits between most handlebars–including drop bars–while still offering sufficient cargo carrying capacity for your to-go order of dumplings or a six-pack. $80
Electra Linear Cup Holder
Whether you’re a latte devotee, a hold-the-dairy black coffee purist or a jolt-skipping tea aficionado, the Linear Cup Holder from Electra has you covered. Its sleek silhouette is designed specifically for tapered 12-16 fl. oz cups, so you can sip on the go. (Tip: This holder works best with tapered 12-16 fl. oz. cups with sealed lids; the diameter of the cup holder is 7.3cm at the top and 6.5cm at the bottom). $30
Thule T2 Pro XTR 2-Bike Hitch Rack
News flash: E-bikes can be heavy. That doesn’t matter so much for the rider (you have a motor, after all). It can, however, limit your bike rack choices. This rack from Thule, which has a total load capacity of up to 120 pounds for the 2-inch version, is up to the task. The burly hauler fits wheel sizes from 20 to 29 inches in diameter, and up to 5 inches wide, without the hassle of an adapter. Generously spaced bike mounts prevent scratches, and an integrated locking system deters thieves. When not in use the rack folds up while still allowing access to your vehicle. The T2 Pro XTR is also easy to remove from your car without tools, thanks to Thule’s proprietary AutoAttach system, and built-in wheels that make moving it into storage a breeze. $799.95
Interested in more staff picks and kits? Find more collections here.