And Six Other E-Bikes

The Best E-Bike for Riding With a Kid

Described by Portland bike shop Clever Cycles as the “Volvo wagon of the cargo-bike world,” this Dutch-made option has a basket that can carry up to 275 pounds (two kids, in other words) and is lower to the ground than others like it, which makes it feel more stable. Users describe the motor as kicking in easily and smoothly and whipping them up hills.

The Best E-Bike for Hauling Cargo

Despite the fact that this is quite large—about eight feet long— the front and rear suspension make it feel especially smooth on cobblestones and other choppy terrain. And users say the motor kicks up to 20 miles per hour quickly, even when it’s loaded with two or three children (or a medium-size adult).

The Best E-Bike for Shorter Riders

The frame’s low bar allows riders to comfortably step off and steady themselves, making this a great bike for beginners and shorter riders; the nearly one-inch-wide puncture-resistant tires provide stability on all sorts of surfaces. Plus, says David Drumm, the technical-operations manager for VBT Bicycling Vacations, this bike comes with important safety features, like front and rear lights and a full fender set to keep you dry on wet roads.

The Best (Less Expensive) E-Bike for Riding With a Kid

This one is especially popular for its ability to accept kids’ seats from Thule or Bobike without adapters. It can hold 374 pounds—i.e., you, your 9-year-old, and a Whole Foods run of dinner supplies. It’s also compact (less than 60 pounds and 32.5 inches tall), meaning it’s easy to store or carry in a walk-up.

The Best Budget E-Bike

“These have been really popular for those looking to give up the subway,” Chris Nolte says. They are wired with LED lights in the front and back, meaning you’re more visible to drivers. The front suspension will absorb a great deal of the shock if you, say, accidentally bike into a pothole. And they can go up to 55 miles on a single battery charge.