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Best E-Bikes of 2017: Which Is the Right One for You?

By Christopher Ashley

Giant Road-E+ 2

You should be reasonably excited that Giant have finally entered the e-bike market – and what an amazing range to choose from. The Road-E+ 2 isn’t their top of the range, but it still looks sexy, and it provides enough power to keep your average speed competitive on the climb.

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Featuring Shimano Tiagra drivetrain and Mechanical disc brakes, you’ll find that shifting isn’t as critical as a motor-less ride. The motor is a modified Yamaha SyncDrive Sport model and it lends you a 250W boost on top of your own output. The PedalPlus 4-sensor technology monitors the force you’re applying and matches it to the SyncDrive’s output, which gives a natural feel to your ride.

Specialized Turbo Levo FSR Comp 6Fattie

Just look at this bike. Look at it. Keep looking at it. Yep. It’s that good looking. What other reason do you need to buy it? Well, for such a steep price tag you get some beautiful detail, like the Apple-inspired magnetic charging port.

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The bike doesn’t scream E-BIKE either. There’s no handlebar display, so you’re left to rely on your own senses and the feel of the ride – just like a real bicycle! With 135 mm of rear wheel travel courtesy of Specialized’s four-bar suspension, there’s plenty for the downhill enthusiast to get excited about too.

Moustache Friday 27 Brooks Limited Edition

This bike flirts with convention, but it’s design is anything but that. Look at how the jagged edges of the frame are juxtaposed with the graceful curves of the Brooks saddle. The Brick Lane roll up pannier makes this collaboration with Brooks look like something dreamt up by a World War I futurist.

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But don’t let the retro look fool you – Friday 27 is powered by a Bosch motor that will pull you, and your heavy cargo, up a hill without you breaking a sweat. Add it to your wish list.

Hoptown 500 Folding Electric Bike

The frame of the Hoptown is so low-slung this bike is almost a step-through. The drive train is a Shimano Tourney 6-speed, but it’s supported by a 250W rear wheel motor that takes the hardest work out of hills.

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Obviously, the appeal for space-starved urbanites is that this bike folds. This also doubles as a security benefit – a bike stored in sight, under your desk for example, is safer than a bike locked to some railings. As if that wasn’t enough to pique your interest, the bike is available at a more than reasonable £530.