E-Bike Experiences? Recommended brands?

[igotzzoom]

On our recent California coast trip, my wife and I rented some Pedego e-bikes in Avila Beach. My wife was initially frustrated because she didn't understand the operation of the electronic throttle, and the bikes are a little heavier than conventional bikes. Once she figured it out, she loved it! I really enjoyed the ride too, mainly because we didn't have to huff and puff up hills. From what I've read, Pedego bikes have a pretty good reputation, but aren't the only game in town.

What are your guys' experiences with e-bikes, and which brand or model would you recommend?

 

[JRod0802]

More discussion of E-Bikes here:
Electric Bicycles

 

[gnelson]

Stromer and Specialized are my favorites, but they are pricey.

 

[muleferg]

I purchased this for my wife. She love's it

EVELO Aurora Front Suspension Cross-Over Commuter E-Bike | EVELO

 

[mspohr]

I just bought this e-bike wheel and put it on my wife's mountain bike. She loves it. Easy for her to go into town now (there are a few big hills in the way).
E-Bike Kit | E-Bike Kits | Electric Bike Conversion Kit - Leed
This is a relatively small motor (250w) but it provides a nice "assist" and we can go up even long steep hills easily. It doesn't have a throttle. Just a push button. Different size battery packs with different ranges. I bought the smallest (10 mi) battery and it's been great for our needs (about 8 miles r/t).
I'm thinking of getting another one for my 20" folding bike which fits easily into all of my cars.
This literally takes about 10 minutes to install. Just bolt on the front wheel and strap the battery and switch into place.

 

[tander]

E-bikes are just beginning to hit in the U.S., there are all kinds of varieties, prices, and quality (high price does not necessarily equal quality, kinda like cars). Also there are a lot of add on kits that you put on existing bikes and even a thing cal the copenhagen wheel which sounds pretty cool.

 

[efxjim]

I have a Prodeco Storm and it will just fold up and fit in the back. They are assembled in Fl from mainly Chinese parts. Build quality is good and they have several different battery sizes. I would recommend it. Here is a review I just found. Full Size Folding Electric Bike in a Tesla Model S - TESLARATI.com

 

[gnelson]

The Evelo looks good but the top speed is 20 mph

 

[teslatradeup]

Just chiming in... I have a brand new Pedego E-Bike up for trade if you're interested. It's the 11th item in my barter quest to a Tesla Roadster. Check it out:

http://teslatradeup.com/2013/08/23/11th-item-pedego-classic-comfort-cruiser-e-bike-w-balloon-package-2175-value/

The CEO of Pedego even said you can upgrade to any of the more expensive models if you pay the difference.

 

[UberEV1]

A great store to visit, learn more and test ride multiple models is Electric Bikes LA in El Segundo.

Electric Bikes LA - Electric Bikes, Folding Bikes, Kick scooters, BionX conversion kits

 

[rj5620]

Just ordered a Pedego Latch, folding electric bike. Fit two in the rear trunk of a Tesla S.
Pedego Latch | Electric Folding Bike | Pedego Electric Bikes