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.
The Co-op Cycles Generation e1.1 is an everyday e-bike commuter with all the bells and whistles. A zippy 350W Bafang motor and 417Kw battery provide ample climbing and hauling power, while wider tires and front suspension cushion the rough patches. Built-in front and rear lights extend your errand-running hours. And the removable battery also comes with a lock so you can park it with confidence. Best of all, this Class 1 e-bike (read more about e-bike classifications) zooms around for an average range of between 30-40 miles. $1,499
Let’s start with the proverbial brass tacks: Can you even believe how cute this e-bike is? Don’t you just break into a grin taking in the five spicy, spunky color options? This easy-to-ride stunner has substance, too, thanks to a 250W rear-hub motor that offers three levels of support and pedal assist up to 20 mph for leisurely rides around town. The battery charges quickly (4 hours to a full charge, according to Electra). The gracefully sloping crossbar of the step-through geometry makes mounting a breeze, while Electra’s patented Flat Foot Technology ensures a comfortable riding experience. $1,900
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
E-bikes make it easy to go at faster speeds, so make sure your noggin is well-protected with a helmet in the unlikely event of a fall. Our choice: The stylish Chapter MIPS Cycling Helmet from Thousand. It not only looks rad but features a low-friction layer that helps reduce the rotational motion of certain impacts. The helmet also comes with a 30-lumen magnetic tail light, an integrated dial fit system and a visor. $145
PEARL iZUMi Cyclone Gel Cycling Gloves (Women’s & Men’s)
Cooler weather doesn’t mean it’s time to hang up your bike helmet. Just make sure you have the right gear–including a pair of wind-blocking, water-shielding gloves. We especially love Pearl Izumi’s Cyclone Gels, which are made with breathable, stretchy synthetic leather and designed with specific men’s and women’s fits. Meanwhile, 3D-shaped gel pads improve grip comfort without adding bulk, and thoughtful reflective hits increase visibility in low-light conditions. Plus, the gauntlets are long enough to overlap with your jacket (Read: No cold wrists here). Still, if you’re getting after it on an especially freezy day, opt for the insulated AmFIB Gel glove instead. $45
Don’t be fooled by the work-shirt styling of Flylow’s tech flannels, the Brigitte and the Handlebar. Sure, the no-nonsense, brushed polyester fabric and lumberjack aesthetic might imply these tops are built for cutting wood and cabin snuggling. And indeed they are. But with sweat-wicking and temperature-regulating functionalities, they’re also ready for adventuring around town by e-bike. Metal snap buttons add a touch of sophistication–and make it easy to take on and off. If you run cold consider upgrading to the custom-quilted Penny Insulated Flannel. $95
Extend your ride in comfort with this essential base layer from women-specific brand Terry, which combines all-season insulation with their popular flat-seam construction that reduces chafing. In changing conditions or on a ride where your exertion levels might fluctuate (think steep climbs or long descents), moisture wicking is a crucial part of staying warm. With these tights, the 8-panel design and microfiber fabric ensure that process is happening as efficiently as possible. $134.95
A pair of cycling tights isn’t the most exciting piece of gear, but it’s a vital layer in cold conditions that regulates your body temperature by wicking sweat away from your skin before it can cool you down. REI designed these tights to be worn over a pair of padded bike shorts, under a pair of rain pants, or both, for maximum on-the-bike protection. It’s this versatility that makes these tights a great choice for a range of temperatures and activity levels. They provide more insulation than leg warmers, and more shoulder-season utility than dedicated winter bibs. Ankle zippers provide easy-on access, for over-the-shoe outfit changes, and stretch pockets on the thigh provide another space for gels, a credit card or a phone. $69.95
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
“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
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
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
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
Nathan Pipenberg contributed to this report.
Interested in more staff picks and kits? Find more collections here.
