In an ideal world, every human would have perfectly toned thighs and a flat cycle path on which to commute. In the real world, sometimes you need a little push. We checked out two of the top electric bicycles on the market, in a head-to-head comparison.
1. Budnitz Model E | $7,450 and up
Budnitz’s newest whip takes the company’s signature titanium frame and carbon belt drive and adds a 250-watt rear hub motor. Hit the wall halfway up the hill? Indulge in a spot o’ pedal assist. When the going gets less tough, just use it like a regular single-speed steed. The bike has a 20- to 100-mile range, depending on how much help you need. Regenerative braking adds electrons to the tank as you obey all stop signs.
BEST FOR: 9-to-5 style mavens
2. Stromer ST2 S | $9,499
Just like your Tesla, the new Stromer receives over-the-air software updates for its touchscreen. It has GPS tracking too, good for logging rides and foiling thieves. The 11-speed model comes with a 500-watt drive motor and a massive battery—it can hit 28 mph and deliver 110 miles per charge if ridden conservatively. That’ll easily get you from the burbs to the city and back without pushing your lactate threshold.
BEST FOR: Long-range adventurers