The Best Electric Bikes For Commuting

We know that when it comes to your cycling journey to work the most important things are reliability, comfort, versatility and ease. So, we've put together a guide to choosing the best e-bike for commuting so you can start looking forward to Monday mornings again!

What are the best electric bikes for commuting?

So, what do we need to think about when it comes to commuting on an electric bike? While most of the usual rules for choosing the best bike for commuting in general, there are a few more considerations when it comes to things like the battery and motor.

One of the major benefits of an e-bike for your commute is that the additional pedal assist can help take some of the effort out of particularly challenging stretches of the journey. So, with that little extra boost, you can arrive at work energised and ready to go, rather than sweaty and late.

You want an electric bike that:

Best electric bike for city commuting

Urban transport can be tricky. Can you take electric bikes on trains? How will I fit my bike onto a packed tube? If you're likely to have to hop on public transport for part of your journey, having a bike that's easy to move is vital. A folding electric bike might be just the ticket, packing efficient gears and that reliable motor into a frame that can fold down so it's easier to carry.

The Stow-E-Way has 20" tyres and a 250wH battery, but can still be folded down to fit in the boot, on the bus or in the corner of your tube carriage (the folded dimensions are 880mm x 800mm x 440mm).

Best electric bike for a long commute

If you've got a lengthy commute, you need to be able to rely on your electric bike to last the distance. So, look for one that has a decent range and larger battery capacity. 

For example, the Raleigh Centros (available in both hub and derailleur gearsets as well as low step and crossbar styles) has a maximum range of 130 miles on a single charge. According to the 2021 census, 35% of commuters travelled less than 10km (6 miles). So you should be able to get at least a few weeks in without having to charge your bike battery.

Best electric bike for the school run

If you've got to drop the kids off on the way to work, or you're heading to do the weekly shop afterwards, you'll need to look for a bike with easy storage. Obviously you could think about strapping on bags or adding child seats, but an electric cargo bike could be just the thing. 

The cargo section allows you to easily and safely port luggage, shopping or small family members (even the four-legged kind, should you need to stop in at doggy daycare).

Best electric bike for a hilly commute

If your commute to work includes lots of hills, inclines or generally challenging terrain, you'll want to look for a reliable e-bike motor to help with pedal assist when you need a bit of an extra boost. 

The Bosch Active Line Plus motor, as featured in our Motus range, offers plenty of reliable power for your ride, with an easy-to-read Bosch Intuvia handlebar display so you can check your battery level and journey progress.

Best electric bike for cycle to work schemes

There are cycle to work schemes for electric bikes, so you can pay the regular price of an e-bike over a longer period to spread the cost. On the scheme you'll pay less income tax and National Insurance, and your employer claims VAT back on the cost of the bike that they pay upfront.

Lots of e-bikes are available as part of the scheme, so you can choose the right type for your journey and spread the cost at the same time. 

Check out our guide to cycling to work for beginners for more tips on biking your commute.