EROY ARC HERO $4999
88 miles estimated range
You may have noticed beefed up ebikes around town, looking more like motorcycles than bicycles. Because they have pedals, these battery powered electric motorbikes are considered e-bikes and not motorcycles, and can be powered with either pedal assist or the hand throttle. These new e-motorbikes offer a whole lot of style with added power and stability, but how do you know what to look for if you’re in the market to purchase one?
For some basic info, there are 3 classes of ebikes:
Class 1: Provides assistance only when you pedal up to 20 mph (the max speed allowed in bike lanes)
Class 2: Equipped with a throttle in addition to pedal assistance up to 20 mph.
Class 3: Provides assistance only when you pedal up to 28 mph
We spoke to LAST MILE NY which sells a selection of e-motorbikes — along with other ebikes, scooters, and electric skateboards — who provided a few other things to consider:
Miles on a single charge… or the estimated range is most important thing, not necessarily top speed. As an FYI, the max speed allowed for an ebike is 28 mph, although the limit is 20mph if you’re riding in the bike lane.
After market support… the reason Last Mile carries the brands they do is that it’s really easy to get parts from them and service the bikes. It’s really important to make sure you have components that are up to date and can be replaced if need be.
Bells and whistles… headlights, taillights, suspension, turn signals, etc. The price will vary based on these extras, but a quick note from this rider, if you’re in NYC, opt for the suspension for shock absorption, as streets are far from smooth in this town – in fact it’s the opposite. If you’re in any other city you probably don’t need it.
With all that in mind, here are a few of our favorites:
SUPER73 R BROOKLYN $3695
40-75 miles estimated range
SUPER73 offers 3 series of ebikes. The Z-Series is their entry level bike for smaller riders, and someone not looking for a lot of bells and whistles. The S-Series is their commuter line, with a larger frame, larger battery, and more bells and whistles. The R-Series is their peak performance bike, with front and rear suspension, and the works in bells and whistles.
The SUPER73-R Brooklyn showcases all of SUPER73’s iconic features: the powerful R-series drive system, along with two-piston hydraulic brakes and dual suspension. Boasting a new LED headlight and LZRD tires, the R Brooklyn is equipped for peak city and street riding, it comes pre-programmed in Class-2 mode. Switch between ride modes to access Class-1, Class-3, and Off-Road mode to reach 28mph+. Get 40+ miles of range at 20mph under Class-2 throttle-only operation; 75+ miles of range using Class-1 pedal-assist mode.
EROY ARC HERO $4999
88 miles estimated range
EROY is more of a bespoke bike, for people who are really serious about components according to Last Mile, and can be customized according to your preferences. The ARC Hero is their flagship model, merging unique design elements, high style, and modern engineering to deliver high performance with a unique riding experience. This class 2 ebike can be converted into a powerful e-moto with the flick of a switch for off riding and speeds up to 35 mph.
VOLCON BRAT $2799
30-70 estimated range
It’s hard to miss the Volcon Brat with its gorgeous frame design. Built like a motorcycle, the Brat really stands out from the crowd on off-road adventures, slipping through busy traffic, or traversing the city. With 4 selectable ride modes, offfering different levels of power and speed, you’ll get approximately 70+ miles of riding fun on a single charge in Mode 1 (pedal assist), and approximately 30+ miles in Modes 2-4 (throttle assist).
ONYX CTY2 $3199
Estimated range 60+ miles
The ONYX is a hefty bike, both in weight and speed – double the pounds of a SUPER73 bike which on average weigh about 80lbs. ONYX offers two ebikes, the CTY2 for city riding, and the RCR which is more of a motorcycle style bike. The CTY2 goes up to 45mph and the RCR 50 mph — although those speeds are only legal off road, or of you register it as a moped. With its easy on and off step-thru design, heavy duty full suspension, the CTY2 ensures you can handle any terrain you encounter on city streets, while the RCR is ready for the road – and off road too.
