The best cheap (yet good) electric bicycles you can buy!

RadMission e-bike: bit.ly/RadMission
Roadster V2 e-bike: bit.ly/Ride1Up_Roadster_V2
Lectric XP 2.0 e-bike:
Ecotric 500W e-bike: amzn.to/30bai5X
RadRunner e-bike:
Also check out the article I wrote about these e-bikes on Electrek! electrek.co/2021/03/04/top-5-...
My book "DIY Lithium Batteries" on sale at amzn.to/2jbxvzS​
My book "Ultimate DIY eBike Guide" on sale at: amzn.to/2BGx4Fn​
The gear I use to make my videos:
Camera - Nikon D5300: amzn.to/2DcuVlM​
Lens - Tamron 18mm - 270mm: amzn.to/2qLZlsG​
Thermal camera for iPhone/Android: amzn.to/2FikWvW​
Drone for "follow me" filming: amzn.to/2UFOds5​
Camera for invisible selfie stick shots: amzn.to/2Vb9D0r​
Here are some of the products I use:
Sequre spot welder: sequremall.com/?ref=d5o1mk9mf...
Bafang BBS01 kit: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/N0sm1...
Bafang BBS02 kit: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/EcGPW...
Bafang BBSHD kit: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/MMNrZ...
250W complete e-bike kit: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/cQzxx...
500W complete e-bike kit: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/o6rnM...
1,000W complete e-bike kit: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/NGZvn...
36V 15Ah Hailong (shark) battery: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/CAEvh...
48V 15 Ah triangle battery: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/234OZ...
52V 20 Ah triangle battery: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/m0huJ...
All ebike batteries: goo.gl/7pAi9Z​
All 18650 cells: goo.gl/hYWnwU​
100W Flexible solar panel: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/DurJQ...
100W Folding solar panel: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/C9raR...
Cycle Analyst: goo.gl/RsmE3N​
The parts that I use for building batteries:
18650 cells: goo.gl/aEabAQ​
18650 positive insulating washer: goo.gl/HBVOuc​
Nickel strip: goo.gl/VIrNQq​
Spot welder: goo.gl/KN3Uaw​
BMSs: goo.gl/S6gSQx​
Silicone wire: goo.gl/xmpbKD​
Black 18650 cell spacers: goo.gl/hQxWF6​
Vruzend cell spacers: goo.gl/5ReLqA​
Large heat shrink tubing: goo.gl/6v1ow9​
Small heat shrink tubing: goo.gl/OU3Z6u​
Foam sheet for protecting battery: goo.gl/5e71tE​
Kapton tape: goo.gl/D6BT57​
Chargers: goo.gl/js0T0V​
**Question response book giveaway rules**
When you guys asks questions in the comments of my videos, I'll try to answer them. If there are questions that I think would make a good video response, I'll choose them to do a longer segment. If I choose your question for a video response, you'll win a copy of my book The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guide (the paperback or the ebook), or my book DIY Lithium Batteries.
Here are some things that KZbin makes me say: This contest is not sponsored by KZbin and KZbin isn't affiliated with it. I'm supposed to provide a link to the community guidelines for KZbin (kzbin.infocommunity_gu.... KZbin is not a sponsor of this "contest" and by participating, you are releasing KZbin from any potential liability, whatever that might be. Privacy notice: I won't steal your info. If you do win, you can choose to send me your address so I can mail you a paperback copy of the book (or some other prize if that changes) or you can send me an email address and I'll send you a copy of the ebook. I will do everything in my power to immediately forget your personal information afterwards.
Outro Music: BenSounds

[@matthewweston9029]

Hi Micah. I can not thank you enough for literally changing my whole family's lives. We live at the bottom of the biggest hill in North London. The turning point for me was a "bike ride" - we pushed our bikes to the top of the hill - my 10 year old son got tired and we came back - some bike ride! I then discover and followed this video - using the brilliant idea of using hoverboard batteries but using hub motors instead. I used a 36V 250W front wheel hub motor for my first bike (a scrap bike project with my son) and then 36V 350W rear wheel hub motors on the bikes for the rest of my family. I packed the controller and battery inside a saddle bag and hid the wiring. We now cycle all the time. My son and I have just finished a 30 mile bike ride through the heart of London city (I just carried a couple of spare hoverboard batteries in my backpack - we get about 15 miles from 1 36V 5Ah hoverboard battery). I have electric bikes for ALL of my family for much less than my friend paid for his 1 electric bike). I would love to share some pictures if that is possible, could you please let me know how I can do that. Thanks so so much again. Mat

[@frederickschnepel1276]

9o

[@JoeG71299]

Post it to KZbin

[@MrTwoZZT]

Love the look of that Roadster V2, very discreet looking with that mini hub motor in it.

[@dcgeorgia6307]

This was the best 'review' video I've ever seen. I really liked that you didn't go from cheapest to most expensive. It was really cool finding the next bike you reviewed less expensive and faster than the one before it, at least til the end.

[@talldude5841]

I have had my Lectric XP for almost two years now and no problems. I rode it in Florida the past two years in Florida in the winter months and bring it back to Ohio where I live in the summer months. Other than the weight, I love it.

[@HarrisIsACackleChamp]

Im tall too, so that answer that question.Does the bike have decent speed WITHOUT electric assist?

[@shawnmaker6974]

I was looking for something like this. Thank you.

[@glamperjan]

Thank you for the great review! I was on the fence looking for an electric bike with different options. Love the comparisons! You pushed me off the fence!

[@karlchenail8773]

I'd love to see the same video but about "The best cheap (yet good) conversion kits".

[@ExploreYourWorld-oo3jd]

No such item exists. To put together a Good 'conversion' you will end up spending just as much $$ as just buying an e-bike to begin with. Plus, with a factory built e-bike everything is integrated into the bike making it better looking and almost always.. better performing. Starting at around $900 for a powerful and well performing e-bike, why build your own? Just sayin...

[@bob-ny6kn]

@@ExploreYourWorld-oo3jd You are right.

[@bob-ny6kn]

@@ClarkWhite81 There is more to an e-bike conversion than buying parts. The issue with fitting motors to normal bicycles is the dropout. Normal bicycle dropouts just do not have the rigid structure. Even a 250W motor can deform a standard bicycle dropout. I believe this is the point from above, costing more for the right match than for an off-the-shelfer.

[@bob-ny6kn]

@@ClarkWhite81 Yes, and wouldn't it be nice if motor manufacturers would offer "ramp-up" motors that wouldn't rip out of the front fork, even if aluminum, on full-throttle?

[@hj2479]

@@ExploreYourWorld-oo3jd For off-road you can get a nice cyclone mid-drive at 3000w and that will tear up trails with the right bike set up to handle the power, the cyclone is cheap and you can get it from a reputable seller like luna cycle for just 300-400 dollars (with all the kit components of course, the motor systems alone are around 200-250 on luna.) You will easily be left with 400-500 dollars to build your bike or buy a good donor bike to convert and the better you are with tools the better your ebike will be. You can do the same at low street-legal power levels with cheap Bafang kits etc. that sit at 750w and are pretty effective. I had a friend of mine who is an engineer actually decide to use cheap but high-quality ebike parts and buy branded parts from wholesalers in china (mostly Shimano) so that he could install them in a frame he designed based around his parts with CAD automated design tools to help with strength and efficiency. Turns out it works quite well and it is really damn unique.

[@jameshays3959]

Thank you for showing this content. Great to see you do not necessarily need all the gadgets to have a good bike at an affordable price.

[@Nugstertime]

Your videos are so informative. They answer questions I didn't even know I had. Way to go, they are easy to enjoy.

[@JohnJohnson-fm9po]

Always helpful information. Still hoping to see the final episode of your motorcycle build

[@gliderrider]

Lectric bikes have change a little. They went from a 4” tire to a 3” tire. They added front suspension. They are a $100 more now at $1,000. I’m looking at these real hard.

[@JJ-qj5bg]

What'd you end up going with?

[@goobfilmcast4239]

Excellent, Straight forward review..... I have a Rad Rover and since riding around town I have fielded a lot of questions... most people are curious about prices first and express a little bit of surprise (in a good way) when I tell them that quality e-bikes are available at the $900 to $1200 price point. I can now refer them to this video for a primer on price and features for entry-level offerings. BTW, I will be purchasing a Rad Runner this Spring. I will not only have a second bike for family and friends but I can swap batteries between them to double my range for long, solo excursions. No question that (in my case) Rad offers a great deal of flexibility for the price.

[@EbikeSchool]

We have two Rad bikes in my family too and the ability to “borrow” a battery is huge! plus having another ebike around to share the fun on group rides is always nice!

[@Busdathead]

Thanks to you and other reviewers of the himiway I decided to purchase one for several factors as it comes with rear rack , fenders and lights front & back, seems that it's range and torque is just a bit better than radrover as well . I know that if I mess with the settings that the speed can get boosted to around 30 mph but I'm more happy about getting close to 60 miles per charge than the speed. I have been following all your reviews and info vids since last Oct. and so I finally decidec to pull the trigger because it seems like every 3-4 months prices go up and summer is almost here. Thanks again for all your advise

[@Cesar-cm4if]

Congrats on your new purchase! Btw, If you're riding you should def wear an nta helmet like xnito or bern hudson, those cpsc helmets don't really protect you

[@raylivengood8040]

The V2 is pretty solid, I like the stealth factor.

[@rickywright583]

Love your reviews I use you as a guide for anything e-bike or battery related just found your review on the spot welder .... awesome

[@trollenbier9278]

That's good to know dude! I suppose i know what my selection will be if i need an ebike! Thumbs up for this video!

[@CB-lo3be]

This was such a good detailed video. I really needed this, as I am in search of a beginner bike on a budget. Thanks again

[@drewyoung6287]

I'm new to E Bikes and I found your video's very informative. Got a fan!!

[@CaptainXJ]

Almost at 1K miles on my Lectric XP. 1 flat tire, and have to adjust my rear brake every 200 miles are my only complaints so far. Great bike, I love riding it.

[@Wickiup]

Thank you. You've been a big help in making a decision of which kind of bike to buy.

[@d.rodrickeamon6133]

Nice to see that the Lectric XP made it onto your best cheap e-bikes list! Mine arrived two days ago. I've been out once so far, and I'm looking forward to getting out there. A lot!

[@ronbathsear5845]

Hey man, how is it you think it was worth the buy?

[@d.rodrickeamon6133]

@@ronbathsear5845 Bang for the buck. I'm not what you call "loaded," so I chose what looked to be a solid-if-basic machine, and the XP is just that. It's 4X24 fat tires make the ride bearable (despite its lack of suspension), and I added a suspension seat post, which helps. I like the ride, its range is good for the cost, and I can carry stuff easily. I actually did a lot of research before purchasing it. There are 'better" bikes out there, but this one checked all my boxes.

[@ronbathsear5845]

@@d.rodrickeamon6133 thanks man! I’m curious now what’s the range because most bikes advertise one thing and it’s actually (in pedal assist mode) or (depending on hills)

[@1motorandy]

I really enjoy your videos. You do a great job whether it's e-bikes e-motorcycles, or EUC's. Good job.

[@darintraver4983]

Great video !!!! Your channel is awesome !!! ( I didn’t write this for a book either .. lol I’m not a book guy ) But I was wondering about cheap e bikes and this video was very helpful... and you seem like a straight up honest and nice guy .. thanks

[@diamonddbw]

Thanks. Still very happy with my original XP. Only things I'd change would be Throttle from dead stop, and a step through.

[@MegaLivingIt]

Lectric XP seems good for seniors, and it's cute. Like the rear rack to hold a few things also. Keeping it simple and stable to get from point A to point B. 😀

[@litagalindo1794]

thank you so much for this! your selection was in my price range

[@BongED]

The ebikes are becoming more of a necessity than a luxury. It has already proven its worth and functionality. Thanks, Micah. More power👍😊🚵‍♂️

[@QuitYourCryin]

Depends entirely where you live

[@quintonjewett1253]

Stocks

[@samfranklin659]

@@QuitYourCryin Or how expensive gas has become

[@ChandoraBox]

@@samfranklin659 especially right now 😂😭

[@samfranklin659]

@@ChandoraBox Especially two months from now 😵‍💫

[@ronaldalbertson7694]

You have a great knowledge of most things e-bike! This video on inexpensive e-bikes is really interesting. I am not sure it covered what i am looking for, but still its great. I am wanting a simple mountain e-bike. Keep the videos coming.

[@thefrub]

The last one is my favorite, I'm a sucker for old school step-through cruisers

[@kaisunrose]

thanks for a great quality informative video. not sure what type I want yet but you are helping big time deciding...thanks

[@stevebrown1593]

Hope you do more scooter reviews. Keep up the good work.

[@pauloconnell7668]

Enjoy all your videos. Just ordered your Lithium Battery Book. Keep up the good work.

[@shanegabbert451]

Great reviews thank you. I’m still day dreaming and you’re getting closer to my budget. Respect your experience!

[@alvaroakatico9188]

You get what you pay for. Ain’t that the truth.

[@parsonsmarcus]

A lot of companies like Lectric allow you to do an Affirm purchase, so you can pay like $80 bucks a month for 12 months instead of the full price up front!

[@nestorgozal1]

Excellent video with a lot of information, thanks for the suggestions. I can imagine that your books contain valuable information as well.

[@mythrusthelema]

Another good video Micah! This is definitely being shared. 👏👍

[@Blainerowe3]

Thanks for the info! Excellent review of three machines I am considering, without all the fluff.

[@anntabb4782]

This is exactly the video I've been looking for! Thank you!! ❤

[@rickeykoga2312]

This channel is FANTASTIC! I'm looking for an ebike and this is such great info

[@jigarkhandhar]

A very good new contender to this space is the all new Ariel rider Rideal . It really improves in all aspects where Radmission doesn't have or missing

[@Guide-Tu]

Thanks for the info on e-bikes. This is a good encouragement for me to ride a bike.

[@CB-lo3be]

Hi. This was such an informative video. I’m a senior in my 60’s and I’m looking to get and Ebike, nothing too expensive but an Ebike that can assist me when I’m doing neighborhood riding or trails and hills. Thank you again for this was quite helpful

[@robertstrasen573]

Your videos and knowledge have inspired my own ebike life lol. My first build viola 1500w build was fun

[@coachwarrenraven]

Nice to see you back at it.

[@timburton6060]

as always you have great videos and a lot of info. thanks

[@deborahscreativecrafts]

Thank you, I have been researching for a while.

[@trevorwright2]

Good video. Informative and smooth. Definitely getting one of those.

[@hornetvc8057]

Thanks for all your input. It helpful on 18650 builds

[@robertmorris7371]

Really nice explanation of the different bikes. Great job,thanks Robert Morris

[@billb4405]

I’m 65 and looking for my first Ebike. Your video was helpful. Thanks!

[@noisepuppet]

Ride that thing, young man

[@emeurer1951]

The Lectric 2.0 has more features, fenders & is only $100 more. Clearly the value leader

[@richardjimenez7394]

Thanks for all your information about E-Bikes . I am looking into e bike to ride and getting around town too. I am doing research on e bikes. Thanks 🙏

[@SMKreitzer1968]

Thanks for the great breakdown!

[@robertd654]

Great review of low cost bikes ! Thank you.

[@ronaldamedee6029]

Great informative video about affordable bikes. Just bought one and your info is very enlightening.

[@gailjohnson6670]

Excellent review. Thank you. Blessings in your days.

[@charlesprince3340]

Great reviews! Thank you.

[@akikomorgan6677]

We got a Rad Mission for our 14 year-old son. It was a bit tricky to install the front wheel (that part required two ppl) but otherwise the assembly was easy. You do need a bike wrench (we borrowed from a friend). They have a KZbin video explaining ever step. We have a half-mile uphill but my son can ride it without breaking a sweat. Highly recommended.

[@mitch9521]

Like a pedal wrench? I just used a 15mm open ended wrench and it worked fine for installing the pedals on my Mission.

[@USNAVDC]

You have so many good videos, I get stuck on KZbin when I start watching them.

[@RebeccaAuge]

This is a great selection. The ebike market is clearly evolving! Thank you for the vid and the concise, intelligent remarks.

[@bigc1966]

Really informative, tyvm for the video :)

[@davery79]

I would love to get one of your books your video was very informative.

[@WreckIsland1]

I appreciate how you presented the bikes and I believe you did a wonderful job of giving the facts. Thank you for your help! It was a nice experience hearing you present the information and it was peaceful.

[@LightRay.333]

Solid review! Very helpful. Be well.

[@monkeytonker4637]

Just watched h1 review lol. Again u always make me smile Micah 👍😁👍

[@jamesquinn3414]

This video meets all my criteria. Thanks man!

[@ricksattler682]

Your videos have been very informative.

[@newt2010]

Great video. I have owned the Rad Rover by Rad Power Bikes for a couple years now and love it. Been looking at the Rad Runner lately.

[@francesdouglass9561]

You covered 3 of the bikes I’ve been looking at. Thank you!

[@HarrisIsACackleChamp]

Which are you liking for the price

[@lukewalker1051]

Thanks for the video!

[@727mrhappy]

Hi Mika i bought the lectric xp and love it also got 2 for my friends. here in florida its perfect. thank you. keep the videos coming. Having the integrated lcd and power design make it very easy to use. I put a clamp basket on the back and get groceries with it.

[@hallu7477]

How's the bike a year later? Still good?

[@triveszn6537]

You wanna buy one fore me too?

[@BcockMen1]

thanks really enjoyed your video.

[@tomleonard6177]

Love folding bikes, so the Lectric looks best to me!

[@barbarapadgett5538]

Thank you for sharing this comparison

[@cwl5005]

That is a great list of bikes!

[@JnTmarie]

Thank you for a great video I appreciate that you don’t take wild endorsement fees swaying your reviews When I own an Ebikes I should have a book so I know how to fix it. great respect to you for writing one. I’m looking for foldable commuter where I can go from various power levels of pedal assist 500wt min I’m 5’8” don’t want to look ridiculous on tiny tires or Maybe I have to get over it to be more compact in my apartment. Lol. Happy safe riding everyone

[@mellowery275]

Thanks for the very objective reviews.

[@Erikj1012]

Very informative as I am a newbie in the ebike world

[@E21Life]

Great video. Very informative.

[@kishap1251]

Love these reviews. You should review more cruiser style ebiks😊

[@leadlearner6391]

as a new subscriber from across the Pond 🇬🇧 I really appreciate how you take the mystique out of ebikes; am looking to do a conversion on a bike with 16" wheels

[@lbier01]

Cool and informative video. I'd like to suggest a similar five best inexpensive electric bike with suspensions video.

[@edgardarcas5290]

Really enjoying your vídeo séries, they are useful and fun to watch, one more subscriber gladly watching.

[@kevinbyrnes4112]

well done, thank you for this!

[@rickemmet1104]

Hey Micah, Great video, thanks for posting it. Watching your vids and others (and reading too) I wonder about the need for a throttle. I mean, class three bikes don't even have them. The Roadster V2 looks very capable, and I love the single gear, belt drive combo too, but would like more range. I may want to talk with the folks at Ride1up about a custom bike similar to a Core-5 without the front & rear derailleurs and a single gear belt drive. Would that be something you would caution against? Thanks!

[@couragetakescourage2517]

I’ve had my rad power utility bike since January 2020. It’s November 28, 2021 as of this note . It is my 2nd ebike. I love my rad power bike!!! However, when I got a back tire flat I had a heck of a time trying to find a bike shop that would repair it. Before buying a fat tire bike be sure to ask your local bike shop/s if they can repair the brand of ebike you are interested in purchasing. Its just a suggestion. My next bike is going to be the Mission!! Thank you for the video!!

[@todd4freeusa]

Great video~ Keep up the good work~

[@SlaveOfSouls]

I recently made a huge research before buying my first ebike and finally I've chosen Samebike LO 26 II for the price tag of 800 euros (I bought It straight from the factory) I got 500w hub motor with 750W peak, folding mechanism ,rear and front suspension, sprungless aluminium wheels, colorful display ,kickstand, fenders and mechanical disc brakes and all are very decent quality.I made 500km on this bike and I'm still loving It :) the bike is stored outside and I'm riding it when it's rainy.I just making simple service stuff like oiling the chain etc.I would admire this ebike to everyone.For this price range is hard to buy something better :)

[@kenkai2861]

Is it fast and good uphill?

[@antalperge1007]

Thnx, finally someone! 😍👍 I'll check it on YT

[@PETERJOHN101]

Made where? I won't even consider China made electrics.

[@AM-dr9qd]

Thanks for the video.

[@kevinlavin1944]

Thanks for your hard work

[@percyscott1331]

E bikes seem to be bit of a maze but I see the light thanks for your commentary and high lighting of pros and cons.

[@dadmathematics]

Hey Micah, Thanks for all your helpful videos. Ebikeschool is my go to when looking for ebike information. One question, how tall are you? I'm trying to decide on a new ebike but at 6'3" I know that I might feel cramped on some of those bike. Having a reference height would be great information. Thanks!

[@ronalddelo8753]

Awesome presentation as always 😎

[@darlenehelsius1087]

Nice. Good info. Thanks.

[@melodygreen5469]

I greatly appreciate the product detals

[@danathompson3344]

Awsome video !!

[@dumsterdave]

another great post! How about reviewing middrives?

[@seancusack7940]

Good reviews thanks.

[@wilfredocordova8994]

Thank you for the Information

[@LDrees]

Thank you I'll check it out!

[@andrezulueta1234]

I personally own a Gigabyke Swift and chose that over the Ride1Up Roadster due to the disc brake system vs caliper. It also has throttle which the roadster doesn't have. they're both same light weight only 3 lbs difference and both have single speed belt drive. but the Gigabyke uses Gate's Belt Brand and the is some other generic brand. another thing too is the Gigabyke can take a wider knobby tires if you wish (approx 34mm wide) making it a potential flat bar gravel e-bike.

[@johnsexton3841]

Great info, thanks.