RECOMMENDATION

[bebe]

20mph+ compact ebike under $500 or am I dreaming

[enkei]

You'll struggle to find anything really worth buying at that price point in a new e-bike.

What is your definition of compact?

[ReapThaWhirlwind]

Google search turns up more than a few possibilities, but it's hard to speak on the quality of them.

If you want something quality, which is very important, you'll likely have to pay twice that much.

Your best bet in the US would be to check Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for people trying to unload their bike at a discount.

[momoviribus]

You can check out second hand websites, you might be able to pick up a used one.

[Flowrider]

I've had success here in Australia with Facebook Marketplace. With patience, you could get a good deal. Just check their activity with the bike.

[Jake1]

(04-29-2025, 09:23 PM)momoviribus Wrote:  You can check out second hand websites, you might be able to pick up a used one.

Biying a used ebike can save you a lot of money, but unlike a regular bike it can have many more issues that may need attention either upon purchasing or shortly afterwards; including the regular bike issues.
Customer service and parts access has been the biggest problem. If you buy a used ebike you need to ensure you can get a replacement battery quickly after buying since you have no idea what the condition and remaining lifetime is has; or if that battery pack will be available for much longer (if you find one). Remember, mileage has nothing to do with battery life; charging routine, vibrations, and heat deteriorate batteries. If you live in a very cold climate the battery needs to be kept indoors or you may not be able to operate it. Same thing happens to all batteries; they do not like extremes in temperature.

I would also highly suggest determining the cost of the tires before purchasing since you may be in for some sticker shock when you need to replace them depending on their size/type.

Battery= $100 -$400 (not including labor)
Tires= $100 - $400 per pair (not including labor)

If you do research before buying you could easily save yourself from having to pay what you just paid o buy the bike in maintence costs.

You should also research the laws in your area governing where ebikes van be used, maximum speed (can change categorization from a bicycle to a motor vehicle requiring an operator's license and vehicle registration.

Safety equipment is your responsibility, but I can tell you now that if you plan to run at over 25 mph or more a bicycle helmet is insufficient. You need a real motorbike helmet (decent ones are $250+).

[GirishH]

@Jake1, truly truly well said. Even though what you said appliies all kind of bikes but e-bikes being relatively new there is so much uncertainty, unknowns and sticker prices...

That's for pointing them out.

My biggest gripe is how heavy they get once they have a flat or battery runs out. No way I can push a e-bike to a nearest mechanic shop..

(04-30-2025, 07:35 AM)Jake1 Wrote:  

(04-29-2025, 09:23 PM)momoviribus Wrote:  You can check out second hand websites, you might be able to pick up a used one.

Biying a used ebike can save you a lot of money, but unlike a regular bike who can have many more issues that may need attention either upon purchasing or shortly afterwards; including the regular bike issues.
Customer service and parts access has been the biggest problem. If you buy a used ebike you need to ensure you can get a replacement battery quickly after buying since you have no idea what the condition and remaining lifetime is has; or if that battery pack will be available for much longer (if you find one). Remember, mileage has nothing to do with battery life; charging routine, vibrations, and heat deteriorate batteries. If you live in a very cold climate the battery needs to be kept indoors or you may not be able to operate it. Same thing happens to all batteries; they do not like extremes in temperature.

I would also highly suggest determining the cost of the tires before purchasing since you may be in for some sticker shock when you need to replace them.

Battery= $100 -$400 (not including labor)
Tires= $100 - $400 per pair (not including labor)

If you do research before buying you could easily save yourself from having to pay what you just paid o buy the bike in maintence costs.

You should also research the laws in your area governing where ebikes van be used, maximum speed (can change categorization from a bicycle to a motor vehicle requiring an operator's license and vehicle registration.

Safety equipment is your responsibility, but I can tell you now that if you plan to run at over 25 mph or more a bicycle helmet is insufficient. You need a real motorbike helmet (decent ones are $250+).