A few years ago, not many people could tell you what an electric bike (e-bike) or an electric scooter was, but now they seem to be everywhere. Lots of people like to cycle, but hills can be off-putting and working up a sweat on the daily commute isn’t for everyone – so an e-bike is a perfect solution. And as for electric scooters? They’re just a lot of fun!
Electric vehicles can offer an eco-friendlier alternative to traditional vehicles, and can be convenient, cost-effective and a thrilling ride. And these days there are so many options, making it a challenge to choose the perfect one.
So, in this guide, we'll let you know what to look for when shopping for the best e-bikes and e-scooters for every kind of rider. Whether it’s for supermarket trips or weekend rides, we’ll help you find the best e-bike or e-scooter for you.
Best e-bikes in UK
If you’re new to the world of electric bikes, then go ahead and read our introductory article: What is an e-bike and how does it work? But if you know a bit already, here are all the things to look for in each type of bike. This should help you decide which electric bike you should buy.
Best commuter e-bike
When looking for the best e-bikes for commuting, go for one a lightweight frame, comfortable saddle and ergonomic handlebars. That’ll make it a much nicer daily ride. Also look for good battery life so you’re not having to constantly recharge it and something that’s low maintenance – think anti-puncture tyres. If you’re planning to take it on a train, a folding e-bike is a good idea. Alternatively, you’ll need a good lock so you can leave it safely in a public place.
Best hybrid e-bike
If you want an electric bike that can do a bit of everything, go for a hybrid e-bike – which are as comfortable with city cruising as they are with country rides. The best hybrid e-bikes will have a sturdy frame for a comfortable ride and tyres that can handle both the rough and the smooth.
Best cheap e-bike
If you’re on a budget, you can still find the best cheap e-bike for you. While you won’t get all the snazzy features of a pricier e-bike, it’s just about knowing what to prioritise. Number 1 thing should be motor power and battery capacity. As long as your e-bike has the power to move and can go for longer trips without a recharge, you might decide that it’s ok not to have extras like a hill-start assist.
Best city e-bike
If you’re navigating your way through a busy city, your e-bike has to be nimble. A compact and lightweight design, paired with a powerful motor and responsive brakes will see you weaving through jams with ease. Best e bikes for city riding also need fenders (to stay dry) and lights to be clearly visible on busy roads.
Best foldable e-bike
For those with limited storage space or who want to take their bike on transport, a foldable e-bike is a smart choice. The best foldable e bikes fold down easily without compromising on stability and ride quality. Look for lightweight materials, robust hinges and secure locking mechanisms.
Best ladies e-bike
Most e-bikes are fairly unisex, but some female riders might prefer a step-through frame – since that’s commonly the case with regular bicycles. Comfortable saddles and handlebars tailored for a more upright riding position might be preferred too.
Best e-mountain bike
E-mountain bikes are all about off-road adventures, so what you’re looking for is totally different to more casual e-bikes. The best e mountain bikes should have sturdy suspension for bumpy ground, high-capacity batteries for longer rides and a powerful motor to take on any terrain. Look for great traction and control on rough terrain combined with tyres specifically made for the rough stuff.
Best e-Scooters in the UK
Wondering how to choose your first electric scooter. We’ve put together some pointers depending on what kind of e-scooter you’re looking for – so you can pick the best e-scooter for you.
Best electric scooter for adults
The best adults electric scooters come with a reliable, sturdy frame that can take some weight. Responsive brakes are a must too. This will give grown-ups a smooth and safe ride. Also look for bonus features like smartphone capability – which will do everything including giving feedback about rides, routes and battery life.
Best budget e-scooter
E-scooters aren’t always cheap, so it’s all about deciding what’s the most important features for you. Strike a balance between price and performance, ensuring a smooth ride and essential safety features. For more help on how much you’d like to spend, we’ve already talked about how much electric scooters are.
Why not try:
The Segway Ninebot E2 is a great value e-scooter for adults – packed with premium features you’d expect on a higher end scooter. And while battery life is only 3.5 hours, this can be extended with an extra battery.
Best off-road e-scooter
If you want to handle more challenging terrain, you’ll need serious suspension, larger all-terrain tyres and a frame built to take a few bumps. A high-capacity battery is essential for extended off-road adventures. And don’t forget crash helmet, pads and extra e-scooter accessories.
Best e-scooter for hills
Most e-scooters are fine on a level surface, but a steep incline is what separates the best from the rest. Conquering hilly terrains requires an e-scooter with lots of motor power and torque. You’ll also want super responsive brakes for the way down!
Why not try
The Segway Ninebot Max G2 has a massive 900W motor – which will power you up slopes. The Anti-Skid Traction Control system is a big reassurance on the decline too.
Best e-scooter with seat
Standing for a long scooting session can be tiring. That’s why a scooter with a seat may be the way to go. Ensure the scooter has a comfortable and adjustable seat – which means that family and friends can give it a try. It’s also great for growing bodies too!
Best foldable e-scooter
Having a foldable e-scooter is great when you need to store it away. It also means it can be packed up with you and taken to a piece of private land where you can have a ride. As such, go for something that’s easy to fold away. And since you’ll want to pick it up, a lighter scooter is a must.
Why not try
The Pure Electric Flex is a powerful electric scooter that’s really tough – yet can be easily folded down to fit a very tight space, and is light enough to carry.
Best lightweight e-scooter
The best lightweight scooters are easy to pick up and take with you – they also give you more agility than a heavier e-scooter. But that doesn’t mean having to sacrifice speed and power just because you’re looking for a lighter option.
Best e-scooter for heavy riders
Most full-grown adults wouldn’t try a kids scooter for fear of breaking it. So if you’re in the heavier category (or you’re just used to scooting with a backpack) go for a sturdy e-scooter with a higher weight capacity. Motor power is a must too, ensuring a stable and enjoyable ride.
Why not try
The Lemotion S1 Electric Folding Scooter can carry 140kg (over 22 stones) and can be folded away too. It has a powerful 500W motor so you’ll be able to really shift! Definitely one of the best e-scooters for heavy adults.
Best e-scooters for kids
Whether it’s safety features or top speed, there’s a lot to think about when choosing the best electric scooter for kids. You’ll want something light enough that it’s easy for them to handle, yet something sturdy enough to take some inevitable bumps! Look for speed modes too – which means you can restrict them to a low speed while they’re finding their feet.
FAQs
Which is better: e-bike or scooter?
While both e-bikes and e-scooters are a more non-polluting and efficient way of getting around than other powered vehicles, the choice ultimately depends on what you need your electric vehicle for. E-bikes are ideal for longer distances – they’re great for trips and commuting, since you’re allowed to ride your E-bike anywhere where you can cycle. E-scooters are much more about pure fun, since they’re currently not allowed on public highways and are for use on private land only. But they also come in all shapes and sizes and are generally better for smaller budgets.
Are electric scooters faster than bikes?
Electric scooters can reach similar speeds to e-bikes, depending on their motor power and specs. While some e-scooters can technically achieve speeds of up to 20-30 mph, in the UK they all have a built-in speed limit of 15.5mph. And the same is true for electric bikes too.
Are electric scooters safer than bikes?
Both e-bikes and e-scooters have their safety considerations. E-bikes offer more stability and better weight distribution due to their design, plus the option to have both pedal and electric assistance. Because you have to stand on them, e-scooters can be more unstable. Safety depends on rider behaviour, sticking to the law and wearing protective gear too. Always wear helmets and other safety gear, whether you’re riding on an e-bike or e-scooter.
Hopefully that’s given you a clearer picture of what you’re looking for in an e-bike or e-scooter. For face-to-face advice, why not talk to a Currys tech expert in your nearest store, or do it from home with ShopLive.
