If you’re exploring the world of e-bikes, the best mid drive ebikes stand out for their ability to provide a surprisingly different riding experience compared to hub-drive e-bikes. These bikes let riders enjoy the journey by combining technology with user effort, delivering a more connected feel to the road. It’s like comparing an automatic to a stick shift—each has its own charm, but mid-drive motors add that additional layer of performance.
One unique aspect of these bikes is the use of a torque sensor to measure pressure on the pedals. This feature lets the motor adjust power proportionally, offering power addition or subtraction based on how much effort the rider puts in. It’s this dynamic interaction that makes the riding experience feel seamless, natural, and responsive. The PAS level you choose also fine-tunes this assistance, so whether you’re cruising through the city or pushing hard on a trail, the bike feels like an extension of your body.
From my personal testing of a myriad of these bikes, I’ve noticed that whether you prefer a relaxed city cruiser or a tough and active trekking bike, the best mid drive ebikes deliver versatility and reliability. Some models, like the Class 3, can reach speeds of up to 28 mph, but they demand real effort from the rider.
12 Best Mid drive ebike of 2024
Ride1UP Prodigy V2
The Ride1UP Prodigy V2 LX offers a stellar feel and delivers high-end features at a low price of just $2,500. While that might seem like a steep investment for an e-bike, its premium features make it well worth the cost. Powered by the Brose TF Sprinter motor, this bike provides 250W of power and 90Nm of torque, ensuring a smooth-feeling and natural ride. Whether tackling steepest hills or cruising flat paths, the motor delivers pedal assistance ranging from subtle to substantial, giving your legs some much-needed welcome relief.
What sets the Prodigy V2 apart is its versatile drivetrains, including the Enviolo CVT paired with a Gates belt drive. During our test, this combination provided a seamless experience with its internal system. With no gears to worry about, shifting becomes effortless, offering unmatched flexibility for uphill pedaling and smooth navigation. It’s a perfect choice for both daily commuting and adventurous trails, balancing reliability with innovative design.
Designed for more than just city streets, the Prodigy features durable Maxxis Rekon Race tires, a mid-drive system, and a 100mm suspension fork, making it equally capable of handling trekking and light off-roading. This is a bike that knows how to perform without breaking the bank, combining value and versatility for riders looking to explore more.
Pro’s
The 250W Brose motor delivers 90Nm of torque, providing exceptional power to match the demands of your ride and help you reach your desired speed effortlessly.
Equipped with a 504Wh battery, our tester achieved an impressive 70 mi. range on PAS 2, with the potential to go even longer using PAS 1 for more efficiency.
The innovative Enviolo CVT system offers gearless shifting and infinite flexibility, making it an awesome tech addition for tackling varied terrain without hassle.
Available in three versions, this e-bike can suit the needs of different riders, ensuring a comfortable fit for a range of preferences.
Known for its great handling on any riding surface, it seamlessly sticks to pavement or confidently tears through dirt, delivering unmatched ease and control.
Con’s
- The bike comes in a single frame size, which may not suit smaller riders, so it’s worth considering the LS model for a better fit and more comfort.
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Aventon Ramblas
The Ramblas marks Aventon’s first foray into the e-bike market with an impressive eMTB powered by a mid-drive motor. As the brand’s most expensive model, its $2,700 price tag offers remarkable value thanks to its high-quality build and long-lasting parts from established manufacturers.
Featuring a SRAM groupset, 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, and a 12-speed NX Eagle drivetrain with an 11-50T cassette, the bike is engineered for durability and precision. The RockShox 35 Silver suspension fork with 130mm travel pairs perfectly with chunky Maxxis Rekon tires on either 27.5” wheels or 29” wheels, depending on the frame size.
At its core, the Ramblas is powered by a custom 250W mid-drive motor developed with Gobao to compete with giants like Bosch, Brose, and Shimano. With 100 Nm of torque and a peak of 750W, the motor delivers a punchy performance, making challenging climbs breezy while keeping the ride spirited and fun with quick acceleration.
The bike also excels in long-distance rides, as proven during our Range Test, where its 708 Wh battery exceeded Aventon’s claims of 80 miles on technical trails, achieving over 100 miles on paved bike paths in the lowest-assist setting.
As a competent entry into this new territory, the Ramblas has established itself as a great buy with incredible bang for the buck.
Pro’s
- Offers impressive climbing power with its 250W motor delivering a torque output of 100Nm, making steep terrains manageable.
- Equipped with a 500% gearing range and a 12-speed SRAM Eagle drivetrain, ensuring smooth transitions on varied trails.
- Comes in 4 frame sizes, more than most similarly priced eMTBs, providing options for a wider range of riders.
- Features fully stocked, name-brand parts from trusted manufacturers like SRAM, Maxxis, and RockShox for reliable performance.
- The 708Wh battery allows for extended rides, making it suitable for longer adventures without frequent recharges.
- Includes a dropper seatpost for riders to adjust the saddle easily when descending, enhancing control and stability.
Con’s
- The RockShox fork on this eMTB felt great during standard use, but the lack of preload adjustment may cause heavier riders to lose travel, reducing comfort on rough terrains.
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Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2
The Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2 is a premium commuter designed to combine agility with a fun ride and a myriad of high-tech features. This lightweight carbon-fiber e-bike truly feels like the perfect fit for those who want to do everything—from getting to the office, carrying groceries, and staying active with some exercise to venturing on light off-roading. Weighing just 41 lbs, its surprisingly airy and nimble feel comes from its carbon fiber frame and fork, making it easy to maneuver through busy streets.
Powered by a 250W Specialized 1.2 SL mid-drive, the Vado SL 2 can get up to speed quickly and navigate traffic with ease. As a Class 3 e-bike, it offers pedal assistance at speeds up to 28 mph, making it perfect for daily commuting. The inclusion of integrated Bluetooth technology allows riders to connect with the Specialized app, where they can tune motor output, track ride data and fitness data, and even get maintenance reminders or over-the-air updates. Its security features—like a passcode lock, alarm, and compatibility with Apple’s Find My™ app for location tracking—add an extra layer of convenience and protection against theft.
We tested the EQ 6.0 model, which features built-in fenders and an MIK-HD cargo rack designed to accommodate a variety of standard accessories. These accessories include baskets, storage bags, pet carriers, and even a child seat, giving the bike the capability to act as a complete car replacement. The all-terrain tires and the Future Shock 3.2—a stem-integrated suspension with 20mm travel—allow for smooth rides on dirt and gravel paths, ensuring comfort no matter where you go.
Stylish, feature-packed, and extremely impressive, the Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2 delivers on all fronts, proving itself as a versatile option for anyone looking for the best mid drive e-bike.
Pro’s
- Highly maneuverable and quick, the bike is easy to lift thanks to its carbon fiber frame and fork, weighing just 41 lbs.
- The custom 250W motor from Specialized offers a natural feel with responsive power delivery, making rides enjoyable and smooth.
- Packed with high-tech features, the bike integrates seamlessly with the Specialized app, but it remains simple and easy to use even without the app.
- Powered by a 520 Wh battery, the bike exceeded its 5-hour range estimate during our testing, delivering some of the best results among commuter e-bikes.
- The Future Shock 3.2, a stem-integrated suspension, smooths the ride subtly and is almost invisible, ensuring a comfortable and sleek experience.
Con’s
- While technicians can remove the battery for service when necessary, the battery cannot be removed for charging, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Trek Allant+ 8s
The Allant+ 8s is one of the best commuters we’ve ever tested, combining high-quality components with an impressive Bosch drive system. Its 250W mid-drive motor and 625 Wh battery deliver a balance of efficiency, power, and a natural, responsive feel. The integration of the Bosch COBI.BIKE app transforms the bike into a robust, full-function EV, serving as a central hub for most used apps like navigation, health data, and music, ensuring every ride is both functional and enjoyable.
This bike’s design brings a unique blend of solidity and nimbleness. 27.5”x2.4” Bontrager road tires enhance its agility, while the sturdy construction and 57-pound weight ensure a stable and grounded ride. As a Class 3 e-bike, it reaches speeds of up to 28 mph and offers a wide range of gears, making it efficient, robust, versatile, and exceptionally stable on a variety of terrains, including hills. Makes it perfect for climbing.
Pro’s
- Feels like an analog bike but delivers more oomph thanks to its 250W Bosch motor, making rides powerful yet natural.
- Offers impressive functionality through the COBI.BIKE app, allowing easy access to contacts, music, and navigation for a connected experience.
- Combines a solid build with highly maneuverable handling due to its quality tires and a balanced 57 lbs weight.
- Provides a refined ride feel that reflects the craftsmanship of legacy brands, ensuring quality and durability.
- Ships as a Class 3 bike with pedal assist speeds up to 28 mph, making it fast and efficient for commutes or leisure rides.
Con’s
- While the COBI.BIKE app adds great functionality, the universal phone mount feels fragile, which might reduce its practicality during frequent or rugged use.
Tenways AGO X
The Tenways AGO X is a commuter e-bike that delivers the freedom and versatility to explore beyond the pavement. Marketed as an “e-bike SUV,” its design combines the practicality of a commuter with the ruggedness of an entry-level mountain bike. Outfitted with a 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain, a Suntour XCM 32 suspension fork, and Tektro HD-275 hydraulic disc brakes, this bike is ready for varied terrain while maintaining smooth performance.
Powered by a Bafang M410 mid-drive motor, it delivers a standard output of 250W and a maximum torque of up to 80 Nm. The motor delivers a powerful yet natural feel, akin to an analog bike, thanks to its torque sensor that allows it to respond quickly to the force applied on the pedals. Although the bike is equipped with street tires, switching to knobbies transforms it into an off-road powerhouse, perfect for riders who value precise steering, excellent handling, and reliable stability.
True to Tenways’ trademark design, the AGO X features a smooth, weld-free frame, an integrated headlight, and unique paint jobs that set it apart. Its 29”x2.25” tires and 770mm handlebars enhance control and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those who want both style and functionality in their e-bike experience.
Pro’s
- Provides excellent steering, handling, and ride stability with its 29”x2.25” tires and 770mm handlebars, making every ride controlled and smooth.
- Delivers a responsive, natural, and fun feel thanks to the 250W mid-drive motor, ensuring a balanced performance for different terrains.
- Built with a solid foundation for off-road rides, featuring wide handlebars, a 10-speed drivetrain, and a suspension fork for added comfort and control.
- Showcases an awesome contemporary design with a standout paint job and an integrated headlight, which serves as a defining element of its aesthetic.
- Includes quality parts from trusted brands like Tektro, Shimano, Bafang, Selle Royal, and SR Suntour, ensuring lasting performance and reliability.
Con’s
- While the bike performs well, having the option to select off-road tires at the time of purchase would be helpful, although replacing them is relatively easy to do at home.
Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 IGH: A Simple and Reliable Commuter
The Specialized Turbo Como is an e-bike that proves you don’t need something elaborate or overly powered like a Dodge Challenger to suit your needs. It’s a terrific example of how a manufacturer has kept it simple and straightforward, making it the modern-day answer to the old 3-speeds that served as reliable commuters. This Class 1 e-bike is capped at 20 mph max without a throttle, making it the perfect combination of simplicity and function—a must-have on any list of the best mid-drive e-bikes.
Designed for urban commuters, the Turbo Como 3.0 IGH offers an ideal balance between performance and ease. Its mid-drive motor delivers smooth and instant acceleration, working seamlessly with the rider’s pedaling. It features an internally geared Enviolo CVT rear hub and Gates Belt, ensuring zero need for chain lube and providing a zero muss, zero fuss riding experience. Equipped with practical additions like a rear rack, lights, and fenders, it’s only missing a saddle bag, but that’s an easy fix.
The Turbo Como is available in three frame styles—traditional, low-step, and stepped—each offered in three sizes, making it one of the most versatile and user-friendly e-bikes in the lineup. With its thoughtful design and versatile features, this bike is a true standout for riders who appreciate a simple, straightforward commuter.
Pro’s
- The 250W Specialized 2.0 motor delivers 50Nm torque, offering good acceleration and a steady commute speed of up to 20 mph.
- A 530Wh battery, though small, proved efficient, giving our test rider an impressive range of 63 mi. during testing with the mid-drive motor.
- Available in three different sizes, the bike is an attractive option for riders shorter than 5 feet 6 or taller than 6 feet 0, making it highly versatile.
- The Como comes fully commute-ready with accessories like a rear rack, fenders, and lights, ensuring convenience for daily rides.
- Specialized’s smartphone app, Mission Control, includes a sophisticated array of features, such as security features, GPS tracking, and the ability to disable the motor for added safety.
Con’s
- Some riders might dislike the absence of a throttle or the ability to reach Class 3 speeds, limiting options for those who prefer more power and flexibility.
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Vvolt Centauri II
The Centauri II from Vvolt is a lightweight and sleek design e-bike tailored for the premium urban commuter. Its combination of style and uncommon high-tech features sets it apart, offering a smooth, easy pedal experience. Powered by a 350W Ananda mid-drive motor, paired with a Gates Carbon belt and a 3-speed internal gear hub (IGH), this bike eliminates the need for manual shifting. Simply select your preferred pedal assist, and you’re ready to hop on and ride, with the drivetrain adjusting automatically for seamless operation.
One standout feature is the low maintenance design. The sealed IGH protects the bike’s gearing from damage and minimizes the need for replacement, while the Gates belt is rated to last at least twice as long as a traditional chain. Not only is it clean and quiet, but it also requires no lubrication, reducing mess and preventing unwanted transfer to pants during riding.
Adding to its comfort is the unique coil suspension system, also known as a monoshock, which provides 30mm of travel to handle smooth bumps and rough pavement without the burden of complex components or the need for regular maintenance. The Centauri II delivers an agile feel and a fun, worry-free riding experience, pedaling naturally and tackling steep hills with ease thanks to its peak power of 650W and 120 Nm torque.
The great-looking, quick-handling design of the Centauri II allows riders to focus on enjoying a great time, rather than constantly needing to manage operation.
Pro’s
- The Centauri II is both nimble and powerful, offering a rare combination for an urban-centric e-bike that excels in versatility and performance.
- Its automatic 3-speed transmission is easy to use and effective, especially at Class 3 speeds, making every ride smooth and seamless.
- With a mid-drive, Gates belt, and IGH, it provides a low-maintenance and worry-free user experience, perfect for daily commuters.
- Charging is a breeze with the removable battery, which is tested to meet UL 2271 standards, ensuring safety and reliability.
- The appearance and function of the bike’s single Monoshock with 30mm travel deliver both comfort and style, smoothing out bumps with ease.
Con’s
- Approaching hills with the bike requires some practice to ensure it is in the correct gear, especially for smoother and more efficient climbs.
Borealis Keystone
The Borealis Keystone is the perfect solution for riders whose current bike struggles to handle the demands of overlanding or blustery winter weather. This bike impressed us with its nimble and spritely handling, which comes from its lightweight alloy frame. Though it weighs 60 lbs, it felt lighter, almost like shedding 10 lbs. Riders can choose from a dozen tire options at purchase, with our test model featuring 26×5” Terene Johnny 5 tires that were massive, grippy, and remarkably stable, making it ideal for northern climes and all-terrain riding capability.
The standard spec package is packed with an impressive roster of name brands, including the Shimano EP8 mid-drive, a 630 Wh battery, a Mastodon Pro EXT suspension fork, and a wireless SRAM Eagle GX transmission. These components enable the bike to perform anywhere, under any time of year. Its upright geometry ensures a comfortable and relaxed feel, ideal for long trail rides and adventures.
Available in four frame sizes, the Keystone fits riders ranging from 5’2” to 6’5”, making it versatile for various body types. With its tire options, sturdy build, and all-terrain riding capability, the Borealis Keystone is not just a bike—it’s a tool for exploration, delivering fun and reliability in every ride.
Pro’s
- The Shimano EP8 mid-drive provides smooth and responsive pedal assist, ensuring a natural and effortless riding experience.
- With a 520% gearing range, the bike excels on tough climbs and offers stability during fast descents, making it versatile for varied terrains.
- Riders can customize their bike with options for rims, hubs, and tires, allowing them to tailor the setup to fit their needs.
- It handles crisply and sharply, thanks to its lightweight frame and the stout Mastodon suspension fork from Manitou, ensuring agility and control.
- Shifting with the electronic SRAM Eagle GX transmission is quick, buttery, and precise, offering seamless gear changes for an uninterrupted ride.
Con’s
- The alloy frame of the bike looks great and adds to its responsive handling, but some riders might prefer an even lighter carbon option for enhanced performance.
Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Carbon
The Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Carbon is a true workhorse on the trails and bike paths, often spotted among enthusiastic riders. Designed to balance the two primary eMTB categories—bikes for a slight boost on tough climbs and those that handle the hefty chunk of heavy lifting—this lightweight (around 50 lbs) bike achieves the perfect middle ground. Equipped with the Specialized 2.2 mid-drive, it delivers a powerful, natural, and responsive experience that’s also incredibly fun.
The bike’s seamless carbon frame and mullet design (a 29” front wheel and 27.5” rear) create a playful and lively feel, complemented by sharp handling. The Fox Float X Performance shock and Fox 36 Rhythm fork easily absorbed serious punishment from the chunky trails of southern Utah, keeping the ride comfortable and smooth. Its impressive range is powered by a 700 Wh battery, which in our testing delivered enough juice to tackle a 45-mile race course in under 4 hours with room to spare.
With modern geometry and a wide range of 6 sizes, the Turbo Levo fits a variety of riders’ preferences. The stock setup felt well dialed in, but its geometry can also be customized and tuned for a more tailored ride.
Pro’s
- The bike handles great with its mullet setup, combining a 29” front wheel and a 27.5” rear wheel for precise and smooth control.
- Powered by the Specialized 2.2 motor, it delivers a mix of balanced power and a natural analog pedal experience.
- Its geometry felt great, offering the comfort and performance you’d expect from a Specialized e-bike.
- The Comp Carbon version is lightweight and manageable, weighing around 50-ish lbs, making it easy to handle on any trail.
- It has a practical range of over 45 miles on a single charge, supported by its 700Wh battery for extended rides.
Con’s
- Riders should anticipate needing to replace the cover for the charging port over time, as it may show wear with frequent use.
Tern Quick Haul Long D9
The Tern Quick Haul Long D9 is powered by a 250W Bosch Cargo Line mid-drive motor that delivers a natural and precise feel, making it stand out as a lightweight cargo hauler. Unlike many heavy, overpowered bikes in its category, this model handles more like a city bike, offering nimble maneuverability with its 20” wheels and a low weight of roughly 60 lbs. For context, other cargo bikes we’ve tested typically weigh closer to 90 lbs, making the D9 both manageable and portable, ideal for urban use.
Despite its lighter frame, the D9 is stiff and capable, designed to haul up to 354 lbs, including the rider. Its rear rack alone has an impressive capacity of 198 lbs, perfect for carrying kids, packages, or groceries. Adding to its practicality is a unique feature—its extended frame has projecting feet that let the bike stand vertically for easy storage, a boon for city dwellers with small apartments or limited garage space.
The integrated tow bar enhances its versatility, allowing riders to pull a trailer if the rack isn’t large enough. While it excels as a cargo hauler, the bike’s Bosch mid-drive motor also packs enough power for heavy loads, offering a responsive and natural feel that makes it equally suitable for exercise or leisure rides.
With its combination of practical design, impressive load capacity, and smooth performance, the Tern Quick Haul Long D9 redefines what a cargo e-bike can achieve, offering a seamless blend of utility and comfort.
Pro’s
- The Bosch Cargo Line mid-drive motor provides a relatively subtle yet natural feel, while packing enough punch to handle extra weight with ease.
- This bike offers nimble handling thanks to its 20” wheels and 60-lb total weight, making it lighter and easier to maneuver than many competitors.
- The Quick Haul Long D9 performed well in our range test, delivering one of the longest results we’ve seen in its category of cargo bikes and e-bikes.
- It stands out by being able to stand vertically for storage, a feature that is rarely found in most cargo models.
- The bike is certified to DIN 79010 cargo standards for load bearing and passenger safety, as well as UL 2271 and UL 2849, ensuring it meets high safety benchmarks.
Con’s
- The D9 is compatible with a huge range of accessories, but these will need to be purchased separately, which might add to the overall cost.
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Trek Marlin+ 8
The Trek Marlin+ 8 is an eMTB that defies the bad rap some bikes get for being “easy mode.” Powered by a 250W Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive, it delivers a conservative 50 Nm torque, offering just enough motor power to alleviate strain while keeping the ride feeling like an analog bike. This e-bike is designed for riders who still want to be breathing hard and pushing their limits on the trails, yet with enough energy to stay out for an extra hour.
One standout feature is the Auto Mode, where the bike’s assist levels change automatically and fluidly to match the riding environment. Using the Bosch Flow app, users can tweak the motor output and torque settings to suit their preferences. Even in its standard mode, the bike impressed us with its natural feel, responsive handling, and seamless motor engagement. The range test showed its efficiency, covering 70 miles on a single charge of its 400Wh battery.
The Marlin+ 8 also boasts a solid spec package for its price. It includes a 12-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain, a RockShox Recon Silver RL suspension fork, Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes with 203mm rotors, and Bontrager Gunnison Pro XR tires. This bike is a solid mid-level option for riders looking to maintain a good workout without hitting exhaustion or breaking the bank.
Pro’s
- The Bosch mid-drive motor offers a responsive and natural feel with conservative power, ensuring an active pedaling experience for riders.
- The Marlin’s motor/battery pairing delivered one of the longest distances recorded in our Range Test for an eMTB.
- Its impressive price-to-value ratio is complemented by great components, making it a strong contender for mid-level riders.
- With Auto Mode, riders can simply hop on and pedal without needing to adjust assist levels.
- Paired with the Bosch Flow app, it offers extensive customization options for motor and assist settings.
Con’s
- The included pedals are easy to use for riding out of the box, but serious off-road riders may prefer to upgrade for enhanced performance.
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How we picked these bikes
We explored the most sought-after e-bike categories and analyzed the top models in each style. We aimed to include a diverse price range, ensuring options to suit every budget.
Now, let’s take a look at the key features that we considered while choosing the best mid-drive electric bike:
Value: We checked how far your dollar goes when spending on a bike. It doesn’t matter if it’s $2500, $3000, or $4000, we evaluated whether the mid-drive e-bike and its features provided enough value to make the purchase worthwhile.
Power: We made sure that the motor power matches the intended purpose of each e-bike. Some on the market have more power than necessary or are underpowered and dissatisfying. The power had to be appropriate and wise.
Spec: The parts and selections on each bike had to make sense and serve the rider. We focused on ensuring each bike was well-specced for its purpose.
Bottom Line: Mid-Drive E-Bikes Have Much to Love
When buying an e-bike, one of the most important questions a buyer should ask is whether to choose a mid-drive motor or a hub motor. This is a foundational question because it can fundamentally change the rider’s experience. For those who seek pure activity, a hub motor may be sufficient.
Riding a bike equipped with a mid-drive motor requires more effort, but the rewards are undeniable. The immediacy of the motor’s feedback and the superhero-like experience of having your effort multiplied in perfect proportion to your input can feel almost intoxicating.
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