▶E29
A very successful mixed-terrain model that needs a few assembly details corrected and its uncomfortable front shifter lever replaced.
A ranking of tested e-bikes under €1,700, focused on overall completeness, comfort, motor behaviour, range and the quality of key components.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. This list contains only electric bikes I have personally tested.
Each bike is assessed from real riding rather than its specification alone. I compare test impressions, range results, component quality, observed problems and suitability for the use case described on this page.
Compare test data, real-world range, pros, cons and current offers side by side.
The order is based on JOTEM tests and criteria relevant to this use case: overall completeness, comfort, drive system, range, brakes, build quality. The overall JOTEM score remains separate because a strong all-round bike is not automatically the best option for every specific task.
Every position includes a reason for the ranking and the main compromise. Open the full review for detailed test notes, pros, cons and specifications with editorial context.
▶A very successful mixed-terrain model that needs a few assembly details corrected and its uncomfortable front shifter lever replaced.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 1 is supported primarily by confident mixed-terrain handling. A very successful mixed-terrain model that needs a few assembly details corrected and its uncomfortable front shifter lever replaced.
Incorrect thread in the light mount
▶The most complete folder in this comparison: fast, stable and comfortable, although heavy and low around the pedals.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 2 is supported primarily by very good torque sensor. The most complete folder in this comparison: fast, stable and comfortable, although heavy and low around the pedals.
Weight of about 31.5 kg
▶One of the most coherent city e-bikes in this comparison: comfortable, predictable and highly efficient, although heavy and not perfectly suspended.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 3 is supported primarily by natural torque-sensor assistance. One of the most coherent city e-bikes in this comparison: comfortable, predictable and highly efficient, although heavy and not perfectly suspended.
Weight of about 33 kg
▶One of the best city bikes in this comparison when natural assistance, simplicity and road legality matter more than high power on steep climbs.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 4 is supported primarily by very natural torque sensor. One of the best city bikes in this comparison when natural assistance, simplicity and road legality matter more than high power on steep climbs.
Only 43 Nm for steep climbs
▶The C29 Pro rides more naturally and travels farther than the older Duotts C29, with price-to-range ratio as its greatest advantage.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 5 is supported primarily by 48 v 21 ah battery. The C29 Pro rides more naturally and travels farther than the older Duotts C29, with price-to-range ratio as its greatest advantage.
Old-school frame and external controller
▶The P26 Mate combines high power with exceptionally easy access and comfort, but weighs about 36-37 kg and is not an ordinary road-legal bicycle.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 6 is supported primarily by motor peaks at 1,500 w. The P26 Mate combines high power with exceptionally easy access and comfort, but weighs about 36-37 kg and is not an ordinary road-legal bicycle.
Weight of about 36-37 kg
▶The upgrade is worthwhile for the design, brakes, lighting and battery, but the controller still limits how natural the bike feels.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 7 is supported primarily by strong motor with plenty in reserve for climbs. The upgrade is worthwhile for the design, brakes, lighting and battery, but the controller still limits how natural the bike feels.
PAS levels behave like speed limits
▶An excellent base for long rides and everyday commuting, but my test bike had several assembly issues and a potentially dangerous problem involving the optional throttle.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 8 is supported primarily by almost 90 km of real-world range. An excellent base for long rides and everyday commuting, but my test bike had several assembly issues and a potentially dangerous problem involving the optional throttle.
Battery jammed in the frame during the test
▶It is great fun off-road and on longer rides, but the pedals, kickstand and preferably the brakes should be replaced before hard use.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 9 is supported primarily by very effective rear suspension. It is great fun off-road and on longer rides, but the pedals, kickstand and preferably the brakes should be replaced before hard use.
Mechanical brakes are too weak
▶Good range and power for the price, although buyers should accept the high weight and check the stiffness of the folding mechanism.
At this budget, I expect a complete bike that rides well without an immediate list of expensive upgrades. Position 10 is supported primarily by torque sensor. Good range and power for the price, although buyers should accept the high weight and check the stiffness of the folding mechanism.
The handlebar can wobble at its hinge
First place means the strongest fit for this ranking, not a perfect bike for everyone. Differences between positions may come from comfort, road configuration, weight, assistance behaviour or current price.
This ranking contains only bikes tested by JOTEM. Position is not determined by affiliate commission. Prices and availability change, so offer buttons open the current store page.
Add two or three bikes and compare test scores, range, drive, weight, intended use and current offers side by side.
Answer 10 questions about use, terrain, budget, range, rider weight, frame and equipment to see the three best matches based on real test data.
A good electric bike must suit the route, rider weight and storage situation. Motor wattage alone does not show how smoothly assistance responds, while claimed range ignores temperature, climbing, pace and assistance level.
This ranking combines technical data with riding experience. Before ordering, read the full review, confirm the exact drive configuration and check the rules that apply where the bike will be used.
Only bikes I have actually ridden are included. Their order reflects the stated methodology, test results and the strengths and limitations observed during testing.
No. It means the best fit for this particular ranking. Another model may suit a different budget, rider height, payload or route better.
Prices and promotions change frequently. The page does not promise a fixed price and instead links to the current offer. Confirm the code in the basket before paying.
The rating table uses a weighted average, so a bike with only a few votes cannot automatically beat a model assessed by many riders.