The best electric bike in NZ overall is the Heybike Cityscape 2.0, a step-through commuter with a 500W rear hub motor, dual disc brakes, front suspension and puncture-resistant 26 x 1.95 inch tyres, rated to around 50 miles of range. Worth knowing before you buy: New Zealand only classes a bike as a power-assisted cycle while its motor is rated at 300W or less, so higher-powered builds sit outside that definition and are worth checking against the rules for where you intend to ride.
An electric bike takes the effort out of hills, headwinds and long commutes, and the right one depends on whether you’re riding pavement, trails, or hauling cargo along the way.
We’ve rounded up 8 well-reviewed electric bikes available in New Zealand, from folding commuters to fat-tire and cargo builds, comparing motor power, battery range and genuine customer ratings so you can see what each style of e-bike actually offers.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Key Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Heybike Cityscape 2.0 Electric Bike, Peak 1200W Motor, 468Wh Battery, 50-Mile Range | Best Overall | Motor: 500W rated / 1200W peak hub | Battery: 468Wh removable (UL-certified) | Range: up to 50 miles | Top speed: 20mph | Speeds: 7 | Rating: 4.4★ (623 reviews) |
| Gotrax R1 20in Folding Electric Bike, 500W Peak Motor, 40-Mile Range | Best Folding | Motor: 350W rated / 500W peak hub | Battery: 48V 7.8Ah (~374Wh) | Range: up to 40 miles (PAS) | Top speed: 20mph | Weight: ~45 lb, folds to 37x18x28in | Rating: 4.1★ (702 reviews) |
| ESKUTE M200 27.5in Mountain E-Bike, 21-Speed, 1200W Peak Motor, 55-Mile Range | Best for Mountain/Off-Road | Motor: 1200W peak brushless | Battery: 48V 10.4Ah (~499Wh) | Range: up to 55 miles | Top speed: 28mph | Speeds: 21 | Rating: 4.3★ (95 reviews) |
| EUY Cityrang 4.0 Electric Bike, Peak 1500W Motor, 960Wh Battery, 70-Mile Range | Best Cargo Bike | Motor: 750W rated / 1500W peak | Battery: 48V 20Ah (960Wh) | Range: up to 70 miles | Tires: 20″x4″ fat tire | Weight: ~71 lb | Rating: 4.5★ (193 reviews) |
| Jasion EB5 MAX Electric Bike, Peak 2000W Motor, 26in x4in Fat Tire, 65-Mile Range | Best Fat-Tire | Motor: 2000W peak hub | Battery: 48V 15Ah (720Wh) | Range: up to 65 miles (PAS) | Top speed: 28+mph | Tires: 26″x4″ fat tire | Rating: 4.3★ (321 reviews) |
| Gotrax Dolphin 26in Step-Thru Electric Bike, 500W Peak Motor, 30-Mile Range | Best Step-Through/Comfort | Motor: 350W rated / 500W peak | Battery: 36V 7.8Ah (280.8Wh) | Range: up to 30 miles | Top speed: 20mph | Weight: ~49 lb (22.2kg) | Rating: 4.3★ (217 reviews) |
| Jasion EB5 Electric Bike, 26in Tire, Peak 1000W Motor, 40-Mile Range | Best Budget Pick | Motor: 1000W peak hub | Battery: removable lithium-ion | Range: 25-40 miles | Top speed: 20mph | Weight: ~49.6 lb | Rating: 4.1★ (2,265 reviews) |
| FREESKY Swift Horse Ultra Electric Bike, BAFANG 3500W Peak Motor, 140-Mile Range | Best Long-Range/Premium | Motor: 3500W peak BAFANG (140Nm torque) | Battery: 48V 35Ah (~1440Wh) | Range: up to 140 miles | Top speed: 38mph | Suspension: full | Rating: 4.8★ (64 reviews) |
1. Heybike Cityscape 2.0 Electric Bike, 50-Mile Range
The Heybike Cityscape 2.0 presents a clean, step-through city bike profile built around a carbon steel frame. Puncture-resistant 26 x 1.95 inch tires pair with a front suspension fork and dual disc brakes, giving the bike a composed feel over potholes and uneven pavement. A 7-speed drivetrain and an integrated headlight round out a package clearly aimed at everyday commuting rather than off-road use.
Power comes from a 500W rated hub motor with a 1200W peak rating, enough for brisk acceleration and hill climbing without feeling harsh. The removable 468Wh lithium-ion battery is UL-certified and IPX6 waterproof-rated, and the listing quotes up to 50 miles of range in pedal-assist mode. Three working modes (throttle, pedal-assist, and manual) let riders dial in exactly how much the motor should do.
With 623 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the Cityscape 2.0 has a substantial track record for a mid-priced commuter e-bike, reassuring for buyers who want a proven option rather than a brand-new listing. It is not a folding bike and there is no rear cargo rack included as standard, so riders who need portability or built-in load capacity will want to look elsewhere on this list.
Pros
- UL-certified, IPX6 waterproof 468Wh battery with removable design
- Strong 623-review track record at 4.4 stars
- Dual disc brakes, front suspension, and 7-speed drivetrain
- Three riding modes for flexible power use
Cons
- No folding capability or built-in cargo rack
- Throttle-only range is noticeably shorter than the quoted pedal-assist range
Key specs: Motor: 500W rated / 1200W peak hub | Battery: 468Wh removable (UL-certified) | Range: up to 50 miles | Top speed: 20mph | Speeds: 7 | Rating: 4.4★ (623 reviews)
2. Gotrax R1 20in Folding Electric Bike, 40-Mile Range
The Gotrax R1 folds down to roughly 37 x 18 x 28 inches, making it one of the more compact options here for anyone who needs to tuck a bike into a car boot, hallway cupboard, or under a desk. Its 20 x 2.6 inch tires and aluminum alloy frame keep the whole package light enough to carry short distances once folded.
A 350W rated motor with a 500W peak output drives the rear wheel, topping out at 20mph, while the 48V 7.8Ah (roughly 374Wh) battery is rated for up to 40 miles in pedal-assist mode. Five levels of pedal assist plus a smart display covering speed and remaining range give riders reasonable control over how far a single charge will stretch. Dual disc brakes, an LED headlight, and a rear reflector cover the basics for low-light riding.
The R1 carries 702 ratings at an average of 4.1 stars, a healthy sample size that suggests the folding mechanism and componentry hold up reasonably well in daily use. Being a folding bike does involve some compromises versus a rigid-frame commuter, including a firmer ride from the smaller wheels and a suspension setup that is rigid rather than sprung.
Pros
- Folds down to a compact 37 x 18 x 28 inches for storage or transport
- Large 702-review base at 4.1 stars
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Dual disc brakes and a full lighting kit included
Cons
- Rigid rear end with no rear suspension
- Smaller 20-inch wheels give a firmer ride than full-size bikes
- Limited stock availability at times given demand
Key specs: Motor: 350W rated / 500W peak hub | Battery: 48V 7.8Ah (~374Wh) | Range: up to 40 miles (PAS) | Top speed: 20mph | Weight: ~45 lb, folds to 37x18x28in | Rating: 4.1★ (702 reviews)
3. ESKUTE M200 27.5in Mountain E-Bike, 21-Speed, 55-Mile Range
The ESKUTE M200 is built around a 21-speed drivetrain and 27.5 inch wheels, positioning it as a genuine mountain e-bike rather than a commuter with knobby tires bolted on. Front suspension and disc brakes handle rougher terrain, and the frame supports NFC card unlocking as a modern security touch.
A 1200W peak brushless motor pushes the bike to a claimed 28mph, backed by a 48V 10.4Ah (about 499Wh) battery good for up to 55 miles on pedal assist. Four riding modes, including a walk-assist setting, add flexibility for technical trail sections. The listing states the bike arrives roughly 90 percent pre-assembled, which should shorten initial setup.
With 95 reviews at 4.3 stars, the M200 has a smaller review base than some of the commuter picks on this list, reflecting its narrower, more specialised audience of trail riders. The frame is rated to 350 pounds, giving it decent load tolerance for a bike in its price bracket.
Pros
- Genuine 21-speed mountain gearing and 27.5-inch wheels
- Ships roughly 90% pre-assembled
- NFC unlock and four riding modes including walk-assist
- Strong claimed 55-mile pedal-assist range
Cons
- Smaller review base (95) than most other picks on this list
- Front suspension only, no rear shock
- Budget-tier componentry relative to dedicated mountain e-bikes
Key specs: Motor: 1200W peak brushless | Battery: 48V 10.4Ah (~499Wh) | Range: up to 55 miles | Top speed: 28mph | Speeds: 21 | Rating: 4.3★ (95 reviews)
4. EUY Cityrang 4.0 Electric Bike, Peak 1500W Motor, 70-Mile Range
This EUY-branded model (listed under the name Cityrang 4.0) pairs a step-through frame with 20 x 4 inch fat tires and a reinforced rear rack, built with the explicit intention of hauling cargo or groceries alongside the rider. Front suspension forks and mechanical disc brakes front and rear help manage the extra weight that cargo-hauling tends to bring.
A 750W rated motor with a 1500W peak rating is paired with a substantial 48V 20Ah (960Wh) removable battery, giving a claimed range of up to 70 miles in pedal-assist mode. Five riding modes and five pedal-assist levels are shown on a color LCD display, and the drivetrain runs through a 7-speed cassette rather than a basic single-speed setup.
The listing has built a respectable base of 193 reviews at 4.5 stars, a solid signal for a cargo-style bike in a fairly crowded field. At around 71 pounds it is one of the heavier bikes on this list, a direct consequence of the reinforced frame and rack needed to carry loads, and the listing notes it arrives requiring partial assembly.
Pros
- Reinforced rear rack genuinely built for cargo or grocery loads
- Large 960Wh battery with up to 70-mile pedal-assist range
- Five riding modes and a color LCD display
- Solid 193-review base at 4.5 stars
Cons
- Heaviest bike on this list at roughly 71 pounds
- Requires partial assembly on arrival
- Lower-profile brand with less established market history than some other picks
Key specs: Motor: 750W rated / 1500W peak | Battery: 48V 20Ah (960Wh) | Range: up to 70 miles | Tires: 20″x4″ fat tire | Weight: ~71 lb | Rating: 4.5★ (193 reviews)
5. Jasion EB5 MAX Electric Bike, Peak 2000W Motor, 65-Mile Range
The Jasion EB5 MAX wraps a carbon steel frame around 26 x 4 inch puncture-resistant fat tires, aimed squarely at riders who want stability on sand, gravel, and wet surfaces. Pre-installed fenders and a rear rack add practicality on top of the fat-tire format’s natural comfort advantages.
Its hub motor peaks at 2000W with claimed speeds over 28mph, and a 48V 15Ah (720Wh) removable battery is rated for up to 65 miles on pedal assist or 35 miles on throttle alone. Cruise control and a password-protected color display are unusual extras at this price point, and a lockable suspension fork combines with 180mm dual disc brakes for stopping power.
With 321 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, the EB5 MAX has a meaningfully larger review base than most other fat-tire and mountain options in this price range, which helps confirm its real-world reliability. The bike is rated to carry up to 400 pounds, useful for larger riders or those planning to add gear.
Pros
- 321 reviews at 4.3 stars, among the stronger review bases in the fat-tire category
- Cruise control and a password-protected display are unusual extras at this price
- Pre-installed fenders and rear rack add everyday practicality
- Rated to carry up to 400 lbs
Cons
- Wide tires and stronger motor add weight versus slimmer commuter bikes
- No rear suspension, front fork only
Key specs: Motor: 2000W peak hub | Battery: 48V 15Ah (720Wh) | Range: up to 65 miles (PAS) | Top speed: 28+mph | Tires: 26″x4″ fat tire | Rating: 4.3★ (321 reviews)
6. Gotrax Dolphin 26in Step-Thru Electric Bike, 30-Mile Range
The Gotrax Dolphin uses a step-through aluminum frame with a height-adjustable seat and angle-adjustable handlebar, aimed at riders who want an easy mount and a relaxed, upright riding position. A 26 inch wheel size and dual disc brakes keep the bike approachable for less experienced e-bike riders.
The 350W rated, 500W peak motor tops out at 20mph, and the 280.8Wh removable battery is rated for around 30 miles in pedal-assist mode. A Shimano 7-speed drivetrain plus a boost mode for short bursts of extra power give the Dolphin more range of use than a single-speed cruiser, and it carries UL2849 certification for battery and electrical safety.
The Dolphin has built up 217 reviews at an average of 4.3 stars, a solid track record for a comfort-focused city bike. At around 49 pounds it is comparatively light for a step-through design, and it comes with a 365-day parts warranty.
Pros
- Height-adjustable seat and angle-adjustable handlebar for a tailored fit
- Shimano 7-speed drivetrain plus a boost mode
- UL2849 certified with a 365-day parts warranty
- Comparatively light at around 49 lbs
Cons
- More modest 30-mile range and 20mph top speed than performance-oriented picks
- Front suspension only, no rear shock
Key specs: Motor: 350W rated / 500W peak | Battery: 36V 7.8Ah (280.8Wh) | Range: up to 30 miles | Top speed: 20mph | Weight: ~49 lb (22.2kg) | Rating: 4.3★ (217 reviews)
7. Jasion EB5 Electric Bike, 26in Tire, Peak, 40-Mile Range
The standard Jasion EB5 shares its frame and 26 inch wheel format with the pricier EB5 MAX but strips things back to hit a noticeably lower price point. A high-carbon steel triangular frame and front fork suspension keep the ride composed despite the budget positioning, and puncture-resistant tires add a bit of extra durability.
A 1000W peak motor drives the rear wheel to a 20mph top speed, and the removable battery is rated for 25 to 40 miles per charge depending on riding mode. Four working modes, including a booster setting for short uphill bursts, and a 7-speed gear set give the EB5 more flexibility than its price alone might suggest. An adjustable-brightness LCD display tracks speed, distance, and average speed.
The EB5 stands out for review volume alone, with over 2,265 ratings and a 4.1-star average, by far the largest review base of any bike on this list and a strong signal that it holds up across a large number of real buyers. At roughly 49.6 pounds it is reasonably light for the category.
Pros
- Largest review base on this entire list at over 2,265 ratings
- Lowest price point among all 8 picks
- Four working modes including a booster setting
- Lightweight at roughly 49.6 lbs
Cons
- Simpler componentry than the mid-range and premium picks
- The listing reports inconsistent battery capacity figures, so treat exact range claims as approximate
- 20mph top speed and shorter range versus pricier options
Key specs: Motor: 1000W peak hub | Battery: removable lithium-ion | Range: 25-40 miles | Top speed: 20mph | Weight: ~49.6 lb | Rating: 4.1★ (2,265 reviews)
8. FREESKY Swift Horse Ultra Electric Bike, BAFANG, 140-Mile Range
The FREESKY model, sold under the name Swift Horse Ultra, is built around a full-suspension setup pairing a dual-crown hydraulic fork with rear air suspension, aimed at riders who want mountain-bike-grade comfort alongside serious range. Oversized 26 x 4 inch fat tires and 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes back up the suspension for control on rough terrain.
A BAFANG-branded motor peaking at 3500W and delivering up to 140Nm of torque is the standout feature, giving the bike a claimed top speed of 38mph and the ability to climb slopes up to 40 degrees. The 48V 35Ah battery, built with LG cells and rated at roughly 1440Wh, is what unlocks the bike’s headline claim of up to 140 miles of range in pedal-assist mode, backed by UL 2849 certification through TÜV.
Reviews are fewer in number than some of the higher-volume picks on this list at 64 ratings, but the 4.8-star average is the highest of any bike in this guide, suggesting strong satisfaction among the buyers who have taken the plunge. Security features include NFC card and password unlocking along with integrated turn signals and brake lights.
Pros
- Highest average rating on this list at 4.8 stars
- BAFANG-branded motor with 140Nm torque and true full suspension
- Large 1440Wh battery for up to 140-mile claimed range
- UL 2849 certification through TÜV, plus NFC/password security features
Cons
- Smallest review count on this list at 64 ratings
- Highest price point of all 8 picks
- Heavier, trail-oriented build is less nimble for pure pavement commuting
Key specs: Motor: 3500W peak BAFANG (140Nm torque) | Battery: 48V 35Ah (~1440Wh) | Range: up to 140 miles | Top speed: 38mph | Suspension: full | Rating: 4.8★ (64 reviews)
How to Choose an Electric Bike
Motor power and battery capacity
Higher peak wattage gives stronger acceleration and hill-climbing, while a larger battery (measured in Wh) extends how far you can ride on pedal-assist before recharging. Match both to your terrain, hilly routes and cargo loads draw down a battery faster than flat commuting.
Frame and tire style
Step-through frames suit easy mounting and a relaxed riding position, folding frames trade some ride comfort for portability and storage, and fat tires add stability on sand, gravel or wet surfaces at the cost of extra weight.
Review count and rating
A high star rating from a small handful of reviews is a weaker signal than a slightly lower rating backed by hundreds or thousands of genuine buyers. Weigh both together rather than the star rating alone.
Assembly and warranty
Most e-bikes in this price range arrive partially assembled, so check what tools and time are needed before the first ride, and look for battery certifications like UL2849 alongside the manufacturer’s parts warranty.
If you are shopping for the whole family, the guides to trampolines, electric scooters and kids’ scooters cover the other options.
Verdict
The Heybike Cityscape 2.0 is our overall pick, backed by a strong 623-review track record and a well-rounded commuter spec sheet. Riders who need to fold and stash their bike should look at the Gotrax R1, while anyone hauling groceries or gear will get more use from the EUY Cityrang 4.0’s reinforced rack and larger battery. Buyers on a tight budget can still get a highly-reviewed option in the Jasion EB5. Match motor power, battery size and frame style to how and where you’ll actually ride, rather than chasing the single highest spec on the page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a commuter e-bike and a mountain e-bike?
Commuter e-bikes are built around lighter frames, road-oriented tires, and features like fenders, racks, and lighting for pavement use, while mountain e-bikes use knobby tires, more aggressive suspension, and wider gear ranges suited to trails and uneven terrain. Choosing between them comes down to where most of the riding will actually happen.
How long do e-bike batteries typically last, and how can I extend their lifespan?
Most e-bike lithium-ion batteries are rated for several hundred charge cycles before capacity noticeably declines, often translating to several years of regular use. Keeping the battery between roughly 20% and 80% charge for everyday storage, avoiding extreme heat or cold, and using the charger supplied by the manufacturer all help preserve long-term capacity.
Do I need a licence, registration, or insurance to ride an e-bike in New Zealand?
Rules around e-bike classification, licensing, and where they can legally be ridden can vary and change over time, so rather than quote a specific answer here, check the current requirements directly with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency or your local council before riding.
What is the power and speed limit for an e-bike to be treated as a bicycle rather than a moped in New Zealand?
These thresholds are set by transport regulations and are the kind of detail that is easy to get wrong or out of date, so confirm the current motor power and speed cut-offs with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency or your local council rather than relying on a general guide.
How do I decide between a cargo e-bike and a standard e-bike?
A cargo e-bike makes sense if the bike will regularly carry groceries, kids, or other loads, since the reinforced frame, rack, and higher-capacity battery are built for that extra weight. For riders mainly commuting solo or riding for fitness, a standard commuter or mountain e-bike will usually be lighter, cheaper, and easier to manoeuvre.
How often should an e-bike be serviced, and what maintenance can I do myself?
Basic upkeep like keeping tires properly inflated, lubricating the chain, and checking brake pads can be done at home every few weeks depending on riding frequency, while the motor, battery connections, and drivetrain are worth having professionally inspected roughly once or twice a year. Riding in wet or sandy conditions more often will generally shorten the interval between check-ups.
