Best Electric Bikes for Seniors: 6 Great Options in 2023 - eBike Choices (2024)

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If you’re an older person, who is looking for an easy and low-impact way to keep fit and active, an electric bike might be the perfect solution. In this article, we’ll share some of the best electric bikes for seniors – perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re looking for leisurely rides around the neighbourhood or longer adventures in the countryside, there’s an e-bike out there that’s perfect for you. So read on to find out more about the best electric bikes for seniors!

Best Electric Bikes for Seniors: 6 Great Options in 2023 - eBike Choices (1)

The Benefits of Using an E-Bike for Older Riders

First of all, e-bikes are great for getting fit without putting too much strain on the body. Electric bikes are also low-impact, meaning they’re kinder on the joints than traditional bicycles. Additionally, e-bikes can be ridden with or without the assist – you choose how much help the motor gives you. And finally, electric bikes are simply fun to ride! They’re a great way to explore your neighbourhood or get out into nature.

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In the last few years, e-bike use has exploded and I know so many older riders who’ve benefitted greatly from owning one. I have several family friends, all in their 70s who now ride regularly thanks to an electric bike. The father of my local auto repair shop is in his 80s and covered over 2000 miles last year.

How to Choose the Best Electric Bike for Your Needs

When it comes to choosing the best electric bike for your needs, there are a few things you’ll need to consider. The first thing to think about is what type of riding you’ll be doing. If you’re looking for something leisurely and easy, then an e-bike with a low battery capacity should suffice. However, if you’re planning on doing some longer rides or tackling hilly terrain, you’ll need an e-bike with a more powerful motor and battery.

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Accessories

You’ll also need to decide what kind of features you want on your e-bike. Some electric bikes come with extras like suspension systems and built-in lights, which can be handy if you’re planning on doing some night riding. Others come with more basic features, which is fine if you just want a simple and reliable electric bike.

Suspension

Suspension isn’t necessary but will take the sting out of rough terrain and potholes. Whether you opt for front and rear suspension is a personal choice, If you have any physical problems that are exacerbated by shocks, then having suspension is a good idea. Some e-bikes will even have suspension built into the seat-post or even the handlebar stem.

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Saddle

Having the right saddle for your e-bike is important as you’ll (hopefully) be spending a lot of time on it! Getting an anatomically correct saddle is important, as is getting one that is comfortable and supportive. A good saddle will make all the difference on long rides, so it’s worth investing in a quality option. It’s worth going to a bike shop to get your sit bones measured. We are all shaped differently and having a saddle that is the right width will make all the difference.

Hub gears

An e-bike with hub gears and belt drive is a great option – these are very low maintenance and you won’t need to worry about getting oil on your clothes. With a hub gear system, you can change gears when stationary.

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Electronic shifting / fully automatic gear

Some of the most modern hub-gear systems have electronic shifting which means you just tap a button to shift up or down. These high-tech shifting systems can also be fully automatic and connect to your e-bike motor. The sensors will automatically shift up or down gear depending on your pedalling cadence (rpm) and how much force you’re exerting. This means you will always be in the right gear.

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Frame design/geometry

E-Bikes designed with the older rider in mind will usually have a more relaxed frame geometry. This means the riding position will be more upright and comfortable. It’s quite common to see step-through or trapeze frames – these are great because you don’t have to swing your leg over. Plus, they have a low stand-over height.

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Price

Finally, you’ll need to think about your budget. Electric bikes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s important to know how much you’re willing to spend. Thankfully, there are plenty of great options out there that fit all budgets.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you should have a good idea of what kind of electric bike is right for you.

The Top 6 Best Electric Bikes for Seniors

The e-bikes featured below are just a small selection of what is suitable for older riders. I have included bikes with relaxed riding positions and in some cases a step-through frame. They all have powerful motors and a decent battery range, meaning you can enjoy a relaxing ride in the countryside without worrying about steep hills.

Radrover 6 Plus Low-step

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The RadRover 6 Plus Low-Step is a comfortable, versatile and accessible fat tire e-bike. Featuring hydraulic disc brakes for greater stopping power, an easily removable semi-integrated 672Wh battery, and a powerful 750w hub motor, it’s perfect for riders of all levels and especially suitable for seniors thanks to its step-though frame design and upright riding position. Read my full article on the Rad Power range of e-bikes.

Visit Rad Power for more info

Stromer ST3 Comfort

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The Stromer ST3 Comfort is the perfect e-bike for those who are looking for a high-performance model with plenty of customization options. With its powerful 600w rear-wheel motor and integrated design, this bike can handle the longest rides with ease. And thanks to its large-volume 27.52 Pirelli tires, you’ll enjoy maximum comfort, stability and safety during your ride. Plus, with full connectivity features like GPS localization and Smartlock, you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips.

Buy from Mikes Bikes USA

Check out nearly 300 new and used e-bikes on the Pro’s Closet

Trek Allant+ 9.9 Stagger

Best Electric Bikes for Seniors: 6 Great Options in 2023 - eBike Choices (10)

If you’re looking for a premium e-bike experience, look no further than the Trek Allant+ 9.9S Stagger. This top-of-the-line model is built for speed and distance, with a powerful Bosch Performance Speed motor and long-range 625Wh battery. Plus, it features a sleek carbon frame and thoughtful extras like a controller that integrates with your smartphone. Whether you’re using it for commuting or weekend rides, the Allant+ 9.9S is sure to impress. To learn more or order your own, visit trekbikes.com today!

Visit Trek for more information

Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 3 Remixte Electric Bike

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This is a pedal-assist bike that will let you get out and explore the great outdoors, the Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 3 Remixte is a versatile machine. This e-bike is built for people who want to escape the rat race and enjoy some peace in nature – and with a Bosch motor that can take you up to 28 mph, it’s perfect for those who love to ride at a faster pace. Its low-step and relaxed geometry make it particularly suitable for older riders. Plus, it comes with all the extras you’ll need, like mudguards, a pannier rack, lights and a kickstand.

Buy from REI (USA)

Check out nearly 300 new and used e-bikes on the Pro’s Closet

MARIN SAUSALITO E1 ST 2022 E-BIKE

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If you’re looking for a comfortable e-bike that can handle a variety of surfaces, the Marin Sausalito E1 ST is an excellent option. With its lightweight frame and large tires, this bike will make your ride more enjoyable. Plus, with its Shimano STEPS E5000 motor and 418Wh battery, you’ll be able to conquer hills and ride farther than ever before. The Shimano Steps is one of my favourite motors – it’s smooth, efficient and responsive and puts the fun back into cycling!

Buy from JensonUSA

Electra Navigator Go! 5i

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For an e-bike that will take you on all of your adventures, both near and far, the Electra Navigator Go! 5i is the perfect choice. With its sturdy frame, relaxed geometry and powerful Bosch motor, this bike will help you explore new terrain and discover new places. The Electra benefits from a Shimano Nexus 5E internally geared hub, meaning you can change gear whilst stationary. The Electra brand is part of Trek bikes and has a laid-back, retro styling that not only looks great but is comfortable to ride.

Visit Trek Bikes for more info

Conclusion

So there you have it. Some of the best electric bikes for older riders. E-Bikes are a game-changer on many levels and I know of many older riders who’ve benefited immensely from owning an e-bike. During the warmer months, I see many seniors out in the countryside enjoying their e-bikes. Staying active is important and an electric bike is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors. I hope you’ve found this article useful, and if you have any questions, please leave a comment below and I’ll aim to reply in 24hrs.

Check out nearly 300 new and used e-bikes on the Pro’s Closet

Further Reading

  • Electric Bike Buyer’s Guide – Make a Fresh Start in 2023
  • Fat Tire E-Bikes: What are the Pros and Cons?
Best Electric Bikes for Seniors: 6 Great Options in 2023 - eBike Choices (2024)

FAQs

Are e-bikes a good idea for seniors? ›

E-bikes are very popular with seniors. But why is that? Quite simply: they offer older people a great way to stay fit and mobile. An e-bike can seem a very exciting prospect, especially at first, because it rides faster than an ordinary bike.

What is the average price of a good ebike? ›

For a good quality, serviceable electric bike, the starting price range can be $1,500-$2,500 with options that can go much higher. The average price of an e-bike is about $2,000. Entry-level electric bikes are about $1,000. High-end e-bikes can cost $6,000 or more.

What to avoid when buying an electric bike? ›

Avoid common mistakes such as focusing solely on price, ignoring test rides, buying the wrong frame size or type, and overlooking warranty and after-sales support. Keep in mind the importance of battery size, the e-bike's weight, local laws and regulations, and maintenance requirements.

What is the easiest bike to ride for seniors? ›

Endurance bikes: the best road bikes for seniors

The rider's position, less forward-leaning thanks to higher handlebars than on an aero bike, means long hours of pain-free riding for the lower back. Another advantage is that endurance bikes are designed to resist road shock, which reduces the risk of injury.

What is the disadvantage of e bicycle? ›

Electric bicycles require regular maintenance to ensure they work properly. Electronic components and batteries can be expensive to maintain and repair. Battery failures, motor problems and repairs to electronic control systems can represent significant additional expenses.

How many years does an eBike last? ›

With proper care and maintenance, your electric bike can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years. The lifespan will vary based on the quality of the components, usage patterns, and how well you maintain your bike.

Do electric bikes charge when you pedal? ›

Generally speaking, most electric bikes do not charge when you pedal. They need their batteries to be plugged into a power outlet to be powered. However, some models offer the possibility of charging while you pedal, although this is often very inefficient.

How do I choose a good electric bike? ›

Here are a few tips on how to choose your electrically assisted bicycle.
  1. Define your needs precisely. ...
  2. Choose the type of assistance that suits you best. ...
  3. Learn about the battery. ...
  4. Check the type of brakes. ...
  5. Get the right protection gear. ...
  6. Try before you buy.

Is it harder to pedal an electric bike? ›

If you ride an e-bike manually, pedaling can be more challenging because it's heavier.

What is the difference between an electric bike and an electric hybrid bike? ›

One significant difference between hybrid bikes and electric bikes is that while hybrid bikes rely on the rider's pedaling power alone, electric bikes provide a user selectable amount of assistance via an onboard computer that typically mounts the the handlebars.

Why buy an expensive ebike? ›

E-bikes travel at speeds greater than a normal bicycle and will likely be seeing a lot of use. You need to ensure that the e-bike has high-quality parts that won't fail and is going to stand up to increased speeds and potentially greater impacts. These high-quality parts are going to increase the cost of your bike.

What is the main problem of ebike? ›

One of the primary challenges faced by e-bike riders is the limitation of battery life and range.

Do electric bikes need maintenance? ›

The first thing to realize about an e-bike is that it is first and foremost a bicycle, so it requires the same basic maintenance as a non-electric bike.

Do I really need an e-bike? ›

If you're planning on using a bike for commuting or travelling long distances, an electric bike might make your journey easier. Or if you're less fit or mobile than you used to be and struggle with steep hills, electric bikes will make cycling much more manageable.

Should a 70 year old ride a bike? ›

It can enhance physical strength, flexibility, and endurance, making it easier to perform daily activities and maintain independence.” Those are just few reasons why biking for seniors is so great—but here are all the advantages you gain when you start pedaling regularly.

What is the average age of people who ride ebikes? ›

The highest age was 87, with the lowest age at 25. The median age was 60 years old, just above the average. The race and ethnicity of e-bike users was 87.27% White/Caucasian, with 4.66% preferring not to say, 2.8% Hispanic, 1.55% American Indian or Alaskan Native, 1.24% Asian, 1.86% other, and 0.62% Black (table 1).

Is it safe for an 80 year old to ride a bike? ›

More importantly, this form of physical activity is non-weight bearing, with less impact on your joints, a consideration for older people. Cycling is a great way of keeping your cardio-vascular system in good health without any of the potentially damaging effects of weight bearing exercise, such as jogging.

What is the most comfortable bike for elderly people? ›

The Best Bicycles for Seniors
  • Schwinn Wayfarer : Best Overall.
  • Kent International Springdale Hybrid Bicycle : Most Affordable.
  • Priority Classic Plus Cruiser Bike : Best for Cities.
  • sixthreezero EVRYjourney : Best for Women.
  • Mobo Triton Pro : Best Recumbent Bicycle.
May 22, 2024

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