It’s not surprising that ebikes are going to be heavier than traditional bikes. The added components such as the motor and battery are the two biggest factors when it comes to weight. Many bikes we see here at Ebike Escape are in the 65-75+ lb range! That can be a lot of weight when trying to load it onto a bike rack. Heavier ebikes can also feel bulkier and unruly when riding, especially when you are not super comfortable on a bike. So what are the best lightweight ebikes to choose from?
If you want a lighter electric bike that is easier to manage, there are still ebikes that can fit the bill. Here is our list of the best lightweight ebikes that aren’t going to break your bank!
Benefits of a lighter weight ebike
The two lightest ebikes on our list are only 33 lbs! With a lighter ebike, you will be giving up some power. Lighter-weight ebikes tend to have small batteries and/or smaller motors. They tend to be bikes designed for city riding with thinner tires and sleek appearances. Many of these bikes don’t include extras such as fenders or kickstands as a way to minimize weight.
As technology improves we will see lighter and lighter ebikes. Currently, some of the best lightweight ebikes are sub 30 lbs! That is even lighter than many traditional bikes but they will come with a price to match! Our review today will cover affordable and lightweight ebikes. If weight is more critical than price consider this list.
Without further ado, let’s get started with the best lightweight, but affordable electric bikes!
Ride1Up Roadster V3 at 39lbs: Chain and Belt Drive Options Starting At $1,295
Let’s introduce one of the standout lightweight e-bikes in our lineup, the Ride1Up Roadster V3, weighing in at approximately 39 lbs! This bike continues the clean and minimalist design of its predecessor, featuring internal cable routing and a concealed, paint-matched battery. Its sleek appearance makes it easy to mistake for a traditional bicycle, and it’s impressively quiet during operation. The Roadster V3 is priced starting at $1,295.
Frame Options:
- Low-Step Frame: Suitable for riders 5’1″ to 5’10” with a standover height of 23.2 inches.
- Size Small: Fits riders 5’3″ to 5’8″ with a standover height of 30.5 inches.
- Size Large: Designed for riders 5’8″ to 6’3″ with a standover height of 31.5 inches.
Color Choices: The Roadster V3 comes in Onyx Black (which can appear as deep blue in certain lighting) and Mint, both accented with stylish brown sidewall tires.
Motor and Battery:
- Motor: A 500-watt rear hub motor with 50Nm of torque, providing smooth acceleration suitable for urban commuting and moderate hills.
- Battery: A 36V, 9.8Ah removable battery, offering an advertised range of 20-40 miles depending on usage and conditions.
- Throttle: Yes, unlike the V2, the Roadster V3 includes a discreetly integrated throttle, allowing speeds up to 20 mph without pedaling.
- Class: This is a Class 3 e-bike with a top speed of 28 mph with pedal assist.
Drivetrain Options:
- 10-Speed Chain Drive: Features a Shimano Deore derailleur and shifter with an 11-36T cassette and 42T front chainring, ideal for riders who need a versatile gear range for varied terrains.
- Belt Drive Option: Equipped with a Dayco Power Carbon belt with a 64T front sprocket and 20T rear sprocket for a low-maintenance, quiet ride, perfect for flat terrains and all-season commuting.
Brakes and Tires:
- Brakes: Comes with Tektro HD-M285 hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors for reliable stopping power in all weather conditions.
- Tires: Fitted with 700x45c Schwalbe G-One RS gravel tires, providing stability and confidence on both paved roads and looser surfaces like gravel paths.
Additional Features:
- Display: A compact LCD screen with 5 levels of pedal assist.
- Lighting: Integrated front and rear lights for enhanced visibility.
- Fenders: Metal fenders included to protect against splashes.
- Accessories: Mounting points for a rear rack, expanding its utility for commuting or touring.
The Roadster V3 is a versatile, lightweight e-bike that’s perfect for urban commuting, gravel riding, and even touring. Its combination of high-quality components, stylish design, and affordable pricing makes it a compelling choice for riders seeking performance without excess weight.
Learn more in our Ride1Up Roadster V3 review.
Ride1Up CF Racer1 at 29 lbs: Carbon Fiber for the Win At $2,195
Ride1Up has shaken things up in the world of ebikes with the CF Racer1. This gravel and road-ready ebike boasts a lightweight carbon fiber frame, typically found on much pricier models, at a surprisingly affordable price tag of $2,295.
The CF Racer 1 features a 250w Bafang rear hub motor with 42 Nm of torque, providing a subtle yet powerful boost to flatten hills and maintain speed. With a range of 16-40 miles on the frame-integrated Samsung cell battery, it’s ideal for tackling commutes, workouts, or weekend adventures.
Riders will appreciate the CF Racer1’s focus on performance. The lightweight frame contributes to a total weight of just 29 lbs, making for a nimble and responsive ride. SRAM Rival 1 hydraulic disc brakes ensure confident stopping power, while the 11-speed doubletap shifters offer smooth gear changes. The CF Racer1 comes in two frame options, gravel and road, so riders can choose the best fit for their terrain preference.
Learn more in our full Ride1Up CF Racer1 review.
Velotric T1 ST Plus at 39 lbs – An Upgraded Lightweight Commuter with Apple Find My For $1,299
Velotric’s T1 ST Plus is the second generation of their sleek commuter ebike, now featuring a 350W rear hub motor (peak 600W), a torque sensor, and a new color LCD display. While it’s still a Class 3 ebike capable of speeds up to 28 mph (with pedal assist), the real draw here is portability—tipping the scales at just 39 lbs. Plus, the bike frame is IPX6-rated, and the removable battery is IPX7-rated for all-weather reliability. You even get Apple Find My integration for added peace of mind. Available in two frame sizes and eye-catching Lava (orange) or Sand (neutral), the T1 ST Plus also sports Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, Shimano 8-speed shifting, and a 330-lb weight capacity.
While the 350W motor may need extra pedal input on steeper hills, the T1 ST Plus excels on flats and gentle inclines. Riders will appreciate the adjustable stem for comfort, and the UL-certified 36V, 9.8Ah battery for a claimed 70-mile range in eco mode. The 3×5 pedal assist system can feel complex, but it’s easy to stick with one mode and toggle levels as needed. Overall, if you’re looking for a well-designed, easy-to-store ebike that blends functionality with style, the Velotric T1 ST Plus is worth a look—especially if you’re after that lightweight commuter sweet spot.
Learn more in our full Velotric T1 ST Plus review.
Lectric XP Lite 2.0 at 49 lbs-A folding ebike for only $799!
Lectric has refreshed its popular XP Lite by introducing the XP Lite 2.0, which remains one of the most affordable ebikes we recommend. Beyond classic colors like Arctic White, Sandstorm, and Electric Blue, there’s a stunning new Lavender Haze colorway—and for an extra $100, you can even opt for a smooth-running Gates belt drive. The XP Lite 2.0 now offers two battery options: the standard 7.8Ah battery (starting at $799) and a larger 14Ah battery (starting at $999), giving riders the ability to boost their range. Plus, the payload capacity is now 275 lbs, and like all Lectric bikes, the XP Lite 2.0 arrives fully assembled.
Notable upgrades include hydraulic disc brakes, a quieter 300-watt nominal (819-watt peak) motor, and a color LCD display that shows speed, battery life, and other ride data more clearly. This is a Class 2 ebike with a top speed of 20 mph and a single-speed drivetrain—either chain drive (52T x 16T) or belt drive (70T x 22T). The new PWR pedal assist system is current-based for smoother engagement, and the throttle is tied to the pedal assist level for precise control. Despite all these enhancements, the XP Lite 2.0 folds down quickly to a compact 36″ x 16″ x 27″, making it easy to stow away in a trunk or closet.
At 49 lbs, the XP Lite 2.0 maintains its reputation as a lightweight, budget-friendly folding ebike. The 20″ x 2.5″ tires with BMX-style handlebars create a fun, nimble ride, and a step-through frame isn’t necessary due to the low 22″ standover height. While it’s not built for conquering the steepest hills or for the tallest riders seeking full leg extension, the XP Lite 2.0 offers incredible value for the price—especially with perks like the UL-certified battery and optional belt drive.
Learn more in our full Lectric XP Lite 2.0 review.
Aventon Soltera 2.5 at 46 lbs: Upgraded Hydraulic Disc Brakes and Tires for $1,199
Aventon’s Soltera lineup gets a mid-generation refresh with the Soltera 2.5, offering important refinements over the previous model. The most notable changes include Tektro hydraulic disc brakes (no motor cutoffs) for stronger stopping power, Kenda 700x38c tires with reflective sidewalls for smoother rolling and better visibility, and cleaner cable routing through the head tube. Also, enjoy two fresh colorways—Baja and matte midnight black—that accentuate the Soltera’s sleek, modern look.
Under the hood, you still get a 350-watt rear hub motor with 45Nm of torque, powered by a 36V, 9.6Ah (346 Wh) battery neatly integrated into the down tube. The Soltera 2.5 is shipped as a Class 2 ebike, providing up to 20 mph via throttle or pedal assist, with a comfortable, more traditional ride feel thanks to the torque sensor. The bike keeps its integrated front and rear lights (with turn signals in the seat stays), weighs in at a nimble 46 lbs, and supports up to 300 lbs of payload. And if you’re looking to outfit the Soltera 2.5 for commuting, Aventon offers fenders, racks, and other accessories to suit your everyday needs.
Learn more in our full Aventon Soltera 2.5 review.
Aventon Pace 500.3 at 52 lbs with a cruiser type frame and step-through option
The newest Aventon Pace 500.3 takes the beloved commuter ebike platform and adds a torque sensor for smoother pedal assist, plus rear turn signals for boosted safety. With a weight around 52 lbs, it’s still relatively light compared to many ebikes and comes in both step-over and step-through frames. Priced at $1,699, you’ll find it retains Aventon’s polished look and ergonomic geometry.
A 500-watt rear hub motor and 614 Wh battery deliver Class 2 speeds up to 20 mph, while the Aventon app can unlock Class 3 pedal assist for speeds up to 28 mph. For reliable control, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes and an 8-speed Shimano drivetrain manage stopping power and hill climbs, respectively. Battery range varies based on terrain and assist level, but most riders can expect plenty of miles for everyday commuting.
Rounding out its features is a bright headlight, brake-activated taillights that double as turn signals, and an upright handlebar setup with a comfortable riding position. While there’s no front suspension, the option to add a suspension seatpost can smooth out bumps in the road. Overall, the Pace 500.3 offers a strong balance of performance and comfort, maintaining Aventon’s reputable build quality.
Learn more in our full Aventon Pace review.
In Conclusion…
There are some great contenders out there for the best lightweight ebikes! The lightest bikes on our lineup are the Ride1Up Roadster V3 and the Ride1Up CF Racer1. The Lectric XP Lite 2.0 is the most affordable ebike coming in at only $799, what a deal! The Lectric XP Lite 2.0 is the only folding bike on today’s lineup.
As far as the company with the most options in this category, Propella really leads the pack with 4 options, the Mini, the SS, the 7S, and the 9S PRO V2. The SS has larger tires than the Mini though both are single speeds. The 7S is a 7-speed, and the 9S is 9 speeds. The 9S PRO V2 also has a bigger motor, battery, and tires than the rest of the Propella ebikes. Propella batteries also charge fast-under 3 hours!
Aventon also offers a great height range on both the Soltera 2.5and the Pace 500.3 fitting riders from 4’11” to 6’4″. The main difference between the Soltera 2.5 and the Pace 500.3 is that the Soltera 2.5 is a more traditional road bike style with a more forward riding position and thin tires. The Pace 500.3 is a cruiser style with a more upright position and wider tires.
Out of the best lightweight ebikes on our lineup, which is your favorite? Comment below!
