How we rank products

Every ranking on this site is calculated, not hand-picked. Here is the whole method.

1. Specs come from the manufacturer

We enter only figures the manufacturer publishes and link the page we used under every product. If a figure isn't published we show "Not listed" instead of guessing.

2. Each spec is scaled from 0 to 1

Each criterion has a fixed reference range, from a "weakest reasonable" value to a "best in class" value (for example 250 to 1000 W of rated motor power for e-bikes). A product's figure is placed on that range and clamped between 0 and 1, so scores stay meaningful as products are added. For specs where lower is better, such as weight, the range runs the other way. Yes/no features count as 1 or 0. The ranges are listed below.

3. Weights decide what matters most

Each category lists its criteria and weights on the page. The score is the weighted average, multiplied by 10:

score = 10 × Σ(weight × scaled value) ÷ Σ(weight)

4. How missing data is scored

If a spec isn't published (for example a rated motor figure when the maker prints only peak watts), the product scores at the lowest value any product in that category actually published, so an unpublished figure never outranks a published one. The page marks each such cell with an asterisk. Yes/no features that aren't stated count as no. Nothing is ever scored at the category average.

5. Prices and ratings switch on automatically

When our retailer feeds supply a current price or customer rating for at least 60% of products in a category, two more criteria join the formula: Price / value (20%) and Customer rating (15%, discounted when there are few reviews). Until then we show "Check price" and never estimate a price.

6. What the score can't tell you

Specs don't capture ride quality, handling, reliability, dealer support or how a bike fits you. We rank rated (nominal) motor power, not peak; peak figures appear in the notes. Range is each maker's own claim, measured in its own way. Where a maker lists only volts and amp-hours, we multiply them to get watt-hours and label the result as computed. Where a maker gives a gross vehicle weight instead of a payload, we subtract the bike's weight and say so. A weight published without the battery is not ranked. Top speeds above the class or scoring cap score the same as the cap, and may not be legal on public roads. Nothing here is legal advice. Use the score to shortlist, then read the pros, cons and sources. When we add hands-on testing notes, we label them clearly.

7. Money never changes the order

We earn affiliate commissions from some retailers. Commission rates are not an input to the formula, and no brand can pay for placement. See our affiliate disclosure.

Criteria by category

Commuter E-Bikes

• Rated motor power: 15% · range 250 → 1000 W
• Battery capacity: 20% · range 350 → 1000 Wh
• Claimed range: 15% · range 25 → 100 mi
• Top assisted speed: 10% · range 20 → 28 mph
• Payload capacity: 15% · range 230 → 450 lb
• Bike weight: 10% · range 100 → 35 lb
• Motor torque: 10% · range 28 → 100 Nm
• Hydraulic disc brakes: 3% · yes/no
• Water resistance: 2% · range 4 → 7

Folding E-Bikes

• Rated motor power: 15% · range 250 → 1000 W
• Battery capacity: 20% · range 350 → 1000 Wh
• Claimed range: 15% · range 25 → 100 mi
• Top assisted speed: 10% · range 20 → 28 mph
• Payload capacity: 15% · range 230 → 450 lb
• Bike weight: 10% · range 100 → 35 lb
• Motor torque: 10% · range 28 → 100 Nm
• Hydraulic disc brakes: 3% · yes/no
• Water resistance: 2% · range 4 → 7

Cargo E-Bikes

• Rated motor power: 15% · range 250 → 1000 W
• Battery capacity: 15% · range 350 → 1000 Wh
• Claimed range: 15% · range 25 → 100 mi
• Top assisted speed: 10% · range 20 → 28 mph
• Payload capacity: 25% · range 230 → 450 lb
• Bike weight: 5% · range 100 → 35 lb
• Motor torque: 10% · range 28 → 100 Nm
• Hydraulic disc brakes: 3% · yes/no
• Water resistance: 2% · range 4 → 7

Fat-Tire & Off-Road E-Bikes

• Rated motor power: 15% · range 250 → 1000 W
• Battery capacity: 20% · range 350 → 1000 Wh
• Claimed range: 15% · range 25 → 100 mi
• Top assisted speed: 10% · range 20 → 28 mph
• Payload capacity: 15% · range 230 → 450 lb
• Bike weight: 10% · range 100 → 35 lb
• Motor torque: 10% · range 28 → 100 Nm
• Hydraulic disc brakes: 3% · yes/no
• Water resistance: 2% · range 4 → 7

Electric Scooters

• Rated motor power: 20% · range 250 → 1000 W
• Battery capacity: 20% · range 180 → 1500 Wh
• Claimed range: 15% · range 12 → 60 mi
• Top speed: 10% · range 15 → 30 mph
• Max rider load: 15% · range 220 → 330 lb
• Scooter weight: 10% · range 100 → 25 lb
• Water resistance: 10% · range 4 → 6