The Best Electric Bikes Made in the USA

Whether you’re riding across campus, commuting to work, or traversing the trails, learn about e-bikes and the best electric bikes made in the USA.

American Made Electric Bikes

A few weeks back my husband and I were on a large university campus near our home. While walking to our location, we noticed over a dozen different electric bicycles, or e-bikes, students were riding. These e-bikes were quiet, and the students appeared to be enjoying them as they rode to the cafeteria or classroom buildings. We met up with a couple of students at our destination: a Shakespeare drama. (Yes! There is hope for the world when a student watches Shakespeare!) This observation made me quite curious about what these bikes are and if there are any made in the USA.

Interested in a bike that’s not electric? Check out: American Made Bikes: From Trikes to High-Performance, Our Ultimate Source List

Are Any Electric Bikes Made in the USA?

According to the Federal Trade Commission, “Made in USA” means that ‘all or virtually all' the product has been made in America. That is, all significant parts, processing, and labor that go into the product must be of U.S. origin. Products should not contain any — or only negligible — foreign content.”

In a nutshell, no electric bike fits the Federal Trade Commission’s description of “Made in the USA:”

Every electric bike company in America sources some of its parts somewhere other than the USA for one primary reason: For one, Some of the BEST components aren't made on American soil. For example, Outrider USA shares a long list of parts made in the USA that it uses on its electric bikes, but they buy a motor part from Germany. A second reason is that some parts necessary for electric bikes aren't actually made in the USA.

Like Outrider USA, some e-bike companies do better than others when it comes to explaining where they get their parts. Others aren't so clear.

So if I'm following the FTC's definition of “Made in the USA,” then it’s my opinion that the companies I list fit the category of “Assembled in the USA” as opposed to “Made in the USA,” but with the caveat that a few list where they actually get their parts.

I’ve tried to discern from my research which American e-bike companies do more than screw nuts and bolts into a frame. For example, one company makes its own motors. Another company’s owner actually bought a battery company, and although the batteries are made overseas, the profit goes back into the US economy. So while my approach isn’t an exact science, I’ve tried to include those e-bike companies that strive to come as close to “Made in the USA” as they can.

What Is an Electric Bike?

Simply stated, an electric bike, an e-bike, or an e-bike, is a bike with a motor. This battery-operated, encased motor sits on a bicycle and assists the rider in pedaling. E-bikes require you to pedal with the motor assisting in that pedaling.

These bikes not only are delightful to ride, but they’re also good to use if you’re commuting and don’t want to get overly tired or sweaty. Many people use an e-bike instead of a second car. Many of our communities, whether urban or suburban, have paths and trails you can ride on, enabling you to stay off busy highways with your e-bike.

They’re appropriate if you struggle with asthma or knee pain. One e-bike brand listed below makes electric bikes for those with mobility issues.

In the USA, many states require the rider to be at least 14 years of age to drive an e-bike. Other states up the age limit to 16. Be sure to check your state’s age requirements to operate an electric bike.

The Different Types of Electric Bikes and Their Uses

Some e-bikes allow you to bicycle over difficult terrain, while companies build others to help you ride on smoother surfaces, such as commuter lanes. Below are descriptions of the different types of bikes. 

• Cruiser E-Bike: Made for casual riding along paved roads and paths.
• Electric Cargo Bike: This bike is ideal for carrying items, so it might have a rear rack or side racks. This is a great choice for urban environments and for making deliveries.
• Commuter Bike: Similar to the cruiser but made for longer trips.
• Mountain Bike: Has wide tires for off-road mountain biking.
• Folding E-Bike: As the name suggests, it folds in half for easy storage. Road E-Bike: Similar to the cruiser bike but goes faster.
• Road E-Bike: Similar to the cruiser bike but goes faster.

Related: American Made Bike Gear: Get rolling with Made in USA Accessories

The Components of An Electric Bike

Not all electric bikes are the same! Picking out the best e-bike for you depends on the type of bike you prefer and what you plan on using it for. Most of the American built e-bikes on our list are customizable. Below you will learn about the different components to narrow down the options that fit your needs. 

1. Frame

• Material: Look for lightweight yet durable materials such as aluminum alloy (common, affordable, durable) or carbon fiber (lighter, higher-end). Steel frames are heavier but absorb shocks well.
• Design: Consider the geometry:
  • Mountain bikes have sloped frames for rugged terrain.
  • Commuter bikes typically feature upright frames for comfort.
  • Step-through frames are easier to mount/dismount, ideal for urban use.
• Weight: A lighter frame is preferable for portability, but durability is crucial for off-road or cargo e-bikes.

2. Motor

• Types:
  • Hub Motors:
    • Rear hub motors provide better traction and are more efficient for flat terrain.
    • Front hub motors are rare but offer a balanced feel.
  • Mid-Drive Motors (center-mounted): Superior performance, weight distribution, and torque; best for hills and off-road use.
• Power Levels: Typically measured in watts (W):
  • 250W: Suitable for flat roads and light commuting.
  • 500W: Provides a balance of power for hills and moderate terrain.
  • 750W and above: Ideal for heavy loads, steep inclines, and off-roading.
• Torque: Measured in Newton-meters (Nm):
  • Look for 50 Nm or higher for climbing hills.
  • 70-90 Nm is excellent for off-road or cargo use.

3. Battery

• Capacity: Measured in watt-hours (Wh):
  • 300-500 Wh: Moderate range (20-50 miles).
  • 600 Wh and above: Long-range (50+ miles).
• Type: Lithium-ion batteries are standard due to their light weight, durability, and efficiency.
• Placement:
  • Integrated: Built into the frame for a sleek look and better balance.
  • Removable: Convenient for charging and replacement.
• Charging Time: Fast-charging batteries may recharge in 3-4 hours, while standard ones take 5-6 hours.

4. Throttle

• Thumb Throttle: Mounted on the handlebars, allows control without pedaling.
• Twist Throttle: Operates like a motorcycle handle, giving a more natural grip for some users.
• Pedal Assist: Works alongside a throttle, offering varying levels of power while pedaling.

5. Controller

• Manages motor performance and pedal assist levels. Look for:
  • Intuitive display: Shows speed, battery level, and power mode.
  • Multiple assist levels: Typically 3-5 modes (e.g., Eco, Normal, Turbo).
  • Seamless integration: Ensures smooth transitions between pedal-assist levels and throttle.

6. Suspension

• Rigid Frame: Best for flat, paved roads; lightweight.
• Front Suspension Fork: Provides shock absorption for light trails and urban environments.
• Full Suspension (Front and Rear): Essential for mountain biking or off-road use; adds comfort and control over rough terrain.

7. Brakes

• Mechanical Disc Brakes: Affordable, reliable for casual riding.
• Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Superior stopping power, especially at high speeds or on steep descents; highly recommended for safety.

8. Torque Sensor

• Detects the pressure applied to the pedals and adjusts motor output accordingly, providing:
  • Smooth, natural assistance.
  • Improved efficiency and range over cadence-based sensors.

9. Additional Considerations

• Lights and Accessories: Integrated lights, racks, and fenders add utility.
• Wheel Size:
• 26-inch: Standard for stability.
• 28-29 inch: Better for speed and long-distance.
• Fat tires (4-inch width): Ideal for sand, snow, or rough trails.

Want to do more outdoors? Check out this article: Best Lawn Games for Outdoor Fun Made in USA

Bike Class

Some states assign “classes” of their electric bikes that reflect the speed and operation of the bike. For example, a class 1 e-bike has only a pedal assist with a top speed of around 20 mph. A class 2 e-bike goes to around 20 mph, has pedal assist, and may have a thumb throttle. A class 3 e-bike goes a little faster than a class 2. Bikes that go faster are more specialized. Be sure to check your state’s laws for any limitations on electric bikes.

How Fast Do Electric Bikes Go?

Basic e-bikes run with a top speed of 20 miles per hour (mph). Others hover between 30 and 45 mph, and one has a maximum speed of 60 mph. These higher speeds can be ridden only in certain contexts.

Prices of Electric Bikes Built in the United States

American-made e-bikes vary greatly in price, depending on the different models and their use. The least expensive bikes start at around $1,000. If you’re looking for an American-made e-bike for a more reasonable price, check each website for sales, pre-used, or demo e bikes. I’m also noticing many of these makers offer Black Friday and Small Business Saturday deals.

About our E-Bikes List

You’ll find plenty of e-bikes on the U.S. market. There are many electric bikes made in other countries and shipped to the USA. Most of these e-bikes are made via mass production, typically with sub-par components, and definitely without detailed attention given to each e-bike. That’s why they sell at a lower cost.

Some of these companies are American companies that build their bikes in other countries and ship them to the United States.

You’ll hopefully not find any of the above companies on my list. And while I’ve mentioned not a single electric bike sources all its parts in the USA, some companies do make a concerted effort to source most of their parts from US manufacturers. I speak to that in my list below.

The remainder of the companies on the list assemble their electric bikes in the USA from global components with the goal of controlling the quality of their end product.

When an American company makes an electric bike, each company oversees production to the highest standards. That means you’re getting the best e-bike that can be built.

I’m grateful that each of these companies uses American workers to make their ebikes. From engineers and designers to welders, painters, machinists, and packagers, the electric bikes we list employ hard-working Americans, paying them a fair wage and providing dignity to their work.

Have you visited our Made in USA Shopping District? It is the place to start your shopping when you want to find the best of American-made.

Enjoy these other recommended articles from USA Love List:

• Made in USA Sneakers & Athletic Footwear: The Ultimate Source List
• American Made Outdoor Toys and Games We Love
• Four Hobbies for Tweens and Teens Featuring American Made Products

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