$2,000 Fat Tire Electric Bike Comparison
There is no doubt that electric fat-tire e-bikes are becoming a more and more popular choice for recreational cyclists and outdoorsy people. The reasons for this are simple: they are comfortable, fast, affordable, and look pretty cool.
In this article, we will compare the four most popular affordable electric fat-tire bikes out there:
- Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus
- Aventon Aventure
- Juiced Bikes RipCurrent
- Himiway Cruiser
If you’re interested in buying any of these and you still can’t decide, read the rest of this article to find out what our take on the matter is!
Related: Best Electric Bikes – Under $2,000
All Information at a Glance
BRAND | Rad Power Bikes | Aventon | Juiced bikes | Himiway |
MODEL | RadRover 6 Plus | Aventure | RipCurrent | Cruiser |
MSRP $ | 1,999 | 1,999 | 1,999 | 1,699 |
1. MOTOR | 750W 5:1 | 750W | 750W | 750W |
Peak / Torque | 80Nm | 1,130W peak | 1,300W peak | 80Nm |
2. BATTERY | 672Wh | 720Wh | 780Wh | 840Wh |
48V 14Ah | 48V 15Ah | 52V 15Ah | 48V 17.5Ah | |
3. WEIGHT | 73.4 lbs | 73 lbs | 70 lbs | 72 lbs |
Max Capacity | 275 lbs | 300 lbs | 275 lbs | 350 lbs |
4. TIRES | 26×4″ | 26×4″ | 26×4″ | 26×4″ |
Kenda Juggernaut | Kenda Krusade | Kenda | ||
5. BRAKES | Hydro, ceramic pads | Hydro, 180mm | Hydro, 180mm | Mechanical, 180mm |
6. DERAILLEUR | 7-Speed | 8-Speed | 9-Speed | 7-Speed |
Shimano | Altus | Acera | Altus | Altus |
7. FORK | 60mm | 80mm | 80mm | 100mm |
8. FRAME TYPES | ST & SO | ST & SO | SO | ST & SO |
1. Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 PLUS
MSRP: $1,999
- 750W motor optimized to increase power output and smoothness on steep gradients
- Geometry design reduces fatigue and improves climbing capability
- 60mm travel fork suspension is the perfect amount for urban riding
- Powerful hydraulic brakes with ceramic pads
- Auto on LED lights
- Puncture-resistant Kenda Krusade fat-tires
- Rear rack purchase is separate
- Slightly low 275lb max weight capacity
- The 60mm travel fork doesn’t perform great off-road
- Heaviest of the four bikes
This is Rad Power Bikes‘ best-selling flagship model and features the best components and technology that they use on their bikes. However, although it could be the perfect commuter bike, it doesn’t have any cargo-carrying components the way it is sold so extra purchases are needed.
The RadRover 6 Plus is perfect for many types of riders because of how versatile it is. It functions well on urban roads or light trails, on soft terrain, in wet weather conditions, going up or downhill, and while pulling cargo.
Because the bike is quite comfortable and has the option of a step-through frame, those with movement limitations or with a preference for a comfortable ride will also derive benefit from this bike.
Frame Size Recommendations
Step-over (17″) – 5’4″ – 6’2″
Step-thru (14.8″) – 5’2″ – 6’2″
2. Aventon Bikes Aventure
MSRP: $1,999
- Shimano Acera Derailleur is a slight step-up from Altus
- Stylish fully-integrated look
- Good 300lb carrying capacity
- Choice of frame style SO or ST
- Excellent color LCD controller
- Proprietary mobile application
- Poor range on high pedal assistance
- Rear rack not included
- Only one rear light on the chainstay
Aventon’s Aventure sticks out from the bunch because of its stylish integrated design. As far as components go, it competes with the other three models but has a slightly lower range (19 miles) when used with higher pedal-assistance levels.
This bike is highly versatile and functions excellent in diverse conditions, terrains, and when tackling steep gradients. Furthermore, as you can choose from a step-over or step-through frame, it appeals to many riders with different needs and preferences.
Finally, the bike is compatible with a great range of accessories from Aventon’s online store.
Size Recommendations
Step-over:
S – 5’1″ – 5’7″
M – 5’7″ – 5’11”
L – 5’11” – 6’4″
Step-thru:
S/M – 4’11” – 5’7″
M/L – 5’8″ – 6’2″
3. Juiced Bikes RipCurrent
MSRP: $1,999
- Most powerful motor with 1300W peak power
- Lightest of the four bikes
- Wider 9-speed Shimano Altus gearing
- 28mph max assisted speed
- Powerful 1050lm headlight
- No step-through frame
- 275lbs max weight capacity
- Basic control panel
- The non-integrated battery design is clunky
- No fenders or rack included
Of these four bikes, it is clear that Juiced Bikes’ RipCurrent is the most suited to off-road conditions. It’s the lightest, has the fewest components, and has traditional hardtail mountain bike geometry meaning it handles better on trails, going up steep gradients, and going downhill.
As it has the most powerful motor and a wide gear range, you will tackle challenging off-road climbs with the perfect gear and plenty of torque. This off-road optimization does, however, come with a sacrifice in functionality as a commuter bike, at which the other three models are better.
Frame Size Recommendations
M (16.5″) – 5’4″ – 6’0″
L (18″) – 5’8 – 6’3″
XL (20″) – 6’0″ +
4. Himiway Cruiser
MSRP: $1,699
- Longest travel fork suspension – 100mm with hydraulic lockout
- Largest battery – 840Wh battery with 60 miles max range
- Highest max weight capacity – 350lbs
- It comes with a rear rack already installed
- Bright 48V LED headlight
- 2-year all-inclusive warranty
- Cheapest of the 4 bikes
- Mechanical disc brakes
- No fenders included
- 7-speed Shimano drivetrain leaves fewer gear options
- Non-integrated battery design
- Only one frame size
Himiway’s Cruiser e-bike may be the most appealing from this review as it is $300 cheaper than the others, yet has the highest payload capacity, largest battery, most extended range, and double the warranty.
In addition, this bike comes with a rear rack already installed and the highest travel fork of the four, giving it an edge for comfort on rough surfaces.
All this considered, Himiway Cruiser only has one frame size to choose from, and it doesn’t come with any fenders. It’s also worth noting that the mechanical disc brakes provide suboptimal stopping power for such a powerful bike, and the fat tires do not include any puncture resistance.
We think the price savings and extra range could make up for what the Cruiser lacks. Finally, this bike has broad appeal, especially to commuters who carry heavy cargo, thanks to its versatility and long-range capability out of the box.
Frame Size Recommendations
5’3″ – 6’4″
Why are 26×4″ fat tire eBikes so popular?
This style of the 26″ fat tire e-bike is so popular because of its versatility, durability, good handling, and competitive pricing. In addition, a 26″ wheel is small enough to be agile and maneuverable for off-roading.
In addition, with a 4″+ tire width, these bikes feel very comfortable on diverse terrain, including rough, rocky trails, while also providing lots of traction and stability while cornering or riding on soft or slippery surfaces.
What to expect? Is $2,000 enough?
With an electric bike, you can spend as much or as little as you want. These bikes range from $600 to $15,000 depending on the style, brand name, and quality.
The $2,000 range is sufficient to get you close to a mid-range model for a regular fat tire electric bike. However, the price will be substantially higher for specialized types of fat tire e-bikes, like hunting or angling models.
Because of the competitive nature of this price category and style bike, you can find a lot of quality for $2,000 or below. Additionally, many direct-to-consumer brands sell these bikes online, which further reduces the costs for the buyer compared to big-name brands.
Help! I’m having paralyses from analysis! Please choose my perfect e-bike!
RadRover 6 is definitely a great choice since this is their sixth version, therefore the most advanced model available!
Hi
I have since June 2021 a Juiced Bike RCS at a published cost of $2,699 (although discounts of $100-200 exist).
Mine is the new step-through AND it comes with front and rear fenders and rack. Surprised you didn’t include this model.
Hi Rob. We have gathered a bunch of bikes at under $2,000 range! We’ll consider adding this to the $3,000 list if we are going to make that one day