Best Step-Through Electric Bikes for Urban Rides and Commutes

Image source: REI.com

Step-through electric bikes have a downward-sloping top tube (or no top tube at all), making it easier for the rider to mount and dismount the bike.

In general, step-through bicycles have upright, relaxed geometry that is very comfortable for riding short to medium distances.

In this article, we will explain in more detail what a step-through bike is and who should consider getting one.

We will also review the best step-through e-bikes you can purchase online, including models in different price categories, for different types of riders.

1. Rad Power Bikes Radster Trail Step-Thru

MSRP: $2,199

• Frame: 6061 aluminum
• Motor and Battery: 750W rear hub, 720 Wh
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc
• Gearing: 1×8-speed
• Weight: 77.5 lb

The Rad Power Bikes’ Radster Trail step-through electric bike is the most budget-friendly and reliable fat bike in this price range.

The Radster is super versatile and performs well on tough terrain. It comes with hydraulic disc brakes, front fork suspension, and 3-inch puncture-resistant tires.

Additionally, the bike has integrated lights, full fenders, a kickstand, and a rear rack if you need to carry cargo.

Finally, the powerful 750W/100Nm motor and 720 Wh battery will assist you up to 65 miles and help you sustain speeds of up to 20 mph.

The motor is capable of getting you up and over the most difficult climbs, whereas a handy LCD will help you keep track of all of your important ride statistics

Buy on RadPowerBikes.com

2. Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2

MSRP: $3,699

• Frame: Aluminum
• Motor and Battery: Bosch Performance Line Sport, 625 Wh
• Brakes: Tektro Gemini SL 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Gearing: microSHIFT Advent 9-speed
• Weight: 59 lb

Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 is one of the best-value step-through e-bikes available with lots of helpful components and an efficient Bosch motor and battery.

This bike is optimized for comfort using a low step top tube, upright geometry, comfortable touchpoints, and wide, puncture-resistant Kenda Kwick Seven.5 27.5 x 2.4 in. tires.

The battery and motor have been chosen for efficiency, meaning this bike performs best in urban environments where a little bit of power goes a long way (up to 60 miles).

Other features of the CTY e2.2 include the integrated rear rack for carrying cargo, front and rear fenders, a kickstand,  as well as front and rear lights. 

This bike also boasts Tektro Gemini SL 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes and a mid-range 9-speed microSHIFT Advent rear derailleur, which is especially important on a mid-drive e-bike. 

Even though the Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 does not have a traditional step-through frame, it is still easy to mount and dismount as the standover clearance is pretty low.

Buy on REI.com

3. Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep 

MSRP: $3,300

• Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminum
• Motor and Battery: Bosch Active Plus, 500 Wh
• Brakes: Shimano MT200 hydraulic
• Gearing: Shimano Alivio 9-speed
• Weight: 54.61 lb

Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep is one of the best step-through e-bikes on this list and one of Trek Bikes’ best-selling commuter electric bikes. 

It has a sleek, modern look thanks to an integrated Bosch 500 Wh battery and a Bosch Active Plus mid-drive motor with 50 Nm of torque. 

The battery provides around 60 miles of assistance per charge and the motor will assist you up to 20 mph, as this is a class 1 e-bike. 

Trek Verve+ 3 sports a mid-range Shimano Alivio 9-speed drivetrain and the tried and true MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, which is a common combo on bikes in this price range. 

The fenders, rear rack, kickstand, and lights are a big plus, as that means you have no further investments. You can start riding your Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep from the minute you get it. 

Buy from Trek Bikes

4. Ride1UP Turris

MSRP: $1,295

• Frame: 6061 alloy
• Motor and Battery: 750W rear hub, 614 Wh
• Brakes: Zoom hydraulic disc brakes
• Gearing: 1×7-speed Shimano Altus
• Weight: 55 lb

Ride1UP’s Turris step-through ebike is a budget-friendly option with a focus on comfort and quality components.

The Turris is a relatively lightweight entry-level e-bike that uses upright geometry, 100 mm fork suspension, and 2.4″ wide Kenda tires to deliver a comfortable ride feel.

Additionally, this e-bike has a powerful 750W/60Nm rear hub motor and 614 Wh battery combo that will support riders for 25 to 45 miles on a single charge, reaching speeds of 28 mph.

The Turris ST (step-through) model provides one of the smoothest rides that are hard to beat at this price.

For just $1,295, you also get fenders, a kickstand, and bright lights to ride in all conditions. The 7-speed rear derailleur and hydraulic disc brakes also work like a charm and help improve the cycling experience.

Buy from Ride1UP.com

5. Lectric XP 3.0 Step-Thru

MSRP: $1,305

• Frame: Aluminum
• Motor and Battery: 500W rear hub, 500 Wh
• Brakes: Mechanical disc, 180mm rotors
• Gearing: 1×7-speed Shimano Tourney
• Weight: 64 lb

For only $999 (on sale), the Lectric XP 3.0 offers excellent value for the money. This folding step-through ebike is easy to use and very compact, which is perfect if you need a simple way to transport it or store it.

Optimized for urban commuting, the XP 3.0 folds down into a small, secure bundle in seconds, allowing you to take it on public transport, store it in the office, or transport it in your car.

Additionally, this bike has integrated lights on the front and back, an integrated 150lb-capacity rear rack, fenders, and relaxed, upright geometry making it very useful for all types of city riding.

The XP 3.0 is powered by a 500W rear hub motor that offers 5 levels of pedal assistance and comes with a 500 Wh battery with a range of up to 45 miles.

Finally, you can also rely on this bike for light off-road riding. To make this possible Lectric added a 50 mm fork suspension, 3-inch tires, and large-rotor mechanical disc brakes.

Buy Lectric XP 3.0 

6. Specialized Turbo Vado 3.0

MSRP: $3,000

• Frame: Aluminum
• Motor and Battery: Specialized 2.0, 50Nm motor, 530 Wh battery
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
• Gears: Shimano Alivio 9-Speed
• Weight: 54 lb, 14.3 oz

The Specialized Turbo Vado 3.0 is a highly versatile step-through e-bike with great comfort optimization and lots of power to match.

What makes this bike so functional is its wide range of accessories including a pannier rack, full fenders, bright lights, a heavy-duty kickstand, and a step-through frame which makes it easier to mount the bike, especially when fully loaded.

To provide power for any job and help you traverse diverse terrains, you have a 250W mid-drive motor with 50 Nm of torque and a 530 Wh battery that lasts up to 90 miles.

The Specialized Turbo Vado 3.0 also boasts a 9-speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes, which are important components on a class 3 ebike.

Lastly, 650b x 2.3″ puncture-resistant tires allow riders to take the Turbo Vado 3.0 on gravel roads in comfort and with confidence.

Buy from Specialized.com

7. Aventon Level.2 

MSRP: $1,699

• Frame: Aluminum
• Motor and Battery: 750W rear hub motor, 672 Wh battery
• Brakes: Hydraulic discs, 180mm rotors
• Gearing: Shimano Acera 8-speed
• Weight: 53 lb

The Aventon Level.2 is a step-through e-bike made by one of the leading electric bike manufacturers in the United States. 

This comfort commuter ebike is the only one in their range that comes fully equipped for any job.

The versatile functionality, smooth ride quality, and durability of this punchy step-through e-bike make it stand out. It has a 500W motor and 672 Wh battery that can assist you at speeds of up to 28 mph with a max range of 60 miles.

The Aventon Level. 2 also has a reliable Acera drivetrain made by Shimano, hydraulic disc brakes, a 65 mm fork, and shock-absorbent 2.1″ tires.

Finally, this bike has an integrated rear rack, fenders, and a kickstand for commuters.

Choose the Aventon Level if you’re an urban rider who wants a smooth, comfortable ride and plenty of power and range without breaking the bank.

Buy on Aventon.com

8. Gazelle Ultimate T10 

MSRP: $4,000

• Frame: Aluminum
• Motor and Battery: Bosch Performance Line, 500 Wh battery
• Brakes: Hydraulic Disc Brakes
• Gears: 10-Speed Shimano Deore
• Weight: 50.72 lb

Buy on MikesBikes.com

9. Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 2 Remixte

MSRP: $3,540

• Frame: SmartForm C1 Aluminum 
• Motor and Battery: Bosch Performance Line Speed, 500 Wh battery
• Brakes: Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc
• Gearing: 1×11-speed Shimano Deore
• Weight: 56.5 lb

Cannondale’s Tesoro Neo X 2 Remixte is a step-through electric bike designed to be the ultimate urban or touring companion, a true workhorse with a premium Bosch e-bike drive system. 

The Tesoro Neo comes with a rack and fenders so you can use it as a comfortable commuter, prepared to tackle mixed terrain.

The Schwalbe 29″ x 2.25″ G-One tires and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes help you stay in control no matter where the road takes you.

Additionally, the bike has a punchy Bosch Performance Line Sport 250W, 50Nm mid-drive motor, and a large 500 Wh battery that delivers a whopping 80-mile max range.

The integrated kickstand and low step-through frame make the Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 2 even more convenient to use.

Buy from REI

10. Giant Roam E+ STA

MSRP: $2,750

• Frame: Aluminum
• Motor and Battery: SyncDrive Core, 50Nm, 400 Wh battery
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
• Gearing: Shimano Alivio, 9 speed
• Tires: 700 x 45c

The Giant Roam E+ is a practical electric bike with an affordable price and enjoyable ride quality.

Notable parts on this bike include the Shimano Alivio 9-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and the SyncDrive Core 50 Nm mid-drive motor. Unfortunately, Giant doesn’t disclose the range you can get on a single charge, but it’s drive units are known to be quite efficient when it comes to energy use. 

The Roam E+ also comes with everything you need for convenient urban or rural road cycling, including front suspension, 45mm wide tires, and a comfortable upright geometry.

All in all, the Giant Roam E+ is a versatile urban step-through e-bike with a well-thought-through design that you will love for everyday urban riding.

Buy on MikesBikes.com

11. Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Plus

MSRP: $1,999

• Frame: Aluminum
• Motor and Battery: 750W rear hub, 672 Wh battery
• Brakes: Tektro mechanical disc
• Gearing: 1×7-speed
• Weight: 77 lb

The RadRunner Plus by Rad Power Bikes boasts the title of the “most customizable electric bike on the market”.

You can personalize your RadRunner Plus ebike with a whopping 330 different accessory combinations which can transform the bike for any specific usage you need.

It features a super-low step-through frame design that can also double as a mount for an additional storage unit.

Since step-through bikes aren’t intended just for ladies, this innovative and versatile bike could be a women’s step-through bike or a men’s step-through bike.

It has heaps of power in the 750W motor and the 672 Wh battery delivers a range of up to 45 miles per charge.

If you need a comfortable and powerful utility bike in your life, look no further than the Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Plus.

Buy from RadPowerBikes.com

12. Electra Townie GO! 5i Step-Through

MSRP: $2,950

• Frame: 6061-T6 aluminum
• Motor and Battery: Bosch Active Line Plus, 400 Wh battery
• Brakes: Tektro hydrualic disc
• Gearing: Shimano NEXUS Inter-5E 5-speed
• Weight: 55 lb

The Trek-owned Electra Bike brand is a specialist when it comes to building high-quality, affordable e-bikes, and their Townie GO! 5i is the most comfortable and convenient model they offer.

Based on the classic cruiser geometry, this Electra step-through bike delivers one of the smoothest rides possible. It comes with shock-absorbing 2.35-inch wide Schwalbe Fat Frank tires, ergonomic grips, and a plush saddle with suspension.

Additionally, this bike uses Flat Foot technology which allows you to get your foot flat on the ground while also pedaling in the optimal position.

Finally, the Townie Go! 5i is powered by a 250W Bosch Active Line Plus motor and a 400 Wh removable rack-mounted battery that lasts up to 70 miles per charge.

If you ever run out of battery or you want to pedal more, you can rely on the Shimano NEXUS 5-speed internally geared hub.

Buy from REI.com

13. Cannondale Adventure Neo AllRoad 

MSRP: $1,675

• Frame: Aluminum
• Motor and Battery:Bafang G020 hub (250W) and 418Wh battery
• Brakes: Mechanical disc
• Gearing: 1×7-speed microShift
• Weight: 48 lbs. 4.8 oz.

The Cannondale Adventure Neo AllRoad electric bike is a budget-friendly choice that comes with many premium features and all the reliability that sturdy step-through e-bikes offer.

The Adventure Neo is comfy thanks to ergonomically designed touchpoints, comfort-optimized geometry, shock-absorbent 2.6″ tires, and the convenient step-through frame.

Additionally, this bike is fully prepared for any urban or commuter trip with a 47-mile range, front and rear lights, a kickstand, and mounts for accessories.

When it comes to the components, the Cannondale Adventure Neo boasts a Bafang 250W rear hub motor and a 418 Wh battery. It also comes with a 7-speed microShift rear derailleur and powerful mechanical disc brakes. 

Therefore, by buying the Cannondale Adventure Neo, you get a complete step-through electric bicycle that can serve numerous different purposes.

Buy from REI.com

14. Vvolt Alpha 2

MSRP: from $1,799

• Frame: Aluminum
• Motor and Battery: 350W rear hub motor, 375 Wh battery
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc
• Gearing: Single-speed
• Weight: 44 lb

The Vvolt Alpha 2 step-through ebike is a comfortable and affordable choice with a maintenance-free belt-drive system. 

This stylish bike has comfortable upright geometry and 27.5″ x 2.4″ tires to make city riding comfortable. The 350W motor and 375Wh battery on the Alpha 2 will provide you with heaps of power for up to 45 or 60 miles of range, depending on which battery you get.

Vvolt also chose a high-end Gates Carbon belt and hydraulic disc brakes for this bike. Additionally, the Alpha 2 comes with mounts for a rack and fenders and has rechargeable lights included for all of your urban riding needs.

Buy from Vvolt.com

What You Need to Know About Step-Through Electric Bikes

What Is a Step-Through Bike?

Step-through bicycles either have no top tube and just a downtube as pictured below, or they have a top tube that slopes downward making a V shape with the seat tube. This type of bike is sometimes referred to as a low-step bike. This design makes it easier to get on and off the bike. 

In contrast, a step-over bike is the most common frame design. This type of bike has a top tube that runs parallel to the ground or with a less extreme downward angle. This requires more flexibility to get the leg up and over the top tube.

Who Should Get a Step-through Ebike?

In short, everyone can enjoy riding a step-through e-bike. However, some categories of riders that would benefit the most from this design include:

• Seniors
• People with leg/back/knee injuries
• People with low flexibility
• Riders with limited mobility

Step-through electric bikes for seniors and those with injuries or low flexibility are a great way to be able to continue riding when regular bikes become too uncomfortable or difficult to use.

Equally, any person who enjoys a comfortable, relaxed riding position or the assistance of a motor for tough rides will love the advantages that step-through e-bikes offer.

Are step-through bikes unisex?

Yes, step-through bikes are Unisex.

Some people might be confused as step-through frames have traditionally been called women’s bikes as they were convenient for ladies who wore dresses while riding their bikes.

Today, step-through bikes are just recognized as a more comfortable and convenient type of frame that suits both genders.

What is a mixte bike?

A Mixte bike is a type of bicycle designed with a lowered top tube that connects straight to the rear wheel axle.

This design feature, which often results in a pair of parallel tubes running from the handlebars to the rear wheel, offers easier mounting and dismounting compared to traditional diamond-framed bicycles.

Mixte bikes are known for their versatility and are suitable for both casual and more serious riders, often used for urban commuting, touring, and general transportation.

What is a Dutch-style bike?

The most common Dutch-style bike is the traditional step-through frame design with an upright sitting position and handlebars that point in the direction of the rider. This allows riders to sit tall with a straight back.

Saddles on these bikes are generally large and comfortable with suspension underneath. Accessories such as rear racks, baskets, and fenders are very common on these bikes.

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About the Author

Jordan Grimes

Jordan Grimes is an avid cyclist who loves to travel and has found his bike to be perfect company on road trips in the USA, through national parks, and in countries such as Canada, Ireland, and Spain.

His passion for travel and work in the tourism and hospitality sector has allowed him to live in incredible places like Ireland, Canada, the USA, and the Cayman Islands. He has since relocated to southern Spain, where he works as a freelance writer, practicing Spanish and cycling in the famous Sierra Nevada mountains. He specializes in writing cycling blog articles, health and performance-related topics, and other informative pieces. You can contact him on Linkedin.