Best Step-Through Electric Bikes for Urban Rides and Commutes

Step-through electric bikes are those that have a downward-sloping top tube or none at all, making it easier for the rider to mount and dismount. In general, these step-through bicycles have upright, relaxed geometry that is very comfortable for riding short to medium distances.

In this article, we will explain further what a step-through bike is and who they best suit, we will cover the best step-through e-bikes we’ve found online, and end with a short FAQ section.

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 makes it easier to get on and off the bike.

This type of bike is sometimes referred to as a low-step bike. 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!

• Seniors
• People with leg/back/knee injuries
• People with low flexibility
• Men
• Women
• Kids & Youth

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.

• Related – Best Electric Bikes for Seniors

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1. Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2

Most comfortable urban e-bike

MSRP: $2,699
REI

Weight – 51.9lb   |   Battery – 504 Wh   |   Range – 50mi   |   Motor – Shimano E6100 250W   |   Torque – 60Nm

• Frame – Aluminum
• Fork – Suntour MOBIE-A32
• Brakes – Shimano Altus hydraulic disc
• Gearing – 1×9-speed Shimano Alivio

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 Shimano motor and battery.

This bike is optimized for comfort using a low step-through top tube, upright geometry, comfortable touchpoints, and wide, puncture-resistant Schwalbe Big Ben 27.5 x 1.95 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 50 miles).

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

This bike also boasts Shimano Altus hydraulic disc brakes and a mid-range 9-speed Shimano Alivio rear derailleur, which is especially important on a mid-drive e-bike. 

Buy on REI.com

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2. Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep

MSRP: $3,300

Weight – 54.61 lb  |   Battery – 500 Wh   |   Range – 60 mi   |   Motor – Bosch Active Plus, 250W   |   Torque – 50 Nm

• Frame – Alpha Platinum Aluminum
• Brakes – Shimano MT200 hydraulic
• Gearing – Shimano Alivio 9-speed
• Tires – 700c x 50 mm

Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep is one of the best step-through e-bikes on this list and one of Trek’s 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 bike 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

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3. Ride1UP Turris

MSRP: $1,295
Ride1UP

Weight – 55lb  |   Battery – 614Wh   |   Range – 25-45mi   |   Motor – 750W   |   Torque – 60Nm

• Frame – 6061 alloy
• Fork – 100mm, hydraulic lockout
• Brakes – Zoom hydraulic disc brakes
• Gearing – 1×7-speed Shimano Altus

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

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

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

Their ST (step-through) model provides one of the most smooth easy-to-handle rides that won’t be beaten at this price.

Buy from Ride1UP.com

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4. Lectric XP 3.0 Step-Thru

Best value folding electric bike with a throttle

MSRP: $999
Lectric Ebikes

Weight – 64lb   |   Battery – 500Wh   |   Range – up to 45mi   |   Motor – 500W   |   Torque – 55Nm

• Frame – Aluminum
• Fork – 50mm travel
• Brakes – Mechanical disc, 180mm rotors
• Gearing – 1×7-speed Shimano Tourney
• Payload Capacity: 330lb

For only $999, the Lectric XP 3.0 is a unique product that is versatile and very easy to use for a folding step-through electric bike.

Optimized as a commuter bicycle, the XP 3.0 folds up into a small, secure package in seconds, allowing you to take it on public transport, store it at 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.

Finally, you can rely on this bike off-road too. To make this possible Lectric added 50mm fork suspension, 3″ tires, large-rotor mechanical disc brakes, and a battery and motor combo that offers 5 levels of pedal assistance for up to 45 miles.

Buy Lectric XP 3.0 

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5. Juiced Bikes HyperScorpion

Powerful moped-style bike with a convenient low step frame

MSRP: $2,199
Juiced Bikes

Weight – 102lb   |   Battery – 995Wh   |   Range – 70mi  |   Motor – 1000W

• Frame – Aluminum
• Fork: Triple-clamp hydraulic lockout suspension
• Brakes – Hydraulic disc
• Gears: 8-Speed

The HyperScorpion by Juiced Bikes is a highly versatile e-bike with great comfort optimization and lots of power to match.

What makes this bike so functional is its wide range of components including a pannier rack, full fenders, bright moped-style lights, heavy-duty kickstand, and step-through frame which makes it easier to mount the bike with a full 275lb payload.

To provide power for any job and diverse terrain you have a 1000W motor. Additionally, a 995Wh battery lasts up to 70 miles with the use of the 8-speed drivetrain.

Lastly, powerful hydraulic disc brakes and 4.25″ puncture-resistant tires allow riders to take the HyperScorpion off-road in comfort and with confidence. Unfortunately, this bike is very heavy at 102lb. 

Buy from Juicedbikes.com

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6. Aventon Level.2 

Premium comfort urban e-bike at an entry-level price

MSRP: $1,799
Aventon

Weight – 53lb  |   Battery – 672Wh   |   Range – 60mi   |   Motor – 500W 

• Frame – Aluminum
• Brakes – Hydraulic discs, 180mm rotors
• Gearing – Shimano Acera 8-speed

The Aventon Level.2 is a step-through e-bike from 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 e-bike make it stand out. It has a 500W motor and 672Wh battery that can assist you at speeds up to 28mph with a max range of 60 miles.

The Aventon comes with a reliable Acera drivetrain from Shimano, hydraulic disc brakes, a 65mm fork, and shock-absorbent 2.1″ tires. Finally, this bike has an integrated rear rack, fenders, and a kickstand for commuters. Unfortunately,  no lights are included. 

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

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7. Gazelle Ultimate T10 

Fully-equipped commuter with a convenient step-thru frame

MSRP: $3,999
Competitive Cyclist

Weight – 50.72lb  |   Battery – 500Wh   |   Range – N/A   |   Motor – 65Nm

• Frame – Aluminum
• Fork: Suntour Mobie 45, 40mm Travel
• Brakes – Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes, 4-piston
• Gears: 10-Speed Shimano Deore

Buy on CompetitiveCyclist.com

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8. Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 3 Remixte

Long-range step-through electric bike

MSRP: $3,425
REI

Weight – 55.3lb   |   Battery – 500Wh   |   Range – 104mi   |   Motor – 250W/60Nm 

• Frame – SmartForm C2 Aluminum 
• Brakes – Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc
• Gearing – 1×9-speed Shimano Alivio
• Tires – Schwalbe G-One Allround Performance 29 x 2.25″

Cannondale’s Tesoro Neo X 3 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.   Schwalbe 2.25″ G-One tires and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes help you stay in control no matter when the road takes you.

Additionally, the bike has a punchy Performance Line Sport 250W, 50Nm mid-drive motor and a large 500Wh battery that delivers a whopping 104-mile max range. The integrated kickstand and low step-through frame also make this bike even more convenient to use.

Buy from REI

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9. Charge Comfort 2

Utilitarian e-bike

MSRP: $1,899
Chargebikes.com

Weight – 55lb |   Battery – 418Wh   |   Range – 50mi   |   Motor – Bafang 250W   |   Torque – 45Nm

• Frame – Aluminum
• Brakes – Mechanical disc brakes
• Gearing – Shimano 7-speed

Charge Bikes’ Comfort 2 is a practical electric bike with an affordable price and enjoyable ride quality.

Notable parts on this bike include the Shimano 7-speed drivetrain, mechanical hydraulic disc brakes, and the Bafang 250W, 45Nm hub motor. This bike gets up to 50 miles of range from one charge.

The Comfort 2 also comes with everything you need for convenient urban or rural road cycling, including a rack, fenders, lights, and a kickstand. Other unique features include tire pressure indicator caps and folding handlebars and pedals for neater storage. 

All in all, the Charge Comfort 2 is a versatile urban e-bike with a well-thought-through design that you will love for everyday urban riding.

Buy on Chargebikes.com

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10. Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Plus

The most customizable electric bike on the market

MSRP: $1,999
Rad Power Bikes

Weight – 74lb   |   Battery – 672 Wh   |   Range – 25-45mi   |   Motor – 750W   |   Torque – 80Nm

• Frame – Aluminum
• Fork – 80mm, RST spring suspension
• Brakes – Tektro mechanical disc
• Gearing – 1×7-speed

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

You can personalize your RadRunner 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 a storage unit.

Since nowadays step-through bikes aren’t 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 motor and a battery which delivers ranges up to 45 miles. If you need a comfortable and powerful utility bike in your life, look no further than the RadRunner Plus.

Buy from RadPowerBikes.com

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11. Electra Townie GO! 5i Step-Through

Sleek urban cruiser-style e-bike

MSRP: $2,950
REI

Weight – 55lb   |   Battery – 400Wh   |   Range – 20-70mi   |   Motor – 250W   |   Torque – 50Nm

• Frame – 6061-T6 aluminum
• Fork – Rigid steel
• Brakes – Tektro hydrualic disc
• Gearing – Shimano NEXUS Inter-5E 5-speed

The Trek-owned Electra brand is a specialist in great, affordable e-bikes, and their Townie GO! 5i is the most comfortable and convenient model they have.

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 Go! 5i uses a 250W with a 400Wh removable rack-mounted battery that lasts up to 70 miles, and when you want to go manual, you can rely on a Shimano NEXUS 5-speed internally geared hub.

Buy from REI.com

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12. Benno Boost E 10D

Comfort-focused and fully equipped cargo bike

MSRP: $5,499
REI

Weight – 65lb   |   Battery – 500Wh   |   Range –up to 75mi   |   Motor – Bosch Performance Line Speed |   Torque – 85Nm

• Frame – Aluminum
• Brakes – Shimano Deore hydraulic disc
• Gearing – 1×10-speed Shimano Deore

This Benno Boost E 10D electric bike is a high-end choice that comes with many premium features and all the reliability that sturdy cargo e-bikes offer.

Most notably, this Boost is supremely comfy with each of the touchpoints ergonomically designed, optimized comfort geometry, shock-absorbent 2.6″ tires, and of course the convenient step-through frame.

Additionally, this bike is fully prepared for any urban or commuter trip with a long rear rack and fenders, a kickstand, integrated lights, and a 75-mile range battery.

Buy from REI.com

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13. Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus Step-Thru

Perfect step-through electric fat bike

MSRP: $1,999
Rad Power Bikes

Weight – 72.5lb   |   Battery – 672Wh   |   Range – up to 45mi   |   Motor – 750W   |   Torque – 80Nm

• Frame – 6061 aluminum
• Fork – 60mm, spring suspension
• Brakes – Hydraulic disc
• Gearing – 1×7-speed

Rad Power’s RadRover 6 Plus fat-tire step-through electric bike is the most budget-friendly and reliable fat bike in this price range.

The RadRover 6 Plus step-through is super versatile and performs well on tough terrain. It comes with hydraulic disc brakes, front fork suspension, and 4-inch puncture-resistant tires. Additionally, the bike has integrated lights, full fenders, a kickstand, and rear rack compatibility if you need to carry cargo.

Finally, the hugely powerful motor and battery delivers 750W/80Nm up to 45 miles, capable of getting you up and over the most difficult trail, along with a handy LCD display that has all of your important ride statistics

• Related: RadRover 6 Plus Review

Buy on RadPowerBikes.com

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14. Vvolt Alpha

Unique yet affordable belt-drive e-bike

MSRP: $1,399
Vvolt

Weight – 44-46lb   |   Battery – 375Wh   |   Range – 20-40mi   |   Motor – 350W   |   Torque – N/A

• Frame – Aluminum
• Fork – Aluminum
• Brakes – Hydraulic disc
• Gearing – Single-speed

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

This stylish bike has comfortable upright geometry, clearance for 2.4″ tires to make city riding comfortable. The 350W motor and 375Wh battery on the Alpha will provide you with heaps of power for up to 40 miles of range.

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

vvolt.com

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FAQ

Are step-through bikes unisex?

Yes, step-through bikes are Unisex. The confusion here is step-through frames have traditionally been called women’s bikes as they were convenient for ladies who wore dresses while riding their bikes. Today, they are just recognized as a more comfortable and convenient style of frame.

What is a mixte bike?

A mixte bike frame is one that has three sets of rear stays, compared to the standard two. Traditionally, this step-through top tube was split into two and running from the head tube to the rear dropouts, however, some versions have a single top tube.

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.